How to Save Money in the Maldives

Renowned for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, adventure water sports, and diving experiences, the Maldives is a dream destination for many. However, tropical paradises also have a reputation for being expensive. The good news is that with a little bit of know-how and some extra planning, you can experience the beauty of the Maldives without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can save money in this island paradise.

Travel off-season

The influx of tourists visiting the Maldives peaks between November and April when the archipelago boasts the best tropical weather. However, this is also when prices for resorts, flights, and activities reach sky-high levels. To save money, consider travelling during the off-season, which lasts from May to October. While the weather might be a bit wet, you can still enjoy many of the Maldives' attractions during these months. Also, the rainy season doesn't always mean constant rain—days often have sunny weather, and evenings might feature brief showers. Some days may not have any rain at all.

Take advantage of resort special offers

If you wish to save even more, try booking your stay in the best villas in Maldives at properties such as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives with their exclusive offers. Resort establishments often have deals for extended stays, early bookings, special experiences, and more. By booking your stay with these packages, you can obtain perks such as free airport transfers, discounts, and additional points that you can redeem for resort experiences or dining.

Eat like a local

While dining at your resort is convenient and part of the Maldives experience, try eating at local restaurants and eateries, especially when exploring the inhabited islands. This can significantly cut down food costs while also offering unique culinary experiences. If you decide to try meals at local restaurants, make sure to order regional favourites such as Mas Huni (a traditional Maldivian breakfast made with tuna, coconut, and flatbread), Garudhiya (fish soup), and Bis Keemiya (a fried pastry with a fish filling).

Book activities in advance

While spontaneous excursions can be fun and adventurous, last-minute plans in the Maldives can cost you a fortune. It is best to plan ahead and book your activities well in advance. Popular activities such as diving, island hopping, and boat cruises are mostly run by tour operators and can be booked online. Many tour operators also offer group rates, so if you’re travelling with a group, you can take advantage of group discounts for shared excursions rather than opting for private tours.

Shop carefully

It’s easy to get carried away with shopping while on vacation, especially when luxury goods, handmade crafts, and souvenirs surround you. Unfortunately, such items in the Maldives are often overpriced, particularly at tourist hotspots. To save money, steer clear of expensive items such as jewellery or designer goods, and opt for smaller, more meaningful souvenirs from local artisans. By doing this, you’ll not only save money but also support local businesses. You could also bring along items, such as sunscreen, hats, lotions and other essentials for your tropical retreat to avoid buying them paying a premium price.

Take advantage of free experiences

Many of the Maldives’ natural attractions are completely free to enjoy. You can visit the beaches, snorkel at your leisure around your water villa, and explore inhabited islands at your own pace. You can also visit local attractions such as monuments, markets, and even old mosques or sites of historical significance—most of which are free of charge. To elevate your experience, you can even plan your own leisure activity, such as organising a beach picnic for your loved one with items and food purchased from local vendors.