Countless stunning beach destinations bless Asia, but none are as perfect and iconic as the Maldives. With crystal clear blue waters softly lapping against remote reaches of pristine white sand, the Maldives offer a sanctuary away from the stresses of your every day. The staggeringly beautiful islands are tiny and impossibly pure. The breeze rustling through swaying palm fronds will let you know that you aren't inside a postcard. The nation consists of about 1200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Almost 130 resorts lie across the islands. Each hotel is on a private island and offers ultra-luxurious bungalows and flawless service. Finding the "right" resort can be tricky – everyone provides a unique atmosphere, and the differences slight. However, there are ways to choose the best fit for you. Asking these questions will help you select the perfect Maldives resort for you.
How many nights do you have?
Resorts lie throughout the Maldives – but some are less accessible than others. Although the most secluded islands (home to options such as Maalifushi by COMO or Cheval Blanc) are stunning and offer a Robin Crusoe experience, it can take hours to get there. The travel time will eat into your much-needed leisure time. Instead, choose a resort reachable by speedboats, such as One & Only Reethi Rah, Baros Maldives, or Cocoa Island. Then, you could be in your bikini within 30 minutes after arriving in the Maldives. A good rule of thumb: if your stay is less than five nights, choose a hotel close to the international airport in Male.
Do you want an overwater or beach villa?
Many would consider staying in an overwater villa essential to a perfect Maldives honeymoon. Couples dream of a stunning luxury bungalow over the water, a private deck perched over the crystal-clear waters below. If you seek hours relaxing on your deck and an uninterrupted view of the lagoon, look at Cheval Blanc or Huvafen Fushi.
On the other hand, some couples want to nestle in a haven steps away from the white sand and lapping waves among the palm trees. So if you are a lover of sand & sea, choose a resort known for its flora and fauna. A perfect option for you might be Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru or Soneva Fushi, which both offer gorgeous beach villas.
Do you want a private pool?
Most resorts provide private pools in the beach villas, but fewer properties offer pools in the overwater bungalows. If a pool is essential to you, narrow down your list to resorts at the beginning of your search so that you don't waste time vetting hotels that don't feature everything you want.
What is my budget?
A trip to the Maldives is pricey, so you need to decide on a budget range early and stick to it. There is a wide range of exclusive properties to select from – from 5-star to ultra-luxe. The resorts can range in price from $500 to $5000 per night. A top-echelon hotel typically starts at a minimum of $1000 per night, but it is possible to find an incredible resort at a fair price. If you are on a tight budget, choose an alternative that will allow you a speedboat transfer, and consider splitting your trip between a beach bungalow and an overwater villa.
What style of resort do we like?
Every hotel has a personality cultivated to create a particular experience. Like Soneva Fushi and Huvafen Fushi, many have developed the essential "barefoot luxury style" – a relaxed setting where you can achieve zen. Others – One & Only Reethi Rah and Cheval Blanc, to name two – are super-stylish, where you will find furs paired with bikinis. Some hotels, like the Standard, attract a youthful party crowd; some are classic, like the Baros. So which personality suits you the best? You won't be happy in a resort that doesn't fit your style.
Are diving or snorkeling vital to you?
One of the biggest draws of the islands is the fantastic underwater world. The variety of house reefs and dive spots are critical assets for those searching for an underwater journey. Diving is everywhere, but some atolls are better than others, and some offer better house reefs. If diving is a top priority, make sure that you select a resort known for coral reefs– such as Baros Maldives.
Do you want to spend hours at the beach?
Every island is diverse. Some are very large, requiring you to have a cart or bicycle to get around, and some you are so small that you can circumnavigate the island in 5 minutes. Some have stunning beaches that seem to go on forever, and some have narrow beaches. If you want to spend hours lounging on a beach chair, then make sure that your hotel offers a lot of white powder – the beach at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru is excellent. On the other hand, if you prefer socializing at the pool, you will want a large resort that provides plenty of pool cabanas.
Are you early birds or night owls?
The Maldives isn't a party destination. A few resorts provide a more active nightlife; head to the Standard, Hard Rock Maldives, or Centara Grand if you want to dance the night away. However, if you seek romance and seclusion, you will want to look at the Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi, Gili Lankanfushi, or Cocoa Island.
Do you need adults-only or kid-friendly?
While the Maldives is the most romantic destination on the planet, ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, and romantic getaways, it has become more popular with families. If you are looking for a family-friendly getaway, choose a resort with excellent children's programs and teen clubs, like One and Only Reethi Rah or Lily Beach Resort. On the other hand, if you prefer a more adult-centered getaway, you will want to head to Baros, Hurwalhi Resort, or Anantara Veli.
You can rest assured that once you pick the perfect Maldives resort for you – the stress stops there! Once you arrive in the Maldives, all your stress will melt away. Relax. Breathe. Rest. Dream.