Wander to the Maldives with the Executive Wanderer

​When I told my friends and family, I was jet-setting to the Maldives for a second time in less than 18 months, I instantly received a slew of questions from my curious peers:

• Where are the Maldives?
• How long does it take to get there?
• What makes it so special?

I did an impromptu world geography lesson and explained that the Maldives are a set of 1,200 islands southwest of India in the Indian Ocean. Only 200 are inhabited, making it a remote, exclusive spot to journey to. Then I watched as they each started to calculate just how far away this beautiful haven is from the United States.

I’ll do the math for you—it’s 8,991 miles from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City to Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives. I’ve taken two routes on my travels to the Maldives, both of which get you to awe-inspiring beaches in less than 24 hours.

1. Overnight from JFK to Abu Dhabi to Malé: The Chief Wanderer and I awoke refreshed the next morning to grab our short four-hour flight to Malé (MLE). Total flight time was 19 hours.
2. Hopscotch to Malé: On my solo trip to meet up with the Chief Wanderer, I jumped from JFK to Charles de Gaulle International in Paris (CDG) to Leonardo da Vinci International Airport in Rome (FCO) to MLE. Total flight time was 22 hours.

​So, what makes nearly one day soaring through the sky worth it? There are few places in the world as beautiful as the Maldives and even fewer places with the same level of luxury, privacy and service. At both the five-star Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa and Lily Beach Resort & Spa, the general manager and team leads greet every guest on arrival. The staff makes every trip memorable, letting you leave any stress behind as you walk onto the beautiful property.

Whether you opt for the famous over-the-water villas or the ocean villa with a pool, serenity overflows on this tranquil island. Be adventurous and snorkel with whale sharks and manta rays. Broaden your horizons and try traditional Maldivian handline fishing. Simply lounge with a refreshing beverage poolside. Soak in the spectacular sunset. Then go enjoy five-star, exquisite, culinary delights.

No matter how or when you journey to the Maldives, I know you will find authentic, awe-inspiring experiences that will have you and your clients booking your next trip before you depart. Happy wandering!