The coral reef atolls of Australia are an enchanting paradise of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical climates. The first thing I would like to point out, as you probably already know, is that the Maldives is not a budget destination. That doesn't mean you can't afford to travel to the Maldives, but living the kind of life you've seen on Instagram and in various advertisements can be expensive.
If resorts are expensive, you can also stay at a local guest house. In 2009, the Maldivian government began allowing locals to run guesthouses on their local islands. This attracted tourists and reassured those on a tight budget. Some of these guesthouses can accommodate budgets under $60-70 per day. Backpackers can stay in hostels in Male.
Getting To The Maldives
Make sure you know how to get there before you go to the Maldives. Velana International Airport, which is situated on Hulhulé Island next to the capital island of Male, is the only way to travel to The Maldives. Numerous direct flights from Asia and Europe to the Maldives are now possible thanks to the airport.
If you're wondering how to travel from the USA to the Maldives, you'll need to fiddle around with flights. Given the lack of direct flights from North America (yet), flexibility is essential. Istanbul, Colombo, and Hamad International Airport in Qatar are a few fantastic layover locations.
Purchase A Sim Card At The Airport
Free WiFi is available in almost all hotels, but it is recommended to pick up a sim card when you land if you want to stay connected while visiting the Maldives. You have a strong signal everywhere because most of the hotels and nearby islands have cell towers.
After leaving the luggage carousel, turn right to find Dhiraagu and Ooredoo, the Maldives' two mobile service providers. In five minutes, they can get you set up with a sim card.
Don’t Bring Any Alcohol Into The Country
The Maldives is a predominantly Muslim country and the only places where alcohol can be consumed are at private resorts. Do not bring in bottles of wine or champagne or purchase them at customs prior to arrival. Attempting to bring alcohol into the Maldives risks it being confiscated by customs and fined. What's the best way to solve this problem? An all-inclusive package or happy hour at your resort!
The Preferred Currency is USD
The local currency in the Maldives is called the Rufiyaa, but unless you are on one of the local islands, you will find that USD is accepted almost everywhere. Any resort will accept credit cards for payment, but it never hurts to carry some cash around for tidbits like tips.
I would strongly advise withdrawing as much cash as you think you will need before leaving Male if you plan to stay on local islands and in guesthouses. In The Maldives, ATMs can be hard to come by, and Male is the only place you can count on to find one.
The Maldives Are Open To Everyone
This is one of the essential Maldives travel tips that everyone should know. Everyone, regardless of nationality, receives his 30-day visa for free upon arrival in the Maldives. But don't stay without a valid extension - it's a hefty fine! But if you stay longer than 30 days, be sure to contact the resort. Often there is a service to apply for a visa extension.
Language In The Maldives
Dhivehi is the official language spoken throughout the Maldives. You will find that English is widely spoken in the Maldives, especially in resorts.
Bring Sunscreen!
In the Maldives, $45 per bottle was the lowest price I ever saw for sunscreen. Even a travel-sized Sunbum set was on sale for $60 in one of our rooms! I am not kidding! Sunscreen should be packed in your luggage. I can assure you that the Maldives will cost you dearly for it. If you do, there is a small store at the airport that sells it for a premium price (though not as high as the resorts) if you forget it.
Try Some Local Food!
One of the most well-known Maldivian dishes is mas huni, a breakfast dish made from flaked tuna, grated coconut, onions, and chili peppers. Mas huni is typically eaten with roshi, a type of flatbread similar to Indian naan, and a cup of black tea. Another popular breakfast item is bajiya, a savory pastry filled with spiced fish or vegetables.
Another signature dish of the Maldives is garudhiya, a clear fish soup made with tuna, onion, curry leaves, and chili. The broth is typically served with rice and a variety of side dishes, including lime wedges, chili paste, and deep-fried fish.
Bikinis Are Not Allowed in Public places
Since you are in a Muslim nation, keep your clothing modest while there. Only on resort islands should one wear bikinis and skin-tight clothing; on local islands, one should dress conservatively. There are some "bikini beaches" that are intended for tourists if you're staying on one of the nearby islands.
