The Maldives is a truly spectacular destination: while it’s not exactly an ideal vacation spot for those on a budget, a variety of different star resorts offer most travelers the opportunity to sample their delights.
Here are some things to consider when deciding on a Maldives resort:
o Determine what your budget is – this will immediately narrow down your list of possible resorts.
o Decide what is likely to interest you. For example, the Maldives is a great place to dive. If you are going to be spending a lot of time diving, you should be aware that different resorts have different standards for their diving facilities. Some resorts are also naturally better for divers than others. You’ll want to choose a package that’s best for diving (it’s possible to get dive packages so you don’t have to spend a fortune on additional diving expenses on a daily basis). Additionally, some resorts offer a host of activities and entertainment; others are very laid back and offer fewer activities (perfect if you just want to lounge on the sand looking out over the crystal clear waters).
o Decide what type of package would be best for you – most resorts are quite expensive when it comes to food and drink, so while a bed and breakfast package (room and breakfast only) may seem cheaper when first, after paying for all food and drink. drinking it, in fact, can be more expensive than an all-inclusive package.
o Full board can be a good option in many cases, as all meals are provided, although drinks must be paid for by the guest (a good option for those who don’t drink too much alcohol). If, on the other hand, you enjoy a drink or five, then the all-inclusive option may be the optimal package for you, as drinks can be sinfully expensive at most resorts.
o Some resorts may cater to specific nationalities, for example a predominantly Italian, German or Japanese clientele. This can be a problem if you like to socialize but can’t speak the dominant language.
o Most resorts offer a wide range of accommodation types; decide which one is best for you. For example, a standard beach villa would normally be a few meters from the sea, while a water villa would be located on the same waters. Water villas can be beautiful and offer the opportunity to watch marine life swim while looking out the window, but they are considerably more expensive.
o Travelers with children should try to choose a resort with a kids’ club if possible; There is a big difference between resorts when it comes to providing facilities that keep children entertained.
o If you want to spend a day exploring the capital Male as an excursion, you may not want to choose a resort that is not too far away; Some resorts don’t offer this as a day trip, so you may want to check this out before you book.
o You can also consider when you want to go during the year: the optimal time regarding the weather is between December and April, when there is more sun and less rain. In these months, it is not surprising to learn that prices tend to be much higher.
o Some resorts (even expensive ones at times) may not offer a personal TV in the rooms; this is usually intentional to promote the “no news, no shoes” feel of the island. Few people come to the Maldives to watch TV, but if this is an amenity you simply can’t live without, check with your travel agent before booking to see if your chosen resort offers one.
o If the look, feel, and architecture of your accommodations are important to you, you’ll want to do your research and find the best resort for you; some may be more modern, almost like a standard hotel room, while others are traditionally built with thatched roofs and even a partially open-air bathroom.
o Romantics and honeymooners may find some of the smaller islands to be cozier, more intimate, and quieter, while the larger ones may have more of a party atmosphere and be busier.