"Collect moments, not things" says one piece of travel wisdom, and it could have been written for The Maldives.
Made up of around 1,200 islands, this is a place in which you're guaranteed to make memories and collect moments that will endure.
It's accessible, with direct flights available and a climate that proves welcoming all year (although the very best time to travel is between November and April).
For many, as soon as they set foot on the enchanting coral islands, they have a thirst to explore the Indian Ocean lapping all around. For active travellers and water babies, there is some of the world’s finest diving and snorkelling.
Whether you are a seasoned diver looking for some of the Maldives best dive sites, a family looking for a child-friendly island escape, or a couple looking for a luxurious premium all-inclusive – one of these charming island getaways will prove perfect.
With so much beauty to choose from, deciding where to go can be tricky. That's why we have teamed up with Constance Hotels & Resorts, who have seven destinations in the Indian Ocean. We've focused on Constance Moofushi and Constance Halaveli in The Maldives...
Constance Moofushi
At Constance Moofushi, you can choose from 24 beach villas on dazzling white sand, or 56 water villas (or 30 senior water villas) on stilts that float above the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean.
Set on its own secluded island, the resort is a perfect combination of luxury and simplicity, where everything is taken care of with the All-Inclusive Cristal Package: from premium drinks and exquisite cuisine to luxurious accommodation and spa treatments!
The colourful aquatic world is also a must while staying at Constance Moofushi, including snorkelling, big game fishing Maldivian style, sunset cruises and dolphin watching.
Constance Halaveli
Constance Halaveli is a luxurious hideaway in an intimate and magical setting. You can choose from one of the 57 water villas, 8 beach villas, 12 family beach villas, 8 double storey beach villas or the lavish presidential beach villa.
Lie back and relax on your own private sun terrace, dip in your own plunge pool, or take time to nurture body and mind at U Spa by Constance.
Floating in the North Ari atoll, Constance Halaveli is a magical place where water and sand lie in contrast to the exuberant green foliage.
Diving
Other global diving destinations suffer in comparison to the Maldivian reefs. Whether you are looking to learn to dive or spend all your time submerged, Constance Moofushi is the answer.
This 5-star island, located in the north of the South Ari Atoll, is home to an excellent PADI dive school that has access to 32 dive sites within 30 minutes of the island.
For the less confident, or guests who prefer to snorkel, the house reef is only metres from the beach. And for anyone looking to get a taste of diving, the Premium All-Inclusive (which is as standard!) includes a free 30-minute dive lesson in the swimming pool.
Families
Getting a family holiday right is so important. That’s why we love Constance Halaveli, which is also on the elite portfolio of 'Leading Hotels of the World'.
The Constance Kids Club is there if you need it – open from 9am until 9pm for children between 4 and 11 years old. There are activities galore to keep everyone in the family entertained – water sports, a swimming pool, tennis, spa and excursions.
And when it comes to accommodation, there is no need to worry about interconnecting rooms thanks to the island’s family beach villas, with their double bedroom and bunk bedroom, and double storey beach villas, with a double bedroom downstairs and twin bedroom upstairs.
Each and every villa has its own private plunge pool and Villa Master to assist you.
Premium All-Inclusive
We’re often bemused by the dining options offered in the Maldives. At the end of the day, you are on an island and that’s where you will dine – there is no ‘going out for dinner’. And that’s why it's refreshing to know that both Constance Moofushi and Constance Halaveli offer a Premium All-Inclusive option.
At Constance Moofushi, the Premium All-Inclusive is the only option, with all meals at the beachside, sand-floored buffet restaurant, wine by the bottle, most drinks, your mini bar and more included.
At Constance Halaveli, the Premium All-Inclusive is an upgrade option but in our eyes, it’s a must. Like at Constance Moofushi, all meals and most drinks are included as well as your mini-bar and other extras.
You also have the choice of three restaurants (reservation required): indulge in fine food and sumptuous flavours at Jahaz, Jing or Meeru. For superb cocktails and divine wines, step inside the Jing Bar & Wine Cellar.
For more information about Constance Moofushi or Constance Halaveli (or other Constance resorts in Mauritius and the Seychelles), please contact info@abbottstravel.com, book an appointment online, call 0208 989 9445 or visit the shop at 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA.