The Maldives with your family: practical guide

• Capital: Malé
• Population: 395,000 inhabitants
• Area: 298 square kilometre
• Currency: the rufiyaa, but everything will be charged in dollars, the common currency used for trade.
• Time zone: UTC +5H
• Political regime: Presidential Republic
• Languages: Divehi, English

Religion: 99% Sunni Muslims (prohibition to wear distinctive signs of other religions)

The Maldives, this idyllic archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is the dream of many travellers in search of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. But to make the most of this unique experience, it’s essential to be well prepared. From administrative formalities to the choice of island or resort, and activities not to be missed, every detail counts to ensure a worry-free stay. In this article, we’ll be revealing the essentials you need to know before setting sail for this tropical paradise, so you can savour every moment of your Maldivian getaway.

Blue, green, white and yellow. The colour palette, the crystal water offered by the Maldives contrasts with the grey tones of the European sky. This can only be a dream come true for the family who sets foot for the first time on this island. And the feeling may well be the same on each of your trips to these atolls that everyone dreams of visiting. Don’t miss any human interaction with the Maldivians that are known to be very welcoming, low-stress and opened towards the tourists who comes to discover the country. If you appreciate solitude, you should know that of the 1200 islets of the archipelago, only 200 are inhabited. So, if you want some freedom it will be soon fulfilled. And even more so if you want to avoid the overcrowding of the high season. And as images are often better than words, a visit to the Maldivian Tourist Office website is a must.

Take a family holiday to the Maldives, sublime islands nestling in the heart of the Indian Ocean. This tropical gem offers an idyllic setting for creating precious memories with your children. Famous for its pristine white beaches, crystal clear waters and dazzling marine life, the Maldives is the perfect choice for a family getaway. Enjoy tropical sunshine, gentle ocean breezes and exciting activities such as snorkelling, swimming with dolphins and exploring the picturesque islands. Whether you decide to stay in a lodge, a holiday club or an all-inclusive resort, the possibilities for total discovery are endless!

As soon as you arrive on the Maldives, you will find that your children will soon forget their smartphones and other game consoles. A digital detox that will be more than welcome. You may not see them all day as they will be busy trying the many activities that are also designed for you, by the way. Hotels often provide high-quality clubs for children. An opportunity to discover other cultures in addition to the Maldives and its treasures.

• Visit Malé, the overpopulated capital of the Maldives. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the very colourful facades of the old Friday mosque, built in the 17th century and whose main feature is its facades decorated with carved coral as well as the tombstones.

• Discover the atoll of Rasdhoo and its hammerhead sharks. A dive that will make you forget your fear of sharks due to the good supervision, you and your family will have no fear of moving close to the sharks. More peaceful and tranquil, the whale shark allows itself to be approached. You will probably meet the whale shark nearby Ari’s atoll. The biggest fish in the world will amaze your children with its dimensions which are 10 meters long!

• Learn to dive and practice snorkelling. There are two activities for families all together. You will think that you are Commander Cousteau in the middle of a magical, colourful universe populated by creatures you won’t see again anytime soon. Like the Manta rays, very present in this small paradise for divers that is the bay of Hanifaru Huraa, a protected reserve. Each hotel has its own diving club and classes for beginners.