Maldives Vacations

The Maldives is a country with a rich and diverse culture. The local language, Dhivehi, combines Sinhala, Tamil, and Arabic. The traditional dance, Bodu Beru, is a lively and energetic performance often accompanied by drumming. Dhonis, handcrafted boats, are a common sight in the Maldives and are used for transportation and fishing. Now, the cultural backstory: Maldivians, first from Sri Lanka and India, got a cultural remix from Southeast Asia, Arabia, and Africa. The result? A unique Maldivian culture that's a point of pride. Dravidian vibes still groove in various aspects of daily life, creating a distinct identity that sets Maldivian culture apart.

Maldivians have absorbed elements of all these cultures and created a unique culture. Even today, Dravidian influences can be seen in many aspects of Maldivian life. As a result of this mix, while there are similarities to other cultures, Maldivian culture has emerged as its own unique identity, which all Maldivians are proud of.

Tipping isn't the norm here if you are not familiar with Maldives vacations. Most all-inclusive resorts tack on a service charge, so no need to tip extra. But, if a dive instructor, waiter, or any staff member wows you with stellar service, a small tip is a classy way to say thanks. While tipping isn't expected, it's a gesture that warms Maldivian hearts.

One of the best times to visit the Maldives is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry. The average temperature is 29°C to 31°C, with little rain and low humidity. January to April are the driest months, making this the peak season for resorts.

Now, the essentials to pack:

Swimwear: Bring at least two pairs, maybe three if you're staying or snapping pics for more than 3-4 days. Because let's be real, you'll be taking a lot of photos.

Sarong and Cover-Up: Pack a sarong or two—versatile for cover-ups, beach blankets, warmth, you name it. The Maldives is the perfect runway for pretty cover-ups.

Sunblock with SPF 30+: Shield yourself from that equatorial sun! Whether at the beach, on a boat, or in a water villa, SPF 30+ is your skin's best friend. 

Choose regional flights

Opt for regional or domestic flights from Middle East Asia—they're budget-friendly. Choose a flight to Male and then hop on a speedboat for island-hopping. Want a splurge? Go for a round-trip seaplane ride for an unforgettable but pricier experience. Maldivian domestic flights are also in the mix for transfers.

Best deals are in off-season months

Now, about costs—timing is everything. The Maldives offers tropical goodness almost year-round, with May to October being a bit rainy. Snag the best deals during these off-season months.

Respect the rules

Ramadan planning is a no-no. Hotel staff might be out with family, and daytime food and services might be scarce. Also, don't expect pork and alcohol during prayer times.

Some extra costs

Brace yourself. Some water sports might be extra, even at all-inclusive resorts. Non-motorized options like paddle boating and kayaking are usually part of the deal. But activities like snorkelling, dolphin spotting, and star-gazing might tag on for stays of three or four nights.

Check and compare prices

Before finalizing the water activities, check how far coral reefs are from your resort. Some you can swim to, others might need a ferry. Resorts and private organizers offer sea-kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, and more. Compare prices, especially for must-see spots like Manta-rays in North Male Atoll or Whale Sharks in South Ari Atoll.

Don't take the sea shells

Bringing back shells as souvenirs might seem harmless, but it's a no-go in the Maldives. The government takes coral reefs seriously—they're like the ocean's lungs. So, collecting sea, coral, and tortoise shells is a no-no. These items are crucial for hermit crabs, who keep the sandfly population in check. Long story short, leave the shells where they belong for the sake of the aquatic ecosystems!

Maldivian Fusion

The cuisine is a delightful fusion of neighbouring Sri Lanka and Indian flavours. Since the Maldives is mostly sea, fish takes the spotlight. In various forms like milk, oil, or grated toppings, coconut is a key player in Maldivian dishes. Enter Dhivehi Cuisine for a flavour-packed journey.

Breakfast Bliss - Mas Huni

Rise and shine with the go-to breakfast, mas huni! This popular salad boasts shredded smoked tuna, fresh coconut, chilli, and a burst of seasoning. Served with chapati bread, it's a flavour fiesta to fuel your day.

Aromatic Evening - Garudhiya

As the day winds down, enter Garudhiya—a tantalizing fish soup with fresh tuna, chilli, onions, and lime, served alongside fluffy rice. Seafood enthusiasts and spice lovers, this one's for you. A local favourite, it's a must-try during your stay.

Signature Curry

Curry steals the show, adorned with herbs and spices. With a variety to suit every palate, carnivores can dive into seafood or chicken variations, while vegetarians have choices like eggplant, tora, or pumpkin.

Alcoholic Adventure

Alcohol is a bit of a special case. It's a no-go except in tourist resorts. Enter the local brew, raa—a sweet toddy from the coconut palm. While Maldivians steer clear of alcoholic drinks, resorts welcome foreigners to indulge. Just a heads-up, these imported delights can be a tad pricey, so drink responsibly.