We Love —
- Our travel experts, here to help you plan your perfect escape to paradise. Call 0800 988 000 on weekdays from 11am - 7pm and say hello
- Drifting across the lagoon on a sunset cruise, champagne in hand as the sky ignites in shades of gold and rose.
- Letting expert hands restore balance at Jiva Spa, where ancient Indian wellness traditions meet the soothing rhythm of the sea.
Customer reviews —
Just 20 minutes from the airport, I experienced a truly timeless escape at the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa 5*. Escape and elegance are the hallmarks of your stay here. The setting is exceptional, and the butler service makes everything absolutely perfect. The beach is dazzlingly white, the food divine, and beneath the surface lies a vibrant underwater world you simply cannot miss.
A first glimpse of your holiday —
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives 5* —
Just for you:
- Roundtrip speedboat transfers included
Nestled on the lush Emboodhu Finolhu Island in the serene South Malé Atoll, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa 5* is a private island escape set within one of the Maldives’ largest natural lagoons, a shimmering turquoise paradise just fifteen minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport.
The island itself was once known as the ‘Three Coconut Island’, a name that evokes its verdant heritage; today it retains much of that tropical flora, ringed by coral fringes and soft white sands that gently meet the clear Indian Ocean. Under the banner of the Taj group, famed for its roots in Indian hospitality, Exotica blends royal Indian wellness rituals in its Jiva Grande Spa with its spectacular surroundings, making each sunset feel like the closing of a cherished story in paradise.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in a Lagoon Ocean View Villa or a Deluxe Lagoon Villa with Pool.
Lagoon Ocean View Villa (71 m²)
Awake to the soothing sound of the waves and be captivated by breathtaking views of the lagoon and ocean. Your Oceanview Lagoon Villa offers the perfect blend of tranquility, comfort, and privacy, ensuring the ultimate escape. With chic interiors, a private terrace, and direct access to the water, it’s the perfect setting to unwind and savour the sunset. An unparalleled experience for those seeking something truly extraordinary.
Deluxe Lagoon Villa with Pool (94 m²)
The Deluxe Lagoon Villa with Pool is built on stilts directly over the dreamy lagoon. With panoramic views from your own private terrace along with a private pool that's all your own, you're guaranteed to get your fill of the sea. The villas are designed and decorated in a traditional style inspired by Maldivian culture.
Your dining choices
Choose between a full board (your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks) or an all inclusive stay (your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information).
Please note: some dining outlets/menu items/drinks may not be included and may be available at selected times only.
24 Degrees is the all-day beachfront restaurant where global cuisine meets relaxed elegance, think Pan-Asian delights, hearty European classics and themed evenings beneath wide ocean skies. Overwater, Mediterraneo by Jeffrey Vella elevates each meal into an art form, its serene setting above the lagoon delivering refined Mediterranean flavours at sunset. For casual bites, the Poolside Bar & Restaurant offers light meals, fresh salads, burgers and tropical cocktails between swims. As dusk falls, the Equator Bar & Lounge becomes the place for cocktails, vintage wines and cigars, with sweeping sea views and atmosphere to match the mood.
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x sunset cruise (per person, per stay)
- 25% discount on spa services
The resort’s PADI-certified dive centre allows guests to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, stand-up paddle and snorkel over vibrant house reefs, or learn the basics through introductory scuba sessions.
On land, find your balance with sun salutations or guided yoga and meditation at the ocean-front yoga pavilion, maintain fitness in the over-water gym, or enjoy spirited matches of beach volleyball and football. The exquisite Jiva Grande Spa honours the ancient traditions of Indian wellness with massages, scrubs, wraps and holistic therapies, while sunset cruises, big game fishing, and visits to traditional Maldivian villages offer unforgettable experiences beneath skies drenched in colour.
Your included extras —
3GB of included mobile internet data, to keep you connected on the go
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for the modern traveller. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy a connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family, with no risk of going over the limit.
Note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Your Journey to the Maldives —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Transfers:
Sit back and enjoy the ride with included transfers to and from your beautiful hotel. The type of transfer is dependent on your hotel location and can be a domestic flight, speedboat or seaplane transfer (or a combination). Additional information for seaplane transfers:
If you choose one of our non-flight inclusive offers and wish to book your own flights to the Maldives, please plan to arrive in Malé before 3pm and depart after 10am, in order to take advantage of the seaplane/ speedboat transfers. If you plan to book your own flights outside the above-suggested times, you may need to source your own overnight accommodation (at your own expense).
- The seaplane transfer provider imposes a maximum luggage allowance of 20kg per person for hold luggage, and a maximum of 5kg per person for hand luggage. Additional weight will be charged per kg.
- Luggage for children under 2 years of age is not included in the luggage allowance. A supplement of $5 per kg will be payable on the spot.
- The hotel and transfer provider cannot be held responsible for any claims arising from missed international flights, delays in seaplane transfers caused by adverse weather conditions, or force majeure.
- Seaplanes operate during the day only. If you arrive in Malé on an international flight after 3pm, hotel transfers will be provided the following day and you will be responsible for arranging and paying for your overnight stay in Malé.
- In order to organise your airport/hotel/airport transfers, please provide us with your flight schedule within 96 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, your transfers cannot be carried out.
Important information regarding offers without flights: In order to organise your airport/hotel/airport transfers, please provide us with your flight times within 48 hours of making your booking by filling in the form provided in your member account. Without this information, your transfers cannot be arranged. PLEASE NOTE! Transfers are only available for journeys between Malé airport and your hotel. If you choose a package without flights, please ensure you arrive in Malé before 3pm and depart from Malé after 10am in order to benefit from the transfers. Additional information for seaplane transfers for packages without flights (valid for transfers included or optional with a supplement): - The seaplane transfer provider imposes a baggage allowance of 20 kg per person for checked baggage and 5 kg per person for hand luggage. Any additional weight will be charged (approximately £3 per kg). Please note: baggage for babies under 2 years old is not included in the allowance. A supplement of $5 per kg will therefore be payable on site. - The hotel and the transfer provider cannot be held liable for any claims arising from missed international flights due to delays in seaplane transfers caused by adverse weather conditions or force majeure. - Seaplanes only operate during daylight hours. If you arrive in Malé on an international flight after 3 p.m., your transfer to the hotel will be provided the following day and you will be responsible for your own accommodation in Malé for the night.
Malé —
Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is a bustling, vibrant city located on a small island surrounded by turquoise waters. While it may be smaller in size compared to the sprawling resorts scattered across the archipelago, Malé offers a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, making it a perfect destination for a cultural getaway, with the bonus of a tropical paradise setting.
Must-sees:
- Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque): A stunning example of traditional Maldivian architecture, this 17th-century mosque is made of coral stone and features intricate carvings and beautiful wooden doors.
- The Maldives Islamic Centre: A magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture, home to the towering, golden-domed Grand Mosque.
- Sultan Park & National Museum: A peaceful retreat in the heart of Malé, where you can stroll through lush greenery and explore the National Museum, showcasing the country’s royal heritage.
- Local Markets: Wander through the bustling Malé markets, including the Fish Market and Local Market, where you can experience the vibrant colours and aromas of fresh produce, fish, and spices.
- Artificial Beach: A man-made beach on the northern side of the island where locals and tourists alike gather to relax by the sea, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Culinary culture:
Malé’s cuisine reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the Maldives, with a focus on fresh seafood, coconut, and locally grown spices. Try Mas Huni, a traditional Maldivian breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, and flatbread. Garudhiya, a fish soup served with rice, lime, and chilli, is another local favourite. For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in Fihunu Mas, grilled fish served with a spicy marinade, or try Kukulhu Riha, a Maldivian chicken curry. Pair your meal with freshly squeezed coconut water, or enjoy a cup of traditional Maldivian tea.
Dive deeper:
Beyond Malé’s cultural and culinary delights, there is plenty more to explore in this captivating capital. Take a boat trip to nearby local islands to experience the traditional Maldivian way of life, or visit Villimale Island, just a short ferry ride away, for beautiful beaches and a quieter atmosphere. The Maldives is also famous for its world-class dive sites, with nearby reefs and atolls offering the chance to see vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even manta rays and whale sharks.
Good to know:
Malé experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures and sunshine throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. While the city itself is relatively small, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the culture, history, and daily life of the Maldives, making it an excellent starting point for a Maldivian adventure.
