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Maldives

What can you expect from the Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical paradise of over 1,000 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, renowned for its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant marine life.

When you come here, you get the ultimate relaxation experience, whether lounging on white-sand beaches, snorkeling with manta rays and turtles, or soaking up the slow rhythm of island life. While it’s often seen as a luxury honeymoon destination, the Maldives is also opening up to more budget-conscious travelers, especially on local islands.

Expect a laid-back, barefoot vibe where the days blend together under sunny skies and stunning sunsets. Life here is ruled by the tides, the sun, and a warm hospitality that welcomes you into island time.

Things to See and Do in the Maldives

Snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay
Relax on the pristine beaches of Fulidhoo
Surf world-class waves in Thulusdhoo or Himmafushi
Dive at the Banana Reef, one of the first diving sites
Island hop between local islands like Maafushi and Gulhi
Take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni boat
Visit the Maldives’ capital, Malé, and explore its local market
Indulge in a spa treatment overlooking the ocean
Try water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding

Typical Costs When Traveling

Accommodation: Guesthouses on local islands start at $35–$75 per night. Resorts can range from $270–$1600+, depending on the level of luxury.

Food: Meals at local cafés (“hotaa”) are very affordable at $3–$8. Mid-range restaurants in resorts or tourist areas can cost $17–$35 per meal.

Transportation: Public ferries are budget-friendly, costing just a few dollars between islands. Speedboats, on the other hand, cost more ($28–$65 one-way), while seaplanes to resorts can range from $220–$550 per trip.

Suggested Daily Budget

$50–$90 USD

(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel or budget guesthouse, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Following the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)

Money-Saving Tips

1
Stay on local islands Resorts are beautiful but pricey. Local islands, like Thulusdhoo, offer authentic experiences for a fraction of the cost.
2
Use public ferries They're slower than speedboats, but cost dramatically less and offer a scenic ride between islands.
3
Eat like a local Skip the resort restaurants and enjoy hearty Maldivian meals at family-run cafés and eateries.
4
Travel off-season Visit during the shoulder months (May to November) to get cheaper rates on flights and accommodation.

Travel Tools for the Maldives

For accommodation, Booking.com offers great options for local guesthouses and luxury resorts.

Stay connected with an eSIM from Holafly (-5%), which lets you access the internet hassle-free without needing a physical SIM card.

Don’t forget to get travel insurance with Heymondo (-5%), especially if you plan to dive, surf, or island-hop.

These are the platforms I trust and use on my travels, and some include exclusive discounts for my readers!

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05/25/2025

Marlene is the creator of Marlene On The Move. A journalist by profession, she created the blog to share her adventures around the world. It is not unusual for her to set off to discover new countries and cultures with a surfboard as luggage.

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