Arriving in Hulhulé after a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, the first thing that will strike you is that this genuinely is a tropical island paradise.

Largely unknown among tourists until the 1970s, the Maldives are today one of the top luxury destinations in the world. Crystal clear oceans, white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees – the Maldives are the epitome of a tropical holiday destination.

Since its ascendance, in the latter half of the 20th century, as one of the world’s most exotic leisure destinations, the Maldives has lovingly preserved its natural wonders. Pristine beaches and idyllic diving spots are speckled among approximately 1,200 islands, in this tropical archipelago.

Book a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, and fall in love with a picture-perfect wonderland in the equatorial Indian Ocean.

Mountainous, wild and breathtakingly beautiful, Macedonia is one of eastern Europe’s best-kept secrets. Passengers flying from Skopje with Qatar Airways will find its international airport to be well run and efficient, with attentive staff providing a warm welcome. Named after Alexander the Great, the airport is one of two serving the country and is approximately 18 kilometres southeast of the capital.

Transportation and parking

A bus service conveniently links the city to the airport, making this an adequate transport option if you don’t have a large amount of luggage. However, if you do have excess luggage or are travelling with children, then the best choice is to pre-book a taxi. 

Door-to-door transfers and shuttles are also available, and can be booked through your hotel concierge or reception desk. There is space for 1,200 vehicles in both short and long-term parking areas. 

At the airport

Passengers flying from Skopje with Qatar Airways depart from the main terminal’s Departures hall. A VIP lounge is available for First and Business Class passengers. Check-in desks are efficient and queues short, but as with all airports, security checks are thorough and can be lengthy. Allow approximately two hours before your flight is due to depart to check in.

Facilities and amenities

Skopje International Airport has a diverse selection of restaurants serving meals, snacks and beverages. A business lounge offers quiet workspaces for business travellers, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. 

A Bureau de Change offers currency exchange services, and there are several ATMs. A small mall of retail outlets provides the usual travel essentials, as well as some luxury goods and Duty Free products for those last-minute gift purchases. Assistance is available upon request for disabled passengers. 

Arriving in Hulhulé after a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, the first thing that will strike you is that this genuinely is a tropical island paradise.

Largely unknown among tourists until the 1970s, the Maldives are today one of the top luxury destinations in the world. Crystal clear oceans, white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees – the Maldives are the epitome of a tropical holiday destination.

The collection of over 1,100 coral islands means that the most common method of transport is by boat or seaplane. Island hopping is a great way to experience the delights above water.

Under the waves there is a second paradise waiting to be explored, and the Maldives offers some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world.

Tourist attractions

The Maldives is different to many destinations in that there are relatively few attractions to visit on land. The main attractions of the islands are natural, rather than man-made, so to discover the very best of the islands’ riches you will need to don a swimsuit and head out with one of the many diving parties to explore the coral reefs.

Filled with brilliantly coloured fish and a wealth of natural wonders, the waters of the Maldives offer a rich tapestry of aquatic colour and beauty.

If you’re not a swimmer or prefer to stay on dry land then a visit to the nation’s capital island of Malé for some casual shopping and to see the ‘real’ Maldives away from the custom-made resorts of the islands.

Travel Considerations

Flights to the Maldives with Qatar Airways land at Malé International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to the Maldives please check the visa and passport requirements.