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Christmas Maldives holidays
If all the traditional hype and build-up to Christmas leaves you feeling slightly flat and overwhelmed, then why not escape to the Maldives for something different, but with enough recognisable touches to remain warmly comforting.
The Maldives is predominately Muslim, so Christmas is not the highlight of the year. However, with beautiful locations and delightfully warm weather guaranteed, swap the dream of a white snow-covered festive season for the certainty of beautiful white sands and tranquillity; with not a Santa based advert to be found.
Opting for the Maldives as a Christmas destination may well be different, but you will not be short of entertainment. Many hotels decorate their public areas and enter the spirit of the season, with gingerbread decoration making for the children, cocktail parties on Christmas Eve and lavish brunches on Christmas Day. Although, be prepared to forego the traditional Turkey dinner for local fish-based delicacies.
Christmas holidays to the Maldives
Christmas traditions in the Maldives
For most of the Maldivian population, Christmas isn’t something that’s widely celebrated due to their Muslim beliefs. This doesn’t mean that the festive season is totally ignored though as some practices have developed into established events around this time of year.
For Christians on the islands, it has become traditional to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ at around 8 or 9 o’clock in the morning of the 25th of December. Maldivians attend church services to celebrate this event, often wearing brand new clothes bought specifically for the occasion. During the build-up to Christmas Day, gift stores are thronged by children and parents selecting presents to be displayed and presented in church.
Maldivians like to decorate their homes at this time of year with branches from pine trees and sometimes a small Christmas fir tree. After the church celebrations, it’s traditional to spend time with the family playing games and enjoying outdoor lunches.
Most hotels and resorts across the Maldives will hold their own Christmas celebrations - expect decorations, special gala dinners and entertainment on the beach.
Best hotels to celebrate Christmas in the Maldives
If you’re wanting to swap Christmas in the snow, for Christmas in the sun and experience a Christmas like no other, then book your stay at Lily Beach Resort and Spa in the Central Atolls. The festivities are in full swing here throughout the entire Christmas period as the little ones get creative with crafts, participate in games and watch movies.
Santa Claus makes a much-anticipated arrival on Christmas Eve and has plenty of gifts in tow for all the well-behaved kids. Afterwards, head to the Gala buffet where a wide selection of seasonal treats cooked by the resort’s executive chef, Oliver Portret, are available to provide you with a taste sensation like no other. Staying at Lily Beach resort and spa ensures you’ll have a Christmas to remember, without having to lift a finger.
Other family-friendly favourites filled with fun festivities include Club Med Kani, Soneva Fushi, Hotel Riu Atoll and Kandima Maldives.