When you picture yourself and your romantic partner on your dream beach getaway vacation, what type of beaches come into mind? I bet it’s somewhere secluded, with warm daytime, white and soft sand, clear waters, and lots of greenery. If that’s your dream vacation, consider visiting the Maldives’ beaches.
The Maldives, an Indian Ocean island nation bordering Sri Lanka, is known for beautiful crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and lush resorts that dot its coastline. Because of the fame that precedes its name, Maldives positions itself as a premier destination for getaway vacations.
Like how quality products can get costly, breathtaking vacation destinations also come with hefty prices, and it’s no different for Maldives. That said, an average flight from the US East Coast will cost you about $1500.
During peak season, which runs from the beginning of May to the end of July, flights can go as high as 21X more. To game the system and land yourself cheap flights, consider using Going.com. The site also sends notifications by email whenever there are good flight deals.
Apart from the flight costs, other miscellaneous expenses that will add up to the total cost of your vacation include meals and the type of accommodation you choose.
So, what about us budget-conscious couples who still want to experience Maldives-like places? Luckily, the globe has several islands like Maldives catering to budget travellers like you and me.
Also, the Maldives might not be the ideal destination now because of the torrential downpours common in the current monsoon season, which runs from May to November. Therefore, we advise that you look beyond the Maldives.
Below is a list of our top 15 budget-friendly Maldives alternatives you and your loved one can visit and enjoy romantic evenings on white sands.
Places Similar to the Maldives to Visit
In search of Maldives-like vibes? Here are our top picks for coastal paradises that will blow your mind and leave you wishing to spend more time in these remarkable places.
1. Fiji
Apart from resembling the Maldives, Fiji’s rich jungles add adventure and excitement to your vacation experience.
And in addition to exploring the jungles, you can relax and enjoy some leisure time on the beach or surf at Cloudbreak, the world’s most lovely surf spot.
There are plenty of budget-friendly bungalows on Fiji’s main island. However, for those who would like to upscale to luxurious spaces that are hidden and private, the far outer islands are waiting.
One of the activities I liked while in Fiji was visiting the Fiji Culture Village. Located immediately outside Nadi, this village is a fake setup that showcases the culture of the Fiji people.
Visitors may observe weaving, creating fire, and building demonstrations here and learn everything there is to know about traditional Fijian lifestyles. You’ll also have the chance to see cottages and shrines and speak with the local leader, the chief.
Being a tropical island, you can expect to spend your vacation on gorgeous beaches that have plenty of outdoor activities. And, if you are staying on Viti Levu island, try out the thrilling river Navua tour.
Not feeling like going into the waters? The Nadi zip line tour is ready to show you what canyons look like from above while sliding you into the largest cave in Fiji.
Accommodations in Fiji:
Budget: Travellers Beach Resort
Mid-Range: Bedarra Beach Inn
Luxury: Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay
2. Tahiti Island, French Polynesia
Tahiti is one of my favourite destinations, and I plan to revisit the place as often as possible. It is situated in the South Pacific region and is the capital of the chain of islands that makes up French Polynesia.
Because it’s the capital of French Polynesia and any travel route within the region must go through it, most people tend to overlook Tahiti, a mistake you shouldn’t make.
Why? You may ask.
Tahiti has the same clear waters you’ll find anywhere in the region. There are also iconic overwater bungalows in Tahiti you can enjoy.
Apart from being the capital island, Tahiti is also the largest one. So, to experience everything Tahiti offers, consider touring the island using a car. You can rent one through Kayak for $25.
To vacationers that would like to explore the outside, past the resort, I suggest you visit Point Venus. The place is a gorgeous beach with black sand and an exciting history.
When done with Point Venus, proceed to Cascades de Faarumai and enjoy the three waterfalls. Here, you can take shelter from the scorching sun and cool off. Remember to bring with you mosquito repellent.
Of course, I love the ocean, but besides that, another area in Tahiti quickly became my favourite. The site is the magical Maraa Grotto. At Grotto’s entrance, there are fantastic ferns that almost feel mystical as they cascade down the entrance.
If you’re wondering how you will see the forest in the island’s centre, the Tahiti Island Crossing tour will make that happen.
You can walk into Tahiti and spend a peaceful evening at the Water Gardens. The garden is filled with exotic plant life from the region, waterfalls, and winding paths which together form a complex to be marvelled at. Don’t forget to take some pictures of this serene place.
Accommodations in Tahiti:
Budget: Tahiti Airport Motel
Mid-Range: Fare Suisse Tahiti
Luxury: Manaeva Lodge
3. Moorea Island, French Polynesia
French Polynesia has yet another gem called Moorea Island. The people here are friendly, and the pristine beaches appear nearly untouched. Moorea is similar to the Maldives but more affordable.
A lagoon brimming with sea life surrounds the island; for protection, there’s a barrier reef. Popular activities on these waters are scuba diving and snorkelling. Sea life present on the lagoon includes reef sharks, stingrays, and schools of tropical fish.
Although several beaches are on the island, my favourite is Opunohu Bay. Here the waters are clear, warm, and shallow.
Take a hiking tour and experience Moorea’s breathtaking scenery. You can see pineapple farms, archaeological sites, the old volcanic crater, and several vantage points offering beautiful surrounding views. The trail of the tour and your experience will depend on the tour guide you pick.
Boat rides where sharks and stingrays hang out are available. If you’re adventurous, you can rent your boat and go solo. Stingrays are playful. So it will be an exciting boat ride.
Accommodations in Moorea:
Budget: Villa Vaiana
Mid-Range: Fare Blue Lagon View
Luxury: Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea
4. Bora Bora Island, French Polynesia
The best option for the Maldives-like for a honeymoon is Bora Bora. An astonishingly unique blue lagoon encircles these appealing atolls and islands. While travelling to Bora Bora, consider flying into the airport of Bora Bora, and then from there, it is a boat ride to any destination.
Few hotels are on the main island. The rest are on privately owned islands or atolls. You’re guaranteed Mount Otemanu’s beautiful view, regardless of where you stay.
Jet Ski tours are among the most exciting things to do in Bora Bora. Exploring the lagoon’s aquatic life is fun. You can relax and enjoy the ocean view from the boat or snorkel.
I’ve stayed at several hotels, but the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is the most enchanted and lavish. Although the island has high prices, it’s worth it if you’re after experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
Accommodations in Bora Bora:
Budget: Pension Atger
Mid-Range: Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Luxury: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
5. Whitsunday, Australia
Whitsunday Islands lie in Queensland Territory, off Australia’s east coast. This island chain is renowned for its immaculate shorelines and crystal-clear seas that will give you Caribbean sea vibes.
Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Island, Hook Island, and Hayman Island are just a few of the 74 islands that make up the island chain. Travelling to the other islands, you can fly by Seaplane, boat rides, or directly from Australia’s mainland.
These islands are a snorkelling paradise since they are situated between the Great Barrier Reef and Australia’s mainland. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays’ most well-known beach, is located in the central portion of the island.
The beach’s shallow, dazzlingly white sand stretches beyond the eyes. The waters of this beach are always warm, making it possible to swim any time if you feel like it.
Want to view the whole of Whitsundays? Consider taking a flight. You’ll get amazing views of the barrier reef and the islands from above.
Planning a vacation to the Whitsundays during whale migration, which lasts from June to October, is highly recommended. Throughout the whale season, several tours travel out. Therefore you can pick an affordable one.
Accommodations in Whitsunday Islands:
Budget: The Islands Inn Motel
Mid-Range: Palm Bay Resort
Luxury: qualia Resort
6. Perhentian, Malaysia
Perhentian Islands are two islands found in the northern part of Malaysia. These islands remain largely unexploited by tourists. Being in South Asia, they are highly affordable, and it is common to get comparable lodging for less than half of what you may pay elsewhere—such a great offer.
The only way to travel to the islands is by bus, which starts its journey in Kuala Lumpur and ends in Kuala Besut, and by boat from Besut to the final destination. I suggest travelling overnight using the Peranda bus.
People visit both islands because of their pristine beaches. Pulau Kecil, a tiny island, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and inexpensive lodging. Families and couples seeking a peaceful escape will love the larger island of Pulau Besar.
Do you enjoy diving? If you are, be glad.
Both islands offer excellent space scuba diving, and you can take PADI certification classes at the many dive shops scattered on the beaches on both islands. A picture-perfect location for Instagram is Coral Bay—a lovely area to snorkel amid magnificent coral reefs.
Accommodations in Perhentian Islands:
Budget: Suhaila Palace
Mid-Range: Bubu Resort
Luxury: The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
7. Rarotonga Island, Cook Islands
The beautiful Cook Islands is a collection of 15 South Pacific islands midway between Samoa and French Polynesia. These islands are the definition of heaven on Earth.
In the Cook Islands, early Polynesian inhabitants have long and rich pre-historic history tales. To date, Maori is one of the island’s main languages, alongside English.
Rarotonga and other Cook Islands are a better choice than Maldives islands since they are far more isolated and have secret beaches everywhere you turn. Also, it’s less commercialised than the islands of Maldives, giving guests a more sense of authenticity.
The capital island of the Cook Islands is the Rarotonga island. Here, you’ll easily spot palm trees swinging gently in the tropical breeze while the locals go on with their everyday life. And they are friendly too.
I recommend hopping on the lagoon BBQ tour, including snorkelling, if you want to spend your entire day over the water.
Another exciting activity is the cultural tour that lets you experience the people’s traditions. It’s a beautiful tour, and the fact that it ends with a night show is lovely and exciting.
Accommodations in the Cook Islands:
Budget: Aroko Bungalows
Mid-Range: Sanctuary Rarotonga-on The Beach
Luxury: Etu Moana Boutique Beach Villas
8. Curaçao
Curaçao, a stunning Dutch island, has a famous vibrant capital city, the Willemstad, and vast coral reefs. To those who yearn for a lifestyle similar to that of the Caribbean island, you’ll love Curaçao.
One advantage of Curaçao over the Maldives is that the weather here is perfect all year round. Therefore, you can visit whenever you like.
Join a kayak outing to see the ocean’s crystal-clear, sapphire seas. You’ll get to tour the remote bays that the reef frames and the stunning coral reefs. They can only be accessed from the boat.
I also suggest an entire island sightseeing trip, experiencing Curaçao’s attractive, vibrant towns and learning about its rich historical past. You’ll need to hire a car to move around Curaçao and explore its offer. Public transport on this island is not robust. There’s an option of trekking, but this way, you won’t see much outside the city.
Accommodations in Curaçao:
Budget: Willemstad Resort
Mid-Range: Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites
Luxury: Van der Valk Kontiki Beach Resort
9. Belize
Those with highly tight budgets have the best travelling destination in Belize. Located in the middle of an American jungle, Belize is a stunning country with a rich history. So you know, the country was colonised by the British, so if you travel there, you’ll enjoy two experiences simultaneously.
The most notable attraction sites are in the western part of Belize, in a district called Cayo. Exciting discoveries awaiting you there include the Mayan ruins, temples, and caves. Join a tour that will make you discover caves and Mayan temples and take you zip-lining.
The east coast also has something going on for itself. In that part of the country, you’ll find a chain of islands called the Cayes. They are small and surround the country’s coast. While exploring this gorgeous side of Belize, check out the Great Blue Hole, a marine sinkhole that’s 410 feet.
I suggest a Belize food-tasting tour in the city as a leisurely activity. After all, experiencing new food in a new place is among the best activities during a vacation.
Accommodations in Belize:
Budget: Rainforest Haven Inn
Mid-Range: Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton
Luxury: The Lodge At Chaa Creek
10. Gili Islands of Indonesia
Off the Indonesian island of Lombok are three tiny islands known as the Gili Islands. The names of the islands include Gili Meno, Gili Air, and Gili Trawangan (Gili T). Bali is well-known for being the Maldives’ alternative to Indonesia. However, Gili Islands have the same breathtaking views with far less crowding.
Aside from the stunning scenery, Indonesia’s delicious, affordable food costs less than $7, with the lowest at $3 – an incredible offer for anyone travelling on a limited budget. Thinking about the spicy and tasteful meals of these islands makes me hungry.
A fantastic way to explore all the Gili islands quickly is with a sightseeing boat. There are many affordable boat tours to take, and while on tour, you can snorkel with the most colourful and beautiful fish. There’s a turtle sanctuary nearby that you can visit.
Gili T is a famous party island with water swings perfect for Instagram pictures. Overwater swings have become standard on the island due to the first one’s popularity. So you won’t fight it difficult to spot one.
Gili Meno is far more tranquil and laid-back than Gili Air, a mix of party and relaxation vibes.
If you want to swim with sea turtles, you can fulfil your dream on Gili Islands. All beaches have them, but head to Gili Meno. They do have a sanctuary for turtles.
Accommodations in Gili Islands:
Budget: Captain Coconuts Gili Air
Mid-Range: Blu d’aMare
Luxury: Pondok Santi Estate Gili Trawangan
11. Boracay Islands, Philippines
The magnificent white sandy beaches of Boracay are well-known. It’s challenging to match the beauty of these smaller Philippine islands with other islands, and the low cost of living makes it much harder to leave the islands.
White Beach in Boracay is almost similar to beaches in the Maldives.
Boracay is renowned when it comes to parties. It is also famous for its breathtaking natural beauty. The beach parties are fantastic if you’re searching for a pleasant environment to meet fresh faces, and they go all night, with Coco Bar being an excellent stop for unbelievably good music.
Another entertaining activity while on the island is the old good pub crawl. Using a bike is the easiest way to appreciate the island’s breathtaking splendour. This way, you can stop at multiple beautiful beaches, climb Mt. Luho, and enjoy the area’s best view from the observation deck.
If you decide to use a bike, consider renting one from an outlet that gives you more hours to explore the island.
Popular for day trips, Ariel’s Point provides a variety of adventure sports and activities like snorkelling, paddle boating, and kayaking. However, the place’s main attraction is the world-famous cliff diving spot that provides a thrilling experience.
Finding a resort in the Philippines that resembles those in the Maldives is simple. You can find accommodations for any price range. Just remember to compare multiple options before choosing.
Accommodations in Boracay:
Budget: Boracay Backpackers
Mid-Range: Henann Regency Resort & Spa
Luxury: Henann Crystal Sands Resort
12. Seychelles
Several magnificent sceneries in the globe are indeed found in Seychelles. The country’s most known landmark, La Digue, is off the main island, Mahe. From Mahe to La Digue, you’ll need to hop on a ferry.
In addition to the surreal landscapes of La Digu, visit the beautiful Veuve Reserve and see some of the native animals and plants of the entire region calling the place home.
There are plenty of activities to do on Mahe Island. It’s a large island; if you’re short on time, prioritise the Nothern side since there’s plenty of what you can see and do.
Sunset Beach, renowned for its breathtaking sunset vistas, is an island destination that should not be missed. Another highlight is Victoria City, which still has the British colonial allure. If you’re planning a trip to Seychelles, it’s best to visit during the winter months, which include May, June, July, August, September, and October. During these months, the weather is cooler.
Meeting an Aldabra giant tortoise in person is one of the most unusual experiences you will have in Seychelles. Seychelles is home to giant tortoises that may reach over 660 lb (300 kg).
These tortoises have a long life span and can live for two centuries. They are native to Aldabra atoll, however, widespread across the archipelago and inner islands of Seychelles, such as La Digue, Praslin, and Mahe.
Accommodations in Seychelles:
Budget: Rising Sun Guesthouse
Mid-Range: DoubleTree By Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort And Spa
Luxury: Constance Ephelia
13. Formentera Island, Spain
Formentera Island in Spain made it to our list because of its secluded beaches like those in the Maldives. I recognise other popular nearby European destinations in the same category, including Palma and Ibiza.
Formentera Island is part of the Balearic islands, and it’s the smallest among all of them.
Unfortunately, no airport exists on this island. You’ll have to hop on a ferry for half an hour’s cruise from Ibiza. Scooters and bikes are available for rent for exploration.
Visit de la Mola’s handicraft market and find cute clothes and souvenirs to take home. After that, get some of the best island views from the Far de sa La Mola lighthouse.
There’re many beautiful beaches with white sand on the island. Every one of them is a great choice. But if I were to pick one, it would be Pink Beach Formentera. It has an incredibly long white sandy beach that empties into the sea and is near the town centre.
A trip to Ibiza is exciting, and if you’ve booked one, you should check out for all-inclusive boat tours. This boat is a beach club on the water. And by spending some hours on board, you will explore the Formentera.
Accommodations in Formentera:
Budget: Sa Cala Suites
Mid-Range: Hostal Aigua Clara
Luxury: Blanco Hotel Formentera
14. Jamaica
Consider vacationing in Jamaica for an all-inclusive experience near the stunning Caribbean Sea. Some of the top all-inclusive resorts globally are found in Jamaica.
Compared to the Maldives, it’s significantly easier to travel to Jamaica since a flight from New York takes less than 4 hours. However, the beaches in Jamaica are similar to the Maldives. There are white sands, overwater bungalows, and a blue ocean.
While in Jamaica, you must include a trip to the glowing lagoon (Luminous Lagoon) on your list of must-do activities. Luminous lagoons are rare; they are only four of their kind worldwide. Of the four, visitors claim this one in Jamaica has the brightest shine.
If you want to switch things up with zip-lining, Chukka’s adventure park is waiting. Bob Marley’s birth village, Nine Miles, is also nearby.
Accommodations in Jamaica:
Budget: Judy House Cottages and Rooms
Mid-Range: Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
Luxury: Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
15. Lichadonisia Island, Greece
The little island group of Lichadonisia, which is situated in the Gulf of Eubean above Athens, has been likened to the Caribbean Sea because of its lush surroundings and blue water Vacationers have also found it to resemble the French Polynesian Tuamotu islands.
Although there are several places you can get accommodation in Kavos, which is on the Greek mainland, the islands of Lichadonisia remain uninhabited.
The major island of the group, Monolia, is only a boat ride away from Kavos. You’ll witness its breathtaking beach once you get to Lichadonisia.
There are plenty of activities you can participate in while on the gorgeous bay of Monolia Beach. You may choose to relax, go swimming, or snorkel. On the beach, there are also chairs and a bar for those who want to spend most of, if not all, of the day there.
Not forgetting lovers of the adrenaline rush, there’s a shipwreck nearby that’s perfect for scuba diving.
Accommodations near Lichadonisia:
Budget: Hotel Fthia
Mid-Range: Altamar Hotel
Luxury: Club Med Gregolimano – Greece
Factors to Consider When Planning Trips to Similar Places in the Maldives
Guides come in handy when touring new, unfamiliar places. Here’s one you can use while in the nation of Maldives to ease your stay.
You must go over the travelling tips below before you take your flight. The tips included here will help you plan your trip and understand how things are done where you’re headed.
Let’s get started.
1. Plan According To The Weather
There is no doubt that the weather influences a lot of experiences people have while on vacation. For the Maldives, the peak season is from November and runs all through to April. The place is dry during this time, and the sunshine is soft.
However, prices of everything tend to skyrocket during the peak season. So, if you’re on a budget, travelling during this time would be a bad idea.
Maldives is near the equator and thus enjoys consistent hot and humid weather conditions throughout the year with distinct dry and wet seasons.
The best time to plan a trip to the Maldives for those on a budget is between the end of the peak season and the start of the off-season. This period is also known as the shoulder season. During this time, the weather is still at its best, and the occupancy of accommodation areas has significantly reduced.
From April to September, Maldives experiences rain, although not daily. When it rains, it’s only during a part of the day, not all day. So, you can try your shot during this period.
The monsoon winter is in October and November, which is not a good time for vacation. In Halhangu, the winter starts in May and continues until August.
2. Choose Affordable Accommodation and Transportation
You want to figure out accommodation and transport early in your travel. Have a variety of options at hand and weigh their advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your budget, you can opt for cheaper hotels on the local islands or high-end resorts on the private islands.
Maldives’ previous travellers also recommend that you go for accommodations that offer ferry services, excursions, and even airport transfers.
For those whose company includes kids, you’ll want to check out how kid-friendly the island you’ve chosen to stay in is. Some have overwater villas, which are dangerous for playful kids. Consider staying amidst reef fishes and corals for a compelling experience.
If you want to save on costs, look for accommodations with offers and discounts. You can get 5-star services with a good deal but on a budget.
3. Pack Wisely
When deciding what to pack, do not include pork, tobacco, or alcohol in your packing list. Also, do not bring with you religious books. Islam is slightly dominant in this region, and therefore you’ll have to abide by the laws of the land, which in most cases are linked to the religion.
Also, pack some decent clothes you’ll use when visiting places with locals. Again, Islam frowns upon revealing clothes. Therefore it’s better to come prepared.
An essential accessory for most travellers is their camera. Ensure that yours is water resistant to capture your best moments on land and in water. Also, remember to include a camera polarizer filter if you want your pictures to have vibrant colours and reduced glare.
A typical packing tip from most Maldives travel guides is to carry your gear, including diving, snorkelling, and surfing, to cut costs. Other crucial items you should pack include personal care products, toiletries, surf wax, sunscreen, and an emergency kit.
4. Book Hotels And Flights Online
Here’s a good travel tip and trick you should not forget about. For those planning a trip during the peak season and want cheaper deals on their flights and hotels, book them way earlier (even months earlier) before your actual travel day. And that’s why you should book them online.
Online booking has some degree of flexibility that every traveller should exploit. You can compare and contrast different options, access last-minute discounts, know the total cost in advance, and make changes or cancel your reservation.
Regarding accommodation, some common questions include where to stay and which island is the best for vacation. If you’re in such a dilemma, a Maldives travel guide is the best fit to help you plan a memorable trip.
Just remember to compare and contrast the prices of accommodation and flights and pick what you can afford. Also, verify the authenticity of the options you choose.
5. Keep Eyes Open For Tax And Hidden Costs
Hidden costs and taxes can quickly add up and make your trip costly. It’s, therefore, best to be conscious of your expenses. For example, the luxury resorts also serve imported foods and drinks, which cost more than local food. They also bill a 10% service cost and a service tax that’s 8%.
Tips are unnecessary, but a kind gesture is welcomed if the service is good. Also, there is a 10% food tax. Remember that you are in a foreign country and must follow their rules. This will have a successful vacation.
6. Spend At Least One Night In A Water Bungalow
A beautiful tropical destination like this, with its charming overwater villas, is not something you visit daily. So, while touring the Maldives, use this opportunity to the maximum, especially if it’s a honeymoon vacation. Visit the villas and experience the breathtaking site of crystal clear ocean waters beneath your feet.
Beach villas in the Maldives can be pretty impressive, but nothing beats staying in an overwater bungalow where you can wake up to a beautiful sunrise and slip right into the ocean, even from your room. So, if you plan to spend some days in one of these overwater bungalows and need to learn how to prepare for the trip, this article is here to help. Just read through it.
7. Check And Compare Prices For Water Activities
A general tip for a budget-friendly Maldives trip includes checking how far your resort is from the coral reefs. You want to know if you can reach it with a short swim or by taking a ferry, snorkelling, or scuba diving.
Resorts and private operators offer stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, boating, parasailing, sea kayaking, wakeboarding, manta ray, dolphin, and whale-watching tours.
Before choosing what type of water activity/s you’ll participate in, check their prices and compare them against each other. Some activities that should be on your list include watching manta rays in the North Male Atoll and Hammerhead Sharks in the Rasdhoo Atoll.
Additionally, you can do many family-friendly adventurous things in the Maldives. Just make sure every moment of your vacation counts. Again, remember to compare prices before deciding what to do.
8. Keep USD For Transactions
The Maldivian Rufiyaa is the local currency used in the Maldives. However, the US dollar is also popular and widely accepted. Except for local islands, most stores denote items in US dollars.
While paying using credit cards in shops and resorts is possible, you must always have cash for small items that do not necessarily need a card. Also, ATMs are rare in the Maldivian islands, making cash necessary.
9. Buy Sim Cards At The Airport
Amongst popular Maldives travel tips taught by bloggers is to get yourself a SIM card (or two) at the airport. It helps to get a sim card if you want to access the internet comfortably since the WiFi offered at most places in the Maldives, including resorts, can’t be trusted 100%.
Also, you’ll use mobile data most of the time in Maldives. So, when you have an emergency, you can easily use your phone and request help. That said, set getting a SIM card as your first task after landing.
10. Seaplanes Are Wonderful There In Maldives
Tourists who want to explore the Maldives’ unique islands and attractions must pay more to enjoy seaplane travel. Prices start at around US$200, but the scenery along the way is worth the money.
When booking your hotel in the Maldives, remember to pre-book your seaplane. Seaplanes are scheduled flights and are only available on demand. Booking confirmations are only received the night before the trip to the Maldives begins.
11. Check If They Allow Drone Photography
The aerial view of the white sandy Maldivian beaches and their blue waters is incredible and stunning. Most visitors want to drone capture these amazing sky views and keep the pictures for memories.
However, there are several things you’ll need to consider if bringing a drone with you is part of your travelling plans.
One such thing is that a “No Drone” policy is standard in many resorts in the Maldives since they want to protect their guests’ privacy. Violating this policy could put you in serious trouble with authorities. Therefore, our tip is always to ask your resort if the island you are staying on allows drone flights.
12. Avoid Changing Places Frequently
Choose one hotel or resort and stay put for a relaxing stay in the Maldives. Island hopping can be stressful, and transfers are not seamless. Besides Male, speedboats or seaplanes are needed to travel between islands, and you’ll have to hire one, which can be costly.
13. Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen
When travelling to tropical destinations like the Maldives, it’s vital to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. However, it’s best to bring your sunscreen as purchasing it on the island can be expensive.
Additionally, it’s important to choose a reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral and marine life. Chemicals in traditional sunscreens can cause damage to these critical ecosystems, so it’s essential to be mindful of the products you use.
14. Check if They Allow Bikinis — They Aren’t Allow Everywhere
The Maldivian culture is quite conservative and popular among the island locals. Be respectful of their ways by not disregarding any of them. Therefore, try to be modest while out with the locals and only wear bikinis or skin-tight clothing at the resorts. The islands of the locals also have “bikini beaches” set apart specifically for tourists.
15. The Bioluminescent Beach Must Not Be Missed
A visit to Baa Atoll should be on top of your list of things to do when you visit Maldives. It’s an out-of-this-world experience watching plankton emit glowing toxins under the night sky to create a starry seafloor.
Luckily, most resorts have bioluminescent tours, although you’ll have to check if their claim is authentic. When planning or considering a trip to the Maldives, find out when this phenomenon occurs and choose your island or resort to stay accordingly.
16. A Visa Isn’t Necessary While Travelling To Maldives
A pre-arrival visa is optional if you plan to go to Maldives and just roam around. You’ll be given a thirty-day visa on your arrival at the airport. Therefore, do not stress over a visa and how valid it is. However, you should set things right with your passport. Ensure the passport is valid for six months since you’ll need it for a valid return ticket.
17. Save Money By Having Brunch
Any time you plan a trip, whether for one day or a month, you must have a rough estimate of how much it will cost. Even if you’ve budgeted for your trip, it’s even better to find ways to save some extra money while on the trip.
The best way is to plan how to save and follow the plan. This way, you can make the next trip possible, as the saved cash can help finance the trip. So, a hearty breakfast between 10 am and 11 am can eliminate the craving for lunch in the afternoon.
18. Pack Your Fins
We recommend bringing your fins for sea lovers who want to explore marine life independently. The reason is that resorts charge for amenities by the day, which can be costly if you have to use them every day and a variety in one day. Bring your gear and save yourself the hassle of renting a wallet. This travel tip may only appear in some Maldives travel guides.
19. Avoid Carrying Alcohol In The Country
Muslims dominate the Maldives slightly. Therefore, alcohol can only be found in a few places, especially in private resorts. That said, do not carry alcohol on your trip to the country. You’ll either get a heavy fine at the customs, or they’ll simply be taken away.
20. Go For All-inclusive Or Half-board Facilities
You can expect to find both all-inclusive and half-board facilities in the Maldives. The latter can be expensive, especially if your team is big.
According to numerous travel advice for the Maldives, an all-inclusive buffet breakfast and lunch might be a terrific option. At the same time, half-boards will include beverages, breakfast, and lunch. They also provide access to A-la-carte restaurants.
When choosing a deal, some of the crucial things you should ensure are included are drinks, coffee, special meals, activities, and if there is a kids menu, that’s if your company includes children.
Confirming these things will ensure you have a fun trip to the Maldives.
21. Follow The Basic Unwritten Rules Of The Land
The land is full of Muslims, so specific rules are not written but come naturally. For example, planning your trip during the holy month of Ramadan is bad as most hotel staff will be at home with their families. Services during this month are close to none, and most shops remain closed.
Another unwritten rule is that alcohol and pork are not welcome in the country. So, it’s better not to bring them with you.
Regarding dressing, ensure you are well covered, especially the knees, abdomen, shoulders, elbows, and chest. Public displaying affection is forbidden, and gayism is taboo on the land.
Some sigh of relief is that the rules are relaxed when you’re on the resort’s island. You can dress to your liking while on the island. However, the rules become strict when you visit islands for the locals.
22. Choose Your Airplane Rides Wisely
Choosing regional or local flights from Middle East Asia is one of the most crucial pieces of advice for first-time Maldives visitors because they are less expensive.
After landing at Male international airport, I recommend using speedboats to move between islands because they are affordable. There’s also the option of using Maldivian domestic flight transfer.
Heads up, if you plan on depending on flights alone for your travel, they can get delayed. To avoid spending your night at Male Airport, land during the first half of the day. Doing so will allow you to get transferred to your island.
23. Learn The Local Language
It doesn’t matter what country you’re travelling to; learning their language basics is crucial for your experience. The basics include standard greetings, popular phrases, questions, and names for everyday items. In Maldives, the official language is Maldivian.
Make an effort and learn a word or two in Maldivian. Otherwise, how would you convince your friends you travelled to the famed Maldives if you can’t throw in some exotic vocabulary while telling a story about your experience?
However, do not sweat over the mastery of the language since the Maldives is popular among tourists; therefore, easy to find people communicating in English, mainly where you’ll be accommodated, the resorts, and hotels.
There is no actual language barrier. Therefore you won’t find yourself in problems often. But appreciating the culture of the place you visit adds more fun to the vacation.
24. Best Time To Visit Maldives Is In November
You must understand the weather patterns of the place you plan to visit for a fun and memorable trip. Like most tropical regions, the Maldives has weather conditions depending on the time of the year.
The best time you can go for a vacation to a place is when it’s dry, sunny, and warm. For the Maldives, that time is in November and runs through to April. During this time, visitors flock to the Maldives, and you can be sure you won’t be alone. The only downside to this peak season is that prices tend to skyrocket.
In November, the average temperature is usually about 30 C meaning the days are hot and the evenings are balmy. As a visitor, you’re advised to carry light clothes to stay comfortable.
Some good places you can take your family to in Maldives include Mirihi Island, Sun Island, Male Aroll, Fihalhohi Island, and many others. These places have kid clubs that offer a range of activities and amenities to keep your children entertained and engaged throughout your stay
25. Is Tipping A Good Idea
Another important discussion not to overlook is tipping. You might not know, but tipping is not a common or standard practice in the Maldives; therefore, do not feel pressured.
Once in the Maldives, take time to notice how they carry themselves around, and you will see that tipping is almost non-existent in this society, and they are comfortable.
Knowing that tipping is not mandatory, it’s up to you to decide whether to leave a tip or not. If you are provided with a service and feel it was the best and commendable, feel free to praise it and leave a tip.