Maldives Vacations
The Maldives are located in the Indian ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Considered the flattest islands on earth, less than 10% of their whole area is land. Of 1100 islands, only 200 are inhabited. The Maldives cater to people who want a luxury tropical vacations are not a place for cheap travelers. It’s all luxury here but these islands are paradise and have some of the world’s best dive spots, white sand beaches, and friendly locals. They are perfect spot for a luxury vacations, honeymooners, families, and couples looking for a romantic escape. If you looked up the word paradise in the dictionary, the Maldives would be there.
Cost and Budgeting for the Maldives
The Maldives are not a cheap place for a vacation. It’s a luxury holiday destination. Aside from the capital of Mahe, there are no hotels here- just expensive resorts. A typical week stay at a mid-range resort will run about US$2,000 per couple. Some of the cheaper resorts will be around US$75 per person per day in the low season. However, a double room typically will cost at least US$100 per day. Diving costs vary from resort to resort but expect to pay US$350 for ten dives. You should budget another US$40 per day for activities if you want to do more than just relax on a beach. On the resorts, you don’t need any cash as everything is simply charged to your room. Tipping is generally discouraged in the Maldives as resorts simply add a 10% service charge to your bill.
Things to do in The Maldives
Learn to Scuba Dive/Snorkel- The Maldives have some of the world’s finest dive locations. Around all the islands are amazing reefs where you can see a plethora of fish. There are three great places to go: Fish Head, with its steep sides supporting sea fans, fish, and beautiful coral. Banana Reef, another great dive site and a great place to snorkel. Maldive Victory, a cargo ship that sank in 1981 and provides a home for abundant new coral, sponges, and schools of fish.
Pamper Yourself- These all inclusive resorts feature wonderful spas, health centers, tennis courts, and kitchens. Order some top class cuisine, pamper yourself in the spa, get a massage, or some good exercise. You are in paradise- treat yourself!
Beach Activities- There are a number of beach activities to do from parasailing to kayaking to jet skiing. These trips can be arranged by your resort.
Eat with the Locals- Male has some excellent restaurants where you can try the local food. It’s a good change from the resort food and will give you an appreciation for the culture. The food is typically Muslim and uses a lot of spices and fish as the majority of the population here is Muslim
Maldives Weather
The Maldives have two monsoon seasons: one occurs during December to April and the other during June to August. The wet season in the Maldives goes from mid-May to November. The best time to vacation in the Maldives is during the dry season from December to April. The temperature varies from place to place but, generally, the islands are around the mid-30 C during the day.