🏝️Pure White Sands, Deep Blue Water and Zero Worries: Maldives Holiday Guide
- berfinozelsel
- 5 days ago
- 15 min read
An unforgettable experience among clear waters, white sands and palm trees...
🌊 Paradise in Danger: Maldives
Imagine a country consisting of 1200 islands... Above water is beautiful, but under water is a whole different world. Maldives is an island country consisting of islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, south of India, where corals dance and colorful fish accompany you. It is the smallest country in Asia in terms of both surface area and population.
Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are about 750 km away from their nearest neighbor, Sri Lanka. You can reach them in about 8-9 hours with direct flights from Turkey. The capital, Male, is usually your first destination. From here, you can reach other islands by seaplane or speedboat.
These islands that make up the Maldives are grouped into 26 different "atolls" (coral island groups). You will hear this word often before you go because each region belongs to an atoll. The atolls are managed by administrators appointed by the state, just like the governors in our provinces, and only about 200 of these islands are open to settlement. The remaining islands are completely untouched; there are no houses and no people. The reason why the Maldives are so special is hidden right here: Nature. Silence. Peace. The purest form of sea-sand-sun. I have never seen a place so clean and peaceful. Life is very different for people born and raised here. Just think: The nearest piece of land is 3 kilometers away. You can reach everywhere by sea. For some, it is a real paradise , for others, it is "a bit isolated and ordinary life. But for us - especially for those who come from the chaos of the city - it is a complete fairy tale!
But unfortunately, the Maldives is at risk of not being able to pass on this unique beauty that nature has given us to future generations. Due to global warming, sea levels are rising a little more each year, and this is a real threat to the Maldives, the lowest country in the world. The average altitude of the country is only 1.5 meters. If this rise is not stopped, a large part of the Maldives could be underwater in the next 50 to 100 years.
The snow-white beaches of the Maldives are actually a miracle of nature. These sands are formed by the disintegration of dead corals and shellfish. The ocean floor is a completely different world: colorful coral reefs, small reef sharks, stingrays and colorful fish... Even watching the stingrays and small sharks under the piers in the evening is an experience in itself!
A Brief History: Independence and Change
The Maldives gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1965. After being governed by a sultanate for many years, they switched to a republican system. Today, it is known as the "Islamic Republic". Islamic law is effective in the country's laws; however, this situation generally concerns local life, and the rules are more flexible for tourists. The Maldives, whose capital is Male, is known as the lowest-lying country in the world.
The official language is Divehi , a language belonging to the Indo-Aryan language group, with traces of Sanskrit, Arabic and the Sinhalese language of Sri Lanka, but almost everyone speaks English . Since the language of education is largely English, it is almost impossible to have communication problems in touristic areas. The origin of the people is generally based on communities that migrated from Sri Lanka and India . The people are quite hospitable and used to tourism. Being greeted with a smile is not the exception in this country, but the rule.
The Maldives’ economy is largely based on tourism and fishing , so the country is very sensitive about protecting its natural resources and marine life. Coral reefs and ocean creatures represent not only nature but also the country’s livelihood.
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) . However, most resort hotels, tours and shops already work in dollars. In fact, you may not even see a Rufiyaa on many islands. Visitors to the Maldives can expect luxurious resorts, accommodation options on local islands, traditional Maldivian cuisine and a peaceful island life experience.
White sands, turquoise waters, palm trees... This island country in the heart of the Indian Ocean is not only a dream for honeymooners but also for every traveler looking for peace. So how much do we know about the Maldives? Your enjoyable Maldives guide, experienced through the eyes of a traveler:
📍 Maldives Topics
🗓️ When to Go to Maldives?
Now, there is something important you need to know before going to a country with a monsoon climate: The weather in these regions is full of surprises!
Suddenly it rains, then the sun shines. You look at the sky and it is pitch black, then a few minutes later it is bright and clear…
Since the Maldives is located very close to the equator , the four seasons we know are not experienced here. There are only two main seasons throughout the year in the Maldives; Rainy Season (May - November) and Dry Season (December - April). The Maldives is under the influence of a tropical climate throughout the year. However, when planning a holiday, it is a great advantage to know the weather conditions of the islands and the conditions that change according to the seasons. In other words, the Maldives has a hot and tropical climate 12 months of the year. Temperatures generally vary between 26 and 32 degrees . However, since the humidity is quite high, the perceived temperature can sometimes be much higher.
But remember: many people I met in the Maldives told me, “You can come here any month of the year.” Yes, you may get brief rain showers during the monsoon, but they are usually short-lived and the sun comes back quickly afterwards.
🔆 Best Time: November to April (Dry Season)
This is the ideal time to visit the Maldives. Especially between December and March , when the rain is less, the sea is calmer and sunny days prevail. It is a great time for diving, snorkeling and water activities as the sea is calmer and visibility is better.
Average temperature: 28-31°C
Sea water temperature: 27-29°C
Humidity: Relatively low
Sunny days, cool evenings
💡 Note: This is also the "high season" so prices may increase. Early booking is recommended.
🌧️ Rainy Season: May to October (Monsoon Period)
In these months, rainfall increases due to the effect of the Southwest Monsoon (hulhangu). There may be short-term but heavy showers. However, the weather is generally mild and most of the day can be clear. So don't expect such disaster scenarios. Thunder roars, there is a little chill, then the sun comes out again
More affordable accommodation and promotions
Waves may increase, caution is required, especially for those interested in water sports
For professional divers, some areas may be more interesting during this period.
💍 The Best Time for Honeymoon
The period between November and April is ideal for romantic holidays and honeymooners in terms of both weather and sea conditions. The best time for overwater villas with calm sea, clear water and plenty of sun.
🏝️ Where to Stay in the Maldives? Which Islands to Choose?
The first question on the mind of almost everyone who plans to go to the Maldives is: "Which island should I go to?" Because there are hundreds of islands and dozens of hotel options in this country, each with a different concept . So how do you decide? Depending on your holiday budget, expectations and travel style, you can either stay in a luxurious overwater villa or on a more economical holiday on the islands where the locals live.
🌟 1. Resort Islands (Private Hotel Islands)
The world-famous “overwater villas” of the Maldives are generally located on resort islands. There is usually only one resort on each island. These islands belong solely to the hotel, meaning that there is only you, other guests and hotel staff on the island. They usually operate on an all-inclusive concept. These islands:
Many opportunities are offered such as private beaches, overwater bungalows, spa centers, snorkeling and diving tours, romantic honeymoon packages and special activities.
🔹 Ideal for whom? – Honeymooners, Those looking for luxury and peace, Those who say “Let me just relax without doing anything”
💰 Price range : $300 – $3000 per night (or more)
🏠 2. Accommodation on Local Islands
In recent years, the Maldivian government has allowed tourists to stay on local islands, offering a more affordable Maldives experience , with small hotels, guesthouses and boutique accommodation options available.
But remember: – There is no alcohol sale on the local islands. There are special areas on the beaches called “Bikini Beach” where swimsuits are allowed. Since you will be mingling with the locals, you should pay attention to the dress code.
🔹 Ideal for: – Those who want to see the Maldives on a budget, Those looking for a cultural experience, Travelers interested in diving and sea sports
Popular local islands: Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Dhigurah, Gulhi
💰 Price range : 30 – 100 USD per night
🛶 How to Make Transfers?
Transportation to resorts: By speedboat or seaplane (cost included in hotel or charged separately)
Getting to local islands: By cheap public ferries or private boat charters
🤔 Where Should I Stay?
Holiday Type | Recommended Accommodation |
Honeymoon / Luxury Vacation | Overwater villa – resort island |
Economical Holiday | Local island guesthouse |
Nature and Diving Focused Holidays | Boutique hotels focused on diving |
Cultural Experience | On the islands where local people live |
🌟 Popular Islands and Atolls
Region/Atoll | Feature |
North Male Atoll | Close to the capital Male. Luxury resorts are dense here. Transfer time is short. |
South Ari Atoll | The most popular area to see whale sharks and manta rays. |
Baa Atoll | UNESCO protected area. Lots of coral and marine life. |
Maafushi Island | Pioneer of the local island concept. Budget-friendly accommodation available. |
Fulidhoo | A quiet local island with its natural structure preserved. Diving and island culture together. |
💙 Places to Visit and Activities to Do in Maldives
When most people think of the Maldives, they think only of sea, sand and sun, but in fact, this island chain offers many activities to suit all tastes, from nature lovers to adventure seekers. In addition, culture and local life can be discovered on some islands.
🐠 1. Diving and Snorkeling
The Maldives is one of the world’s best diving destinations, with coral reefs filled with colorful fish, stingrays, sea turtles, and even harmless reef sharks.
Most popular dive/snorkeling sites:
Banana Reef (North Malé Atoll)
Maaya Thila (Ari Atoll)
HP Reef
Photo by Kandu
Tip: Even if you don't dive, you can still discover the amazing underwater world by snorkeling.
🏝️ 2. Sandbank Tours
Tours to small islands surrounded by water with only white sand in the middle. It's just you and the sea! Perfect for a romantic picnic or a photoshoot.
🛶 3. Water Sports and Adventure Activities
Canoe, paddle board, jet ski
Parasailing (parachute boat shooting)
Windsurfing, wakeboarding
Night diving and night fishing
Most resorts and local island hotels organize these activities.
🌅 4. Sunset Tours and Boat Trips
Watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean is a tradition in the Maldives. Trips on traditional Dhoni boats can be combined with fishing or dolphin watching tours.
🐬 5. Dolphin and Whale Watching
It is quite common to encounter pods of dolphins, especially on dry season open sea tours. Pilot whales and whale sharks can also be seen in some areas.
🕌 6. Local Island Tours and Cultural Experiences
If you’re not just staying in the resorts, you can experience the local Maldivian lifestyle, visiting small mosques, fish markets and craft workshops. The city of Male is also an interesting stop for a day’s exploration.
💆 7. Spa and Relaxation
The Maldives is not only famous for its underwater adventures but also for its serenity. Massages, aromatherapy sessions and spa rituals based on Indian and Asian traditions are available at almost every resort.
Some resorts also offer special events such as romantic outdoor cinema nights, private dinners or underwater restaurant experiences.
✈️ How to Get to Maldives?
Contrary to popular belief, going from Türkiye to the Maldives is a very easy and enjoyable journey. Transportation is usually provided by connecting flights and your destination is Malé International Airport (Velana International Airport). When you arrive in the Maldives, the real adventure begins: private transportation vehicles such as seaplanes or speedboats are used to reach the resorts.
🛫 Transportation from Turkey to Maldives
Direct flight from Istanbul to Male : Approximately 8.5 hours with Turkish Airlines
Connecting Flights : Connecting flights, especially via Dubai, are common.
Istanbul – Dubai: 4 hours – Waiting time in Dubai – Dubai – Maldives: 4 hours
Connecting flights can be a bit more tiring but often more affordable (with companies like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai).
Flights usually operate to Malé (MLE)
💡 By booking early, you have a better chance of finding affordable tickets. You can also follow special campaigns for honeymoon couples.
🛄 Male International Airport (MLE)
Most people say "we landed in Male" but you don't actually land on Male Island , but on the adjacent Hulhulé Island , which is called Velana International Airport (Male International Airport). Male City is only a 5-minute ferry ride from the airport. This transfer is quick by small boat. It is a small but busy airport. There are special pick-up points for tourists after passport control.
🏝️ How to Transfer to Hotels in Maldives?
Now let's get to the main topic; transportation to the island hotel where you will stay in the Maldives varies depending on the location of the island. There are three main transportation methods depending on where you will stay.
🔸 This transfer time may vary depending on the location of the island; it could be a 10-minute speedboat ride, or a 1-hour seaplane ride with a view...
💡 Important notice: These interim transfers may not be included in the price!
When making a hotel reservation, be sure to ask, “ Is transfer included? ” Otherwise, you may end up paying a significant extra fee of $200–300 just for a connecting flight. Some resort hotels organize this service directly, but it is still necessary to confirm the details.
🚤 1. Speedboat
If your hotel is on an island close to Male Airport, you can usually get there by speedboat (usually less than 1 hour).
Average travel time: 15-45 minutes
Price: Varies depending on the resort, can be between 50 - 150 USD per person. Usually included in the hotel fee, but be sure to confirm in advance.
🛩️ 2. Seaplane
It is the fastest way to reach remote resorts from Male
Flight duration: 30 – 60 minutes
Only operates during daylight hours (no landings in the evening)
Price: can be between 250 – 500 USD per person
⛴️ 3. Local Ferries
It is an economical option for those traveling to local islands.
The duration is longer (may be between 2 and 6 hours)
The price per person is usually around 5 – 10 USD
🍛 Food and Drink Culture in Maldives
This tropical paradise in the middle of the Indian Ocean fascinates not only with its landscapes but also with its exotic cuisine . Maldivian cuisine is based mainly on seafood, coconut and spices. The influences of Indian, Sri Lankan and Arabic cuisines are evident.
Basic Flavors of Maldivian Cuisine
🐟 1. Fish (Especially Tuna)
Fish is a staple of Maldivian cuisine, found in almost every dish.
“Mas Huni”: Traditional breakfast food made with grated coconut, onion, hot pepper and dried fish.
“Garudhiya”: Spicy, lemony tuna soup served with rice.
🥥 2. Coconut
It is frequently used in cooking in the form of grated, milk or oil.
It is found in many dishes, from desserts to fried foods.
🍛 3. Curry and Spicy Dishes
Chicken, fish and vegetable curries are common.
The use of spices is very close to Sri Lankan and Indian cuisine, but in a milder version.
🫓 4. Roshi (Maldivian Lavash)
It is a thin, soft type of bread that is served with almost every meal.
It is consumed with curry dishes.
🥟 5. Hedhikaa (Maldivian Snacks)
It is indispensable for afternoon tea time.
Fried pastries filled with tuna, eggs, and spice mixtures
Bajiya : Maldivian style samosa
Gulha : Tuna ball shaped snack
Beverage Culture
🍹 Juices & Coconut
Fresh fruit juices and large coconuts called “king coconuts” are very popular.
🚫 Alcohol
Alcohol is prohibited on local islands.
Alcohol can only be served in resort hotels and on private boat tours.
Drinks from Duty Free cannot be brought into the country – they will be confiscated at the airport.
Where to Eat What?
🏝️ Resort Hotels
International cuisines, buffets, seafood restaurants
Romantic dining options for honeymoon couples
🏠 Local Islands
Small family restaurants, local cafes and tea gardens
Offers affordable and authentic Maldivian cuisine
💰 About Prices
Food prices at resorts are usually high (e.g. dinner is around 50-100 USD per person)
A meal on local islands costs around $5-15 USD on average
In all-inclusive hotels, the options included in the meal plan may be more advantageous.
💸 Budget Planning for Maldives Holiday
Although the Maldives was long associated with luxury holidays, it now offers a wide range of options that appeal to different budgets. Depending on your holiday style, you can have a honeymoon with a budget of 5,000 USD or a dream island holiday with an expense close to 1,000 USD.
🏨 1. Accommodation Costs
✅ Resort Hotels:
Per person per night: 300 – 3000 USD
Overwater villa: The most expensive option, those with private pools are extra luxurious
All-inclusive systems increase the price but may be more advantageous in the long run.
✅ Local Islands / Guesthouse:
Per person per night: 30 – 100 USD
Clean, air-conditioned rooms; sometimes breakfast included
Extra services (tours, transfers) are priced separately
🍽️ 2. Food and Beverage Expenses
Accommodation Type | Average Meal Price |
Resort Hotels | 50 – 100 USD / meal |
Local Islands | 5 – 15 USD / meal |
Grocery / Snacks | 1 – 3 USD |
💡 Meals on local islands are quite affordable. All-inclusive packages at resorts are advantageous for longer stays.
✈️ 3. Transportation Costs
Flight ticket (Istanbul – Malé round trip): Varies depending on the season; usually 600 – 1200 USD
Seaplane transfer: 250 – 500 USD (round trip, per person)
Speedboat: 50 – 150 USD (round trip, per person)
Local ferry: 2 – 10 USD
🎯 4. Activities and Tours
Snorkel tour: 30 – 70 USD
Diving: 60 – 150 USD (single dive)
Sandbank tour: 30 – 80 USD
Fishing: 40 – 100 USD
Sunset boat tour: 20 – 60 USD
💡 Tours may be more expensive at resorts; they can be done at more affordable prices on local islands.
💼 5. Average 5-Day Holiday Budget (Per Person)
Holiday Style | Average Total Cost (5 days) |
Luxury Resort Holiday | 3000 – 7000 USD |
Mid-Range Resort | 1500 – 3000 USD |
Affordable Local Island Vacation | 800 – 1200 USD |
💡 Savings Tips:
You can get more affordable prices by planning your holiday at a time when it is in between, such as the beginning or end of the rainy season .
Early booking and flight campaigns provide great advantages.
You can stay on local islands and take day trips to resorts.
🧳 Practical Information and Tips for Your Maldives Holiday
There are some small but important details you need to know before going to the Maldives that can make your holiday much more hassle-free and enjoyable. Tips to consider before packing your suitcase:
📌 1. Visa and Entry Requirements
Turkish citizens do not require a visa. 30-day visa-free entry is granted upon arrival.
You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return ticket .
You may be asked to show your hotel reservation upon check-in.
📱 2. Communication and Internet
You can buy a tourist SIM card at the airport or at local markets. Ooredoo and Dhiraagu are the two most common operators.
Wi-Fi is usually available at resorts, but can sometimes be limited.
💵 3. Currency and Payment
Local currency: Maldivian Rupee (MVR)
USD is generally accepted at resorts and prices are determined in USD.
Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
It can be useful to have cash on hand on local islands.
🕒 4th Time Zone
Maldives is in the GMT+5 time zone.
There is usually a 2 hour time difference with Turkey (may vary depending on summer-winter time).
Some resorts use their own time zone called "resort time" (moved forward 1 hour to allow for longer daylight hours).
🌡️ 5. Weather and Seasons
Dry season (December – April): The most ideal period, sea calm, little rainfall
Rainy season (May – November): Cheaper but risk of rain and wind
The temperature ranges between 26 – 32°C throughout the year.
👗 6. Clothing and Luggage Preparation
Light and comfortable clothes, shorts, thin dresses
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, waterproof bag
If you have a snorkel set, it would be economical to take it
A slightly more elegant attire may be required for dinner at resorts
Be careful of knee-covering clothing on local islands (especially for women)
🚫 7. Things to Consider
Carrying alcohol or drinking it is prohibited on local islands. Only allowed in resorts.
Respect community rules; as the Maldives is a Muslim country, overly revealing clothing should be avoided on the local islands.
It is necessary to observe wildlife and corals without touching them – environmental sensitivity is important.
📷 8. Tips for Photography and Social Media
Photos taken at sunrise and sunset are amazing.
Underwater cameras or GoPro style devices will definitely work.
Some resorts may require prior permission for those wishing to fly a drone.
🎒 What to Pack for a Maldives Holiday and What Not to Pack?
First of all, let me say this: Do not bring too much stuff!
The moment you arrive at your hotel in the Maldives, you are transported to another universe. You leave your phone aside and are alone with nature. Therefore, the less you take with you, the lighter and more enjoyable your holiday will be.
👕 Clothing Recommendations:
– You can easily go to the reception, restaurant or beach wearing shorts and a swimsuit . No one will find it strange.
– For dinners or romantic organizations, bringing 1-2 elegant outfits is enough.
– You won’t need much on a daily basis other than a thin T-shirt, shorts, a pareos and a swimsuit.
– Since the weather is warm all year round, there is no need to bring thick clothing.
– A light cardigan will be enough to protect yourself from the air conditioning during the flight.
🌧 For Those Going During Rainy Season:
If you are going during the monsoon season (especially between November and May), don't worry. Many hotels have raincoats and umbrellas in their rooms. The rains are short-lived and intermittent anyway.
🧴 Note : Make sure to bring basic products such as sunscreen (plenty), insect repellent, hat and sea shoes.
Think of it as if you were going on holiday to Antalya or Fethiye; but this time everything is a little more tropical and peaceful 🌴
