How to Plan the Perfect Maldives Vacation: Step-by-Step Guide

The Maldives is a dream destination, especially popular among honeymooners looking for that perfect secluded spot and adventurers eager to dive into the sea for some scuba diving and snorkelling. If relaxation is more your thing, the island spas are heavenly. And of course, a day exploring the Maldivian capital, Malé, is a must-do. The hotels here are out of this world – think underwater hotels, overwater bungalows, and stunning resorts.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go is between November and April. This tropical paradise is sunny all year round, but these months are the dry season, so you'll enjoy great weather with little rain and warm temps. But it's also the busiest and priciest time of year to visit. The best thing about the Maldives is that each resort is on its own island, so even during peak season, it doesn't feel overcrowded like other popular destinations.

If you're considering visiting from May to October, that's the rainy season. The islands get quite a bit of rain then, and it can be pretty windy. The upside is that you'll probably find better deals during these months. Surfers love this time of year because the waves are bigger, and the surfing gets pretty epic.

Accommodation

In terms of accommodation, the Maldives offers plenty of options – the country’s resort culture is one of the key drawcards for tourists. Guesthouses are the go-to option for those on a budget, but for the full experience, consider a place like Nh Collection Maldives. It’s true that guesthouses are more inexpensive than villas in Maldives, but they don’t offer seclusion and privacy.

For good accommodation deals, visit during the off-season. Couples and family packages are always a good bargain, so keep an eye out for them.

Culture

The Maldives has a deep-rooted Islamic heritage dating back to the 12th century, and you'll see this reflected in its culture. In Malé, the capital, mosques are a common sight, and you'll notice many locals in conservative dress. If you're planning to visit a mosque, remember to dress modestly, but keep in mind that some mosques might not be open to non-Muslim visitors. Also, it's quite common to see people praying in public at certain times of the day. When this happens, it's respectful to keep your voice down and avoid walking in front of them.

At the resorts, these cultural and religious traditions are less visible, but during Ramadan, you might see some Islamic customs in play, like local restaurants closing during the day for fasting.

Now, there are a few important legal and cultural norms to remember: public displays of affection, including hand-holding and kissing, are illegal. Alcohol is also illegal, but you can find and consume it on the resort islands.

Food

When it comes to food in the Maldives, the cuisine is all about making the most of what's locally available. This means you're going to see a lot of seafood, coconut, and various starches in the dishes there. Tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi are some of the fish that often pop up on menus.

You'll also come across some other popular Maldivian dishes that are definitely worth trying. Think samosas, which are tasty pastries filled with savoury goodies like spiced potatoes and vegetables. Then there are the curries – full of flavour and often with a nice kick to them. And don’t forget about spicy fried fish, a simple yet mouthwatering treat.

Visa Requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. You'll also need to show proof that you have enough funds for your stay and an onward travel plan. When you arrive, you'll automatically get a 30-day visa, but you can extend it to 90 days if you need to.

It's also a good idea to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid before your trip. These are just precautions to help ensure your health and safety while you're enjoying the islands.