Maldives Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go
When people ask Maldives, a sovereign island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for luxury resorts, crystal-clear waters, and overwater bungalows. Also known as the Maldives Islands, it’s often confused with Indian beach spots like Goa or Lakshadweep—but it’s a separate country, not part of India. If you’re looking at Maldives travel tips, you’re probably comparing it to India’s coastal getaways. That’s smart. Both offer white sand and turquoise water, but the experience? Totally different.
The Maldives is made up of 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. You don’t just visit a town—you book a private island resort. Unlike India, where you can hop on a bus to a temple or street food stall, the Maldives is all about seclusion. Most visitors stay on one island for the whole trip. There’s no public transport, no markets, no tuk-tuks. You’ll need a speedboat or seaplane to get from the airport to your resort. That’s why budget travel doesn’t really apply here. A week in the Maldives costs more than a month in Rajasthan. But if you want silence, privacy, and snorkeling right off your balcony, it’s unmatched.
People often ask if the Maldives is safe for families or solo travelers. Yes—crime is extremely low, water quality is excellent, and resorts are well-managed. But don’t expect to find cheap eats or local markets. Even bottled water is expensive on the island. Bring sunscreen, reef-safe lotion, and a good book. You won’t need much else. If you’re used to India’s chaotic energy, the Maldives will feel like a slow exhale. No honking, no crowds, no bargaining. Just ocean, sky, and your own thoughts.
Some travelers mix up the Maldives with Lakshadweep or Andaman, which are Indian islands with similar beauty but much lower prices. Lakshadweep lets you stay in local guesthouses, eat fresh fish from the market, and interact with islanders. The Maldives doesn’t. It’s designed for escape, not immersion. If you want culture, history, or spice-filled streets, head to Goa or Kerala instead. The Maldives is for when you just want to float, sunbathe, and forget your inbox exists.
Here’s what most first-timers don’t realize: you need to plan your visa before you land. Most nationalities get a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival, but your passport must be valid for six months beyond your stay. And don’t forget to pack a light jacket—air conditioning in resorts runs cold, and the breeze off the water gets chilly after sunset. Also, avoid visiting during monsoon season (May to November). The best time? December to April, when the sky is clear and the water is calm.
Below, you’ll find real stories and practical advice from travelers who’ve been there. Whether you’re wondering if the Maldives is worth the cost, how to avoid tourist traps, or what to pack beyond swimwear—this collection has the answers. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you book that flight.
