Guesthouses Or Hostels in the Maldives

You might think it’s an oxymoron to talk about budget hotels in the Maldives, an archipelago where crystalline turquoise lagoons meet white-sand beaches and resorts are peppered with overwater villas. But, in fact, this bucket list destination isn’t as out of reach as you might expect.

The key is a little bit of planning. The best time to visit the Maldives is from December through April, when drier weather (and higher tourism numbers) means lower rates at hotels. This is also prime season for spotting marine life, as the clearer waters mean better visibility under the waves.

Another way to keep your accommodation costs down is by avoiding the more remote Maldivian islands, where prices are typically higher than those in the capital city of Male and on smaller atolls. Instead, opt for resorts like Equator Village, which is located on a buzzing island in the southerly Addu Atoll and offers plenty to do, from cookery classes to visiting local villages and a range of watersports.

Can I Find Budget-Friendly Guesthouses Or Hostels in the Maldives?

It’s also worth keeping in mind that the Maldives is a predominantly Sunni Muslim nation, so many hotels avoid alcohol and pork and aren’t kid-friendly. However, this shouldn’t stop families who want to stay in an all-inclusive hotel in the Maldives from making it happen. Simply make sure you’re booking a resort that’s family-friendly and book a room that comes with a children’s club, activities and entertainment to ensure a happy stay for everyone in the family.

If you’re keen to get involved with the local community, look for a resort that supports sustainable initiatives, such as producing its own fresh drinking water and growing its own produce. This will not only help the planet but may also cut down on your bill, as these types of hotels generally have lower outgoings and thus offer cheaper rooms.

A well-stocked activities programme will also make it easier to keep your holiday costs down. Many of the best hotels in the Maldives have inspiring wellness programmes featuring everything from snorkeling and sound baths to sunset yoga. At One & Only Reethi Rah, you can even take part in traditional Maldivian drum and dance classes.

As the Maldives is full of dreamy, relatively untouched islands, one of the best parts of a holiday here is getting out and about to explore beyond your hotel. Many resorts offer island hopping excursions, with guests whisked away in a dhoni to a nearby beach or property for an afternoon of swimming, snorkelling and relaxing, usually with a fully stocked picnic lunch included.

There’s no doubt that the Maldives is a celebrity hot spot, with the likes of Tom Cruise, Russell Crowe and Orlando Bloom stepping foot in resorts around the country. But you don’t have to be a Hollywood A-lister to enjoy this paradise: most resorts across the country are well equipped to host honeymooners, couples and families with a wide selection of packages to suit every taste.