Maldives travel guide

Maldives travel guide

Imagine a place where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet white sandy beaches, where the warm sun kisses your skin, and the only sound you can hear is the gentle swaying of palm trees. Welcome to the Maldives, a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean!

Visas are not required for visits up to 30 days, and the immigration process is quick and easy. Just fill out the immigration form, and you’re ready to start your adventure in paradise.

As you step off the plane at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, you’ll immediately feel the warmth and hospitality of the Maldivian people. With its capital city, Male, just a short ferry ride away, you’ll quickly realize that everything in the Maldives is connected by water.

While in Male, take in the bustling city and explore the local markets filled with handmade crafts and delicious street food. As the sun sets, please go to the harbor and watch the fishing boats come in with their daily catch.

To truly experience the beauty of the Maldives, venture out to the many islands and resorts scattered across the archipelago. It is easy with various transportation options, including speedboats, seaplanes, and ferries.

For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience, opt for a private seaplane transfer directly to your resort. As you soar above the glistening waters, you’ll see why the Maldives is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

But don’t let the luxury resorts fool you; the Maldives has plenty of affordable options for independent travelers. Take a local ferry to one of the many inhabited islands, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and meet the friendly locals.

Transportation in Maldives

The Maldives is a destination known for its breathtaking beauty, from the turquoise waters to the white sand beaches. But getting around this scattered archipelago can be just as mesmerizing, with various transportation options.

One of the most popular options is the speedboat, offered by many resorts and guesthouses in the South and North Male Atoll. Whether arriving at the airport or hopping between islands, speedboats provide a quick and convenient way to get around. Plus, they can be scheduled at any time of day or night so that you can arrive at your destination on your schedule.

If you want a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a seaplane. These chartered transfers operate daily until 4 pm and offer stunning aerial views of the Maldives’ iconic blue lagoons and coral reefs. However, it’s important to note that seaplanes cannot fly after dark, so if you arrive in the evening, you’ll need to spend a night in Male before taking a seaplane the next day. The cost for seaplane transfers can range from US$200 to US$500 depending on the distance, but the views are well worth it.

Local ferries are available for travel between the islands as a more affordable option. The ferry from the airport to Male operates 24 hours a day, costing just 1$ USD every 15 minutes. It’s an excellent option for budget travelers or those exploring beyond the resort islands. You’ll find other ferries that operate between Male and local islands, with prices starting as low as 1$ USD depending on the distance.

One thing to remember when traveling by ferry is that the schedules can be subject to change and delays, so be sure to plan accordingly. But if you’re looking for an authentic and affordable way to experience the Maldives, traveling by ferry is a must.

No matter which transportation option you choose, getting around the Maldives is an adventure. So sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking beauty of this paradise on earth.

Food and drink in Maldives

When it comes to food and drink in the Maldives, there is something for everyone. The Maldives is a paradise for seafood lovers, with fresh seafood caught daily and prepared by top chefs. But that’s not all; the islands have a wide range of international cuisine, from Indian, Italian, and Chinese to Thai, Japanese, and more.

If you’re staying on a resort island, you’re in luck, as all your meals and drinks are included in the package. You can indulge in various daily dishes, from lavish breakfast buffets to elegant candlelit dinners. Many resorts offer private dining experiences, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach, sandbank, or uninhabited island.

If you’re in the capital city of Male, you’ll find a mix of local markets and restaurants that offer authentic Maldivian cuisine. Meals here typically cost between 75-400 MVR. On the non-resort islands, expect to pay 100-230 MVR, depending on the type of meal.

Regarding dining settings, many restaurants in Male offer outdoor seating areas where you can soak up the tropical breeze and enjoy the view. The ambiance is laid back and casual, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind after exploring.

In addition to food, the Maldives has a unique drinking culture. Most resorts have bars and lounges where you can enjoy a wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines. However, it’s important to note that alcohol is not allowed on non-resort islands due to religious reasons. So, if you want to enjoy an alcoholic drink, stick to the resorts.

Overall, the Maldives is a food lover’s paradise, offering many options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you want to indulge in a romantic dinner on the beach or explore the local cuisine, you will have an unforgettable culinary experience in the Maldives.

Accommodation in Maldives

If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives, one of the most important decisions is where to stay. Fortunately, this island paradise has plenty of amazing accommodation options. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, the Maldives has something to suit every taste and budget.

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury, you can go right with one of the many high-end resorts in the Maldives. These resorts offer private villas with personal pools, gourmet restaurants, and world-class spas. While they can be expensive, they are worth the splurge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re on a tighter budget, don’t worry – you still have plenty of options. Many guesthouses are located on local islands and offer a more affordable way to experience the Maldives. These guesthouses may not have all the amenities of a resort, but they offer a chance to experience local life and culture in a way that’s not possible when staying at a resort.

No matter where you stay, remember that high-season room rates are from December to March. The cheapest time to visit the Maldives is from April to July and September to November. When calculating your expenses, remember that all resorts add a 10% to 12% service charge as a tip for the staff and a 12% general sales tax (GST). This should be factored into your budget to avoid surprises when it’s time to check out.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly guesthouse, the Maldives offers something.

Activities and day trips in Maldives 

The Maldives is not only a place to relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. There are plenty of activities and day trips to keep you busy during your vacation. Here are some of the most popular activities you can do in the Maldives:

Day Trip to Male

If you want to experience Maldivian culture, book a day trip to Male, the capital city. You can explore local markets, visit historic sites, and learn about the country’s traditions and customs.

Trip to an Inhabited Island

Visiting an inhabited island is a great way to see how locals live. You can observe traditional housing, craftwork, and the local lifestyle.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in the Maldives, and sunset, sunrise, and night fishing trips can be arranged in every resort. Boats for fishing are fully equipped, and you can catch tuna, jackfish, and barracuda. Prices are around 700 MVR.

Surfing

Surfing has become increasingly popular in the Maldives in recent years. The best time for surfing is during the southwest monsoon period from May to November, March, and April because of the best weather. The Atoll of Male is famous, but there are many other places for great surfing.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling trips are a great way to explore the Maldives’ underwater world. You can spot much fish near your chosen resort and don’t have to pay anything in most cases. However, be aware of strong currents.

Swimming with baby sharks and manta rays

If you want a unique and unforgettable experience in the Maldives, consider swimming with baby sharks and manta rays. The Maldives is known for its diverse marine life; swimming with these fascinating creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Baby sharks, or reef sharks, are common in the Maldives’ shallow waters. While these sharks may look intimidating, they are generally harmless to humans. They are also an important part of the Maldives’ ecosystem, keeping the coral reefs healthy by eating fish that could otherwise overpopulate the area. Many resorts offer guided snorkeling tours to see these baby sharks up close, an experience you will remember.

Another marine animal you can swim in the Maldives is the manta ray. These majestic creatures are a sight to behold, with their enormous wingspan and graceful movements through the water. Manta rays are filter feeders, and the Maldives is one of the best places in the world to see them. Some resorts offer guided tours to nearby manta ray hotspots, where you can swim alongside these gentle giants and witness their beauty up close.

When swimming with these animals, respecting their natural habitat and not disturbing them is important. Never touch or feed the animals, and always follow the guidance of your guide or tour operator.

Diving

The Maldives is a world-class scuba-diving destination with an impressive variety of fish life. Every resort has a professional diving operation and runs courses for beginners. Dive schools are of exceptionally high safety standards. A single dive, with only tank and weights supplied, costs around US$50.

Other Water Sports

Windsurfing, water skiing, kiteboarding, sailing, parasailing, and banana boat rides are also popular water activities in the Maldives.

Spa Treatments

If you want to relax and rejuvenate your body, the Maldives has many world-class spas that offer various treatments, including massage, beauty treatments, Ayurvedic medicine, and acupuncture.

Maldives is a place for relaxing on the beach and where you can experience unique activities and day trips. From fishing to surfing, snorkeling to diving, spa treatments to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in the Maldives. 

Important info 

If you are planning a trip to the Maldives, there are some essential things you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Firstly, safety is not an issue in the Maldives, and it is considered one of the safest countries in the world. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and crime rates are very low. However, like any other place, it is important to exercise caution, especially when crossing the road. Mopeds are a popular mode of transportation, and they can be found everywhere.

The Maldivian currency is the rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted, and you may find that paying in USD will get you a better price. All activities, day trips, and meals can be paid in USD.

If you plan to stay on a local island, it is essential to adapt to the local standards of dress and behavior. Women should dress modestly, and topless bathing and nudity are strictly forbidden.

It is also important to note that certain items are prohibited from being brought into the country, including alcohol, pork, pornography, and any religious symbols other than Muslim. If you get these items, they will be confiscated and held until the end of your stay.

Regarding vaccinations, the only officially required vaccination for the Maldives is for yellow fever if you are coming from an area where it is endemic. It is always a good idea to check with your doctor before traveling.

Electricity in the Maldives is supplied at 220-240V, 50Hz AC, and the standard socket is the UK-style three-pin. However, most resorts provide adaptors for non-UK travelers.

The Maldives has a tropical climate, with temperatures hovering around 30°C throughout the year. Rainfall tends to increase in April, so it’s best to keep that in mind when planning your trip.

No matter where you choose to stay or how you choose to explore the Maldives, one thing is sure: you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and the warm hospitality of the Maldivian people. So pack your bags and get ready to experience paradise on Earth.

That will be all for now. To read more about Maldives, click HERE.

XOXO