Maldives vs Seychelles : Which is best for Honeymoon

It is a tough spot when you have to choose between diamonds and pearls. Choosing between Maldives and Seychelles for your honeymoon is going to be a similar experience. It is the best win-win situation to be in. Maldives and Seychelles are an archipelago of smaller islands spread across the mighty Indian Ocean. Both island nations nestled amidst the ocean between East Africa and India have marvellous views and beaches. Despite being island countries located on the same ocean, the geographical, cultural and historical diversity is fascinating. Both countries are abundant in natural beauty and aquatic life. An ideal honeymoon destination is expected to provide stunning views, comfortable rooms and luxury to their guests. The resorts and hotels in both of these countries have made every conscious effort to make the best of their island features. Both the countries value and respect its abundant nature, sea, marine life and forests. Regardless of what destination you choose for your honeymoon, Seychelles as well as Maldives are sure to make an impact on your souls. These tropical paradises are all set to make your honeymoon unforgettable.

Maldives

Maldives is where time slows down and you can finally catch a breath. Majority of the Maldives remains untouched and uninhabited. There are 1000s of islands out of which less than half of them are commercialized, open for tourists and locals. The capital, Male city is one of the best places to visit in Maldives for a honeymoon. The city is filled with romantic getaways like underwater restaurants, cute cafes, bistros, resorts and lovely beaches. One can’t get enough of the clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches in Maldives. The island nation soothes your soul as well as pumps your adrenaline with its adventurous water sports. There are tons of water sports in Maldives you can engage in throughout your trip. The clear blue skies and occasional visits from sea turtles, manta rays and other exotic fishes right at your water villa’s doorstep is something which one never gets tired of. There are several beautiful places in Maldives that are worth the visit and at the same time offer glimpses of the island’s culture & lifestyle.

Following are some of the best places in Maldives that your itinerary must include.

Glowing Beach

Make your one of a kind honeymoon special by visiting this one of a kind beach in Maldives. This is one of the places on Earth where nature has reached its apex. This beautiful phenomenon of bioluminescence is seen at Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll. The water sparkles in a soft blue glow at night, where stars meet the Earth. It is by far one of the most romantic places to visit in Maldives.

Explore Male

Every place’s capital is the hub for its culture, history and heritage. Male is no different than any capital. There are ample things to do in Male for everyone. Water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, dolphin submarine tours, museum visits, art galleries, souvenir shopping, fine dining etc. The local markets are the best places to interact with the locals and experience Maldivian culture closely.

Maafushi Island

The island’s majestic sandbars and longest coastline attracts a lot of honeymooners in Maldives. Are you on your honeymoon? Looking for a place to visit in Maldives? Maafushi Island is the most visited island in Maldives since it offers an array of activities like snorkelling where you can swim among the beautiful corals and turtles , scuba diving, dolphin spotting etc. It also happens to be one of the few public beaches in Maldives that allow tourists to wear bikinis and summer clothes.

Six Senses Laamu

One of the best resorts in Maldives with marvellous water villas and bungalows. Your trip to Maldives is incomplete without experiencing the epitome of luxury and comfort. There are exquisite over-water villas, restaurants, bars and lounges ensuring the honeymooners have a special and romantic stay at Six Senses Laamu. The resort has a unique approach towards green and sustainable tourism. The resort encourages their guests to go barefoot during their entire stay and feel the soft sand of the island get close to nature around them.

Underwater Restaurant and Stay

Create core memories at underwater restaurants and stay in Maldives. Sharing this one of a kind experience will surely get you and your spouse even closer. Ithaa, an underwater restaurant in Maldives is where you will have the best meal of your life. The restaurant has perfectly calibrated meals that are enjoyed with exquisite wines. The oceanic ambience of this underwater restaurant in Maldives is unparalleled. On the other hand, Maldives has taken its accommodation to the next level. From offering best water villas for honeymoon, Maldives is now presenting its underwater stay at The Muraka by Conrad resort.

Things to do in Maldives for couples :

• Candle light dinner by the beach
• Watch movies under the starry sky
• Romantic long walks by the sea
• Couples’ Massage
• Water sports
• Stay in Bubble Tents
• Shopping

Getting there

Since Maldives is an island nation, one has to get there by air. Velana International Airport Male is well connected to important cities of the world. Almost all major airlines operate in Maldives all throughout the year.

Following your arrival, the commute to your desired hotel/resort is the most unusual ride you will experience in your life. The TMA (The Trans Maldivian Airways) provides unique seaplane transfers in Maldives which take you to your desired accommodation.

Often the resorts and hotels in Maldives are located on individual islands hence a seaplane transfer or a speedboat transfer makes it easier for the guests and at same time offers them picturesque aerial views of the Maldives.

The currency used in Maldives for transactions is mostly Maldivian Rufiyaa(MVR), US Dollars, British Pound and Euro. The malls, restaurants and guest houses even accept international credit cards. There are currency exchange counters at airport arrival halls so you can convert your currency as soon as you land in Maldives. The local markets and local vendors accept US Dollars although there is a high chance you might get your change back in Maldivian currency.

Seychelles

Nature’s one of the best calibrated wonders, Seychelles is the epitome of tenderness and beauty. The beautiful haven of Seychelles has gorgeous beaches, versatile geography and a dynamic history. The nation is an archipelago of 115 islands off the East coast of Africa with 3 main, large islands housing the majority of the nation’s population.The three main islands of Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue in the inner island groups whereas the outer islands are subdivided into atolls and 5 distinct island groups. Due to Seychelles’ diverse history, their culture, architecture , religion and language is a beautiful byproduct of cultural assimilation. Majority of the country observes Catholicism as its prominent religion and locals speak English, French and Seychellois Creole. The lifestyle in Seychelles is tolerant, lively and easy. The residents of this island believe in innovation, integrity and aims to sustain social harmony. Seychelles is a best kept secret existing off the East Coast of Africa, a hidden slice of dream.

Following is the list of best places to visit in Seychelles : 

1.Victoria – One of the smallest in the world, Seychelles’ capital city Victoria is located on Mahe island. With colourful streets, French architecture, roadside restaurants and magnificent museums the city has a unique old time charm about it. Victoria is a commercial hub of Seychelles which is flooded with international tourists who visit bars, casinos, the marina, high end restaurants and lavish hotels. The city proudly showcases its heritage in its marvellous cathedrals, beautiful gardens and monuments. Don’t forget to chime in on upbeat parties and the vibrant nightlife of Seychelles.

2. Anse Source d’ Argent – The picture perfect ocean views, white sands line with grey granite boulders is what makes this one of the most photographed beaches in Seychelles. Located on La Digue island, this beach opens up at the end of a lush coconut plantation. This makes Anse Source d’Argent a hidden treasure at the end of the lush forest. One of the best places to visit in Seychelles during your honeymoon. There are certain entry fees to enter the beach and enjoy your tropical holiday.

3. Vallee de Mai – For the nature lover, adventurous couple out there, wandering off into the wild in the tropics is one of the best things to do in Seychelles. Vallee de Mai is a forest area in Seychelles which consists of multiple hiking trails, rare plant species and exotic birds. Explore the green tropics of Vallee de Mai and spot beautiful bird species like Seychelles bulbul, blue pigeon, Seychelles warbler and black parrot. Best place for honeymooners to go in Seychelles as a walk in the quiet, soothing forest can be rejuvenating and therapeutic.

4. Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market – A trip to the local market can tell you a lot about the person you are travelling with. This vibrant local street market is where the best of Seychelles’ fresh produce is sold. Stumble into this lively place during a morning stroll while you are staying in Victoria. There are great souvenir shops, spices, local cloths etc. plus for the honeymooners, a place for grocery shopping or shopping would be a great place to bond over. Definitely one of the best places in Seychelles for couples.

5. Six Senses Zil Pasyon – Six Senses Zil Pasyon is a dreamland, fairytale, a different dimension nestled in Seychelles. The resort is one of the best places to stay in Seychelles for couples and honeymoons. The otherworldly views of the sea at Six senses Zil Pasyon is surreal. The resort is located on a private island neighbouring Ramos National Park. There are lavish beachfront villas with private pools and comfortable beds awaiting your arrival. This ultra luxe resort is surrounded by massive trees, white sands and the lovely beach gives off living in the nature vibes.

Things to do in Seychelles for couples:

• Exploring secluded beaches
• Renting bikes and riding them by the beach
• Hiking
• Transparent Boat Kayaking
• Watch Sunsets
• Dolphin tours

Getting There :

Majorly known international airlines operate in Seychelles. There’s Air Seychelles serving international passengers all around the world. There are several direct flights from India, which take you at Seychelles International Airport, Mahe.

Once you land in Mahe, there are taxis, buses and private vehicles on rent to get around the island. If your desired hotel, resort or accommodation is on a different island, there are ferries that will get you around. A more expensive option would be a helicopter ride to your accommodation on a private island.

Seychelles’ currency is Seychelles Rupees (SCR) which is accepted for transactions with other international currencies like Dollars and Euros. It is advised to check places in Seychelles that accept these foreign currencies before you travel. The car rentals, hotels and restaurants majority of them accept Seychelles Rupees and International credit cards hence the best thing to do would be to carry loose cash (SCR) at all times.

Ironically, being island countries of the same ocean, Seychelles and Maldives are drastically different from each other in terms of tourism and history. Beachwear or bikinis are not allowed in Maldives except on a few beaches. This predominantly Muslim country has a modest code of conduct when it comes to clothes, pork, alcohol and meat and expects the tourists to adhere to them. On the other hand, Seychelles is open to different cultures due to its history, there are no such restrictions on the tourists. Maldives vacation for couples is largely laid back, soaking in the turquoise seas, engaging in adventure sports and living in a fantasy. If you are planning your honeymoon in Seychelles, there is an array of things to do apart from water sports. The tropical hills and green forests have nature trails enabling tourists to explore the serenity of Seychelles.

In conclusion, these archipelago countries are ethereal, beautiful and safe with warm welcoming locals awaiting your arrival.