The Maldives are the epitome of an untouched tropical paradise on Earth: The majority of the islands have not been developed, thus it is crucial to prioritize sustainability in order to protect the reefs for future fishing and tourism, the two biggest sectors in the nation.

Malé is the cultural center of the Maldives, and tourists can spend the afternoon learning about the country’s ancient past in the museums or shopping for presents and souvenirs in the galleries and marketplaces. There isn’t much more to take your attention away from the natural beauty of the Maldivian atolls, but after you’ve taken a walking tour of the capital, you have the option of visiting the marine parks and reserves to see some of the region greatest natural wonders.

Couples seeking a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day or a honeymoon resort away from the rest of the world have long been drawn to the allure of untouched picture-perfect beaches. For singles and couples alike, spa massage services provide an extra touch of pampering and indulgence that helps stress and anxieties melt away. The pure cerulean waters invite guests to explore a completely different world just beneath the surface, and beach bungalows and villas over the water provide fantastic views of the sunrise or sunset.

ALSO READ: Ultimate Guide to Visit Egypt for the First Time

1.   Getting around in Maldives

The majority of visitors arrive in the Maldives via the Velana International Airport near Malé. The other islands and atolls can be reached by watercraft, seaplane, or domestic flight from there. Transfers to the resort island jetty can be arranged by resorts, and several flights operate from Velana International Airport to the 12 domestic airports. Because commercial seaplanes and speedboats may not run on time, a private charter seaplane is the most expensive but also the most convenient way to travel around the Maldives. The traditional Maldivian boat, known as a ‘dhoni,’ on the other hand, is a cheap and leisurely way to travel for those who want to experience life as a local.

A luxury yacht charter is a popular alternative to staying at a resort and arranging separate transportation to the Maldives’ various atolls, dive sites, and other attractions. There is the freedom to travel throughout the islands at times that are convenient for you and your group, and if you discover that you prefer a particular destination, you can drop anchor and stay for as long as you like. Hiking and biking tours are available on the inhabited islands and in the nature parks, while the untouched islands can only be explored on foot, leaving little trace of your presence behind.

2.    When to visit the Maldives

Traveling to the Maldives is weather dependent: there is a distinct wet season (monsoon season) and a dry season, as in many tropical countries.

The heaviest rain falls from May to December, followed by blue skies and white wisps of cloud for the rest of the year.

As a result, the Maldives is a popular destination for those looking to escape the dark and cold winter climates and celebrate Christmas and New Year in the warm sunshine.

The fine weather is almost guaranteed until February, when the horizon may be marred by the occasional raincloud, but the crystal clear blue waters will remain the same, and they will remain at bathwater temperatures all year.

From March to May is shoulder season, and an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid the ‘crowds’ at the most popular resorts and attractions, the latter of which tend to be snorkeling and scuba diving spots.

Visitors who are willing to take the risk of visiting during the monsoon season will find manta rays at the Hanifaru Marine Protected Area from June to November, and fishing enthusiasts will have the best chance of catching big game between November and March. The North Malé Atoll has a surf season from April to October, while the southern atolls are best visited from February to April.

Holidays allow you to participate in local festivities; however, local attractions, banks, and restaurants are likely to be closed on these days.

3.    Where to stay in Maldives

There are endless places to choose from among the most popular atolls in the Maldives, and it has long been known as a luxury tourist destination. Those who want to travel farther afield can take their accommodations with them on a luxury yacht charter.

Where you stay greatly depends on the types of activities you want to do: Families searching for water sports will discover that the five-star resorts provide a variety of options, while white sand beaches can be found across the region for those who want nothing more than to unwind on the beach with good company and a good book.

The North Malé Atoll and South Malé Atoll are two of the most developed tourist destinations, offering cafes, restaurants, and clubs for nighttime entertainment along the beach. Both are quickly and easily accessible from the international airport. To complement the amazing cocktails offered at the bars, the resorts provide entertainment, dance parties, and DJ sets.

To cut down on travel time as much as possible, fishermen, scuba divers, and snorkelers will want to choose accommodation close to their favorite activities. The Baa Atoll is well popular for its amazing reefs, which are visited by dolphins, turtles, and rays. These reefs are referred to as gilis or thilas depending on how deep they are below the surface. Some of these may be accessed by snorkeling equipment, while others are deeper, where scuba divers will discover an completely a new world rich in diversity and vibrant colors.

Big game fishing is popular in the Ari Atoll, but there are other amazing options in the Maldives for those looking for how to travel even farther off the beaten track, the aku Atoll and Huvadhu Atoll are some of the amazing options.

The Addu Atoll is the southernmost atoll in the Maldives, and most visitors come here for the amazing diving opportunities around the reefs and at Villingili, the atoll’s lone resort island, where the wreck of the BRITISH LOYALTY is located after it was scuttled in 1946.

4.    Accommodation in Maldives

The islands are filled with luxury, and there is a wide range of choices available so you may choose something that is well suited to your interests.

Families or couples who want to be close to the lapping shores and cut away from the outside world should stay in a beachside villa. There will also be a variety of water toys available for tourists who want to go kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. Restaurants, bars, and other dining and entertainment options are available on-site. Activities can be planned during the day to keep kids for a couple of hours while parents explore their own interests—or take a nap in the sunshine.
There are many spa resorts in the Maldives, offering individuals with a focus on their health and wellbeing a place to enjoy some pampering and find inner peace. Booking early to avoid the summer rush is highly recommended. Culture seekers who want to experience the modern side of life on the islands before exploring its natural treasures will find many five-star hotels close to Malé, whereas options thin out at farthest destinations to the north and south.
Luxury yacht charters are a popular option for visitors who want to see and do as much as possible while in the Maldives: Catamarans, for example, provide excellent stability and modern surroundings, as well as plenty of sunbathing space on board, a selection of water toys just for your group, and a chef and steward/stewardess among the crew for delectable meals that cater to all dietary requirements and first-class service along the way. When the adults in the group need time to rest and recover, the crew will keep the little ones entertained, or for older kids, there are plenty of films and usually the option of board games and a games console to keep everyone happy.

5.    Places to visit in Maldives

Begin your Maldives tour in Malé, the capital city and cultural center among the islands. In a single day, visitors can marvel at the Friday Mosque, which was built in the 17th century, tour the Old National Museum and the newer one, which showcases relics from Buddhist kings and Islamic sultanates, and view the work of local artists at the National Library & Art Gallery.

Visitors looking to combine more local culture with island adventures should head to Haa Alifu Atoll in the north to visit the home and birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who is revered for his campaign fighting off the Portuguese after they invaded in 1558.

The Maldives’ most appealing feature is its exceptional natural beauty, combined with pleasant weather and the opportunity to engage with fascinating wildlife. These features can be found throughout the archipelagos, with the farthest islands providing a quieter atmosphere than those close to the international airports and fascinating attractions.

The Baa Atoll is a popular romantic destination where couples can walk hand-in-hand on the white sand beaches at sunset or hike the lush island interiors while listening to native birdsong in places like Dharavandhoo. Visit the Hanifaru Marine Protected Area to see manta rays, iconic clownfish, and so much more at the incredible snorkeling and scuba diving sites.The two 40-year-old shipwrecks known as “The Shipyard” are the Lhaviyani Atoll’s greatest attraction. The Lhaviyani Atoll is a great alternative or addition to the Baa Atoll and is known for its biodiversity, where it is common to see sharks and mantas swim among schools of fish at the gilis and thilas.

The Addu Atoll, located far to the south, is another excellent location for viewing Indian Ocean marine life. Shark Point has been nicknamed the “Shark Hotel” due to the large number of grey reef sharks that visit, and Turtle Point, as one might expect, provides opportunities to get up close with Hawksbill and Green turtles. The atoll also contains the coral-covered wreck of the BRITISH LOYALTY, where divers can swim through the hull. Even complete beginners can gain experience Scuba diving in shallow, clear conditions and be richly rewarded with their beautiful surroundings as they learn. More experienced divers can go on night dives and drift dives.

6.    Things to do in Maldives

Living and eating can even be done underwater in the Maldives, where everything revolves around the ocean: The first of its kind, the Muraka underwater villa at Conrad Maldives offers a Master suite 5 meters/16 feet below the surface, accessed through a viewing tunnel. Dining and lounge areas, as well as a deck with an infinity pool, are located on the floor above. Conrad Maldives also has Ithaa, the world’s first underwater restaurant. Its layout can be set up for a big party or for couples to have a romantic meal while being surrounded by the glistening ocean and its inhabitants.

Since setting a trend, several underwater restaurants and even spas have surfaced. M6M at Ozen by Atmosphere Resort Maldives offers views of coral gardens, H2O at You and Me by Cocoon Maldives Resort offers 360-degree views, and 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at Hurawalhi Maldives can claim the record for the largest all-glass underwater restaurant in the world. The spa services at Huvafen Underwater Spa on Huvafen Fushi are unmatched for some pampering while surrounded by vibrant schools of fish. However, there are many water sports and activities that are offered at the resorts that will you to swim among spectacular coral reefs and have close encounters with wildlife if you wish to break down the glass barrier separating you.

Many people’s first impression of the Maldives is of tropical white sand beaches surrounded by cerulean waters, but nothing compares to the reality of actually leaving footprints in those fine, soft sands. The Maldives are all about living life at your own pace, without distractions, and while enjoying all the modern indulgences. Before reuniting with family and friends over lunch and drinks, take a nap on sun loungers or in a hammock and finish catch up on your reading list. After a quick sleep in the shade, you’ll be ready for an afternoon of water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, kiteboarding, and even surfing in certain locations with right waves direction. Many locations have excellent snorkeling and swimming spots in the shallows, and farther out, there are outstanding Scuba diving sites designed for all levels of divers to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Deep sea and bonefishing are popular sports in the area, and you can hire expert guides to take you to some of the best locations in the archipelago. For those who enjoy the challenge and rewards that comes with fishing, the Mulaku Atoll is the place to be. Prepare your catch on a beachside grill while enjoying it with a crisp salad and the right beverages to bring out the natural flavors. Back on land, Malé is a cultural hub with a collection of museums, galleries, shops, and cafes centered around Sultan Park. A half-day walking tour is offered to see the city’s top attractions and discover their histories. Malé is the greatest location for shopping as well; look for souvenirs on the streets between Republic Square and the Singapore Bazaar, the biggest craft market in the Maldives.

7.    Food in Maldives

Dhivehi cuisine, commonly referred to as Maldivian cuisine, has roots in India and the Middle East and continues to be influenced by Sri Lanka and other nearby countries. Being an archipelago nation, it should not come as a surprise that fish and other seafood, together with coconut and starchy staples like rice, make up a large portion of the diet. Travelers should take advantage of every opportunity to sample the wide range of meals on offer as the cuisine is an essential part of the local identity. They might even give you the idea to take some recipes back home.

The resorts offer international cuisine, and guests’ dietary requirements and food allergies can be catered for throughout the visit. Ruku Raa (toddy), a sweet non-alcoholic drink that can be heated to create a liquid toddy sugar known as Dhiyaa Hakuru, is one of the ingredients in Maldivian cuisine. It becomes a creamy paste known as Karu Hakuru after lengthy cooking, which is frequently added to rice or chapati to improve the flavor.

There are a few dishes that are unique to Laamu Atoll, with golha riha being one of the most common. Reef fish is used to make this fish ball curry, which is often flavored with herbs and other spices as well as the Maldivian curry paste Dhivehi Havaadhu. As a side dish, rice or chapati is served.’Naroh Falidah,’ a dessert made with breadfruit, jasmine water, and dhiyaa hakuru, is sometimes referred to as the Maldivian Doughnut by the international community due to the similarity.

Addu Bon’di is a snack or dessert made of sweetened coconut, jasmine or rose water, or sometimes dhiyaa hakuru. Kashikeyo plant fruit, also known as screwpine, is used in a variety of desserts. Kashekiyo Foah, a delicacy in Baa Eydhafushi, is made by cooking the fruit into a pulp and adding scraped fresh coconut, jasmine water, and sugar. The mixture is then thickened with cornflour and heated until a dough forms, which is then cooled and rolled into small balls.There is gift for visitors to Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll is: a local treat that resembles a crepe that is created with water, rice, eggs, and sugar and can be consumed alone or with milk.

Are you looking for how to plan your trip to the Maldives: including tours, activities, attractions and other things? Contact us to plan your next trip

ALSO READ: How to Visit Dubai for the first Time

This blog post is originally from How to Visit the Maldives for the first time and written by silvercloudtravels

Do you know the top tourist destinations in Turkey? Located in the continent of Europe, Turkey offers wealth and historical aura to tourists around the world.

Packed with ancient monuments that were leftover by warriors that fought for the country and endowed with scenery that leaves tourists in a state of awe, visiting Turkey would be a life-changing experience for you in 2020.

Famous for its food and culture expressed in beauty, there are places you wouldn’t want to leave out of your next or first visit to Turkey.

Top 5 Tourist Destinations In Turkey

Since the Nigerian international airport is opening on September 5, 2020, after months of lockdown, we believe you’re ready to explore your adventurous side again. One of the places that would blow your mind is Turkey. 

If you’re confused about where to visit in the country, this article will help you by providing the top tourist destinations in the country.

With several amazing tourist destinations in Turkey, below are the top 5 you shouldn’t leave out of your bucket list.

Here are the top 5 tourist destinations you should visit the next time you make a trip to Turkey.

1.   Ankara

Being the country’s capital, Ankara is posed as one of the top 5 tourist destinations in Turkey. From the architectural monuments to the historic state opera and Mausoleum of Atatürk, Ankara is a beautiful city.

As the second-largest city in the world, Ankara is full of culture and many historical museums.

2.   Istanbul

Known as the urban melting pot, Istanbul is the heartbeat of Turkey. Architectural beauties like the Blue Mosque, which has become one of the most visited places in Istanbul and the Hagia Sophia, which was originally a basilica constructed for the Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I in the sixth century, made Istanbul a place to make unforgettable memories.

Istanbul is one of the cities you should visit once in a lifetime.

3.   Cappadocia

Looking for mountain vibes? Cappadocia is the place to be. The swooping rock valleys of Cappadocia makes the view look dreamy and beautiful. 

You get to hike with lots of other tourists in the mountains. This location is also one of the top hot air balloon rides in the world.

The landscape of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and the underground churches have become an icon. This is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey.

4.   Oludeniz

Oludeniz is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Turkey. This is a small village on the south-west coast on the Aegean Sea

The lagoon in the village is an untouched beauty with a spectacular shade of turquoise blue shade. The clean beach in Oludeniz is exceptionally beautiful, no wonder it remains one of the most photographed beaches on the Mediterranean.

Snorkeling, Kayaking, and swimming in the lagoon are some of the activities you can get involved while you’re visiting. These activities will give you the opportunity to see beautiful creatures like turtles and sea horses up close. So be sure to bring your gear along with you on your trip.

Oludeniz is one of the best places to paraglide.

5.   Pamukkale

Do you know Pamukkale has one of Turkey’s most famous natural wonders? This makes it one of the top tourist destinations in Turkey.

The stunning white terraces of calcium-rich warm waters springing up from the earth and cascading over low cliffs, forming the crisp, snow-like landscape will leave you dumbfounded.

This destination is one place you should never leave out of your bucket list as it embeds the real beauty of nature.

With the list of the top tourist destinations in Turkey highlighted above, you can make a decision on the places to visit the next time you visit Turkey.  If you’re contemplating visiting Turkey because you don’t know how to get your visa, ticket and hotel bookings, you have nothing to worry about.

Silvercloud Travels got you covered with special and affordable packages that will help you secure your visit to Turkey. All you need to do after reading this article is to contact us by visiting our website.

We aim to serve you better by giving you comfort without breaking the bank. Contact us today and you’ll be glad you did.

This blog post is originally from 5 Amazing Tourist Destinations In Turkey and written by silvercloudtravels

Heard of any honeymoon destination in Africa? Well, there are lots of amazing ones you would find out in this article. The most beautiful thing about these destinations is the fact you don’t have to break the bank to visit these places with your significant order.

Have you given up on the idea of having a honeymoon because you got married during the times where international flights were banned? You’ll agree with us that a honeymoon trip is one of the most romantic memories couples have.

We wouldn’t want you to miss that. Well, we put together this article to water your appetite with honeymoon destinations in Africa.

Top 6 Honeymoon Destination In The World

Are you getting married soon or confused about where to have your honeymoon? This article is specially made for you to help solve the problems of searching for a honeymoon destination.

You can select your preferred honeymoon destination from the list that would be provided in this article.

From the islands of Zanzibar to the beautiful beaches in Seychelles, here are the top 6 honeymoon destinations in Africa you should consider in 2020.

1.  Gambia

To enjoy your honeymoon in a country of Gambia, you don’t need to break the bank. Seen as one of the smallest African countries, it’s one of the most beautiful places to have your honeymoon.

It’s characterized by its exotic golden sand beaches and the sight of wild creatures at the Kiang West National Park and Abuko Nature Reserve.

2.  Zanzibar

One of the most beautiful islands in Africa is Zanzibar, located in Tanzania. The country attracts quite a lot of honeymooners due to the presence of the big five wild creatures (elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalos).

Walking safaris, night drives, off-roading and even mountain biking would make your stay in Zanzibar an unforgettable one. This city is a top honeymoon destination in Africa.

3.   Mauritius Island

Located in the Indian Ocean, ringed by coral reefs, white sand beaches and clear calm water, Mauritius island is a beauty to behold. 

Mauritius comprises 16 islands and islets, each known for their exquisite beauty. This makes it the top honeymoon destination in Africa.

Beautiful and world-class holiday resorts are scattered along the coastline of the island that gives you extraordinary scenery. You and your partner will have the time of your life at this honeymoon destination.

4.   Seychelles Island

It’s no gain-saying when we call  Seychelles island the ultimate destination for honeymooners in Africa. From its white-sand beaches bathed by warm blue waters to the desert paradise, Seychelles should be your top honeymoon destination.

The atmosphere embeds nature and beauty that every day at this location would be mind-blowing. You shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to have the best time of your life.

5.   Kenya 

One of the fascinating things about Kenya is its unique natural landscapes and the wildlife that exists. If you and your partner are a lover of nature and you’re up for that Safari lifestyle, Kenya is a place to be.

The world-renowned Masai Mara National Park is one of the fun places to visit in Kenya. You can visit this country at any time of the year to enjoy the full beauty of nature.

With its flawless combination of mountainous highlands, grasslands, and Lakelands, Kenya is one of the favourite places for honeymooners and you shouldn’t be left out of that amazing experience with your partner.

6.   South Africa

Several cities in South Africa make it one of the top choices for honeymoon destinations in Africa. Cape Town is one of the cities that is filled with honeymooners because there’s a lot to enjoy during your stay. 

From the rugged mountains and rolling vineyards of South Africa’s Cape Winelands to the safari destinations like the Kruger National Park, Cape Town is definitely a place to explore.

From experiencing the extraordinary pageant of wildlife to the clear and warm islands, Africa has one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. 

The list provided above should help you to make your decision on your honeymoon destination as soon as possible.

You might already be thinking of the stress involved in booking your flights, getting your visa and hotel reservation. Well, it’s okay to be bothered but with us, your worry disappears.

Silverclouds Travels provides the services of getting your visa, booking affordable tickets and hotels without making you raise a finger.

Just as we helped with researching for the top honeymoon destinations, we can also help make it a reality by handling all logistics. All we need from you is to contact us today and we help you arrange a glitch-free trip.

Don’t say we didn’t do anything for you. Check out our website for special packages for couples and you’ll be amazed at what we have in store for you.

This blog post is originally from Honeymoon Destination: Here Are The Top 6 Places To Visit In Africa and written by silvercloudtravels