Flying Carpets & Magical Maldives

Istanbul and the Maldives: 9 Night – 10 Days

Hotel Options:
3 Nights – Istanbul, Turkey, Hotel Tomtom Suites
5 Nights – South Male Atoll, Hotel Maldives Cocoa Island

Explore the best of Dalmatia by combining the rich history and impressive architecture of Dubrovnik with the sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed atmosphere of two of the region’s most beautiful islands, Hvar and Korcula..

Description

Split the long journey to the Maldives by visiting the great city of Istanbul for a few nights, home to a vibrant mix of Western and Eastern cultures; with beautiful old mosques and mystical bazaars, lively bars and fantastic restaurants.

Whilst staying at Tomtom Suites, located at the heart of the Galata district, spend a few days exploring Istanbul’s old quarter. The city is full of stunning landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to name a few. We can arrange an excellent private guide to help you explore the ancient city, taking you to the best restaurants where you can sample the most delicious food and drink Turkish coffee, away from any tourists. Tomtom suites is a wonderful boutique hotel with a fantastic restaurant, roof terrace and spacious suites, each room individually decorates with stunning local textiles and hand crafted ceramics.

Your journey will continue onto the Maldives, flying with Turkish Air followed by a short speedboat journey to one of the most wonderful destinations, Cocoa Island. This stylish and intimate over-water resort has only 33 suites and villas, 17 of which are converted Dhoni boats. All sit offshore over the crystal turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, and connect via a sinuous planked walkway. The bleached wood decoration and natural fabrics with Kajan thatched roofs, together with the blue and white décor, bring the sea, sand and sky into the heart of every room. There is plenty on offer in the Maldives, whether that is a diving experience to see the colourful marine life, a visit to the luxurious spa offering a range of relaxing treatments, a local island culture tour, sunset fishing tour or simply enjoying the peacefulness that Cocoa Island has to offer. When to travel

Turkey has a comfortable year-round climate. Spring and autumn, from March to May and September to November respectively, are marked by mild to warm days and cool nights. The summer months from June through August provide warm to hot days and pleasant evenings. Winter falls from December through February and days are crisp and evenings can be cold. The year-round temperature range is 6°C to 15°C (January), 11°C to 21°C (April), 22°C to 34°C (July), 15°C to 27°C (October). The Maldives has a tropical climate distinguished by two seasons, or monsoons: the dry northeast monsoon from December to March, and the wet southwestern monsoon from May to November, with more strong winds and rain. April is a transitional period noted for clear water and heat. The temperature remains remarkably consistent at around 30°C.

February to April is the hottest period and resorts are almost all operating at capacity during this period. Mid-December to early January comes at even more of a premium due to Christmas and New Year and prices are even higher. Easter and the Italian holiday week in August also attract peak prices at most resorts. Storms are more likely from May to November, though it’s still warm, skies can be cloudy and the humidity is higher. This is the low season, with fewer people and lower prices, with the exception of August.