How to save big on your Maldives trip with Etihad Holidays

In partnership with Etihad Holidays If you’ve been following me here or on social media, you’ll know that visiting the Maldives has basically become an annual pilgrimage at this point. No shame, some people have a favourite café; I have an entire archipelago. Despite the countless trips, I’m still hopelessly drawn to the Indian Ocean, forever on a mission to explore every last atoll like it’s a personal calling.

But this time, there was a twist. I swapped my usual routine for a new experience, travelling to the Maldives with Etihad Holidays. It was also my first time experiencing a package holiday with Etihad to one of my go-to destinations, which meant shaking things up with a different route. A seasoned Maldives regular, trying something new? Groundbreaking. PSA: If you’re thinking of planning your own Maldives escape, you’ll want to keep reading because, I’ve got the inside scoop on how to score some seriously discounted offers with Etihad Holidays, including a £250 off* deal this spring.

↓ Scroll for your exclusive Spring offer ↓

Planning your tailor-made holiday

I’ve come to realise there are two kinds of holiday bookers in this world. First, the Type A planners: the ones armed with colour-coded spreadsheets, booking confirmations filed months in advance, and a military-precision itinerary locked in at least three months before flying. Then there are the free spirits, the last-minute adventurers who book on a whim and figure it out as they go.

Me? I’m a bit of both. But for this trip, I fully embraced my spontaneous side. Not because I don’t love a good planning session (trust me, few things bring me more joy than a well-organised travel doc), but because I wanted to experience Etihad Holidays from the perspective of a last-minute traveller.

The best part? Whether you’re a meticulous planner or a go-with-the-flow type, Etihad Holidays has something for everyone. And if, like me, you enjoy a good deal, their last-minute offers are a serious win. When I booked, they were offering up to 45% off Maldives package holidays – basically, the universe’s way of telling me to pack my bags.

Good to know: Some resorts require an additional transfer, which could be by seaplane, domestic flight, or speedboat. It’s always worth checking the transfer options before committing to a booking. Most of the time, the resort will arrange this for you to align with your arrival and departure times, making the journey as seamless as possible.

My top tips for booking

When creating the perfect Maldivian getaway, here's a few things to look out for:

These deals will be your best friend: To get the most out of your experience, always check out some of the last minute deals on offer. Not only are they heavily discounted, but they tend to offer extras such as board upgrades, free transfers and more! I always find that last-minute destinations are typically the ones I get excited about.

Additional travel: I mentioned this earlier, but I can’t stress enough how much it impacts your experience, especially if you’re travelling as a family. While every mode of transfer from the airport to your resort is an adventure in itself, it’s always worth checking what’s involved and how long it takes. A quick speedboat ride is very different from a domestic flight plus boat transfer, so plan accordingly.

The shoulder/off-peak seasons are just as great: Having visited the Maldives almost year-round, I’ve learned that the weather can be unpredictable. I’ve had incredible sunshine during off-peak months and rainy days even in peak season. Before booking, check AccuWeather and search for your specific atoll to get an idea of recent weather patterns- it’s more reliable than going by seasonal averages.

Beach Villa vs. Overwater Bungalow: Overwater bungalows are undeniably iconic, offering stunning ocean views and a sense of seclusion. But don’t overlook beach villas as they’re just as beautiful and often provide easier access to resort facilities. If you prefer stepping straight onto soft sand or being closer to restaurants and pools, a beach villa might actually be the better choice.

Packing essentials: Sun protection is key, but don’t forget to pack light layers too. While we all dream of endless sunshine, the Maldives can surprise you with an ocean breeze or the occasional tropical shower (luckily, even cloudy days here are stunning). One thing I always bring? My own mask and snorkel. While resorts usually offer them for rent, having your own means a perfect fit and the freedom to dive in whenever you like!

The journey experience

Getting There As I mentioned earlier, this was also my first time choosing to fly with Etihad airways from London Heathrow to Malé Velana International Airport. I’d heard great things about their service, so I was excited to kick off my journey to paradise with them. The total journey took around 14 hours, with a layover in Abu Dhabi.

Even though I fly long haul quite frequently, I still struggle with sitting for extended periods, so I actually appreciate a small layover to stretch my legs, get some movement, and grab a bite to eat. That said, I have to admit, the meals onboard were surprisingly good (I’m still dreaming of that passionfruit and mango dessert). If there’s one piece of advice I can give you about arriving at Velana Airport, it’s to be prepared for a bit of chaos. As soon as you step out, you’ll be met with a crowd of hotel greeters holding up signs with resort names, travel agencies, or even your own name. If you don’t immediately spot yours, don’t panic. Just past the arrivals area, you’ll find numerous kiosk stands with resort and hotel names and if you’re unsure where to go, simply ask around. People are always happy to help.

On the plus side, despite the initial rush, it’s a sign of how well-organised everything is from the moment you land.

Where we stayed

Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi: A surfer’s paradise with stunning beachfront villas and some of the best waves in the Maldives. Highlight: Exclusive surf breaks right at your doorstep.
Villa Nautica: A sleek, yacht-inspired retreat just minutes from the airport, perfect for a stylish island escape. Highlight: Chic overwater villas with uninterrupted ocean views.
Villa Park: A tropical haven with lush greenery, endless beaches, and a laid-back luxury vibe. Highlight: Incredible marine life and vibrant coral reefs for snorkelling.

Staying at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, Villa Nautica, and Villa Park showcased three distinct sides of the Maldives. Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi had a relaxed island feel, with plenty of space to unwind and enjoy nature. Villa Nautica offered a modern, stylish escape with a lively atmosphere, while Villa Park delivered that classic tropical paradise experience, surrounded by lush greenery and endless ocean views. Each resort had its own charm, making for an unforgettable Maldivian adventure.

👇 Now for the good part 👇

How you can save £250 on your next trip...

So, If you’re dreaming of your own Maldivian escape, now’s the perfect time to book. Etihad Holidays is offering an exclusive £250 off all holidays when you use code SPRING250 at checkout. Just keep in mind there’s a minimum spend of £1,750, and T&Cs apply. The offer is available for bookings made through www.etihadholidays.co.uk - so if you needed a sign to start planning your next getaway, this is it!