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So you want to go to the Maldives but you don't have the budget for the lux over the top resorts with overwater bungalows and exorbitant price tags.
Then you should consider one of the local inhabited and equally as beautiful islands.
Here you will find, budget to lux accommodation, countless dining options, and a great base and selection when it comes to day trips and tours!
Be aware tho... the local inhabited islands are dry of alcohol (with the exception of some like Maafushi that has a floating bar just offshore BUT they are not always operating or stocked, like we found)
But the major BONUS of the local islands are they are CHEAP and there is so much to do!
Here is our guide to what things cost over a full day, from accommodation, our meals and snacks, hiring a jetski and booking a tour, we outline it all.
We are based on Maafushi, one of the more established islands for tourism, so there are loads of dining and food options and so far we haven't had a bad meal or experience. PLUS the tour selection is awesome and amazing quality. Probably way more options than at the private island resorts!
COST OF THE BASICS
Accommodation: $25-250 (depending on season - Backpacker to Lux)
Our Accommodation was with Kaani Palm Hotel and their room rates depend on the season, number of guests and room choice, and they range upward of approximately $110usd (low season) we paid $200usd for an Ocean front, 3 pax inclusive of breakfast, the week of Xmas!
Transfers: Male to Maafushi -$20-30 each way
Maafushi to Gulhi $10 return
Food:
Water 0.50c-$2
Lemonade / coke $1.50-2
Non alcoholic beer $3-$4
Juice / milkshakes $4-7.50
Chips $1-3.50
Chocolate $1-2
Main meal $5-15
Buffet $12-15
Incidentals:
Snorkel set $40
Cap: $20
Simple bracelets 3 for $10
Antibiotics $10
Tours
JetSki hire $25 for 15mins
Full day Snorkeling tour $35-45
Whale sharks $90-100
Shark swim $50-75
Sunset fishing & bbq dinner $25-35
Sail boat hire $80 1 hour
