Island Honeymoon Destinations

The Hawaii honeymoon guide – It’s the quintessential tropical holiday for many around the world and after over a decade of world travelling, it did not disappoint. From the swaying palm trees to those famous Maui sunsets, Hawaii is a bucket list destination for all sun lovers.

With four main islands, as well as many smaller islands to choose from, Hawaii has a spot to suit your travel needs. With glorious tropical weather all year round and warm water temperatures, it’s not hard to see why nine million tourists flock to this paradise every year.

WHY GO TO HAWAII?

Amazing weather and water temperature all year round, outlet shopping, that friendly Aloha welcome, mai Thais (or any cocktail really), water sports, amazing sunsets and green, rugged cliffs.

GETTING TO HAWAII

Hawaii is a group of islands off the south-west coast of the United States. The 50^th State of America is situated in the middle of the North Pacific Ocean and was formed by undersea volcanic activity. It has a total land area of approximately 28,311 square km (10,931 square miles). It’s largest and capital city is Honolulu on the island of Oahu.

Direct flight times from:

THINGS TO DO IN HAWAII HONEYMOON

Follow the above link for information and reviews on a selection of romantice, adventurous, relaxing and cultural activities on the islands of Oahu and Maui.

SOMETHING SPECIAL IN HAWAII FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Helicopter

For a bird’s eye view of Hawaii, take to the sky on a scenic helicopter flight. Zoom over an active volcano or just cruise up the beaches of Oahu and take in Hawaii’s breathtaking mountains, hidden valleys and dramatic waterfalls.

Star Gazing

For a unique and romantic first night, enjoy a glass of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries as you gaze at the universe above. There are a number of places that offer stargazing experiences but we recommend you try out the Hyatt Regency Maui’s Tour of the Stars, which was named the world’s top hotel for stargazing. This one-hour experience takes place on the hotel rooftop and ensures you will come away with some magnificent views of the Milky Way above. Don’t forget to take a camera and try to pick a full moon night for a mesmerising shot.

FESTIVALS IN HAWAII

Waikiki Spam Jam – April

You won’t be able to miss the love the locals have for Spam in Hawaii. Just visit the local supermarket to see shelves stocked with very flavour of Spam you can imagine and be sure to try Spam Musabi, a sushi style snack, which can be found year-round in most local supermarkets. During April, Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu is blocked off for this one-day celebration of Hawaii’s favourite lunch meat. Enjoy the huge street party which includes souvenirs and food, including some big-name restaurants cooking up some innovative Spam dishes.

Lantern Floating Hawaii – last Monday of May

This stunning ceremony held in Oahu every Memorial Day, sees thousands of floating lanterns placed into the water at Ala Moana Beach

Park. As the sun sets over the water, over 50,000 attendees remember and honour lost loved ones. The cultural event is marked with a Japanese taiko drum performance and Hawaiian chant and hula.

Aloha Festivals – Around September for Oahu

These month-long celebrations, which take place at various times on the Hawaiian Islands, are the largest Hawaiian celebration of culture and celebrate the huge variety of traditions and customs that each island has to offer. Enjoy food, games, live entertainment and don’t miss the floral parade which goes down Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu.

Hawaii Food and Wine Festival – Around October to November

Featuring over 100 international chefs, tv personalities and alcohol producers, this month-long celebration, showcases the best locally sourced produce from around Hawaii and has events on all of the main islands. Take part in exclusive dining experiences, wine tasting, cooking demonstrations and more, all showing off produce from the state’s best fisherman, farmers and ranchers.

Billabong Pipeline Masters – December

The final event in the World Surfing League season, the Pipeline Masters is held on the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. Known as the deadliest wave in the word due to its massive swell and shallow reef, the Banzai Pipeline provides some amazing spectating for surf lovers and armatures alike to see the world’s best surfers in action.

GETTING AROUND HAWAII

Metred taxis, Uber, private drivers and car hire are the most popular ways to get around Hawaii. Most can be obtained from your accommodation or along the streets. Private drivers are great for longer excursions and are often included or available for a small fee for activities such as snorkelling. It’s worth hiring a car for a few days if you plan to do lots of driving or have a large group as it will work our cheaper and gives you freedom. Valet parking is available at most hotels and there are a few public parking lots for a similar fee around Waikiki.

If only going a short way, consider walking or grab a bicycle to get around. There are city bikes to hire in places like Waikiki and most of the beach strip is an easy, flat walk. There is also hotel shuttles and local trolleys that run past the main areas around every hour. These are a great cheap option and allow you to see the sites along the way in a traditional way.

ACCOMMODATION IN HAWAII

Budget: Under $50pn

Mid: $50-$300pn

Luxury: $300+pn

From 5 Star luxury hotels to self-contained condos, Hawaii has plenty of accommodation options. Be aware when looking at prices that hotels will charge a resort fee (usually around $30pp per day) on top of the accommodation.

This covers things like bottles of water and use of resort facilities. It doesn’t cover extras like water sport hire, breakfast etc unless stated so be prepared to pay extra for these items.

Waikiki, Oahu – If you like the hustle and bustle, shopping, restaurants and night life then this is the place for you. A huge beach strip lined with big-name hotels and a huge range of shopping, restaurants and water sports.

North Shore, Oahu – Known for its beautiful resorts such as Turtle Bay and famous Pipeline, the North Shore provides a quieter side of Oahu where you can take in quaint fishing towns, empty beaches and lush scenery.

Lahaina, Ka’anapali and Kapalua, Maui – These three towns on Maui’s west coast are the resort hotspot of Maui and provide white, sandy strips of water fronted by plenty of hotel choices. Lahaina itself hosts the harbor where many cruises depart and is worth a look around the old fishing town’s shops and restaurants. Ka’anapali covers 3 miles of beach and includes Whaler’s Village where you can shop and eat at a number of good restaurants on the water.  Kapalua is arguably the most upmarket of the three and is set at the foot of the mountains. It too has many beautiful bays and beaches to choose from.

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES HAWAII

Hawaii has a number of all-inclusive resorts including those below:

• Four Seasons Maui
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
• Fairmont Orchid
• Hanalei Bay Resort
• Grand Wailea
• Kaua’i Marriott Resort
• Royal Lahaina Resort
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki
• Hilton Waikoloa Village
• Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott Maui
• Turtle Bay Resort

ADULT ONLY RESORTS HAWAII

• Hotel Wailea
• The Modern Honolulu

Many resorts also offer an adult only pool and dining areas.

LOCAL CUISINES IN HAWAII

• Spam Musabi – This sushi like snack is found all over Hawaii and consist of a slice of Hawaii’s favourite deli meat, on a wedge of rice and wrapped with Japanese seaweed
• Masaladas – a Portuguese originating sweet, these donut like treats can be found with many types of filling and are said to be a favourite of former president and Hawaiian native Barack Obama. Locals will tell you to head to Leonard’s Bakery for the best in Honolulu.
• Shrimp – You will see shrimp trucks all over Hawaii and can enjoy a plate with a variety of flavours. For traditional fare, go the garlic and be sure to try world famous Giovanni’s. Trust us you will smell it before you see it.
• Shave ice –
  Not to be mistaken for a snow cone, these frozen desserts come in a heap of different flavors and require a careful amount or preparation to be made well. A delicious treat for those hot, steamy days.
• Poke – a raw, diced fish dish which is seen in many forms and made most commonly from ahi tuna. Poke bowls which are served on rice, poke salad, poke tacos and poke nachos are all common and an absolute must try for sashimi lovers.
• Fish tacos – Tacos are hugely popular in Hawaii and none more so then one filled with delicious fresh fish such as mahi mahi and lime in a fresh tortilla.
• Taro based treats – From poi which is a sticky pudding made from the Taro root to Laulau which is pork wrapped in taro leaves, taro is a huge staple in Hawaiian food. I personally could not get enough of taro chips which were used in nachos.
• Kalua pig – No Luau is complete without the ceremonious unveiling of the Kalua pig from the imu (underground oven). Similar to pulled pork but with a smoky wood flavour, this dish is usually served with a delicious fried rice.
• Tropical fruit – plantations can still be found all over Hawaii and although not as famous for tropical fruits as it once was, Hawaii still has an abundance of delicious pineapples, passionfruit, papaya and dragon fruit. Be sure to try Dole Whip – a pineapple-flavoured soft serve dessert.
• Hula Pie – think macadamia ice-cream, hot fudge, whipped cream and nuts, on a chocolate cookie pie crust. Usually sized for sharing, you better bring your sweet tooth for this ice-cream treat.

LANGUAGE IN HAWAII

English is spoken everywhere in Hawaii; however, it is always nice to know a few native words when speaking with the locals and you will certainly hear many phrases widely used and most towns, streets and sites are in Hawaiian so it will help with correct pronunciation. You will notice that all Hawaiian words end in a vowel.

Useful Hawaiian phrases

• Love, affection, hello, goodbye = Aloha
• Thank you = Mahalo
• Thank you very much = Mahalo Nui Loa
• Excuse me – Kala mai ia’u
• Delicious = Ono
• Turtle = Honu
• Hawaiian feast = Lu’au
• The dance of Hawaii = Hula
• Man = Kane
• Woman = Wahine
• Child = Keiki
• Family = ‘Ohana
• Expert = Kahuna
• Necklace made of flowers and given as a symbol of affection = Lei
• heavenly flower = Leilani
• porch or balcony = Lanai

WEATHER IN HAWAII

Definitely the best thing about Hawaii is its amazing temperature all year round. Its proximity to the equator gives it a constituent, tropical climate year-round. Water temperatures are always amazing, generally hovering in the mid-twenties Celsius.

High season: December to April, June to August

Dry Season: May to October

Rainy Season: November to April

 COST OF THINGS IN HAWAII

HAWAII TIPS AND TRICKS

Timing – To avoid paying exorbitant rates for flights and hotel, avoid travelling during the school holidays, especially Christmas and New Year’s where the price of travel can increase by up to three times.

Stick to 1 or 2 islands – It can be tempting to try to cram everything into your trip to Hawaii and there are so many islands and sites to see. Do your research and pick your top spot or two to stay and just cover those places. If you’re like many others, it won’t be your last trip to Hawaii and you will have a more enjoyable time seeing the sites between relaxing, then running around from dawn to dusk trying to see everything.

Don’t book too much in advance – From the moment you arrive in Hawaii at the airport, you will see stands with dozens of brochures to cover sites and activities of every sort. There are also vendors along the streets and beaches selling activities and you will find that for many it’s cheaper to book once you get there and you may even be able to haggle a deal. Some of the cruises offer cheap last-minute seats as they are boarding people and there is so much competition that it’s easy to get a discount by shopping around. We travelled in September holidays and had a few things booked that we knew would sell out but found we waited to book other things including Pearl Harbour the night before so we could check the weather and how we were feeling.

I hope this Hawaii Honeymoon Guide helps you have a great time!!

A Bora Bora Honeymoon has become one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean lies the island with turquoise lagoons and beaches covered with white sand. You will soon realize why so many newlywed couples dream about spending their honeymoon there. Bora Bora is one of top honeymoon destinations, but not many couples actually manage to come there and the exclusivity is what makes it even more special!

All the luxurious resorts and private overwater bungalows will make you feel like you are in a paradise. You can either choose a ‘ready­to-go’ honeymoon package, or you can tailor your own. And if you still have not tied the knot, you can do it here. Choose one of the two ceremony styles (Polynesian Traditional ceremony or Western ceremony) and say ‘I do’ in one of many romantic Bora Bora resorts or in a romantic chapel on top of the hill. Just imagine an intimate wedding in the sunset, with a magnificent view…

WHY GO TO BORA BORA FOR MY HONEYMOON

The pictures really do tell the story of this tropical paradise. If you are looking for a quiet, private and romantic location to spend with your partner, Bora Bora offers a place to enjoy each other’s company with crystal clear blue water and overwater bungalows sure not to disappoint.

With average sea temperatures that don’t get below about 27^oC (81^oF), the climate is truly available all year round to enjoy.

HOW TO GET TO THERE

Bora Bora is a group of islands with the main island surrounded by a lagoon and a series of smaller islands. The island group is about 1 hour flight time Northwest from Papeete in Tahiti which has direct flights from many destinations. Once at Faa’a airport in Papeete, catch a connection to the airfield. Be sure to have your camera ready for arrival into the island – The dormant volcano on the main island with the surrounding lagoons and islands make for a great photo. If you get in the line up early enough, try and sit on the left side of the plane for the arrival for the best photos and views.

The airport is on a separate island from Vaitape so you can expect a boat transfer upon arrival to one of the resorts. If you are flying with Air Tahiti, you may have a shuttle boat to Vaitape included in your airfare. Your resort may also offer boat airport transfers so be sure to see what transfer services they have available.

Flight times from:

THINGS TO DO IN BORA BORA HONEYMOON

Although it is a prime destination for a relaxing, romantic honeymoon, it offers a selection of other activities for those couples looking for something more. Below is a list of honeymoon activities available on the island.

Enjoy a couples massage – There are a few places where you can book a massage for you and your loved one. Some therapists are willing to come to your place, too. They offer various techniques, including the Polynesian massage, with a wide range of different oils to choose from.

Swim with the sharks – It is not as scary as it sounds. If the weather conditions are right, you can take a small boat and go outside the reef. The water is crystal-clear, so you can easily see some blacktip reef sharks passing below.

Visit Alain Despert Studio – Art-gallery with works of internationally acclaimed artist Alain Despert. You will see his ‘Absolut Despert’ – a painting of a bottle of vodka floating in the Bora Bora lagoon, and many other colorful contemporary paintings, as well.

Enjoy a holistic spa treatment – Choose between different natural spa services and holistic disciplines – shiatsu and Thai massage, foot reflexology, or yoga. Some places offer beauty services and esthetic treatments, as well.

Bora Bora Stargazing Tour – The tour is intended for a small group of people – no more than twelve. It all starts with a sunset cruise by boat and continues on a private Motu (Islet), where you will enjoy listening to stories and legends about Polynesian people who used the stars as their guide across the Pacific Ocean. The price includes free hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as bottled water and a glass of sparkling wine.

Take a lagoon tour – Get on the boat, and enjoy breathtaking views of the lagoon. There is no better place for taking pictures than this. And it is a great place for snorkeling, too. Be sure to visit the lagoonarium – a small area in the lagoon, with captivated sea life. You will enjoy watching different marine species in their natural habitat.

Have a picnic on a Motu – Come to one of the small private-islands, where you can enjoy various water and beach activities. The best excursions include a Polynesian picnic with fresh fruits, grilled yams, poisson cru, grilled mahi-mahi, and coconut bread, served on large plates of hand-woven leaves.

Swim at Matira Beach – This two-mile long white sand beach is the only public beach in Bora Bora. It is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world.

Shop for black pearls – Your loved one will surely be thrilled if you take her to some pearl shopping. But remember – Tahitian Pearls may vary in their shape, size, color, and quality, so it is important that you know how to buy them. Arc En Ciel in Vaitape has plenty of strong reviews and would be a great place to start your shopping.

Try jet-skiing – Nothing boosts up your adrenaline as a jet-ski ride around the lagoon. This is one of the most exciting water sports. It may be a little intimidating for beginners, but once you learn the basics – you will enjoy it.

Shop at Vaitape markets – There you will find a wide variety of different hand-crafted jewelry, pearls, home-wares, and other interesting souvenirs for only a few dollars. You can spend hours there, especially if all the stalls are open (they are closed on Sundays and Holidays, and some of them are even closed if there are no cruise ships at the dock).

Book a sunset cruise – Sunset cruises are not reserved only for romantic couples. You can book a small group cruise on a sailing catamaran for you and your friends. Enjoy watching sunset, with champagne and some snacks.

Go hiking – There are a few different Bora Bora walking tours, but the most popular is the one through the Valley of the Kings. All these tours are possible only during the dry weather. But the tours are not only about the hiking – you will learn something about the geology, and hear some fascinating Polynesian legends.

Watch Tahitian dancing shows – Traditional Tahitian dancing shows are held in the evening at restaurants and bars in many of the Bora Bora resorts. To attend the shows you need only to purchase a cocktail from the bar, but for others, you will need to have the whole dinner.

Take professional photographs – Bora Bora is a perfect place for taking breathtaking photos. There is also an option of taking the photos under water in Bora Bora’s lagoon. This will be an amazing experience and you will have something to bring home and show to your friends and family.

STAYING FOR LONGER?

Is there a better way to spend your vacation in Tahiti, than in an ultra-luxury cruise ship?

Crystal Cruises – You can choose between four South Pacific cruise itineraries. In their all-inclusive packages, they offer a wide variety of complimentary services, such as an open bar and various onboard activities.

Paul Gauguin Cruises – All-inclusive packages include food, drinks (except some expensive liquor labels), and many activities. Other things that are not included are spa treatments, cabin upgrades, and shore excursions with guides, but they usually give a shipboard credit as a bonus. You can use this credit towards most of these additional expenses.

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Watch the sunset from the water – When visiting Bora Bora with your loved one, be sure to book a private sunset cruise. You will definitely enjoy this romantic experience which usually lasts for two hours. Most companies include a bottle of champagne, and some may even offer you a dinner.

 FESTIVALS IN BORA BORA

Tahiti Pearl Regatta – This four-day sailing race, between Raiatea, Bora Bora, Huahine, and Taha´a, is usually held in May. The race attracts both local and international competitors since it is open to all types of sailing boats – monohull, catamaran, private sailboat, charter, sailing canoes… Once the races are over, participants and other visitors can enjoy parties, games, and local cuisine tasting, as well as arts and crafts.

Bora Bora Liquid Festival – Every year in December, hundreds of water athletes compete in the lagoon. The Liquid Festival closes the Waterman World Tour (WWT) championships. In addition to the competition, numerous beach parties, as well as children’s activities, are held all across the island.

Heiva I Bora Bora – The biggest annual festival in Tahiti, held every summer. On the island, it takes place in an open area in Vaitape. You can either stand on the side and watch all the events for free, or you can buy tickets and make yourself comfortable in the seated area. Whatever way you choose, you will enjoy the beauty and diversity of Polynesian history and culture. This festival combines dance, music, and handcrafted costumes, as well as various sports and other competitions.

HOW TO GET AROUND

With the unique island layout, boats will be one of you primary methods to get around the islands. Your resort may have a boat to transfer you to the main island if you situated off it.

Car hire is an option out of Vaitape or look for bicycle rental if you are after a cheaper alternative to get around the island. Taxis are available but be their rates can be higher than you may be expecting. Scooters can also be a cheaper option if you are after motorised transport.

ACCOMMODATION IN BORA BORA

Although it is considered a luxury destination, there are various accommodation options.

Budget – Choose one of pensions, guest houses or family hotels. You will enjoy in a friendly atmosphere, and you will not spend more than $150 per night.

Mid-Range – Beach or garden bungalows are always a good choice if you plan to spend no more than a few hundred per night, but still want to have a luxury vacation experience. 

Luxury – There are a few levels of luxury accommodations on the island – the more features you add, the more prices go up (from nearly $1.000 to up to a few thousand).

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES IN BORA BORA

With an all-inclusive package, not only you will save some money, but you will also enjoy a relaxed holiday without having to worry about prices. The only true all-inclusive resort on the island was Club Med, but it closed in January 2009. There are no ‘official’ all-inclusive resorts.

In French Polynesia, the term ‘all-inclusive’ usually means that you have three meals a day included in the price. If you are looking for an all-inclusive experience, you can also book an all-inclusive cruise through Tahiti. Choose between Paul Gauguin and Crystal cruises, and enjoy sailing into the most beautiful lagoons in the Pacific Ocean.

ADULT ONLY RESORTS 

People who do not have their own children or choose the island as their honeymoon destination usually look for adults only accommodation. Unfortunately, there are not any available. Though there are not many children, as well. To lower the possibility of spending your holiday with someone else’s kids, choose the time of your vacation wisely.

Families usually travel during the school breaks – from June to August or in December and January. Another option is to choose a resort that is reserved exclusively for adults and children over the age of twelve (The Sofitel Private Island Resort) or a resort with an adults-only pool (The St. Regis Resort).

LOCAL FOOD 

Once you get to this island, be sure to enjoy the fresh local Polynesian food. The fish here is amazing (choose ocean fish, instead of lagoon fish). And you have to try poisson cru – a delicious dish of tuna marinated in lime and coconut. When it comes to eating out, you can either visit local grocery stores and buy some snacks, or you can visit one of the cafes and restaurants. But, whatever you choose, try not to miss ‘roulottes’ – rolling food trucks which serve grilled fish and fries, as well as kebabs and barbecued meat. These food trucks are a Tahitian tradition.

It would be a good idea to choose resorts with breakfast and dinner included, so you do not have to take a boat ride across the lagoon every time you want to eat something. Another option is to book a pension with fridge and a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.

LANGUAGE IN BORA BORA

The main language spoken is French and Tahitian. French is used primarily in businesses and Tahitian is preferred between the locals. Fear not if your French and Tahitian is not good – English is widely spoken throughout the island particularly in the resort areas.

Below we’ve listed some Tahitian phrases for your use – a hello in Tahitian will be well received!! Otherwise some basic French will also go a long way.

Useful Tahitian phrases

• Hello = la ora na
• Good morning = Ia ora na ‘oe
• Good evening = Ia ora oe i teie po
• Good night = Taoto maita’i
• Goodbye = Nānā
• How much is this? E hia moni teie?
• Thank you = Mauruuru roa
• You’re Welcome = ‘aita pe’ape’a
• Yes = E
• No = Aita
• Where is the toilet =  E hia te fare iti?

MONTHLY WEATHER IN BORA BORA

Bora Bora offers a year round honeymoon destination with warmer air and sea temperatures throughout the year. The water temperature will sit at about 26^oC (79^oF) year round so you can make the most of the beautiful temperate water and beaches. Bora Bora has a prominent rainy season from November to March with high humidity and increased rainfall. Cyclones are rare during the rainy season however check that El Nino effects are not in the area before considering travel to Bora Bora – during the El Nino period there is increased risk of high rainfall and cyclone and hurricane effects.

High season: May to October

Dry Season: April to October

Rainy Season: November to March

COST OF THINGS IN BORA BORA

BORA BORA TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

Take reef shoes with you as the Bora Bora sand and ocean floor is composed of live and crushed coral. You can expect cuts and discomfort if you choose not to wear them – but don’t worry if you can’t get them before you get there, the shops will have some available. Otherwise an old pair of shoes you don’t mind getting wet will do just fine.

There is no hospital on Bora Bora, just a Medical Centre in Vaitape, so it is a good idea to take a small first aid kit with you. If you do some serious damage to yourself, you can expect a ride back to Papeete where there are suitable medical services.

Nothing works in town on Sundays or Holidays. And if there is no cruise ship at the dock most local stalls in the markets are closed even during the work week. To see the full range of stalls, be sure to check them out when a cruise ship is in town.

Tipping is not compulsory, but if you appreciate the service, they will definitely appreciate any form of gratuity.

Tap water in Bora Bora is normally safe to drink, however check with your resort to confirm its current state when you get there.

IS BORA BORA SAFE?

The Bora Bora Islands are considered a safe place to visit with low crime rates and violence. However be sure to limit opportunities for petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the French Polynesia page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for Bora Bora.

A Bora Bora honeymoon is up there with the best of them. SAFE TRAVELS!!

With over 1000 individual islands and coral reefs, a Maldives honeymoon destination is perfect for white sands, clean air, crystal blue water and an abundance of unique and amazing tropical wildlife. Considered by many to be the best island honeymoon destination in the world, it is frequented by celebrities which is not surprising with what this tropical paradise has to offer. Its honeymooners can be treated with access to private islands, world renown diving locations, diverse marine life, quality restaurants, resorts and water sports to cater for all offering a unique opportunity to relax or explore this perfect island honeymoon location.

WHY HONEYMOON TO MALDIVES?

A top place to honeymoon, the Maldives offers couples an opportunity to engage in private activities with a choice of over 100 resorts – most resorts having their own private islands. For those that enjoy the water, it has excellent diving and snorkelling locations, marine life, postcard beaches, warm weather and water and a selection of cultural activities for all. A honeymoon to Maldives is sure not to disappoint.

WHERE IS MALDIVES ISLAND

The Maldives is approximately 600 NM to the south west of southern India and is made up of 26 atolls and approximately 1000 islands. The main way of getting to the Maldives is Velana international airport (also known as Mali international airport) which is in the north Male Atoll near the capital island Male. Once you are there, transfer to one of the individual islands will be by internal flights, Ferries, speed boats or sea planes depending on where you are planning to honeymoon.

Flight times from:

THINGS TO DO IN MALDIVES ON HONEYMOON

Follow the link above for the full list of relaxing, cultural and adventurous activities in the Maldives. Also listings of which islands are best to stay at to dive or snorkel with the marine life of your choice as some are better than others for rays, turtles and sharks.

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT

Why not dine underwater – 2 restaurants in the Maldives off the unique opportunity to have a meal whilst being surrounded by a selection of tropical marine life. Truly a not to be missed experience if you after something special for your first honeymoon night. (ITHAA Undersea Restaurant Alif Dhaal Atoll, or 5.8 Undersea Restaurant Lhaviyani Atoll)

FESTIVALS IN THE MALDIVES

Ramadan – Celebrated in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the Muslim nation fasts during sunrise to sunset for the duration of the month. It will not generally effect the resorts however some local restaurants will be closed during the day time. Opportunity to see celebration with dancing / bands.

Independence day – Celebrated on the 26^th of July each year, the Maldives celebrate the independence of the Maldives from the British by parading and performing in the streets.

Republic day – Following the independence from the British in 1965, 11 November each year marks the celebration of establishment of the republic. Marching bands and parading can be seen throughout the streets.

National day (Quamee Dhuvas) – Celebrated on the first day of the third month of the Islamic calendar, National day celebrates the sessation of 15 years of portugese rule in 1973. It is celebrated by marching and parading throughout the streets.

Eid festivals – Celebrating 2 Eid festivals throughout the year – One at the end of Ramadan and the other after the Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca, locals will meet in the mosque for morning prayer followed by a series of parades and feasts and dancing with friends.

AROUND MALDIVES TRAVEL

The majority of islands in the Maldives are only small ranging from 200m to 3km in length so you can generally get around on foot once you are established at your location.

Getting from island to island can be either Ferry, speedboat, domestic flight or seaplane depending on how far you are looking to travel.

ACCOMMODATION IN THE MALDIVES

Budget: Around $50 + pn

Mid: $150-$500pn

Luxury: $500+pn

The Maldives offer an opportunity for pure luxury accommodation if you are looking to splurge a little for your honeymoon. Having an abundance of resorts on private islands, there is plenty of opportunity to stay in overwater bungalows with private plunge pools and Jaccuzzi’s. The cheapest you can expect to pay for an all-inclusive overwater bungalow will be upwards from $500 per night.

If you can’t afford to spend your entire honeymoon in an overwater bungalow, consider a night or 2 in the luxury accommodation at your resort for a truly memorable experience.

MALDIVES ALL INCLUSIVE HONEYMOON PACKAGES

Many resorts in the Maldives offer all inclusive honeymoon packages. Be aware of the following if you are looking for an all inclusive package to satisfy your desires.

• Full Board – No alcohol, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Half Board – No alcohol, Breakfast and dinner included
• All inclusive – Alcohol, Breakfast, lunch and dinner included (be sure to check the type of alcohol included as some will only include basic alcohol packages and may not include the cocktails you are planning to sip on all day)

ADULT ONLY RESORTS MALDIVES

Looking to celebrate your new marriage without the kids running around, below a list of resorts with adult only opportunities:

• Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa – North Male atoll
• Komandoo Maldive island resort – Lhaviyani atoll, Maldives
• Como cocoa island resort – makunufushi – south male atoll
• Veligandu Island resort – veligandu island
• Conrad Maldives rangali island – rangali island
• Kuredu Island Resort and spa – Lhaviayani atoll
• Meeru Island resort and spa – North Male atoll

LOCAL CUISINE IN THE MALDIVES

The majority of local maldive local cuising consists of fish, rice and coconut. Fish is the staple food for the Maldives with Skipjack Tuna being one of the most prevalent. Below a list of the most common local foods:

• • Mas Huni – One of the most popular local foods consisting of smoked fish with onions and coconut
  • Mas Riha – Chicken Curry
  • Keemia – Deep fried fish rolls
  • Bajiya – fish pastry with coconut and onion
  • Garudhiya – Fish broth with onions, chilli, lime and rice
  • Gulha – Pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish
  • Thelui mas – Chilli and Garlic Fried Fish
  • Fihunu Mas – Chilli Barbecued Fish
  • Kulhi Boakiba – Chilli fish cake

LANGUAGE IN THE MALDIVES

The most widely spoken and official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi – a mix of various languages. The second most used language in the Maldives is English and is widely spoken by many of the Maldivian locals.

Useful Dhivehi phrases

• Hello = Kihineh
• Good morning = Ba’ajjeveri hendhuneh
• Good afternoon = Ba’ajjeveri mendhureh
• Good night = Ba’ajjeveri reygade
• Goodbye = Dhanee
• How are you? = Hihineh
• Good Thanks = Ran’galhu, shukuriyaa
• Not good = Ran’galhu noon
• How much is this? = Meethi kihaavarakah?
• Please = Adhes kohfa
• Thank you = Shukuriyyaa
• You’re Welcome = Maruhabaa
• Sorry = Ma’aaf kurey
• Yes = Aan
• No = Noon
• Where is the toilet = Koba faahana?

WEATHER IN THE MALDIVES

The temperature in the Maldives is fairly consistent all year round with high humidity however there is a prominent wet and dry season. Regardless, the wet season can still be a good time to visit as all day rainy days are uncommon, the prices are cheaper and weather is still warm.

High season: December to April

Dry Season: December to April

Rainy Season: May to November

COST OF THINGS IN THE MALDIVES

MALDIVES TIPS AND TRICKS

Muslim state – The Maldives is a muslim state operating under Sharia law so ensure you are respectful of the cultural differences. Note that alcohol will not be available outside of the resorts. You will also be required to sign a document on arrival confirming you are not bringing alcohol, pork products or any other items contrary to Islamic beliefs into the country.

Tipping – The is a 10% service tax added to most things to tipping is not compulsory, however if the service is good, it is a good gesture.

ATM –  Access to ATM’s can be difficult so make sure you take lots of USD and MVR with you if you are travelling for extended periods to the more remote island destinations – particularly if you aren’t staying in one of the resorts.

IS THE MALDIVES SAFE?

The Maldives is generally considered a safe honeymoon destination, particularly if spending the majority of time in the resorts. However consider sticking to the main streets in Male if you are walking around after dark. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the Maldives page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for the Maldives.

I hope you enjoyed the review of the Maldives honeymoon destination – Safe Travels!!