Featured
Essential packing guide for your dream Maldives vacation
Make the most of your Maldivian adventure with these must-pack items
The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination for travellers seeking crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and overwater bungalows. With a picture-perfect setting and countless activities to enjoy, it’s essential to pack smart to make the most of your Maldives getaway. This packing guide will help you ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.
Lightweight and Breathable Clothing
The Maldives boasts a tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable. Opt for loose-fitting cotton or linen garments, such as sundresses, shorts, and short-sleeved shirts. Don’t forget a light shawl or wrap for cooler evenings and a swimsuit cover-up for lounging by the pool or on the beach.
Swimwear and Snorkeling Gear
With stunning coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, the Maldives is a snorkelling and diving paradise. Pack at least two swimsuits to ensure you always have a dry option. If you have your snorkelling gear, bring it along to save on rental costs and ensure a perfect fit. Alternatively, you can rent equipment at your resort or dive centre.
Sun Protection
The Maldivian sun can be intense, making sun protection a top priority. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and a high SPF, water-resistant sunscreen to shield your skin. Don’t forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sunburn, too.
Waterproof Footwear
With so many water-based activities, waterproof footwear is essential. Pack a pair of flip-flops or water shoes for the beach, pool, and navigating wet surfaces. Additionally, bring a pair of comfortable sandals or sneakers for exploring the islands and enjoying other activities.
Insect Repellent and After-Bite
Tropical destinations often come with pesky insects, so pack an effective insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs. Choose a repellent with DEET or a natural alternative like lemon eucalyptus oil. It’s also a good idea to pack an after-bite treatment in case you do get bitten.
Travel Adapter and Power Bank
The Maldives uses a type D and G plug with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Pack a universal travel adapter to keep your devices charged. Additionally, bring a portable power bank to ensure your phone and camera are always ready to capture your Maldives memories.
Reusable Water Bottle and Tote Bag
Embrace sustainable travel by packing a reusable water bottle and tote bag. Many resorts offer filtered water stations to refill your bottle, helping to reduce plastic waste. A reusable tote bag is perfect for carrying your essentials while exploring the islands or shopping for souvenirs.
Waterproof Camera or Phone Case
Capture the beauty of the Maldives, both above and below the water, by investing in a waterproof camera or phone case. This will allow you to take stunning underwater photos and videos while snorkelling or diving without risking damage to your device.
Light Entertainment
While the Maldives offers plenty of activities, you may also want to relax and unwind. Pack a good book, download movies or shows on your tablet, or bring a travel-sized game for those leisurely moments.
Travel Insurance
Last but not least, don’t forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. This will provide peace of mind and cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations.
A trip to the Maldives promises an idyllic and unforgettable experience. By packing the right essentials, such as lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection, comfortable footwear, snorkeling gear, and beach accessories, travelers can make the most of their time in this tropical paradise. Additionally, respecting local customs and traditions adds to the overall enjoyment of the trip. So, be prepared, relax, and soak in the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Photo: adventureswithluda.com
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
Drink
Felice Capasso brings award-winning mixology to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli this February
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will host World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, Felice Capasso, for an exclusive Tastemaker Series collaboration from 4–5 February. The partnership further strengthens the resort’s position as a destination for discerning travellers seeking craftsmanship, cultural depth, and refined experiences.
Located on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives has established a contemporary interpretation of island glamour. Its signature villas include some of the most coveted accommodations in the Indian Ocean, notably the John Jacob Astor Estate—one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences—and the tranquil, beachfront Caroline Astor Estate. Each estate offers generous living spaces, expansive pools, and panoramic views, reflecting the resort’s dedication to elevated, residential-style luxury.
Within this sophisticated environment, The Whale Bar—an iconic overwater structure—will serve as the setting for Capasso’s arrival. As evening falls, the venue will adopt a vibrant Latin-inspired ambience, where guests will enjoy family-style small plates, bespoke cocktails, and rare vintages on tap while the sunset illuminates the lagoon. In this atmospheric setting, Capasso will unveil an exclusive cocktail menu for his bar takeover, blending classical technique with modern creativity.
On the following day, the resort will host an intimate Masterclass led by Capasso, centred on rum. The session will explore the spirit’s history, its regional expressions, and the narrative approach that distinguishes exceptional mixology. His expertise—rooted in precision, intuition, and storytelling—offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with a leading figure in the global bar industry.
This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential creators and innovators to the island. By welcoming talents such as Felice Capasso, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to craft immersive, evocative experiences that embody the distinctive spirit of St. Regis.
Drink
Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils Milano, Olive Bar and Crust & Flame on Dream Island
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced three new dining and social venues on its Dream Island — Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame — each conceptualised by the award-winning Studio Sixty7. Together, the venues bring a contemporary expression of coastal European style to the Maldives, blending refined design, effortless island living, and a sense of community that positions Dream Island as the resort’s newest lifestyle and entertainment hub.
Milano – An Italian Soul with a Front-Row Kitchen
Milano celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian dining, presented through a coastal aesthetic that feels both relaxed and refined. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs craft handmade pasta, simmer traditional sauces, and prepare wood-fired dishes. The experience is intimate and engaging, reflecting the sincerity of Italian cooking.
Studio Sixty7 designed the space with an olive-green palette, arched features, textured off-white plaster, linen drapery, and sculpted timber furnishings. Deep green crittall-style glazing adds a quiet elegance, while patterned floors create a gentle visual rhythm. As evening falls, woven pendant lights warm the room, making Milano ideal for leisurely lunches and romantic dinners. Every design detail balances Italian flair with Maldivian tranquillity.

Olive Bar – The New Entertainment Pulse
At the centre of Dream Island’s social energy, Olive Bar offers a refreshed take on family entertainment, hosting nightly performances from acoustic musicians and cultural acts to lively DJ sets. By day, it provides a relaxed lounge environment; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social hub.
The bar’s design embraces coastal openness, featuring timber shutters, adaptable lounge seating, abundant greenery, and natural textures that reflect Studio Sixty7’s craftsmanship-driven approach. Gentle ambient lighting completes the atmosphere, creating a welcoming setting for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Crust & Flame – Casual, Beachside, and Comfort-Driven
Crust & Flame offers a relaxed beachside dining experience centred around artisanal brick-oven pizzas and contemporary light dishes. Its striking emerald-and-sage terrazzo pizza oven serves as the visual anchor of the venue, glowing subtly in natural light as chefs prepare fresh creations throughout the day.
Muted olive and white tiles, moss-toned upholstery, and dark timber seating create a coastal trattoria feel, while maintaining a distinctly Maldivian beach ambience — toes in the sand, ocean breeze drifting through the space, and a focus on simple, well-crafted comfort food.
Reflecting on the creative direction, Lee McNichol, Co-founder of Studio Sixty7, noted that the aim was to craft spaces that feel like a gentle exhale — warm, textured, softly lit, and subtly inspired by European coastal landscapes. Co-founder Jose Rivero added that the intention was to build venues that feel lived-in and soulful, where guests naturally settle into the experience rather than simply dine or watch a performance.
Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli, commented: “Our vision for Dream Island was to create a place where guests immediately feel the rhythm of island life — relaxed, social, and full of positive energy. Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame each offer something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment. It is Olhuveli at its most effortless and playful.”
With the launch of these venues, Dream Island evolves into a dynamic culinary and social destination where design, flavour, and ambience come together seamlessly. This development reflects Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s continued journey toward contemporary lifestyle hospitality, grounded in the warmth and authenticity of Maldivian service.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli now offers more than twenty restaurants and bars across its islands, ensuring an ever-diverse dining landscape shaped by creativity, global influence, and the joy of island living.
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