The Hulhulé Island, on which the main airport is located, has been artificially widened to accommodate growing air traffic and the needs of a modern airport. The airport is equipped with an advanced baggage handling system, ensuring fast and efficient passenger handling. In addition, there is an extensive duty-free zone where you can purchase luxury goods, local products and souvenirs.

One of the unique features of Male International Airport is that upon arrival, passengers can board boats and water taxis directly to their hotels on the surrounding islands.

In 2018, the airport was renamed Velana International Airport, as a tribute to the former President of the Maldives, Ibrahim Nasiri, who contributed significantly to the development of air travel in the Maldives.

If you have time while waiting for your transfer, I recommend exploring the island of Male.

Male is one of the smallest capitals in the world - it's only 5.8 square kilometres, but it's home to over 150,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated places on the planet.

The city sits just 1 metre above sea level, so climate change and rising ocean levels pose a real threat. That's why the government is investing massively in coastal protection.

The dominant feature of Malé is the 17th century First Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), which is the oldest in the Maldives. Built of coral blocks and decorated with elaborate carvings, it is a true architectural treasure.

If you're interested in the archipelago's history, don't miss the Maldives National Museum, where you'll find artefacts dating back to the pre-Islamic era. Unfortunately, part of the exhibition was destroyed during the 2012 riots.

Despite its modern feel, Malé retains its traditional charm - narrow streets, coral architecture and carved wooden doors give it a unique atmosphere.

Maafushi is one of the largest and most vibrant local islands in the South Malé Atoll. You can easily get around this little tropical paradise in just 30 minutes, but even in that short time you'll be surprised at how much it has to offer.

On Maafushi, you cannot drink alcohol and need to be clothed when walking around the island (leave your swimsuit for the beach). If you want to experience the true Maldivian beach atmosphere, head to the designated Bikini Beach where you can enjoy the sun and sea in the comfort of your swimsuit.

The island is famous for its handicrafts - coconut leaves and fibers come to life here in the form of mats and hats, which are popular souvenirs among tourists. Maafushi is also home to local fishermen, whose fresh seafood is not only enjoyed by islanders but also by luxury resorts in the area.

Despite the growing tourist traffic, Maafushi retains its charm and authentic atmosphere. Here you will experience traditional Maldivian life like you won't find in any resort - a taste of the local culture, hospitality and true beauty of the islands.

Today really is the definition of relaxing on the beach. You can have a refreshing drink or meal delivered right to the beach, whether you want to enjoy a cocktail or refresh yourself with local specialties. 

The sea is clean and warm, perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the water. It is a true paradise for water lovers.

Sandbank is a picturesque sandy beach or shoal in the vicinity of Maafushi that attracts tourists due to its crystal clear water and ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling. This type of beach and shoal is characteristic of many Maldivian islands and adds to the charm of these destinations.

The growth of tourism on Maafushi, which began in the 1990s, has seen the construction of hotels and other facilities close to these magical beaches, including Sandbank.

You can book your tour online  here. 

Thinadhoo is one of the larger inhabited islands in Vaavu Atoll, located approximately 5 km northeast of Keyodhoo, the administrative centre of the atoll.

The island is famous for its traditional production of ropes and cordage made from coconut fibre, an artisanal tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation on Thinadhoo. These quality products are highly prized and known throughout the Maldives.

The island is also home to the Aasaari Miskiy Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Maldives, built in 1153 Hijra (1740 AD) from local coral stone. It is not only a historical but also a cultural landmark of the island.

In the past, Thinadhoo was famous for the production of dried fish, which was exported to other parts of the Maldives as well as abroad. Fishing still remains a key part of the local economy and island life.

Book your experience here online . 

Felidhoo is one of the inhabited islands in the Vaavu archipelago, which is known as the "island of seven thousand coconut palms". This picturesque island is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and authentic atmosphere

The island is home to the Felidhoo Miskiy Mosque, an important Islamic monument whose history dates back to the 17th century. It is one of the historical and cultural centres of the island.

Felidhoo is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise sea, which attract visitors from all over the world to relax and unwind.

The island's surrounding waters are rich in marine life, including various species of fish, sharks, rays and turtles. This region is ideal for diving and snorkelling, where you can discover the fascinating underwater world.

The locals still maintain their traditional way of life and culture, mainly engaging in fishing, coconut farming and making traditional handicrafts.

Keyodhoo is one of the inhabited islands in the Vaavu Atoll, located in the southern part of the Maldives. This small island covers an area of only 13 hectares and has a permanent population of approximately 500 people.

The main source of livelihood for the locals has traditionally been fishing, and to a limited extent, coconut palm cultivation. In recent decades, tourism has also begun to develop on the island, leading to the construction of a small resort for visitors wishing to explore the island's beauty.

Keyodhoo has its own mosque that serves the local Muslim community. Islam is the main religion of the island, as it is in the rest of the Maldives.

Fulidhoo is a small but charming island of just 11 hectares that is home to approximately 400 residents. Traditionally, the island has been associated with fishing, with locals living off fishing and fish processing. This way of making a living continues today, although tourism has become increasingly popular in recent years.

In 2011, a small airport was built on the island to allow easy access for tourists from the capital Male, ensuring more visitors.

Fulidhoo is a popular spot for beautiful beaches, swimming and snorkelling in the clear waters of the surrounding sea. Although the island is not known for its historical sites, it retains an authentic Maldivian character, with traditional houses and mosques, giving visitors a true experience of the local culture.

Arrange your experience here online .

Gulhi is a small island with a great history that faced a devastating tsunami in 2004. Although most of the buildings were destroyed, thanks to international aid, the island quickly came back to life and today shines again with its beauty.

The island is home to Gulhi Airport, built in 2002, which provides direct connections to Malé and other islands. This means you can get to this tropical paradise quickly and easily.

The island is still firmly rooted in traditional Maldivian customs and hosts lively annual festivals, including Eid al-Fitr, which celebrates the end of Ramadan. The local culture and hospitality is sure to captivate you.

Gulhi is also known for its coconut production, which is the basis of the local economy and cuisine. At every turn you will encounter these tall palm trees that dominate the island.

And if you're a lover of underwater adventures, the coral reefs in the surrounding waters offer some of the best spots for diving and snorkelling. The sharks, manta rays and diverse marine life here will enchant you, as will the crystal clear waters that take you right into the heart of the Maldivian paradise.

Secure your experience online  here. 

Dighurah Island is a real gem of the Maldives and one of my favourite islands. If you are looking for a place where you can dive into clear waters and discover incredible marine life, Dighurah is the perfect destination for you.

Dhigurah is a small island in the Alif Dhaal archipelago in the southwest of the Maldives, home to a small fishing village. The island has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 5th century BC, when it was inhabited by people who probably came from India and Sri Lanka. After the arrival of Islam in the 12th century, Buddhism was displaced in the Maldives and Islam became the state religion. In 1887, the Maldives became a British protectorate and after independence in 1965, became a republic in 1968.

Today, Dhigurah has traditionally depended on fishing, but is increasingly developing through tourism. What makes Dhighurah even more special are the wonderful sites for diving and snorkelling. It's a great place to relax while exploring the unique nature that makes the Maldives so irresistible.

Arrange your experience here online ahead.