FIYA Magazine by Villa Air: The Ultimate Guide to Bucket List Experiences in the Maldives

Exploring the Local Islands with FIYA Magazine

Although Maldives resorts are popular for their beautiful and luxurious villas, there is something uniquely beautiful about local islands. You’re getting a budget-friendly experience without compromising on the white sandy beaches, azure waters, or even the lush greenery. If anything, local islands bring a touch more culture and vibrancy. From the friendly islanders to exploring something unique to each island, local islands are their own unique experiences. Here are some of the beautiful destinations, as recommended by the magazine for travellers to explore:

Maafushi – This is truly one of the most popular local islands. Located near Male’ City, Maafushi is a vibrant island filled with art, culture and beautiful hotels to explore. While one side of the island feels more like a resort, travellers can also explore the local side!

Fehendhoo – Tucked away in Baa Atoll, Fehendhoo is the perfect place to explore crystal-clear waters. In addition to being extremely beautiful, this small island has some of the friendliest locals you could meet!

Dhigurah – Dhigurah features those beautiful powdery beaches we all dream of visiting. While you’re on this island, you can also book an excursion to amazing destinations like Hanifaru Bay!

Thulusdhoo – This island is a surfer’s dream destination! the laid-back vibes and amazing surfing spot make this destination a surf enthusiast’s paradise. If you’re a cat lover, Thulusdhoo also houses some of the most adorable cats you’ll meet in the Maldives.

Huraa – Huraa and Thulusdhoo are both located in close proximity to each other. So if you’re looking for an island hopping experience, a stay in Huraa and a day visit to Thulusdhoo will make for the perfect trip.

Gulhi – This small island is perfect for anyone looking for an island near Male’ that isn’t too packed with tourists. Gulhi is the perfect place to interact with some locals and enjoy peaceful days by the beach.

Every Traveller Must Have These Experiences!

If you’re looking to explore the most scenic islands of the Maldives you must visit Baa Atoll! The Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve homing to some of the most vibrant coral reefs and aquatic wonders of the world. If you watched ‘Love in the Maldives’ you already know a trip to Vaavu Atoll is a must. This one is for adventure travellers. From dolphin watching to shipwrecks, everything in Vaavu is an adventure. And as we all know, an Excursion is an absolute must. Whether you’re visiting a resort or a local island, try to book at least one excursion trip. It could be sunset dolphin watching, fishing or even island hopping. There is something quite magical about this experience.

Don’t Miss out on these Resort Experiences

If you’re looking for a romantic and unforgettable resort experience, book a stay at Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll. This beautiful resort offers a beach bubble, perfect for creating lifelong memories. This intimate retreat setting feels like a glamping experience in the Maldives. Couples can enjoy the starlit nights of the Maldives and enjoy private beach dinners and breakfasts!

While you’re in the Maldives, book a romantic photoshoot with IM Studio. Whether you’re looking to create reels or capture the perfect picture, IM Studio elevates your experience. Go home with the perfect memories from your trip by booking with the amazing team that always delivers.

Whether you’re visiting Anantara, Soneva, CROSSROADS, SO/ Maldives or even Finolhu, don’t miss out on the overwater villa experience. A stay in an overwater villa in the Maldives is truly unique. You’re surrounded by the most beautiful waters and views one cannot forget!

If you’re taking a Villa Air flight to your next destination, dive into these bucket list experiences with the FIYA Magazine!

Travelers have plenty to look forward to in 2024 and beyond as airlines roll out new routes connecting exciting destinations worldwide. With more direct flights and expanded options, getting to your next adventure has never been easier. Let’s explore some of the most anticipated airline routes that are sure to open up new travel possibilities.

Expanding Routes Across Asia

Azerbaijan Airlines: Azerbaijan Airlines launched direct flights between Baku and the Maldives on 24 November 2024. Us a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, this new route offers a convenient link between Azerbaijan and the Maldives.

Air Arabia: Starting 27 October 2024, Air Arabia began flying daily between Sharjah and the Maldives. Further improving access to this island destination.

Air France: From 20 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, Air France will run up to two weekly flights between Paris and Malé, Maldives, using the Airbus A350-900 for the holiday season.

IndiGo: Starting 21 December 2024, IndiGo will offer daily nonstop flights between Chennai and Penang, Malaysia.

Korean Air: On 24 November 2024, Korean Air introduced a fourth daily flight between Seoul and Manila. Making travel between South Korea and the Philippines more frequent.

Vietjet & Emirates: Vietjet and Emirates have expanded their code-sharing, offering easier connections between Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Dubai.

Greater Bay Airlines: In November 2024, Greater Bay Airlines launched a new three-times-a-week service between Hong Kong and Tokushima, Japan.

Air Macau: Air Macau introduced new flights between Macau and Taichung, Taiwan, and increased service to Bangkok and Guiyang.

Etihad Airways: Starting in 2025, Etihad Airways will launch ten new destinations. Including Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Krabi, Medan, Phnom Penh, and Taipei. These routes will enhance connectivity between the Middle East and Asia.

Saudia: In response to growing demand, Saudia will offer six weekly flights between Jeddah and Phuket, starting December 2024.

AirAsia X: AirAsia X launched its first direct route between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi on 15 November 2024. Marking the first connection between the capitals of Malaysia and Kenya.

New Routes Around the Globe

Airlines are expanding their global networks beyond Asia. With new routes that enhance connectivity across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, North America, and the Caribbean.

Etihad Airways: Starting in 2025, Etihad Airways will launch ten new destinations. Including Algiers, Atlanta, Tunis, Prague, Warsaw, and Al Alamein, as part of its ongoing expansion program.

Flynas: As of 4 September 2024, Flynas introduced direct flights from Jeddah to Berlin. Connecting Saudi Arabia to the German capital with three weekly services.

Royal Jordanian Airlines: In March 2025, Royal Jordanian Airlines will begin direct flights from Amman to Washington D.C. Marking its fourth direct U.S. service after New York, Chicago, and Detroit.

Turkish Airlines: Starting 28 November 2024, Turkish Airlines will launch four weekly flights from Istanbul to Sydney, with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur. This move strengthens its presence in Australia and sets the stage for future nonstop service.

United Airlines: United Airlines made history in October 2024 with its Newark-Marrakech route. Linking the Moroccan city to the U.S. for the first time.

Wizz Air: Wizz Air will introduce a new daily route between London and Jeddah starting 31 March 2025. Offering an ultra-low-cost option for travelers between these cities.

American Airlines & Delta Air Lines: Both American and Delta Air Lines added new Caribbean routes in November 2024. American now flies from New York JFK to Barbados. While Delta launched service from Atlanta to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

JetBlue Airways: JetBlue Airways introduced a new flight to the Caribbean. Flying to Bonaire from New York JFK, starting 5 November 2024.

The Journey Continues

The expanding airline routes in 2024 and beyond, highlight the increasing demand for international travel, offering more convenience and choice. Whether you are planning a trip to the Maldives, connecting through key Asian hubs, or flying to destinations in Europe and Australia. These new routes offer more opportunities to explore the world.

Which new airline routes are you most excited to try in 2024? With so many options, now is the perfect time to start planning your next adventure.

FIYA Magazine by Villa Air: The Ultimate Guide to Bucket List Experiences in the Maldives

Exploring the Local Islands with FIYA Magazine

Every Traveller Must Have These Experiences!

Don’t Miss out on these Resort Experiences

Latest

New Airline Routes to Watch in 2024 Across Asia and Beyond

Azerbaijan Airlines Launches Direct Flights to Maldives from Baku

Inside the Maldives’ Bold Presence at WTM London 2024

Dusit Thani Maldives and beOnd Airlines Announce Exclusive Travel Deals

New Airline Routes to Watch in 2024 Across Asia and Beyond

Expanding Routes Across Asia

New Routes Around the Globe

The Journey Continues