Saturday - February 08,2025
Travel

DIY Guide to Exploring the Maldives on a Budget

Located towards the Southwest of Sri Lanka in the middle of the Indian Ocean, Maldives is a group of nearly 1,200 coral islands and 26 atolls, of which barely 200 are inhabited. The country is famous for its tropical beaches, private islands and secluded resorts offering the highest level of privacy. Maldives is often called the honeymooner’s paradise and is a favorite vacation destination for celebrities.

The country boasts of over 400 luxury resorts, 5-star hotels and beachside villas, but is primarily known for its overwater bungalows. A culmination of these factors makes a Maldives vacation extremely expensive. However, with the government finally focusing on tourism, the prices of holiday deals Maldives have reduced considerably. If you wish to visit the country on your next vacation, here is a comprehensive guide to exploring the Maldives.

  1. How to Look for Cheap Airfare?

If you are flying in from any country in Europe or America, flight fares will be extremely expensive. For best prices look for connecting flights via Asian countries. Flights from Sri Lanka, Bangkok and Singapore are usually cheaper than the rest. Compare the prices before finalizing your route.

  1. How to Travel Within the Country?

Most of the northern islands are connected with Male by a series of ferries that run on subsequent days. The service is quite cheap, with tickets being priced between 30 -75 MVR depending on the distance. It is important to research the ferries before traveling, as island hopping is otherwise expensive. Most resorts have their own transport. Make sure the charges are waived at the time of booking.

  1. How to Find Cheaper Accommodation?

Staying with the locals is by far the cheapest way to explore the country. Resorts are expensive, and charge upwards of $1000 per night. However, the experience of waking up on a secluded beach villa amidst Mother Nature without missing out on the luxuries of life is worth cherishing. We recommend booking a water villa for at least two nights to get a taste of the Maldivian opulence.

  1. Carry USD and Save on the Exchange Rate:

USD is widely accepted throughout Maldives, even on the local islands. Tourists often get a better price paying USD. Save for a few local shops that deal in MVR, it is better to carry sufficient USD, and save of the exchange rate and taxes.