The Complete Guide to Traveling to the Maldives
The Complete Guide to Traveling to the Maldives
The Maldives are a dream location, known for their beautiful waters, overwater bungalows and white sandy beaches. This guide will break down all you need to know about visiting the Maldives, whether you’re on a luxury vacation or you’re on a budget.
1.General Information About Maldives Location
The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean (south west from Sri Lanka and India).Capital: MaléCurrency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but USD is widely accepted language: Dhivehi, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.Time Zone: GMT + 5Best Time to Visit: NovembeThe Complete Guide to Traveling to the MaldivesThe Maldives are a dream location, known for their beautiful waters, overwater bungalows and white sandy beaches. This guide will break down all you need to know about visiting the Maldives, whether you’re on a luxury vacation or you’re on a budget.1. General Information About the MaldivesLocation: The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean (south west from Sri Lanka and India).Capital: MaléCurrency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but USD is widely accepted language: Dhivehi, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.Time Zone: GMT + 5Best Time to Visit: November – April (the dry season, best weather).
2. How to Get to the Maldives By Air
The primary airport is Velana International Airport (MLE in Malé). There are direct flights from Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, London, Singapore, and other major cities. Visa Requirements: Most nationalities enter without a visa (you get a 30-day visa on arrival). You must have a return flight and proof of accommodation.r – April (the dry season, best weather).
3. Accommodation in the Maldives Luxury
Resorts (Overwater Bungalows) If you’re interested in a lujo uri, these are the most popular resorts: Soneva Jani – Best at luxury and privacy; Gili Lankanfushi – Amazing overwater villas; Anantara Dhigu – Ideal for families and couples. Mid-Range and Budget Options Local Island Guesthouses: Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Dhigurah (cheaper than the resorts); Budget Hotels: Hotels to stay at affordable prices in Malé and Hulhumale.
4. Getting Around the Maldives Seaplane
The quickest but most expensive way to get from island to island; Speedboat – Commonly used to transfer to resorts and in day trips to nearby islands; Public ferry – A more affordable way to travel but not a lot of a route.
5. Best Things To Do in the Maldives
Enjoy the beaches Virtually every island has gorgeous, white sand beaches and blue-turquoise clear water; Snorkeling and Scuba Diving; exploring fantastic coral islands, manta rays, and whale sharks; best diving and snorkeling spots; Baa Atoll, Ari Atoll, and Maaya Thila; Water Sports- Jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing, and stand-up paddle boarding; Visit the islands; Plan to visit the local islands and experience the Maldivian culture. Maafushi and Thulusdhoo would be great on a budget. Dinner and Bars Under the Sea Ithaa Undersea restaurant – eat inside an aquarium. Sky bar at Anantara Kihavah – best when stargazing while sipping cocktails. Watching Dolphins and Sunset Cruises; most resorts offer an evening dolphin cruise with a sunset watch.
6. Food & Local Cuisine
Maldivian breakfast is mas huni (a removal of tuna, coconut, onion and chili) with roshi (flat bread). Seafood is
fresh grilled fish, lobster and prawns. Street food is small snacks (hedhikaa) as in samosa style or fishcakes.
7. Budget tips for traveling
Stay on local islands rather than resorts (Maafushi, Dhigurah, Thulusdhoo). Use public ferries not speedboats (the maldivian transport service also reserves the inter-island public ferry & referral to accommodation booked at an island on the tour ferry). Eat at local (cheap) restaurant, not the resort. Book flights & accommodation as far in advance as possible.
8. Travel safety and tips
Weather climate is tropical; light clothing and sun protective wear. Health is no vaccines expected; but best to get travel insurance. Respect customs: dress modestly when in Malé and local islands (no bikini).
Final thoughts
The Maldives is a great place for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and beach bums. Whatever type of traveler you are, you will find plenty to interest you whether you are staying at a luxury resort or staying on a local island. Just make sure plan for your trip accordingly, and get prepared for one of the most beautiful places in the world! Would you like recommendations for a
ctivities or budget accommodation?
