The Maldives Are a Destination Worth the Splurge
We don't all have millions of dollars in the bank to splurge on dream vacations. But we can save up and treat ourselves to a little luxury once in a while. With all the hard work it takes, you'd want to make sure that your destination is worth it. And the Maldives certainly are.
The island nation has become synonymous with luxury travel in a tropical paradise. Overwater bungalows with pools that lead straight to the ocean have made it onto almost everyone's wish list.
And don't listen to the haters who say there's nothing to do here. First of all, we don't trust anyone who gets bored at the beach. And second of all, the Maldives is home to one of the largest and most diverse atolls in the entire world, so you'll have the chance to see hundreds of tropical fish species, sea turtles, manta rays and even sharks. Don't worry, they're usually harmless.
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Best Luxury Hotels in the Maldives
Many of the islands in the Maldives are owned by hotels, so you rarely spend any time outside of your accommodation. If you can swing it, splurge as much as possible on a high-end hotel, where you'll be pampered like royalty.
The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, where you'll try Michelin-level meals as fish swim around you. And if money is no object to you, book the coveted Munraka room, one of the nine underwater hotel rooms in the world.
Another popular option is the Four Seasons Maldives. This brand has three properties in this country, but the best one might be the Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru. Located over the Baa Atoll, the property offers exciting excursions and tastefully decorated villas that connect you to the surrounding water.
And we can't leave off Kudadoo Maldives, which redefines all-inclusive to actually mean all-inclusive. Yes, you won't have to pay for premium wine, jet skiing, guided excursions or spa services.
Best Mid-Tier Hotels in the Maldives
If spending thousands of dollars per night is out of the cards, you can still enjoy a magnificent trip to the Maldives.
While Kurumba Maldives isn't exactly cheap, it is certainly affordable for middle-class travelers who save up for a once-a-year getaway. Averaging less than $500 per night, the resort provides you with dreamy overwater bungalows at achievable prices.
You'll find a similar experience at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. While prices can inflate during high season, they are feasible for the average traveler. Plus, you can get here on a speedboat rather than having to take a ridiculously expensive seaplane.
And if you're looking to save even more, Pearl Sands of Maldives is usually under $300 per night. Sure, you won't get a bungalow, but you'll still be steps away from the beach, which is what really counts.
Best Budget Hotels in the Maldives
Finding accommodation for less than $100 in the Maldives is entirely possible. It won't be all-inclusive, and you have a private bungalow with a water slide into the ocean, but you'll be enticed to spend much more time outside your room and get to know the local culture.
Stay in Crystal Sands on the island of Maafushi. You'll have the beach at your doorstep and the opportunity to partake in fun water activities like snorkeling.
At Isla Dhiffushi, enjoy a traditional Maldivian breakfast and a private island setting at an affordable price.
And if you only have about $50 to spend per night, book Liberty Guest House Maldives. The charming thing about this accommodation is that you'll get to see how locals actually live.
Book Your Maldives Hotel
Ready to book your trip to Maldives? Consider these accommodation options.
Best luxury hotels in the Maldives:
Best mid-tier hotels in the Maldives:
Best budget hotels in the Maldives:
Getting to the Maldives (And to Your Hotel)
Given its remote location on the Indian Ocean, flying into Male International Airport is the only way to get to the Maldives.
If your accommodation is on another island (as it will likely be), you can take a speedboat or a seaplane to your hotel. Though seaplanes are much more convenient and faster, they can cost around $400 each way.
Book a flight to the Maldives