07 travel tips to know before you visit Maldives – important pointers to factor in

The weather in the Maldives is anything but straightforward and even during the dry season you can experience angry skies, strong winds and rainy showers now and again. Added to this, the local monsoon rains can be extremely confusing to get your head around and are subject to change with every passing year.

In short, the cost factor with regard to accommodation ought to be a top priority. This is because the price that is quoted includes an additional 10% service charge coupled with a goods and services tax which tends to fluctuate from time to time. Also, these additional taxes are generally shown at the bottom of price lists and menus. Further, the said taxes are included on every facility that you eventually avail of.

In short, the cost factor with regard to accommodation ought to be a top priority. This is because the price that is quoted includes an additional 10% service charge coupled with a goods and services tax which tends to fluctuate from time to time. Also, these additional taxes are generally shown at the bottom of price lists and menus. Further, the said taxes are included on every facility that you eventually avail of.

As a whole, hotel and resort properties accommodate two different policies when it comes to offering holidaymakers the connectivity that they seek. On one hand, you have the luxury of enjoying free Wi-Fi while on the other, you will need to pocket out a few more extra dollars in the event you’re staying on business or are a remote worker. Importantly, connection speeds are notoriously slow and thus, will have you spending more time than usual on your phone, laptop or tablet.

Where you stay in the Maldives can ultimately make the difference between a good holiday and a great holiday. Consider elements such as distance, the nature of your intended surroundings, direct transfer facilities and applicable costs and what leisure activities are provided. Moreover, never shy away from asking difficult questions and being practical during the booking process, regardless of whether you’re working with a travel agent or liaising directly with your mode of accommodation. Where you desire a more private retreat, do inquire about the possibility of staying in a more secluded water villa or bungalow.

Where your flight lands no later than 4 pm (local time), then you will not have to stay in Male but in the event you arrive after the mentioned time, then you will need to pay for an overnight stay in Male before being transferred to your resort or hotel by speedboat or seaplane. Thus, it is wise to check your arrival and transit times before reserving your flight.

You really will be killing two birds with one stone when it comes to booking your stay. This is because based on what your mode of lodging offers you, you will be found paying for accommodation and a domestic transfer from Velana International Airport simultaneously. Furthermore, boat transfers can be quite hard on your back if you have to travel to the atolls and islands located the farthest from Male. Ideally, opt for a seaplane ride or book your stay which is near Male.

Similar to looking out for favourable villas in the Maldives is the need to allocate time and space for snorkelling that will get you up, close and personal with some of the archipelago’s most treasured species and coral life. Know that local resort properties such as Velassaru Maldives either have their own reefs or are encircled by magnificent lagoons. On the odd occasion, you will have to swim out to reach the nearest reef and therefore, equipping yourself with swimming skills will be a prerequisite. Where the location is farther from your choice of lodging, then scheduling a snorkelling expedition will be the order of the day. In conclusion, if you do not mind paying USD 8 plus the relevant taxes for a day, then it makes sense to leave your snorkelling gear behind at home.