What's Best For You

The Maldives is a tropical paradise that lures sun worshipers to enjoy its soft white sand beaches and the pristine beauty of its coral islands. The nation is also a hub for the latest watersports activities and boasts some of the world's best scuba diving sites. One of the biggest allures, though, in the Maldives is its many private island resorts. These luxurious abodes offer the ultimate tropical getaway. But if you are worried about budget and want to explore other options, there are local guesthouses too. However, before you decide, check out this article on what's best for you—private island resorts or local guesthouses?

The Difference Between Private Islands and Local Islands

When you explore accommodation options in Maldives, you will come across Maldives beach villas located at private island resorts. These comprise of gorgeous over-water villas, and beach villas like those at Saii Lagoon, Maldives, Curio Collection By Hilton. These hotels are called private island resorts because they are located on a private island, which means the resort occupies the entire island. Hence, you are privy to the white sand beaches and other perks of being a guest on a private tropical island. Local islands, on the other hand, are those occupied by the general public. They are a mix of local neighbourhoods, public beaches, and local resthouses offering cheaper accommodation options. The only hitch is that you do not get to savour those private island vibes for which the Maldives is famous.

Private Resort Beaches Vs Public Beaches

As an Islamic nation, the Maldives is a conservative nation where you are expected to dress modestly when exploring public islands. This means that bikinis can only be worn at beaches deemed 'bikini beaches.' And not all public beaches are 'bikini beaches.' Contrary to all this, private island resorts in Maldives are oases on their own; there you can dress as you please and wear your choice of swimwear in any area of the island. This same rule applies to alcohol as well, since it's a controlled substance in the archipelago. While you can enjoy drinks on your private island resort, you cannot drink alcohol while out and about on public islands or go out in public intoxicated. 

Meal Plans and Dining

Meal plans are generally how you decide on what type of meal package to enjoy at your Maldives resort. The options include bed and breakfast, half-board, which is two meals a day, or full board, which includes all three meals. Your daily cost will be calculated depending on which meal plan you select at the point of booking your private island resort. There are, of course, variations to meal plans at island hotels with some of the best resorts in the Maldives offering guests the option to dine by design; this means you can choose tailor-made meal plans like romantic beach dinners, picnics on sandbars, and others. Dining at local resthouses will also give you a chance to savour local cuisine but differently; instead of meal plans and elaborate buffets, you can enjoy your meals in the hotel's dining area, which is not as fancy as dining by design.

Private Island Resort Offers

If you are already hankering for a holiday at a private island resort in the Maldives, then this is the loophole that helps you plan that exotic holiday, even on a tight budget. Resorts in the Maldives offer guests several advantages in terms of offers that reward guests with discounts for long stays, advance purchases, and even for joining their loyalty program. Make sure to check your options and choose a lucrative deal that helps you enjoy the perks of a luxurious island getaway in the Maldives without breaking the bank.