Holidaymakers looking to travel to the Maldives are being warned to take extra precautions when swimming, diving and taking part in water sports following a series of drownings this month.

Five people have lost their lives, including a couple on their honeymoon, in separate incidents during January 2019. In 2017, 31 people drowned whilst staying on the luxury islands.

The Maldives Tourism Office has issued an official warning and has asked resorts to keep a closer eye on their guests. Ali Waheed, Tourist Minister for the Maldives, has advised that all tourist facilities will be inspected across the next six to eight months.

Whilst trips to the Maldives are usually trouble-free, the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) warns that the Maldives ‘can have strong tidal currents’ and holidaymakers should always seek local advice before entering the water.

The Maldives was hit by a devastating fire earlier this month which destroyed several villas and a restaurant. The exclusive private island, Gili Lankanfushi is now closed indefinitely.

Whilst many UK holidaymakers may be looking to travel further afield post-Brexit, they should not be doing so without checking the FCO advice for the country they are travelling to. In addition, it is now more crucial that ever for UK holidaymakers to ensure they are buying a travel insurance policy that is suitable for their individual needs, particularly when taking part in activities whilst on holiday.