Never mind lockdowns and busted travel bubbles. When things go back to normal (and they will, eventually), all of us will be taking that well-deserved vacay we so desperately need.
It’s never too early to start planning your dream holiday, and if you are dreaming of a beach getaway, the Maldives is a picture-perfect destination to consider.
More than just a place for honeymooners, the archipelago, situated in the middle of the Indian Ocean, is welcoming you with open arms—but with strict health guidelines in place, of course. The country’s borders reopened to visitors from all countries on Jul 15, and the government has assured travellers that their journey will be safe and comfortable.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (Credit: Justin Nicholas Photography)
Why it could be a safer destination
Unlike big, congested cities, the Maldives is a naturally self-isolated paradise comprising numerous islands that dazzle with white sandy beaches, palm-fringed coral lagoons and azure waters.
It’s one of the reasons why some of the finest resorts are located individually here. Holiday makers are able to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life as they indulge in a quiet all-inclusive retreat. Surf, snorkel, swim with mantas or just enjoy the serenity of island life—the great outdoors, sans face masks, has never been so alluring.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (Credit: Justin Nicholas Photography)
As it turns out, it also means these resorts are socially distanced, not only from each other, but from the city and the crowd, which makes for an ideal holiday destination post-pandemic.
This signature “one island, one resort” concept ensures that visitors to the Maldives are based in their respective resorts, and makes it easier for visitors to maintain social distancing while enjoying a safe and secluded holiday.
New measures and enhanced hygiene standards
The Maldives government has ensured all tourist establishments are regulated so that they are in line with the COVID-19 tourism guidelines, which was issued by the Ministry of Tourism along with a certification programme to uphold proper safety and hygiene standards.
In addition, the country has received the “Safe Travels Stamp” by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), in recognition of the efforts to implement enhanced health and safety measures, in line with the WTTC global Safe Travels protocols.
Do your part
Check the official website for tourists for the latest updates. Currently, all tourists are required to fill an online Traveler Health Declaration form within 24 hours prior to their departure to Maldives. It is mandatory for all tourists to present a negative COVID-19 test certificate within 96 hours prior to departure to Maldives. Everyone is also required to wear masks and will undergo thermal screening on arrival. Tourists are exempt from the 14-day quarantine if staying in a “one island, one resort” location.
First-of-its-kind loyalty programme
If the exotic locale and luxurious surrounds are not enough to make you return, maybe the new loyalty programme will. The Maldives Border Miles is a three-tiered tourism loyalty programme that has been introduced by Maldives Immigration, together with joint stakeholders Ministry of Tourism, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation, and Maldives Airports Company Limited.
To be launched in Dec this year, enrolled tourists can earn points based on the number of visits and duration of stay. Additional points will be awarded for visits to celebrate special occasions. Each tier—bronze, silver and gold—allows returning visitors to enjoy various rewards, discounts and benefits. How’s that for another holiday? You can get more information on the programme here.
Thanks to its remote location and strict health guidelines, the Maldives is possibly one of the safest areas of the world. Time to stop dreaming and start planning.
Discover the best of Maldives here.
