Aguide to getting Around the maldives
Aguide to getting Around the maldives
Aguide to getting Around the maldives : For good reasons, Maldives is considered to be a true definition of paradise. On the islands there are no traffic jams, clear skies almost every day and secluded and peaceful beaches that are a perfect Romantic getaway or a family trip.
Once you arrive at the airport, transfers are usually included in our Maldives Holiday Packages that is whether by seaplane, speedboat or domestic flight.
Transport in the Maldives islands is either very fast or rather slow, there is very little in between.
Getting to the resort, is however park of the fun of your holiday. This article gives you a breakdown of the available around the Maldives, from airport transfers to how to get around upon arrival.
Airport Transfers
Almost all visitors coming to the Maldives arrive into Malé International Airport also known as Velana International Airport, the airport is served by frequent flights from numerous destinations around the world including United Kingdom (UK) with available direct flights from London with British Airways.
Once you arrive at the airport, you will need to make your way to your resort which is more likely on another island. Here are some of the ways to get to your final destinations
By Sea – Speedboat or Ferry
On Maldives Island, boat have replaced the cars and with the island most locals opt for inexpensive pubic ferries or semi – private boats. Many visitors use private charter speedboats providing a fast, direct service between the various islands, the only convenience is the greater cost.
There is nothing more fun than a dashing ride over the calm waters in a luxury speedboat as you make your way to your island resort.
All of the islands in Maldives are connected by a ferry, so if you are interested in island hopping, this is likely the easiest way to get around but requires some careful planning to ensure you can get back to your resort with ease.
By Air – Seaplane or domestic flight
Seaplane is another option to reach more far – flung resort in the Maldives, however note that many boats and seaplanes do not operate at night. So, you have to spend a night in Malé if your flight arrives late or departs early.
At Malé International Airport, there are three terminals that is an international terminal, a domestic terminal for flights within the Maldives and a seaplane terminal.
Seaplane
Seaplanes are a popular option when it comes to transport across the Maldivian islands and are a fun experience too, the planes can carry around 15 tourists at a time, quickly and easily and do not require landing strips as they land directly on the water. These planes are typically very small and many people can’t stand upright in them, but the compact seats are worth it for the incredible views of the islands as you fly to your resort.
Usually, your luggage is placed at the back of the seaplane in a small compartment or strapped in place to ensure it doesn’t slide around during take – off and landing.
If you have opted for a seaplane, when you arrive at Malé airport, you will need to find the check-in counter for the company you have booked your flight with. These are two companies to choose from that is Maldives Air Taxi and Trans Maldivian Airways, these are easy to find with lit – up signs to look out for within the arrivals terminal.
Domestic flight
Domestic flights in typicMaldivesally operate at night, which the seaplanes do not. These place carry about 35 to 60 people meaning that regardless of the time you arrive in Maldives, you will always find a way to reach your resort. Also, you can opt for a combination of a domestic flight and a speedboat, definitely you will be arriving in style.
Domestic flights can take you to a total of 16 regional airports across the islands and there may be a couple of hours of wait before you can board once you arrive in the Maldives. The domestic airline terminal is short walk from the main arrival terminal at Malé Airport, so you do not need to run for your connecting flight.
How to get around islands in the Maldives
Islands in Maldives are relatively small making it easy to explore them on foot or even by bicycle, the bicycles are normally offered by many resorts as complimentary with your room, suite or villa at an additional cost.
The only locations where you may need to use a car or a motorbike to get from one place to another is in the cities of the island of Malé, Hulhumale and Fuvahmulah.
How to get from the airport to Malé city
If you want to checkout of Malé City before you head to your resort, here are some of the options for you to get around the city
Public Ferry – this is the best option to get around the city, the ferry leaves every 10 minutes from Malé Airport and is very affordable, you will need to stop by the Public Ferry counter to buy a ticket and the staff there can direct you where to go next. Keep in mind that only three pieces of luggage are allowed per ticket, so if you haven’t picked light you may need to pay a little more.
Bus – you will have to take the bridge bus which stops on the South – West side of the city
Taxis – takes you across the recently built Sinámalé China Maldives Friendship Bridge, directly into the city.
When to visit the Maldives
Maldives have warm temperatures all year round making the islands a year round destination and is flocked by many travelers as they escape the cold of winter.
