Ed Light, Caribtours Head of Commercial, gives his tips on how to choose your Maldives holiday…

Transfers are key
Depending on the island chosen the method of getting there after arriving in Malé can vary massively both in terms of experience and cost. The islands closest to Malé tend to be the most established resorts, as they were developed first, and will have relatively short speedboat transfers – ideal for those with younger kids after a long flight or those on a budget. Seaplane transfers are the norm for those medium range islands, and whilst more expensive are an incredible experience, whilst the newer islands tend to be further from Malé with a domestic flight followed by a boat transfer. This adds to the journey time but the pristine Robinson Crusoe feeling on arrival more than makes up for it.

Overwater choices
Like the South Pacific, the Maldives is famous for its overwater villas. The sound of waves lapping underneath and the opportunity to snorkel straight from your room is a big lure and particularly popular with honeymooners. Do you like waking to the rising sun with a nice coffee in hand on the outdoor deck, or viewing the setting sun in the evening with a cool glass of something? This will determine which island and which room category to choose depending on which way the villas face.

Make it a twin thing
The Maldives makes a brilliant twin centre destination either after a cultural tour of Sri Lanka, or a city break in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Most would choose to end in the Maldives for complete rest and relaxation to finish their holiday, especially after a Sri Lanka tour, but the Arabian cities are very easy to do en route home too with the numerous daily flights. In the low season summer months these routes are the only way of getting to the Maldives from the UK on scheduled flights so why not take advantage of that.