Weather Lowdown
If you're picturing cold weather and icy conditions due to the fact that January is the coldest month of the year in the resort, then you're sadly mistaken. Despite the cooler temperatures, you can still expect an average of around 28°C not exactly cold!
Kuredu is very popular no matter what the month, but if you are looking for a time of the year which is cooler and less humid, then this is a good month to visit; despite the fact that the humidity is still classed as 'high', it's certainly not in the 'very high' bracket of the coming months.
You will no doubt be wanting to hit the beach and get out and about in this beautiful part of the Maldives, and this is entirely possible, with an average high temperature hitting 30°C on the warmest days, and plentiful sunshine too; this month averages around 8 hours of sunshine per day. You can be assured than when the sun shines it will certainly feel as tropical as the climate!
This time of year is within the dry season bracket, so you can expect less in the way of rain compared to some other times of the year, with an average of just five days of the month affected by rain to some degree this could be a sharp downpour, or it could be a shower there is no way to predict the amount of rainfall in this part of the country.
If you are heading out during the evening then you can expect balmy and mild temperatures even after darkness hours, with an average low of around 25°C; so air conditioning is needed for a comfortable night's sleep, however if you are heading out for an evening walk or a few drinks, then you certainly won't be needing a cardigan in this weather.
The good news is that those who want to get out and enjoy the beautiful waters of the Indian Ocean can do just that, and you can enjoy an average water temperature of around 28°C during the month. Snorkelling and scuba diving are to be recommended, as well as simply paddling at the water's edge, where you will still see plentiful marine life going about their daily business.
Where to Stay
The IT place to stay on the island, regardless of whether you're visiting during January or not, and actually the only major resort on the island due to the 'one resort per island' guide is the iconic Kuredu Island Resort & Spa Hotel. Now, this is no ordinary hotel, because despite the fact it is labelled 'hotel', it is more like a complete holiday complex spanning the length and breadth of the island. If you can't find what you're looking for here, well, your requirements are certainly bespoke!
There are many different accommodation options within the resort, and one of the most popular and one of the most luxurious is to go for the Sulthan Pool Villas. These are the epitome of rest and relaxation, and if you are looking for an accommodation option that is something special with a capital S, then this is it perfect for honeymooners and special occasions.
The villas are set within a green location, so you can be promised total tranquillity and privacy. Now, this isn't the cheapest option, but it is worth it, as well as being located close to the resort's main entertainment area within the hotel itself.
We mentioned that this particular resort hotel is the only major one on the island, but there are many other accommodation options close by, including Cheval Blanc Randheli, which is located in Noonu, around 19km from Kuredu itself. This is a beautiful beach property with loft-style villas, allowing you to stay in total comfort and relaxation.
The villas all have overwater decks and a section of private beach or garden area, and the entertainment options mean you're highly unlikely to get bored. The on-site restaurant also fills your belly to every requirement.
What to Do
Despite the fact that Kuredu is one of the largest islands in the Maldives archipelago, it is entirely possible to walk around its outer rim in just under one hour, around the beach. This will show you the beauty of the island in its entirety, and is also a great way to grab a spot of exercise. Remember to take a bottle of water with you, and to wear a hat and sun-cream, as that Maldivian sun is very strong no matter what the time of day, and take regular breaks in the shade. This is a great early evening activity, as you watch the sun go down too.
Of course, visiting this beautiful island has a lot of links towards romance, and whether you're visiting in January as a pre-Valentine's holiday, or you're simply enjoying time with a loved one, a special dinner for two can be organised by the island's main resort hotel. This is a special treat to be enjoyed, and one that you need to pre-book in advance.
The hotel calls it a Veli Dinner, and it has one of the most beautiful natural settings you can imagine, together with a five course menu and a bottle of wine to enjoy too. We know that paradise should include rest and relaxation, so don't try and pack too much action and adventure into your break simply enjoy the island for its nature and beauty.
Hit the Beach
One of the nearby islands, Naifaru, boasts the wonderful Palm Beach Resort & Spa, with its private beach. At points the sand seems to jut out into the ocean, and you can sit on a sun-lounger, surrounded by sea on either side of you the feeling is seriously serene and castaway in nature.
Although you do have to be a guest to use the private beach, this is a great alternative hotel to choose if you don't want to stay on the main island of Kuredu.
Sun-loungers are plentiful, although not packed together, which gives you a more idyllic feel to your beach day, and there are many different water-sports on offer too, in case you get bored of simply sitting in paradise and doing nothing!
Restaurants and Nightlife
When you stay in the main resort on Kuredu you aren't going to struggle for places to eat and chill out during the evening. The Beach is a beautiful place to spend your evening, with a delicious a la carte menu to fill your belly, whilst your eyes gaze upon the stars and the setting sun. The menu is large and plentiful, with fresh ingredients used to bring together fantastic dishes from around the world. If you're looking for a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, this is it.
Of course, sometimes we all just fancy something a little different for our evening meal, and in that case you need to be heading to The Far East. This is a Japanese restaurant which gives you a la carte or teppanyaki options, all with a fantastic view to enjoy whilst you chow down some fantastic food.
