Maldives
Maldives, Asia
Slow days, glass-clear water, and a sea that glows after dark.
An archipelago of around 1,200 low-lying coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, grouped into 26 atolls. Known for over-water villas, clear shallow lagoons, and some of the richest reef diving anywhere.
Our honest take
The Maldives is paradise but it's a specific kind of paradise — resort islands where you eat, swim, and sleep. If you need cultural stimulation or nightlife, you'll be bored by day 3. For couples and divers, it's unbeatable. Budget travellers: local island guesthouses exist and are 80% cheaper.
Why go
- Best snorkeling and diving on Earth, period
- Overwater bungalows that justify the photos
- Bioluminescent beaches at new moon are genuinely magical
Skip if you can
- Day trips to Malé — the capital is congested and has little for tourists
- Resort buffet every night — ask about local island excursions for seafood BBQ
- Booking the cheapest water villa — beach villas often have better reef access
Things to do
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Spa treatments
- Water sports
Costs
Seaplane transfer: $400-700. All-inclusive upgrade: $150-300/day. Diving: $80-150/dive.
Airport, transport, and accommodation options
Good to know
- Strict alcohol laws on local islands (resorts exempt)
- Reef-safe sunscreen required by many resorts
- Strong currents in channels between atolls — dive with guides only
- No public displays of affection on local islands
Prices, visa rules, and transport details may change. Always verify with official sources before booking. Last updated: August 2026.