Maldives
Dotted within the azure-blue seascape of the Indian Ocean, to the south west of India and Sri Lanka, the Maldives’ 26 atolls, with nearly 1,200 islands, are genuinely as picture-postcard perfect as the glossy images promise. They fully live up to their hype as the ultimate ‘kick-back and indulge’ destination; all you need to do is choose your slice of paradise, grab something cool to sip, and unwind with stunning views over the crystal coast. However, there’s much more to this corner of the world than Insta-ready beaches and honeymoon bliss: there are lived-on islands to discover too, giving you a deeper glimpse into the archipelago’s vibrant local life.
Plan in time on local islands to get a taste of the region’s daily rhythms, staying in properties within the heart of the community. Daydream on the beach, lounge by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, eat local specialities (as you’d expect, the seafood is something else), and watch the world go by from harbour-side cafes. Away from shore, discover an astonishing array of marine life in the Maldives’ clear, warm waters, which offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world.
While the single-resort islands allow you space to indulge, the local islands zoom in on the character and traditions of each small community, each with its own charm and appeal. Whether you’re looking for maximum pampering, a small rustic hideaway, a family-friendly vibe or honeymoon seclusion, the Maldives has an idyll for everyone.
Start planning your journey here...
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Beneath the waves…
Dive into the Maldives’ underwater world to discover diverse marine life in the warm waters. Take a boat to reefs teeming with life and keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of turtles, sharks, and rays in the blue beyond, or snorkel in the shallows from the shore looking out for shoals of colourful fish. Our expert guides ensure a responsible experience, so you can focus on the beautiful surroundings in the knowledge that safeguarding the ecosystem is the top priority. Find out more about the impact of development on the reefs and the challenges faced by this island nation, along with the inspiring conservation projects working to protect this beautiful region through education and action.
Beneath the waves…
Dive into the Maldives’ underwater world to discover diverse marine life in the warm waters. Take a boat to reefs teeming with life and keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of turtles, sharks, and rays in the blue beyond, or snorkel in the shallows from the shore looking out for shoals of colourful fish. Our expert guides ensure a responsible experience, so you can focus on the beautiful surroundings in the knowledge that safeguarding the ecosystem is the top priority. Find out more about the impact of development on the reefs and the challenges faced by this island nation, along with the inspiring conservation projects working to protect this beautiful region through education and action.
Local Connection
See a deeper side to the Maldives with a stay on a locally lived-on island, combining the archipelago’s fabled desert-island luxury with genuine community connection. Initiatives to combat overtourism and protect the environment and local infrastructure have allowed local communities to take greater control of their region’s tourism, and build stronger and sustainable connections to travel, meaning visitors can experience the archipelago from a lived cultural perspective. Take a wander through enclaves of brightly-coloured houses, visit pop-up markets and watch fishing boats come in from serene harbour-side cafes. Stop for traditional hedika afternoon tea, and chat over a selection of savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea.
Local Connection
See a deeper side to the Maldives with a stay on a locally lived-on island, combining the archipelago’s fabled desert-island luxury with genuine community connection. Initiatives to combat overtourism and protect the environment and local infrastructure have allowed local communities to take greater control of their region’s tourism, and build stronger and sustainable connections to travel, meaning visitors can experience the archipelago from a lived cultural perspective. Take a wander through enclaves of brightly-coloured houses, visit pop-up markets and watch fishing boats come in from serene harbour-side cafes. Stop for traditional hedika afternoon tea, and chat over a selection of savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea.
The Maldives pairs well with…
We particularly love combining your stay in the Maldives with time in our other Asia destinations. Connections times are generally short and any combination gives you the chance to include two different cultural explorations on your travels, alongside plenty of those beautiful beaches – win win! The Maldives makes a classic combination with Sri Lanka, offering both contrast and complement, as well as with Bhutan, Nepal and India, and can pair well with Japan, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.
The Maldives pairs well with…
We particularly love combining your stay in the Maldives with time in our other Asia destinations. Connections times are generally short and any combination gives you the chance to include two different cultural explorations on your travels, alongside plenty of those beautiful beaches – win win! The Maldives makes a classic combination with Sri Lanka, offering both contrast and complement, as well as with Bhutan, Nepal and India, and can pair well with Japan, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.
Stunning landscapes, friendly people
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Inspiring experiences and places to stay…
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Start planning your journey here...
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Talk to our expert team...
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The Selective Asia difference
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Bespoke journeys tailored just for you
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Unparalleled local knowledge and expertise
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Award-winning, nose-to-tail service
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Responsible travel
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24 hour local support
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Our flexi-booking promise and financial clarity
No ordinary Travel Company
For us, travel is one of life's great privileges — one that should never be taken for granted. It’s about taking things slow — giving yourself time for thoughtful curiosity. Time to immerse yourself in your destination, get closer to the ground, and feel your way to greater understanding.
Fully protected and flexible bookings
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