The Maldives: A First-Timer's Guide to Paradise

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Nicola Mancini
Curated By

Nicola Mancini

  • Maldives

  • Beaches

  • Food & Wine

  • Sightseeing

  • Relaxation

  • Entertainment

Four Seasons Resort Maldvies
Curator’s statement

Hey there, dream vacation seeker! Are you looking for a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts? If so, the Maldives is the place for you!

I'm a travel expert with years of experience planning trips to the Maldives, and I'm here to give you the inside scoop on everything you need to know for your first visit.

The Fora Difference

Book with Nicola to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

[object Object]
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

[object Object]
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

[object Object]
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Maldives

Unlock perks by contacting Nicola to book your trip.

Things to do in Maldives

Blue beach of Maldives

Snorkel or dive among the vibrant coral reefs. The Maldives is home to some of the most incredible coral reefs in the world, teeming with marine life. You can book a snorkeling or diving excursion with one of the many tour operators on the island, or simply explore the reefs on your own.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a great place to stay if you're interested in snorkeling and diving. The resort has its own dive center and offers a variety of snorkeling and diving excursions, including night dives and shipwreck dives.

Visit a local island to experience the Maldivian culture and way of life. The Maldives is made up of over a thousand islands, and most tourists only stay on the resort islands. However, it's worth taking a day trip to a local island to experience the Maldivian culture and way of life. You can visit a local market, try authentic Maldivian cuisine, and meet the friendly locals.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru offers a variety of cultural experiences, including cooking classes, traditional Maldivian dance lessons, and visits to local villages.

Take a sunset cruise and enjoy the breathtaking views. The Maldives is known for its stunning sunsets, and there's no better way to experience them than on a sunset cruise. You can book a shared cruise or charter a private boat for a more intimate experience.

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resorts offers a variety of sunset cruises, including champagne cruises and dolphin-watching cruises.

Get pampered with a massage at one of the many luxurious spas. The Maldives is the perfect place to relax and unwind, and what better way to do that than with a massage? Most resorts have their own spas, but there are also a number of independent massage parlors on the islands.

All three of the resorts I mentioned have world-class spas. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is even home to the largest spa in the Maldives.

Do nothing and simply enjoy the beauty of the Maldives. Sometimes, the best vacation is one where you don't have to do anything at all. Spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and reading on the beach. And in the evenings, enjoy a delicious meal and a drink at your resort.

All three of the resorts I mentioned offer stunning beaches, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining. You can't go wrong with any of them!

Places to eat & drink in Maldives

Hotel in Maldives

Here is a first-time guide to the Maldives, where to eat:

Most resort islands in the Maldives have multiple restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. However, you should also try at least one of the resort's Maldivian restaurants. Some popular Maldivian dishes include:

Mas huni: A traditional Maldivian breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, onion, and chili.

Garudhiya: A clear fish soup with rice and coconut milk.

Boshi: A fish curry made with coconut milk and spices.

Haa curry: A chicken curry made with coconut milk and spices.

Malé is the capital city of the Maldives and is home to a variety of restaurants, including many that serve Maldivian cuisine. Some popular Maldivian restaurants in Malé include:

The Seagull House: This restaurant is located on the beachfront and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including Maldivian specialties.

Shell Beans: This restaurant is known for its traditional Maldivian cuisine, including dishes like mas huni and garudhiya.

The Yellow Chilli: This restaurant is a great place to try Maldivian curries, as well as other Indian and Sri Lankan dishes.

Book Your Maldivian Dream Vacation Today! If you're ready to book your dream vacation to the Maldives, I'm here to help! I can help you find the perfect resort for your needs and budget, and I can also help you plan your activities and excursions. Contact me today and let's start planning your unforgettable Maldivian adventure!"

Advisor - Nicola Mancini

Travel Advisor

Nicola Mancini

Get in touch with Nicola

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Nicola within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to The Maldives, and part of our larger series on beaches.