You might assume that this Instagram worthy destination is totally out of your budget, but if you’re dreaming of spending your honeymoon in the Maldives, there are options for every budget. Follow us as we discuss flights, all inclusive resorts, visas, “hidden” expenses, and the customs of the islands.
Flights
The Male International Airport (MLE) is where you should fly into from the US. Depending on the flight, expect one or two layovers before arriving in the beautiful Maldives. When you’re traveling and where you’re flying out of will dictate the your airfare, but the price may not be as daunting as you think. As long as you have somewhat flexible dates and book far enough out, you should be able to find a reasonably priced flight. From the east cost to MLE, it will take at least nineteen hours, possibly more depending on layovers.
Resorts
There are over 132 resorts in the Maldives, so overwhelming is an understatement when trying to decide which is best for you. There are many price points, locations, and amenities to take into account. We did the research for you and found several resorts that are the best of the best.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
This resort is located about 26 miles from the main airport in the Maldives. Like most other resorts, it requires a sea plane or speed boat to access the island; this specific island is only a 25 minute sea plane ride. This resort is perfect for the adventure seeker and very budget friendly. A regular room starts at less than $200 and a water bungalow can be booked for less than $500 per night. Cinnamon’s Ellaidhoo Maldives resort offers fishing, boating, and diving experiences for guests who want to experience the crystal clear water. There are two bars and two restaurants on property with a variety of food for everyone’s pallet. For the relaxation seeker, the resort offers a spa with many services from massages to facials.
Komandoo Island Resort & Spa
The Komandoo Island Resort is one of the few adult only resorts in the country. Surprisingly, adult only properties are difficult to find at this destination. This resort is around the moderate price point and has options for all inclusive or full board rates. Visit the resort’s webpage for more details to decide which option would work best for you and your partner. A little further away than the previous option, this resort is about a 40 minute sea plane ride from the main airport. Komandoo Resort offers several honeymoon specific experiences such as a candlelight beach dinner, photography, and a romantic jacuzzi experience right in your own villa. The resort offers diving and snorkeling adventures in addition to spa treatments. There are three restaurants as well as private dining options and bars. There really is something for everyone at this resort and spa.
Reethi Beach Resort
Reethi Beach resort is another great budget friendly option. This resort has several options for what is included with your stay. Every room comes with breakfast included and guests are able to upgrade to half board, full board, all inclusive, or premium all inclusive options. Water villas are available for less than $2000 for two people, seven nights. There are several other room options available for a smaller budget. In addition to low prices, Reethi resort is one of the most eco-friendly places to stay in the country. There are eight restaurants and bars on the island plus a private dining option. There are separate sports and wellness centers on property plus water sports and excursions.
Hurawalhi Island Resort
Hurawalhi Island Resort is also a 40 minute sea place ride from the airport. It offers several different room accommodations that fall in the moderate price range. Similar to several other resorts on this list, bed and breakfast, half board, full board, and all inclusive options are available. The all inclusive option not only includes three meals a day and 24 hour snacks, but also select excursions and activities. There’s no way you’ll be able to get bored on this property! There are many spa treatments, water sports, and excursion, such as snorkeling and scuba diving, to explore while on the trip of a lifetime. There are several honeymooners specials at this romantic adults only resort.
Visas
Free visas are available upon arrival for US citizens staying 30 days or less. One less thing to worry about while planning the perfect honeymoon!
Hidden Expenses
I’m sure you have loads of questions about those sea planes I mentioned earlier that take you to each resort. There’s not much here for you to stress about, however. Typically resorts book the sea planes for you and you pay when booking your accommodations. The cost of the sea plane is not included in the resort’s price, and usually runs around $400 per person, but depending on which company you’re traveling with, could be more expensive. You can access some of the resorts by speed boat, it just takes longer than a sea plane.
Another expense is travel insurance. It is not a necessity, but with such a big trip, it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance. Especially with Covid protocols still in place in some capacity, it is nice to have some comfort that your trip won’t be ruined if something were to happen. It makes for a smoother planning process and peace of mind. One less thing to stress about during your wedding planning process.
This isn’t necessarily an “expense,” but if want to have some currency on hand, you’ll need to exchange your USD for the Maldivian Rufiyaa. The current exchange rate is roughly 15 Maldivian Rufiyaas to 1 US dollar. You can exchange your current currency for the Maldivian currency at the airport or through an ATM. If you plan on staying on your resort for the entirety of your vacation, you shouldn’t need any cash, but if you are going to a local island or staying in Male, it might be nice to have some on hand.
Culture
It is very important to respect other county’s cultures and customs when visiting there. The Maldives is a predominantly Muslim country, so there are some general rules that should be followed to respect the customs there. Firstly, alcohol is allowed in the resorts, but don’t expect to be able to buy something duty free and bring it into the country. Second, in local islands, where there are no resorts, non-modest clothing isn’t allowed. Keep your short shorts and bikinis for the resort. Lastly, Fridays are a holy day for the Muslim community, so things might run a bit differently at your resort. One of the biggest things that you’ll notice is lunch could be served later, but that shouldn’t disrupt your day too much. If you’re visiting during Ramadan, you could notice some more differences.
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