Family Holiday in Maldives?

Cayden's journey at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu - replacing the controller with a coconut

School holidays are upon us – are we all not dreading it? As a working mom of two, I certainly am. Balancing Zoom calls, emails, and deadlines while trying to keep the kids entertained, fed, and off their screens can feel like an extreme sport. So this year, I decided to do something different – something bold. Whilst my daughter was travelling with her dad, I took my 10-year-old son, Cayden, to the Maldives during the Easter school holidays, combining my work trip with the dreaded school holiday madness.

Yes, the Maldives. Normally known for honeymooners, romantic sunsets, and overwater villas – not exactly the kind of place you'd associate with children, right? I had the same doubts. Would he be bored? Would I regret it having to deal with a moaning tween in tow?

I’m happy to report: it was one of the best travel decisions I’ve ever made. Cayden blew me away with his enthusiasm. Experiencing the Maldives is magical. Experiencing the Maldives through the eyes of my son was something so very special, I will always remember (and I am sure he will, too.). 

Sure, the flight was long (and the layovers didn’t help), but the excitement of what lay ahead more than made up for it. And once we boarded the seaplane on our way to Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Cayden’s eyes lit up. He was completely in awe. Watching the turquoise atolls from above and landing on water was a real adventure – even for me. But for a 10-year-old? It was next-level cool.

  Now, Cayden is what I’d call a “dedicated gamer.” If left to his own devices (pun intended), he’d spend his entire school break glued to a screen, building digital empires and battling virtual monsters. But in the Maldives? I couldn’t get him out of the water.

He explored. He snorkelled and swam. He chased fish. He made friends. He enjoyed a dolphin cruise. He had freshly made ice cream for breakfast and discovered the joy of sipping a colourful mocktail poolside, feeling oh-so grown-up. He tried the candy floss and rated the French fries at Café Mass 10/10. He was blown away by the Premium All-Inclusive offering, consistently checking in with me if he could have another this or that - and the answer was always yes.

The kids’ club was a welcome bonus – not just for me, but for him. From treasure hunts, arts and crafts, kids' disco and movie nights, and plenty of games and activities on offer daily, there was always something going on. He learned things, laughed a lot, and, for the first time in a long time, didn't ask for a WiFi password.

So, to any parent wondering whether the Maldives is worth it with kids: absolutely.

It’s not just for lovers – it’s for explorers, for dreamers, and for curious young adventurers discovering the magic of island life.

BONUS: If you’re thinking of booking, now is the perfect time. At Adaaran Select Meedhupparu and Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, two children under 12 years stay and eat for free when sharing with two adults. Green tax and transfers apply. This offer is valid for travel until the end of September 2025 – ideal for those looking to make the most of the upcoming school holidays.

Ready to trade screen time for sunset swims? I can’t recommend it enough. Contact your preferred travel partner or let us know how we may assist and direct you.