The Little-Known Italian Destination Known As 'Maldives of Europe' You Can Fly To For Under £30

If you're thinking of heading off on holiday this year but money is looking tight - which, let’s face it, it is - we’ve got a little destination suggestion for you… 

If the beachside bungalows of the Maldives have always been a dream of yours - but the amount of money needed to visit is more of a nightmare - how about a little-know Italian destination known as the 'Maldives of Europe’? 

With flights currently available for under £30 - of course you’ll need some accommodation and spending money too - the Maldive del Salento Pescoluse near Palombara, in Italy, will provide you with the crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches you’ve been dreaming of. 

Here at TOTUM we can give you a bit of an extra helping hand with some of your travel costs too - it’s worth checking out out 10% off plus flexible cancellations with hotels.com offer as well as savings of up to £250 per booking with TUI and a whole range of discounts with Expedia including 10% off hotels. 

If all this is sounding like music to your ears, rest assured that the Maldive del Salento Pescoluse hasn't earned its nickname for nothing.

Loads of visitors have shared their rave reviews of the white sand, crystal blue seas and warm, sunny weather.

“This beach is just beautiful,” wrote one excited visitor. “Although it was in the middle of July it didn't feel as crowded as other beaches we went to. The water is clear and beautiful and the sand nice and white.”

Another said: "The beach goes on for miles. Sheer perfection. Loads of Lidos with well behaved people. Although busy it’s orderly. Clean sand, crystal clear waters. Amazing day on a perfect beach.”

Right now, Ryanair flights from London Stansted to Brindisi - the closest airport - are as low as £12.99. Be aware that this does of course vary throughout the year, but if you plan ahead, you can easily bag yourself a bargain!

It’s also worth noting that TOTUM members can get up to 81% off flights and £143 on return airfares from Secret Flight Club with students getting a discounted £12 per year / £1 per month membership!

There's plenty to do once you hit Salento Pescoluse - apart from just chilling on the beach. There’s boat rides available for snorkelling or scuba diving, as well as plenty of bars to wind away your evenings. 

There are also the nearby coastal towns of Otranto and Santa Maria de Leuca to explore, so if you want to travel a little wider make sure to get the best price for your car hire via enjoytravel, who’ll compare prices from all the major car hire companies, and can sometimes save you up to 70% - with TOTUM members getting 5% discount too! 

Although there are a few reviews from people claiming it doesn't compare with the Maldives, one person responded: “I think people misunderstand the reason for the title 'Maldives of Italy'. 

“This isn't to do with the beach, but the clarity of the sea water. The sea is so clear, blue, warm and very shallow. You can walk out far and feel nothing under your feet but soft sand. It's to die for!

“If you are planning to spend the day, either fork out for sun beds/umbrella on the beach or bring your own umbrella, as the sun in southern Italy is HOT! Highly recommend.”

So there you have it - golden beaches, glorious weather, crystal blue waters and bargain travel! 

Don’t forget to check out TOTUM’s Travel Deals which include all of those mentioned above as well as loads more! 

Even if you’re not a student it’s worth checking out our TOTUM Pro eligibility criteria as you could qualify for our PRO discounts! 

NOTE: This article contains affiliate links, which will earn the site a commission if the product is purchased. 

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