Travel to Maldives

Flights to the Maldives only fly into the capital of Male - Male International Airport. Direct flights are only available from Manchester, London Heathrow and London Gatwick although it's possible to book flights from other UK airports if you're willing to take an indirect flight.

More than often in order to get to your destination you'll be required to take a sea plane (air taxis) or a boat. They are two operators of air taxis in the Maldives, Maldivian Air Taxi and Trans Maldivian Airways and they both take around 15 passengers. With no part of the Maldives further than a 90-minute plane journey they're perfect for islands a little further apart. If you want to use the boat, you'll have to check that it goes to your final destination.

Be aware that the island's transport doesn't usually operate at night so if you have an evening Maldives flight you may have to stay in the capital overnight. You can enquire about night time private transfers directly from your hotel but this can get expensive.

It's possible to get a cheap hotel in Maldives if you book well in advance. Christmas and New Year are said to be the most expensive times to book a Maldives holiday so try to stay away from these peak times.

If you're staying in the capital try to stay away from the restaurants aimed at tourists instead find small cafes, known as hotaa, that sell local Maldivian specialities. Much of the food in the Maldives revolves around fish and many dishes are spicy with a hint of coconut. Try the traditional Maldivian breakfast of mas huni which consists of shredded fish with grated coconut and onions or if you're feeling peckish in the afternoon order a bajiya, a pastry stuffed with fish coconut and onions. You won't be short of delicious food during your Maldives holiday!

• Male