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islandii · 5 years ago

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Best Family Resorts in Maldives

The Maldives is not only a paradise for honeymooners but also a great place to enjoy the amazing beauties of the Indian Ocean for families.

Most resorts have the necessary infrastructure (like kid’s club, kid’s pool etc.) for organizing leisure activities for children of any age.

But there are resorts that not only focus on families but also offer special offers for them like free accommodation, meals and even a transfer for younger guests.

In this guide, we will consider resorts with the best conditions for families with children.

Angsana Ihuru

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Jan 2021 One child (4 – 11.99 years old) sharing existing bedding, with parents in the same villa can stay & eat free on same meal plan as adults booked.

Come to a true island paradise. Experience the gorgeous turquoise waters in Angsana Ihuru, the white beaches, and the rich green tropical vegetation. Go diving on a shipwreck, enjoy snorkeling on the house reef, or relax on the beach at this Ihuru Island resort.

Introduce your eight or nine-year-old to a shallow lagoon. Watch them learn about diving through a fun bubble-making lesson. Safe child-friendly scuba gear assures you of your children’s safety. The certified instructors are patient and attentive to ensure your child will have an awesome first diving experience.

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Amaya Resort Kuda Rah

Special offer for children

Travel: all year around Children 16 year old and below will stay and eat free when sharing will with paying adults up to the maximum capacity or each villa category.

Enter an island sanctuary where the ocean beckons you to come live & love at one of the finest Maldives luxury resorts. Dive into an underwater world at the nearby Kuda Rah Thila, come experience a genuine heartfelt welcome at Amaya Kuda Rah, Maldives.

Nemo Kid’s Club. When the adults are away, the kids shall play! Resort Maldives kids club features a range of indoor and outdoor activities, from coconut painting to a beach treasure hunt, creative crafts and games to ensure our little guests enjoy their time while you indulge in luxury comforts. Age Group: 4 – 12 y.o. Opening Time: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm. Activities: Coconut painting, cake decorating, island exploration, arts & crafts, puzzles, beach treasure hunt.

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Kandima Maldives

Special offer for children

Travel: all year around Complimentary accommodation on BB Basis for maximum 2 children below 12 years of age. Complimentary meals (as per the meal plan booked) for children below 06 years of age

Based on the values of the umbrella brand Pulse Hotels & Resorts – smart, playful, rooted, responsible, human – Kandima Maldives is a place with soul, deeply rooted and respectful of guests, colleagues, community, culture and surroundings. Here, it is all about genuine hospitality with a human touch and smart solutions that make use of the latest innovations – not to mention a playful spirit!

Kandiland. The little VIPs are just as important as our adult ones. Kandiland, Kandima Kids Club is run by a dedicated, multilingual team of fully certified child carers, and offers a daily programme jam-packed with fun and informative activities. Open: Daily, 8.00-20.00. Kids club age group is 4 to 12 years old

Babysitting service start from age 6 months to 3 years unless the child is potty trained. Note also babysitting during the day are done only at the kids club. Kandiland’s krew can do babysitting at Kandiland from 9 am to 8 pm. Guest don’t need to book they can come and fill their registration form any time and the service will take place.

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Lily Beach Resort

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 30 Dec 2020 No extra supplement apply for up to 2 children staying in extra bed while sharing adults villa. Children Age is 6 – 11.99 years old.

Happy children equals happy parents, and to get the most of your exciting Maldives family beach holiday, Lily Beach Resort & Spa offers plenty of possibilities that will allow your little ones to romp around the island.

From hermit crab races, crafts, watersport activities to treasure hunts, your little ones will be in good hands at the Turtle Kids’ Club. The natural playground at Lily Beach Resort & Spa and the well-equipped indoor area, where we will seek shade when the temperatures peak, will keep the children entertained while you take some time to yourself.

With friendly and well-trained staff, the Turtle Kids’ Club offers a wide array of indoor and outdoor activities, allowing your kids to have fun while you join a diving trip or go for a well-deserved spa treatment.

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OZEN by Atmosphere

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Oct 2020 Accommodation and return speedboat transfer are free of charge for children 0 – 15 y.o. Indulgence plan supplement is 120 USD per child per night

Maadhoo Island is situated in South Malé Atoll – just a short 45-minute luxury speedboat ride away from Malé International Airport. The perfectly North-South Island of Maadhoo with guest villas facing due east and west offer stunning Sunrises and even more amazing Sunset views. The large pristine lagoon overlooking the horizon, with exotic marine life all around offers the discerning traveler a true Maldives island experience!

OZEN Kids Club. Children & Young Adults can enjoy a variety of daily organised activities, games & island fun.

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Anantara Kihavah

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 8 Jan 2021

Children under 12 years are welcome on a complimentary basis for 3 meals/day from children’s menu and / or Daily Dinner at Plates with Live Stations and Buffet, However, if dining from a la carte or buffet, 50% off adult pricing applies.

Thiththi Boli Kids’ Club offers excitement and action for kids aged 4-12 years old. Qualified supervisors provide endless fun through exploration and crafts. Creativity is stoked through different themes.

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Dusit Thani

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 8 Jan 2021 Children below 12 years of age, stay and dine free (Max. 2 children)

What better way for families to unwind than spending some time out on the beach surrounded by picturesque tropical nature with a wide range of experiences on offer for guest of alll ages.

Baan Sanook Kid’s Club: T-shirt painting, Nature walks, Pizza making, Treasure hunt, Face painting, Funny mask making, Coconut or shell painting, Origami art, Hide and Seek, Cookies and cupcake decorating, Board games, Building sand castles, Play station games on LED TV, Movies and cartoons, Foosball table, Age Group: 3 to 12 years, Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 hours.

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JA Manafaru

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 8 Jan 2021 Children below 12 years of age, stay and dine free (Max. 2 children)

Romantic Dreams in a Tropical Island Paradise. Experience an idyllic island escape in the secluded sanctuary of JA Manafaru, Maldives. In the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean lies a tropical Maldives hotel and resort, blending the serenity of the Maldives with seven world-class restaurants, extensive leisure activities, and exotic spa and wellness facilities.

Playful hideaways for the younger ones and trendy relaxation for teens – Coolzone & Chillzone are available and manned by a team of dedicated JA team members, with extensive experience in childcare. Available facilities: Children’s pool, CoolZone kids’ club, ChillZone teens’ club (8 years to 16 years).

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Six Senses Laamu

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 8 Jan 2021 Children below 12 years of age, stay free (Max. 2 children). Meal is for extra charge. Children 0-5 y.o eat and stay for free.

They say you can dust sand of toes but not souls, and we hope every family leaves with memories of limitless sunshine, warm seas, crazy looking sea critters and precious time wrestled from the everyday routine to spend together. From the children’s club The Den to in-villa babysitting, toys, baby chairs and hammocks, even little ones have big adventures.

Family activities include Cinema Under the Stars, team and table games, treasure hunts, cycling and non-motorized water activities. Take a dolphin cruise, island hop with a picnic and do morning yoga or a dance class.

The Den is a professionally-managed complimentary club for younger guests from 3 to 11 years with indoor and outdoor games, movies, junior baking plus arts and crafts.

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Dhigali Maldives

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Oct 2020 – Applicable for all rooms except Beach Bungalow & Lagoon Villa with Pool – Complimentary accommodation up to 2 children age 2-11.99 yrs when sharing with at least 2 paying adults on meal plan booked by the accompanying adults

A slender coral cay in the Raa Atoll, Dhigali Island is pure Maldivian bliss. Ringed by coral + kissed by the sun, this is a luxury hideaway with a difference. Castaway villas + overwater bungalows dot the island’s crystal blue perimeter.

Kid’s Club. Indoor + outdoor fun is free at Dhigali’s Children’s Club.

Guests aged 4 to 12 years are invited into exciting activities + endless discoveries that let them learn + have fun at the same time.

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Kihaa Maldives

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Oct 2020 – Complimentary accommodation up to 2 children age 2-11.99 yrs when sharing with at least 2 paying adults on meal plan booked by the accompanying adults

Kihaa Maldives has introduced Exclusive Islanders, the resort’s own brand of personal butler service.

Visitors staying at Kihaa Maldives will have their own personal villa host to ensure that they have an exceptional stay at the resort.

Exclusive Islanders assist guests in a role similar to traditional butlers. They will show the guests around the island and assist in curating the best experience holiday to make it a memorable one.

The focus of Exclusive Islanders is to provide a high level of service, ensure all arrangements spanning from spa treatments, excursions and all private dinners are looked after, not to forget; keeping a point of contact with the guests on every occasion and attend to every desire.

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Kudafushi Maldives

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Oct 2020 – Complimentary accommodation up to 2 children age 2-11.99 yrs when sharing with at least 2 paying adults on meal plan booked by the accompanying adults

Kids Club “Little Bubbles Club” opened daily from 9:00am till 6:00pm, offers a happy, comfortable and safe environment for children to enjoy through crafts and games with resort child care professionals. Every day at Little Bubbles Club, children gets to enjoy theme-based activities from our weekly calendar, including educational, entertaining and cultural indoor and outdoor games. Babysitting service can also be arranged at required location with at least 24 hours’ notice.

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Coco Bodu Hithi

Special offer for children

Travel: now – 31 Oct 2020 Complimentary accommodation and meal up to 2 children age 2-11.99 yrs when sharing with at least 2 paying adults on meal plan booked by the accompanying adultsю

The Coco Bodu Hithi Resort reflects the Island’s character in its every dimension. Our Maldives resort is your chic retreat. Reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and the wonder of the natural world. Remind yourself what time out and travel should feel like. Breathe the clean, sea air. Meet the Hawksbill turtles. Witness the peaceful majesty of the native Nurse sharks. Explore the exotic colours of the reef’s inhabitants.

Swim with Manta rays. Take a sunset cruise across calm waters. Sink your toes into the white sand and ease yourself into island life and its relaxing, dreamy pace. All of this is yours, at the Coco Bodu Hithi Maldives Resort.

The Kid’s club is unavailable.

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Fushifaru

Special offer for children

Travel dates: now – 23 Dec 2020 Up to two children under the age of 12 years stay and eat free in the same villa and on the same board basis as the main occupants.

Fushifaru Maldives is a hotel in Fushifaru that features a designated smoking place, a safety deposit box and a barber shop. Fushifaru Maldives boasts accommodation in a chic-style building. It has non-smoking rooms and 24-hour room service, laundry and dry cleaning service. The property is 57 km from Pantano de Vargas Monument, while Tiny Island Marine Conservation Centre is 14 km away. Baa Atoll is 65 km from the hotel. The Kid’s club is unavailable, but there is outdoor playground and Babysitting/child services for additional charge.

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Jumeirah Vittaveli

Special offer for children

Travel dates: now – 09 Jan 2021 Children between 0 years to 3.99 years old benefit from complimentary combined airport transfers Children below 11.99 years will enjoy buffet breakfast and children below 5.99 years will enjoy meals as per parents booked meal plan

At Kuda Koli Kids Club, your child’s days will be filled with exploration and fun. The environment is welcoming and safe, designed especially for our younger guests. Resort fully equipped Kids Club and Teen Lounge offer extensive indoor and outdoor play areas.

In hotel weekly program, they offer a wide range of innovative and exciting activities including pizza making, face painting, treasure hunt, t-shirt painting, island exploration and pool games. The professional and enthusiastic Kids Club team’s mission is to make your child’s holiday experience one to remember and treasure!

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Sun Aqua Vilu Reef

Special offer for children

Travel dates: now – 31 Oct 2020

Two Children (0 – 11,99 y.o) will stay free in a room shared with 2 full paying adults (Green Tax of USD 6.00 per child per night will be charged), on Emerald Plan.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is a luxury family-friendly resort island in the heart of the Maldives. They have activities available for guests of all ages and even a babysitting service for any parents who want a bit of time alone. The kids’ club encourages your children to make friends, join fun activities and get to know fellow junior travelers from around the world. Kids’ Club hosts daily activities so please get in touch with our team to find out more.

Experience: Family/kids spa treatments, Kids Club, Family pool, Board games, Beach walks.

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islandii · 5 years ago

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Ultimate Guide to Budget Maldives

Lots of people associate Maldives with a very expensive holiday destination, with island hotels (resorts) and bungalows for 600$ per day. But a bit more than 5 years ago cheap, but modern and fully equipped guest houses began to be built in Maldives.

The cost of staying in those guest houses starts from $30 per day + taxes (about the taxes later) and breakfast. The rooms there are equipped with everything necessary for living:

– air conditioning;

– a private bathroom with a toilet and sometimes with a bath;

– towels;

– a mini-bar;

– a wardrobe, bedside tables, a table, chairs;

– a TV-set.

Maldives has become more affordable for those who prefer admiring the nature to luxurious surroundings. But according to some rumors, in 50 or 60 years Maldives can be fully covered by the ocean waters (it’s not true). It is because the maximum height above the sea level is just 2 meters. So don’t put away spending your holidays in Maldives for later!

In this guide we’ll try to answer the most frequently asked questions that are asked by tourists.

What to choose: a travel agency, online booking agent or booking directly?

Option 1—travel agencies

There are few agencies that offer budget accommodation or guest houses in Maldives, and the reason for it is quite simple – low profits for the agencies. The majority of low budget tourists prefer doing everything themselves. However the agencies that offer staying in guest houses do it by means of “packages”.

These packages usually include accommodation, meals, excursions, transfer, and, what it the most important thing, taxes. If you divide such a package into separate parts, you’ll have to pay an accommodation and meals tax, a transfer tax, a tax on excursions. All in all you’ll have to pay much more than the package originally costs.

By the way, speaking about resorts, travel agents usually offer tours at more reasonable prices, what we can’t say about online booking systems or about direct booking.

Option 2 — online booking agent

First of all such systems as booking.com, agoda.com, expedia.com should be mentioned. Let us consider the main advantages and disadvantages of those systems.

Advantages:

+ you can book or cancel your booking with a single click (but not in every booking system);

+ discounts are often offered;

+ you can easily compare prices at various guest houses;

+ reviews are available in different languages;

+ you can learn what types of rooms are available in guest houses.

Disadvantages:

– taxes are not included in the price (about 23,5%);

– free benefits are not offered by guest houses;

– you can’t ask for an additional discount;

– to book a transfer (or to learn exact transfer schedule), you’ll still have to write to your guest house It tends to change often;

– prices on such websites are usually higher (even without taxes) as compared to booking directly or with the help of travel agents.

Option 3 — direct booking

That is through a guest house website. As compared to booking through travel agencies, I can say that travel agency might have lower prices because of the contract responsibilities connecting travel agencies and guest houses.

Tips how to choose a guest house and what your attention should be paid to will be provided further.

How much money do you need?

The industrial and agricultural sectors in Maldives are very poorly developed. The reason for it is quite simple — the land area is very small. So the majority of goods are imported there from the neighbouring countries – Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, etc., that’s why prices on goods and services are high even on the islands with locals.

A simple example of an average budget of a trip to Maldives. This option is for two adults, airline tickets are not included.

Meals $20-30, lunch + dinner (per one person) per day in a guest house

$18-30, lunch + dinner (per one person) a day at a local cafe/restaurant

Activities $0-10000 per two persons.

Excursions:

– Diving: $40-110 per person per one dive (fun dive for uncertified diver)

– Sunset Fishing: $35-55 per person

– Line Fishing: $100-150 per person

– Snorkelling trip (2hrs): $35-85 per person

– Romantic Dinner: $90-120 for couple

– Manta Watching (Snorkelling): $25-55 per person

– Whale Shark watching (Snorkeling): $70-100 per person

– Traditional meal: $20 per person

– Dolphin Safari: $40-60 per person

– Picnic island trip: $20-40 per person

– Resort trip: $80-250 per person

$0-1000 – other expenses (depending on your preferences).

Total: $600-700 for two persons a week during low season, 1200-1800$ per week during high season with some activities. You can make a package by yourself here.

We’d recommend taking US dollars with you. If you pay by card, they charge 4% for processing. ATMs can be found not anywhere, only on several islands. If you want to withdraw money from ATMs, they charge 150 MVR (about $10), and it does not depend on the amount of money you withdraw.

You’d better take a credit card with you. But before going to Maldives consult your bank for the details of using your card abroad, just to make sure that it won’t be blocked while you’re using it.

The currency of Maldives is the rufiyaa (MVR). The exchange rate of rufiyaas to US dollars is 1 USD=15,42 MVR. But it is an official exchange rate. If you pay in cash in small bills ($1, 5, 10, 20) in shops, cafes, there the exchange rate is 1 USD=15 MVR. That’s why when paying for your guest house, transfer (a speedboat) and excursions, you’d better pay in USD.

USDs are accepted literally everywhere, the change is usually given in MVRs. So while buying some small things, it’s better recommend to pay in rufiyaas.

Note: Of course you can travel Maldives on a very low budget, not spending much money on activities/transfer/meals. But will you have much to remember when you get home, apart from the beach and ocean? It’s unlikely you’ll get back to Maldives another time after visiting this place once, so try and get the most out of your holidays there. Don’t deprive yourself of pleasure and positive emotions trying to save some dollars.

Best time to go to Maldives

It is believed that the tourist season in Maldives lasts from November till April. At that time there are more sunny days and less cloudy ones. But because of the El Nino influence and global warming, the season has shifted, and today it is sunny in May-June. July was rainy, and in August the sun shines again.

The best time to go to Maldives is in January-March. But at that time the prices there are the highest and there are almost no discounts. But you won’t be upseted by rains.

So called “low season” lasts from May till the end of October. During these months it’s likely that it’ll rain, but everything is relative because the weather is different in various atolls. Apart from that, in the low season ocean becomes more restless, and they may cancel a ferry or a speedboat because of that.

The best weather forecasting website.

If you want to save even more money, you should go there in the low season.

When buying airline tickets, remember that ferries and speedboats are not available on Friday. But you can use domestic flights, they are available on Friday. Friday is a day off in Maldives, ferries run only between Male and Hulhumale and Male and Villingili. So the only way to get to your island is a private speedboat, the cost of which is $200-1000 per trip.

So the plan is:

1) choose an island;

2) choose a type of transfer;

3) buy your airline tickets;

4) book a guest house.

How to choose a local island in Maldives?

In fact, it is one of the main questions that arise while planning a trip to Maldives.

Actually it is like the situation when a girl is choosing a boyfriend. One has an ugly nose, another is round-shouldered, the other one is just stupid. But if you don’t like some features, it doesn’t mean that everybody don’t like them. Nobody is perfect.

The situation is the same with the islands: there is no perfect island that can satisfy all your needs. One can have a beautiful long beach, but it is located far from Male. Another one is much closer, but has a mediocre beach. The other one has a great snorkeling point, but the beach there is very small, etc.

After getting back from Maldives, nobody says (especially to friends) that their island was not perfect in Maldives.

Summary on islands

Mathiveri . Advantages: long beach; a picnic island is located nearby; few tourists; a good house reef; the transfer is available every day; Disadvantages: a speedboat transfer is rather expensive; the ferry travelling time is 6 hours; few cafes for tourists.

Thoddoo. Advantages: long beach; a large island; cafes for tourists; fruit farms; an affordable transfer. Disadvantages: you’ll need to swim 500 meters to the house reef; more and more tourists visit the island; a 15-minute walk to the bikini beach.

Rasdhoo. Advantages: a very developed island; lots of cafes for tourists; a good house reef; great diving; 2 picnic islands and 3 sandbanks are located nearby; an affordable transfer. Disadvantages: a small beach; lots of guesthouses.

Ukulhas. Advantages: long beach, good house reef, nice sand banks nearby, manta point, an affordable transfer. Disadvantages: high prices in guest houses, in the low season the beach is rarely cleaned;

Omadhoo. Advantages: great bikini beach area, nice house reef, few tourists, picnic island with the possibility to stay overnight, Disadvantages: speedboat runs only one time per day (it will change soon), a few cafes for tourists.

Dharavandhoo. Advantages: a large island, long beach, a good home reef, Hanifaru Bay (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) with lots of manta rays is located nearby, several picnic islands, cafes for tourists, open for day visit resorts. Disadvantages: expensive but quick transfer.

Thinadhoo . Advantages: there are only 40-50 locals on the island; 3 guest houses; a good beach; a picnic island is nearby; good house reef. Disadvantages: only one cafe for tourists, transfer (speedboat) is rather expensive.

Dhigurah . Advantages: a very long beach; 50 meters to the beach; a long island; few tourists; points with whale sharks and manta rays are nearby; a sandbank is nearby. Disadvantages: an inconvenient and expensive transfer; the island is not very clean; no cafes for tourists; no good house reefs, guest houses are ratehr expensive.

Fulhadhoo. Advantages: the best bikini beach among local islands, nearby sandbanks, nice house reef, very few guest houses, very few locals. Disadvantages: speedboat only 3 times per week, no caffes, no water sport or diving centers.

Guraidhoo . Advantages: a picnic island is at a stone’s throw away from the bikini beach, you need just to cross the bridge; not far from Male; resorts are nearby; cafes for tourists; surfing points. Disadvantages: a lot of guest houses; no god bikini beach.

Maafushi. Advantages: transfer several times a day from/to the island; open for day visit resorts are nearby; a lot of cafes for tourists; rather developed infrastructure; a floating bar. Disadvantages: a lot of guest houses and hotels; a small beach; no house reefs. too many tourists

Huraa . Advantages: the island is one of the perfect place for surfers; resorts are nearby; not far from Male. Disadvantages: a small beach; no house reefs; no speedboats; few cafes for tourists.

Dhiffushi. Advantages: few guest houses; a resort is nearby. Disadvantages: the beach is not large; no cafes for tourists, no good house reef

Hanimaadhoo . Advantages: few guest houses; an airport; a very big and long beach; a good home reef; picnic islands. Disadvantages: too far from Male.

Felidhoo. Advantages: few guest houses; a nice beach; a good home reef; a picnic island. Disadvantages: an inconvenient and expensive transfer; a small beach; no cafes for tourists.

Of course, this list is not complete, only the most popular islands are included.

My personal TOP-5

Rasdhoo Omadhoo Thoddoo and Ukulhas Fulhadhoo Thinadhoo

But what should you do if you chose to go to a not popular island? In this case contact your guest house for the information about all the possible transfers from/to the island. Just book a room in your guest house and write to them.

Ask them to take and send to you some photos of the island, the beach, just to know where you are going.

Monitor reviews on Tripadvisor.

Not popular islands have more advantages because of a small number of tourists, but this is also their main weakness because transfer and infrastructure are not developed there. But still you’ll have privacy.

One local island or several?

The answer directly depends on the fact, how many days you’re going to spend in Maldives. I’d recommend staying on one island for 3-5 days; it makes no sense staying there for a longer period because you’ll have already seen and explored everything by that time, it won’t be interesting. Below you can find groups of islands between that the public ferry runs.

The travelling time between two neighboring islands is less that one hour, a ticket costs about $2 per person.

Thoddoo – Rasdhoo – Ukulhas – Mathiveri Maafushi – Guraidhoo Thinadhoo – Guraidhoo Himmafushi – Huraa – Thulusdhoo – Dhiffushi Dharavandhoo – Dhomfulhafi Hanimaadhoo – Kulhudhhuffushi- Vashafaru Dhangethi – Dhigurah – Maamigili Mahibadhoo – Omadhoo – Hungnameedhoo

That’s why if your trip is going to last 8-10 days, I’d recommend to visit at least 2 islands. You’ll get more memories and positive emotions.

How to choose a guest house in Maldives?

From year to year new guest houses are opened. But there is not so big difference between them, that’s why it’s getting more and more difficult to choose a guest house. So you can take into consideration the following principles:

– read reviews on a guest house not only on Booking.com, but also on Agoda, Tripadvisor, Expedia.

– new guest houses have almost no reviews, however, they usually have low prices. But at the same time the quality of serviсes leaves much to be desired. In this case you’ll choose a guest house at your own risk;

– to see how good the management is, write to them directly and get answers to all your questions. A good manager responds quickly within 24 hours;

– don’t worry that you don’t speak English, Google Translate will help you. Remember that you can get all the information about your guest house only after speaking to the house’s representatives;

– when booking 5 and more nights you’re usually provided with excursions at a discount. At different guest houses prices on the same activities can notably vary;

– if you’re interested in diving, you’d better choose a guest house that has its own diving centre. There the prices for its guests are lower.

What to do on local islands?

Remember that Maldives s a Muslim country, although the rules there are not very strict. You are not allowed to wear bikinis on the beaches for the locals. But is does not relate to the beaches for tourists. There bikinis are allowed. A manager in your guest house will tell you, where it is allowed.

Don’t stay in Male (the capital) and Hulhumale for long, because there are no beaches for tourists, no sights.

On any more or less tourist island guest houses offer the following activities:

Snorkelling. Or swimming with a mask, snork, and fins. This excursion usually lasts 2-3 hours and includes visiting 3-4 different points. The cost is $25-45 per person. It is available on every island.

Picnic island trip. It includes visiting the neighbouring uninhabited island with/without lunch (barbecue). They usually take rice, salads, and drinks when going on such a trip. Fish is cooked right there. The trip can last half a day or the whole day. And there can also be other tourists on the island. The cost depends on how far the island is located, on average it is $20-40 per person. When on uninhabited islands, you are free to wear bikinis.

Manta trip. Or snorkelling with manta rays. A unique opportunity to swim with these devils. To get the most out of the trip, follow these simple rules:

Don’t try to touch a manta ray. Otherwise it will just leave you and will never get back. A manta ray will touch you itself if it knows that there is no danger to it. Don’t make sharp moves and keep calm. The excursion usually lasts 40 minutes. The cost is $40-50 per person.

Snorkelling with whale sharks. A truly unique opportunity to swim with the largest fish in the world – whale sharks. The size of these giants can reach 12 meters lengtt! At the same time they are absolutely harmless for humans because they eat plankton. The most popular places where they can be found in Maldives are Dhigurah, Dhangethi, Omadhoo.

But it is not 100% guaranteed that you can see sharks during your trip.

Night fishing, day fishing, big game fishing. In the first and second cases you are taken to a reef and are given a basic fishing tackle box: a line and hooks. Everything is very simple. The cost is $30-50 per person. The fish you caught can be cooked in your guest house (usually for free).

When going to big game fishing you’re given a bigger fishing tackle box, and that means that you’ll be hunting big fish at sea! But in this case you usually take a photo with the fish you caught and then let them free. The cost starts from $150 per person.

Safari with dolphins. It usually takes place in the morning or in the evening because at that time dolphins are getting close to the atolls. During the excursion you are offered soft drinks. Their cost is usually included in the cost of the excursion. This trip costs $55-85 per person.

Romantic dinner on the beach/a picnic island/a sandbank. In case of the sandbank, it depends on the rise of the tide. If the tides are high on the day of the excursion, the sandbank is flooded. The cost is $80-140 per two persons. Setting, the dinner itself and transfer (to the picnic island or the sandbank) are included.

Day resort visit. Not many resorts allow tourists from other local islands to visit their resorts. You can get the information on what resorts allow tourists to visit them in your guest house. They have agreements with resorts. The cost of such a trip includes transfer, the entry fee, and the opportunity to use the hotel’s services. It can also include lunch and drinks (alcohol too). It depends on the resort. The cost is $70-180 per person.

Visiting a floating bar. Alcohol is forbidden on the islands, but not afloat, so some enterprising Maldivians decided to reconstruct their boats into floating bars. They can be seen not by every local island. Today they can be spotted only near Maafushi. It is forbidden to take alcohol to the island. You can drink only there.

Diving. In fact it is the only way to see the magnificent underwater world of Maldives. To dive there, it is not necessary to have a PADI certificate. Not having the certificate, you can dive up to 12 meters.

Before diving you are given a brief instruction, you sign necessary documents and then perform a test 1,5-2 meters depth dive, where you’re shown the basic things that you are to know. Then you are taken to the reef, and you perform a dive together with your instructor. You stay underwater for 30-40 minutes. Visibility underwater is 15-40 meters, it depends on the season and the place of diving. The cost is $70-120.

Water sports. Not every island has its own water sports centre. There you can usually hire a kayak, a wakeboard, a jetski; try parasailing, funtube, bananaride, windsurfing.

What transfer to choose?

There are several types of transfer in Maldives: a ferry, a speedboat, a private speedboat, a seaplane, and domestic airlines. Let’s consider their main advantages and disadvantages.

Public ferry

It is a big boat with a roof (you can also go to the roof). The average speed is 15-20 kmh.

Advantages:

+ cheap tickets ($1-15 one way per person);

+ if islands are located in one atoll, you can go to the neighboring island in the morning and get back in the evening.

Disadvantages:

– a ferry from Male to local islands and back usually runs 3 times a week. To some islands – every day;

– the travelling time is 1-10 hours;

– there is usually a situation that all tickets are sold. It is better to buy tickets in advance;

– a ferry can be canceled because of bad weather conditions (it also relates to speedboats).

So a ferry is a perfect option for those who want to save as much money as they can on transfers and to enjoy a voyage.

Speedboats

It run according to the schedule.

They are modern boats with roofs and 22, 30, 50 seats. Average speed is 60-70 kmh.

Advantages:

+ quick and comfortable;

+ run every day, to some islands – 3 times a week or several times a day;

+ comfortable seats.

Disadvantages:

– the cost ($30-110 one way per person);

– can be canceled and postponed to the following day;

– you can get seasick.

Private speedboats (on request)

The same speedboats, but run on request.

Advantages:

+ run at any time of the day;

+ perfect for a large group of tourists.

Disadvantages:

– rather expensive;

– can be canceled because of bad weather conditions.

Seaplanes

A small plane where 10-15 people can sit. They make a touchdown only by resorts, that’s why you’ll also have to hire a boat to your island. Your guest house can help you.

Advantages:

+ quick;

+ at a height you can enjoy stunning views over atolls.

Disadvantages:

– expensive;

– you have to hire a boat to get to your island;

– fly only in daylight hours;

– can be canceled if the weather is windy.

Domestic airlines

Nowadays 11 international and local airports operate in Maldives, some more are being constructed. Turboprops always perform flights between them. They have seats for 60-80 persons. 3 airlines are operating: Maldivian.Aero, FlyMe, Manta Air

Advantages:

+ quick;

+ don’t depend on the weather conditions;

+ fly often (3-5 times a day), also in the evening;

+ if the weather is fine, you can enjoy the stunning Maldivian views.

Disadvantages:

– expensive tickets.

What taxes are collected in Maldives?

Nowadays there are two types of taxes in Maldives: TGST (12%) and Service Сharge (usually 11,3% in guest houses and 8% in restaurants and cafes), Green Tax ($3 per person per day).

Note that all online booking systems (Booking, Agoda) do not include taxes in the total amount that are provided on their web sites.

They usually add only TGST to the cost of excursions.

If you pay by your credit card, 4% is charged. Before going to Maldives, contact your bank and ask whether there can arise any problems while paying by card. ATMs can be found not on every island. A service fee when withdrawing money from ATM is 150 rufiyaas, and it does not depend on the sum of money withdrew.

What to do in Male?

I’d like to say that you don’t need to stay there for a day/a night, it is not worth it. But if you have some time till your transfer, you can visit fruit and fish markets, pop in gifts shops and sit by the fountain on the main square.

All these places are marked on the map.

In general, the prices and the assortment in gift shops don’t differ much. However it is rather difficult to find original things that were made in Maldives. But it is still possible.

The majority of such shops are located along Chaandhanee magu street. A cafe where the USD exchange rate is 1:16,7 can also be found there. The exchange rate in gift shops is a bit lower.

Is it allowed to drink alcohol in Maldives?

Maldives is a Muslim country, so you’re not allowed to bring alcohol to the local islands and drink it there. If you bring alcohol in, it is confiscated, and you can have it back only when flying back home.

But at the same time you can drink alcohol on resorts, safari boats and in so called ‘floating bars’. Apart from that on Hulhumale in the airport region there is a bar in Hulule Island Hotel where alcohol is also allowed. But it is strictly forbidden for the locals.

Do you need a local SIM card?

In fact, the most important thing in Maldives is to keep in touch. So if you have time till you transfer, make sure you buy a SIM card of a local mobile operator (Dhiragu or Ooredoo). If you haven’t got time, at least activate SMS roaming. Give your telephone number to your guest house manager because they don’t always meet you at the airport or you maybe didn’t find him.

Why? Here are the most typical situations that can arise:

– your speedboat/ferry is canceled because of a bad weather. It’s likely to set off next day in the morning. All the details can be provided by your manager; he/she can also say where a guest house in Male is for you to stay;

– your speedboat breaks down, and your manager will offer you another one (if the one is available);

– Male departure point is changed. But it is quite rare;

– you miss your ferry. But still there may be a speedboat;

– all ferry tickets are sold. It is a common thing. Sometimes the locals help to buy some tickets, but at a very high price. Otherwise only a speedboat is left. They usually run after ferries, so don’t be afraid to be late;

– you have a problem; probably the locals can help you;

– a domestic flight is earlier/later. You’re informed 24 hours before the flight. You’d better be aware.

And some other situations.

All guest houses have Wi-Fi. All in all, the internet is good if you just use social networks, Skype, etc. But it is slow for watching serials online.

You can buy a SIM card of one of the two mobile operators in the airport. When you leave the Arrivals zone, turn right.

What souvenirs to buy?

Gift shops can be found on practically every island. The prices there are a bit higher that in Male, because they buy souvenirs in Male. Sometimes some local masters open their own shops on the islands. In this case the prices on some goods are lower.

A lot of souvenirs are made in China, so if you want to buy something made exclusively in Maldives, consult a shop assistant.

In the market you can buy coconut butter, sweet ‘bondi’ (made of coconut flakes) or ‘coconut jam’ (made of coconut juice).

#maldives #vacation #island #paradise

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islandii · 5 years ago

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Island Thoddoo

I have visited Thoddoo 3 times in the last 3 years. Not so regularly I visit it, unlike Rasdhoo or Ukulhas. But in recent years it has become mega-popular among tourists from Russia, Ukraine and the CIS countries.

The island is located 67 km west of the capital Male. And 20 km north of the administrative centre of North Ari Atoll – Rasdhoo. Thoddoo is a fairly large island by Maldivian standards – about 2 x 1 km. Moreover, a third of the island is reserved for farms, another third is the village, and the rest is the jungle. The population of the island is about 1400 people.

Unlike many other islands, it is located as if separately.

Beach and snorkelling on Thoddoo

Due to its size, Thoddoo offers magnificent beaches for tourists. Nowadays, there are two tourist beaches on the island located on opposite sides of the island.

Interesting fact: even in spite of its size, both tourist beaches are smaller in total than the beach on Ukulhas.

The first beach is located in the southern part of the island. It takes about 15 min from the nearest hotel to reach, the path passes through fruit farms. A great option, in this case, is a bicycle. Almost every hotel provides it.

The boundaries of the beach are conventionally marked by a fence of dry palm leaves. The beach is very clean and well maintained, but small. During high season it can be crowded. Therefore, everyone lacks sun loungers and hammocks (unlike Ukulhas, where there are much more). It’s very convenient to have a shower and toilet on the beach as well.

Tropical trees grow along the coast, through which numerous paths lead to the water. However, there is only one entrance to bikini beach. The sand itself is so white and you can walk on it without fear of cutting yourself on glass or dead coral. The water is clean and with almost no floating debris.

Thoddoo house reef is very long. However, there are not so many places for snorkelling. A small reef is located very close to the bikini beach. there are only a couple of corals and several species of fish. A truly beautiful reef with many fish (and even stingrays and sharks) is located off the coast – about 400 m.

I swam there without fins and don’t recommend it because you get tired while you swim back and forth. And if there is also a side stream, then spend all your energy while you swim to the reef. But it worth it. At the same time, from my own experience, I’d say the outer reef is not as rich of animals and fish kingdom as Rasdhoo. But corals are in better condition.

Never swim there alone! The currents can be very strong and you will not notice how quickly you move away from the coast!

The second beach is located in the north-eastern part – behind the stadium. From some hotels, it’s only 5 minutes walk. It’s smaller than the south beach, but there are also not so many tourists. There are sunbeds, hammocks for a comfortable stay. The advantage of this beach is the closeness of a house reef, which is only 200 m away. At the edge of the reef, I saw turtles, eagles and even manta rays! But not so many fish and sharks.

They say that on the beach you can see the fluorescent plankton! Unfortunately, I’ve never seen it, but I saw it at Rasdhoo and Adaaran Vaddhoo Resort.

The island is quite large and it will take a time to explore it on foot. Therefore, a good way is cycling. During morning or evening time you can easily go around the island and see what it is outside of the tourist beach.

Like other local islands, wildlife on Thoddoo is not very diverse. On the shore there are many crabs and hermit crabs of various sizes. I saw how hermit crabs used a coconut shell, glass bottom, a bottle cap. In general, what they find is used as a home.

You can find gray herons on the beach sometimes. If she likes you, she will let you to step closer. When it gets dark, you can see flying foxes sweep overhead. They are not dangerous to humans and eat fruits. From reptiles – small iguanas and very small geckos.

Well, mosquitoes, which are quite a lot on Thoddoo (depending on the season), unlike the neighbouring Rasdhoo. Therefore, stock up on repellents. Most of them are near plantations, and not everywhere, but only in some places.

What else to do on Thoddoo?

Snorkelling safari. There are two places for safari snorkelling: near Thoddoo and at Rasdhoo Atoll. In the first case, you will snorkel with turtles on a house reef. In the second case – visit three spots in Rasdhoo Atoll. What to choose? I would recommend both options because in this case you will see how diverse and amazing the underwater world of the Maldives is.

Visit uninhabited islands. They are next to Rasdhoo.

Local farm tour. Such entertainment you can provide by yourself or find a local who will tell you and show everything, or ask a manager at the hotel. Thoddoo is one of the few islands in the Maldives that exports fruits and vegetables to other islands. Papaya, watermelons, bananas, coconuts, etc. are growing here. If you want to pick fruits from trees, please, firstly ask permission from the locals.

Dolphin safari. An evening safari with a school of friendly dolphins that swim so close to the boat that you can try to touch them!

Manta ray snorkeling. Mantas are the largest rays on the planet. The span of their wings can reach 6m! They feed only on plankton, so you shouldn’t scarry about it. There is a cleaning station near Thoddoo, where mantas come. I was snorkelling and diving there. The second option is better because mantas prefer to swim in deep water.

Night fishing. Maldives is the place where everyone can try to catch fish using only the fishing line, hook and bait. Moreover, it is often ladies and children who are more successful than gents! Fish can be grilled at the hotel.

Scuba diving. Two dive centers are now open on the island. I highly recommend everyone to try diving in Maldives (no matter which island) because, after that, your thoughts about underwater world will change forever! The beginner’s course includes theory class, skill training in shallow water and the dive itself with an instructor.

If you are a certified diver, then I will disappoint you – all places for diving are in Rasdhoo Atoll. Therefore, if you have plans for diving, it’s better to take a few nights on Rasdhoo.

Infrastructure

The island has everything you need: a hospital, a school and a kindergarten, a gym and a football field. Two large mosques, one of which was built long enough.

The island has several restaurants and cafes where you can try local courses. I wouldn’t say there is huge price difference. More or less it’s the same. The food on Thoddoo, as well as on other local islands, is not very diverse. Rice, tuna, fried chicken, noodles with chicken, vegetables, etc.). Tuna and coconut milk soup. Pancakes with tuna and coconut. Casserole with tuna and rice, all kinds of tuna pies. And of course, a variety of fresh. On average, a dinner costs $US 10-10 pp.

Where to eat: in a hotel or in restaurants? It depends on the hotel, if you have a good chef, then in the hotel the quality of the food will be definitely better. In this case, the cost will be the same on average.

At local stores, you can buy fruits, juices, drinks, groceries and other necessary stuff.

If you look at Thoddoo on Google Maps, you will see that some hotels are located closer to the beach – Ari Heaven Thoddoo, Thila Farm View, Summer Stay Thoddoo than others. In fact, they are not located there, but in the village. Local laws do not allow building hotels only in a certain area located in the village.

Why is that?

Unlike many local islands, where tourism is developed, Thoddoo is a bit different. Many people on the island are doing farming and sell their products both to resorts and to the capital. Therefore, they do not want to give their land for the construction of another hotel.

Where to stay?

For the last 4 years, I’ve had an exclusive partnership (the best prices for accommodation and excursions) with Relax Residence. This is one of the first hotels on Thoddoo, and during this time they are constantly improving their reputation. Now they are No. 1 hotel on Thoddoo by reviews from Tripadvisor users and has a rating of 9.4 on Booking based on 180+ reviews

In addition to excellent service, Relax Residence is for adults only hotel. Children under 16 years old are not allowed to stay. Such concept is rare to see in Maldives.

The hotel has 2 blocks: a 3-floors building with a balcony and a one-floors block with a lounge area. Free water, tea, coffee, snorkeling kit, towels are provided.

Relax Residence is not the cheapest hotel on Thoddoo, but the quality of service provided is worth it.

Transfer To Thoddoo

Public ferry

Cost: $15 one way, per person (the traveling time is about 5 hours).

Departure from Male: every day at midnight (except Thursdays and Fridays).

Departure from Thoddoo: every day at midnight (except Thursdays and Fridays).

NOTE: as its private ferry it can go earlier or be cancelled.

Scheduled speedboat

Cost: $35 one way, per person (the travelling time is approximately 1 hour).

It’s available every day, except of Friday

Departure from Male to Thoddoo: at 11:00 and 16:00.

Departure from Thoddoo to Male: 07.00.

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islandii · 5 years ago

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Island Rasdhoo

Rasdhoo is the only island I’ve visited 10 (!) times in the last 5 years. The first visit was back in 2015, when a budget holiday was just started in the Maldives.

At that time there was very little information about local islands, but because of that island, I created a blog about local islands and later founded a travel agency to the Maldives.

Where is Rasdoo located?

The island is located in the North Ari Atoll, 60 km west of Male. The size of Island is approximately 500×600 m. Almost the entire territory of the island is built up. The population is about 1200 people. You would think like so many people can live on such a small piece of land, but in reality, you won’t even notice it.

Rasdhoo beach and house reef

At the moment, the beach on the island is not very large, about 100 m in length, which is not so much compared to Ukulhas or Thoddoo. However, during the season it’s packed by people. There are sun loungers for common use on the beach , which is very convenient. Entrance to the water can be inconvenient, especially during low tide, because in some places there is a lot of dead coral. Therefore, in order to avoid injuries, I advise you to wear special shoes (I personally do not do this because I have already walked in such places many times). If you don’t have shoes, it is best to swim right away.

Soon, hopefully, it will change because a joint project with the Indians involves cleaning the coastal area of debris and expanding the beach. Due to the coronavirus, all work is postponed, so if everything goes well, then by the 2020/2021 season the project will be completed. Let’s hope for the best.

The length of the house reef is about 1 km. In this case, you will see all the most interesting stuff on its outer side. The current is constantly changing: today it may not be, tomorrow you can only swim with flippers. If you are a beginner, then you have to snorkel only with a buddy for your own safety.

What you can see on the outer reef? Depending on the current and time of the year, on the reef you can see huge schools of reef fish, batfish, tuna, parrot fish; there are Napoleon fish and schools of barracudas. Rasdhoo is famous for its habitats of black and white tip reef sharks. And for good reason – in one place you can see up to 3-5 sharks, is this not breathtaking? These sharks are absolutely safe for humans and they scare you more than you do them. So when you see them, you can just freeze and watch them.

The most awesome experience while snorkelling was when I met a school of batfish. They were so friendly and close to me, that I could even touch them! Without any reason, they followed me around 100 m. ! I don’t know why they liked me, but it was extremely unusual and breathtaking!

Tip: if you want the fish / rays / sharks to come towards you, then do not make sudden movements do not try to catch them (anyway they are faster than you). Best of all is just to stop and wait.

Several turtles live on the reef and you can see eagle rays almost every day!

If all this staff can be seen on a house reef, then why you should take a snorkelling safari tour? It is a good question that you asked. That is why I advise you to take this tour.

Firstly, you will be taken to places where the water is more transparent, more live corals, more fish.

Secondly, there are places, for example, next to Veligandu resort, where you can see up to 7 (!) turtles and even manta rays! Mantas do not swim ashore because they prefer deep water.

Thirdly, with a high chance you will want to try scuba diving to see more. Perhaps this is a so-so reason for some, but diving opens you a truly new underwater world compared to snorkelling because corals and fish will be much closer and you can make out them in detail.

What else to do on Rasdhoo?

Perhaps the most breathtaking and amazing place I visited in the Maldives is the nearby chain of uninhabited islands and sandbanks. Every time I visit Rasdhoo, I definitely visit these places.

What is so unique about it? First of all, there is lagoon, where you can see a real 50 shades of blue with a beautiful reef in the center. A lot of fish live on the reef, which themselves swim up to you because they expect something delicious from you. They are already taught this. Therefore, if you still decide to feed them, then take a bit of bread in a plastic bottle and mix with water. But be careful, there can be a lot of them.

The second thing is ability to walk by water between these islands and sandbanks. There is some magic in the sandbanks because you are on a piece of land without any plants or palms in the middle of the ocean! Isn’t that fascinating?

The outer reef of the lagoon is rich in its wildlife and you can see sharks, stingrays and turtles. But there is always a current between Rasdhoo and lagoon, so I strongly do not recommend swimming alone there!

Dolphin safari

Between Rasdhoo and Thoddoo there is a place where a group of dolphins gathers in the evenings. They are very friendly and follow the boat. Sometimes they swim so close that you can even touch them (but you shouldn’t do that). But officially you can’t swim with them. You can try, who knows, maybe you are lucky and they will come to you.

Night / Morning Fishing

Usually, it’s still evening activity. No need to be a professional fisherman to catch a fish in Maldives. It is enough to have only reels and fishing lines. You can ask to cook caught fish at your hotel (in most cases this is free of charge, but depends on the hotel). Personally, I’m not a good fisherman, so I tried only once and caught a small snapper.

Romantic dinner

It can be arranged either on the beach or on a sandbank. Based on my experience, the beach is not very suitable for that, because there is almost always someone nearby.

For this reason, a sandbank will be the best solution. After all, there will be no one else except you. The maximum level of privacy is guaranteed!

Suba Diving

Rasdhoo is truly famous for its diving. It’s said, this area is one of the best in the Maldives. Seven (!) diving centres (nowhere else in the Maldives you can find so many centres on one island) offer to take a short training course and dive with an instructor. A great advantage of Rasdhoo is easy to access dive spots even for beginners. Even diving in 8 m depth will open you a new underwater world!

I made my first dive in 2015 near Kuramathi Resort. At that time I was wearing glasses but has dived with contact lenses. After that, I decided that if I return to the Maldives, I will do a LASIK correction and take the course. Just next year it happened. Now I have Rescue Scuba Diver certification, just only one step for a divemaster!

For certified divers, 17 spots are available. The most popular among them:

Madivaru Corner, one of the most famous dive spot in Maldives due to its excellent reef, a large number of fish (barracuda, batfish, Napoleon, etc.), sharks and stingrays. Every time you can see something new.

Caves. The farthest point from Rasdhoo. Drift dive with many caves at different depths. It features a wide variety of soft and hard corals. You can see a lot of lobsters!

Hammerhead point. One of the few places in the Maldives where you can see hammerhead sharks. Morning dive that starts at 6:00. Chance to see sharks 50/50. I tried several times – not lucky.

Manta point. Manta ray cleaning station. You can see up to 5 rays in one place. You can also snorkel at this point, but diving is much better.

Shark Point. Many reef, whitetip and blacktip sharks.

The perfect solution would be to take a package of 8-10 dives and dive into the most popular places. Up to 4 dives can be completed per day.

Therefore, I recommend everyone to try diving, after which your ideas about the underwater world will change dramatically!

For water sports lovers, a centre is open on Rasdhoo where you can rent a jet ski, wake / flyboard, kite surfing and more.

Rasdhoo Infrastructure

Rasdhoo is the administrative center of the North Ari Atoll. This means that the island has everything you need for life:

– groceries and hardware stores. There you can buy fruit and drinks, and also beach staff. It’s very convenient for those who left something at home. – gift shops. There are 6 gift shops on the island. There are lots of various souvenirs, everyone can find something to his liking. – several cafes. There are 4 local cafes (two more are coming) on the island, and what’s more, most of them are intended for tourists. – dive centres. There are 7 dive centres on the island. And one water sport centre – a bank;

– ATM (your can withdraw rufies only, the service fee is 100 ryfiyaas, and it doesn’t matter how much money you’re going to take out); – a branch office of the mobile network operator. – a hospital. They can help you in a case if you have got a minor illness. Otherwise, they’ll transfer you to Male by speedboat. – a post office; – a police station.

Where to stay?

There are a lot of places to stay, already about 30. The cost varies from $ 40 to $ 110 per night.

I always stay only at Shallow Lagoon Rasdhoo. And that’s why:

Firstly, this is one of the first hotels I’m working with since 2017. During this time, I organized holidays for clients from 40 countries to that hotel, and there were no concerns during that time. I also brought my friends here several times while I was living in the Maldives in 2016-2017. Everyone was satisfied.

Secondly, they are very responsible and easily go to meet customers (which is not so common in the Maldives), therefore they are always ready to satisfy any of your wishes. The staff is always nearby, so there is no need to look for anyone if you need anything. In this hotel you will feel like at home!

Thirdly, Shallow Lagoon Rasdhoo is almost the only example of a hotel that is developing and expanding. I work with 20+ hotels on local islands, so I can see the changes. For example, in three years they expanded their area by 3 times and now they have the largest garden on Rasdhoo!. They have their own free snorkeling kits, including life jackets. Free unlimited tea, coffee, water.

Fourth, they have a separate block, which is located on the beach, with an ocean view. No other hotel on the island can offer an experience like that. Soon they will finish another block near the main hotel. Thus, the total number of rooms will increase to 17.

Fifthly, they recently equipped a new kitchen and hired a chef from Sri Lanka, who used to work at Adaaran Rannalhi Resort (the vast majority of hotels can only afford Bangladeshi or local). Therefore, high-quality food is guaranteed!

Sixth, I have an exclusive partnership with them. This means that I can offer you the most attractive prices for accommodation, meals, excursions.

This hotel is above average price range and they used to work with agents directly (not through booking or agoda). But this cost is fully justified by the quality of service they provide.

Transfer to Rasdhoo

Public ferry

Rasdhoo to Male at 11:00 Every : Sunday , Wednesday

Male to Rasdhoo at 9:00 Every: Monday, Thursday

From Rasdhoo you can also take a ferry to the neighbouring Thoddoo or Ukulhas.

Scheduled speedboat

Runs daily, duration is 1 hour 20 minutes, price is $35 per person.

Male-Rasdhoo at 10:30 and 15.30 – 16.00, on Friday at 9:30 and 15:00

Rasdhoo – Male at 7:30 and 13:30.

Private speed boat

The traveling time is about 1 hour 20 minutes, the cost is $550-650.

Seaplane

The traveling time is about 15 minutes, the return ticket is $375.

#maldives

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islandii · 5 years ago

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Top 10 budget water villas in Maldives

Even the most budget water villas in Maldives are not as cheap as they might seem. The price starts at $ 300 per night (in June and July it can even be lower due to discounts), half board (breakfast and dinner) or full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner). On average, the cost is 40% higher than beach villa. But you get a unique opportunity to spend your vacation over a crystal clear lagoon with a private entrance to the water.

I’ve created a list of the most budget water villas in Maldives to simplify your choice.

You also need to consider that the transfer is paid separately and is not included in the villa cost. Therefore, the total cost will increase.

Embudu Village 3*

Price Range: $ 350 – $ 430/night/villa with full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

Transfer: 10 min by speed boat, cost – 88 $/person, round trip.

It’s a small resort and located just 10 km from the Airport. This resort is one of the most affordable in the Maldives in terms of price/quality, because without overpayments you get breakfast, lunch and dinner in the package. During high season, from Nov to Apr, it is very difficult to find a free villa, because they are all sold out at least 2-3 months before arrival. Therefore, if you are looking for a water villa, I recommend booking in advance. On the island there are only 14 water villas located in two blocks on the water.

The size of bungalow is 42 m2.

These villas do not have a private entrance to ocean, unlike similar villas on other islands. But there is a private terrace fenced from other rooms. The room has a glass window in the floor, so you can enjoy an underwater world without leaving your room!

Bathroom has a Jacuzzi, where you can enjoy a pleasant massage while drinking chilled wine.

The rest of the room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe and free wi-fi.

Reethi Beach Resort 4*

Price Range: $ 310 – $ 360/night/villa with breakfast

Transfer: 30 min flight by domestic airline + 20 min by a speed boat. Cost – $ 290 / person, round trip.

Reethi Beach Resort is medium in size and one of the most affordable resorts with water villa in the Maldives. There are only 30 two-dimensional water villas on the island.

The size of bungalow is 61 m2.

These villas do not have a private entrance to the sea for snorkeling. But still, you can leave your stuff on the beach and go swimming. The only problem with the resort’s water villa is that the bathrooms are in the back of the bedroom, so there is no ocean view. But there is a private terrace where you can enjoy pleasant views.

For the rest, the room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe and free wi-fi.

However, Reethi Beach is quite an old resort (for the Maldives) and the interior requires updates, compared to most new ones. Therefore, you should not expect something supernatural from a resort in this price range.

ATTENTION! From May 1, 2020 the hotel closes for renovation.

Sun Island Resort and Spa 4*

Price Range: $ 290 – $ 440/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 30 min flight by domestic airline + 5 min by a speed boat. Cost – $ 285/person, round trip

These water bungalows truly embrace the island life of Sun Island Resort & Spa, which has a very relaxed atmosphere. The resort itself is one of the largest in the Maldives both in terms of area and number of rooms.

Sun Island Hotel has 68 water bungalows located above the beautiful turquoise lagoon. These exclusive rooms are spacious and furnished with Maldivian-style furniture leading to a wooden pier, creating a feeling of secluded privacy away from the rest of the island. Take a look at the truly beautiful Maldives sunset from your personal terrace.

Room size is 64 m2.

Room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, TV (without a flat screen), safe and free wi-fi.

As in the case of other cheap resorts, a water villa has to be booked at least 2-4 months in advance before arrival. The villas are divided into blocks of two rooms, each of which has its own veranda. While water villas have private access to the ocean, they are quite far from the beach. Providing a unique experience of living on the island.

Fihalhohi Island Resort 3*

Price range: 435 – 545 $/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 70 min by speed boat. Cost – 160 $/person, round trip

Fihalhohi, although small and simple, but secluded and calm. It is a perfect place for those who want to relax away from noise. In the Maldives, a water villa is fully justified. Fihalhohi is an excellent place for honeymooners. This villa offers great views of sunrise or sunset.

The size of the villa is 64 m2.

Room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe.

The interior is made in a traditional Maldives style with a large number of wood elements, which gives a feeling of an eco-friendly place.

All water villas are separated from each other, which increases the level of your privacy.

Entrance to the bathroom goes through the loggia, so you can enjoy magnificent views of Indian ocean while enjoying champagne in the bathroom

The water villas at Fihalhohi Island Resort have private sun terraces with sea views and direct access to the crystal blue lagoon. This is a real natural world that you just can’t miss.

Thulhagiri Island Resort 3*

Price range: 300 – 385 $/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 20 min by speed boat. Cost – 110 $ / person, round trip.

The resort offers 34 detached water bungalows with views of either sunset or sunrise.

The size of the villa is only 34 m2. But at the same time, the room has two panoramic windows that create a cozy and bright atmosphere for complete immersion in the Maldives paradise. In addition, there is a small window in the floor to watch for fish. Each bungalow has its own private entrance to the water, isn’t that great!

Room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe.

The interior of Thulhagiri Villas is made in a traditional style with a large number of bamboo elements. Only a small number of resorts still can offer old-school Maldives atmosphere.

The resort offers the perfect balance of a pristine tropical island with its natural beauty and comfort.

Dreamland Maldives 4 *

Price range: 300 – 600 $/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 30 min. by domestic airlines + 20 minutes by speed boat. Cost – 260 $ / person, round trip.

The most outstanding and unique feature of this island, besides a fantastic white sandy beach, is a large freshwater lake with 1600 m2 area, which is built in the form of a biotope in the center of the island. This amazing lake with many water lilies and water plants has a swimming area where you can relax.

This picturesque lake is surrounded by 20-meter mangrove trees on one side and palm trees of the same size on the other. This island with a freshwater lake and rich vegetation is unique in the Maldives.

Dreamland Maldives offers a choice of 36 separate water villas with either sunset or sunrise views.

Bungalow amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe, free wi-fi, and bathroom amenities. In addition, an outdoor shower is at your disposal. Not every budget resort can offer such amenities!

The size of the villa is 71 m2. and each bungalow has its own private entrance to the water.

Villa interior is made in more modern terms using stone elements in the decor.

Reethi Faru Resort 5*

Price Range: $ 357 – $ 517/night/villa with breakfast

Transfer: 30 min. by domestic airlines + 20 min. by speed boat. Cost – 310 $ / person, round trip.

Reethi Faru is owned by the same company that operates Reethi Beach, but is newer and more modern.

The resort offers 44 detached water bungalows with a view of either sunset or sunrise. Each villa has a private entrance to the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean.

The size of the villa is 78 m2.

Spacious villas with a modern design that allow you to enjoy the Maldivian views as much as possible and offer a luxurious and unforgettable vacation. Located in a quiet location above the clear blue lagoon on stilts, these villas provide a true Indian Ocean experience. Let the sound of the waves floating softly below take you into a trance.

Room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, terrace, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe. In addition, you can enjoy an outdoor shower! There is also a window with a partial ocean view in the bathroom.

Summer Island 4*

Price range: 500 – 600 $/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 40 min by speed boat. Cost – 160 $ / person, round trip.

The main attraction of the resort is the world’s largest 3-D printed reef. It’s hoped that a new technological method will help coral reefs survive climate warming. The artificial reef is made up of hundreds of ceramic and concrete modules and will be new home for corals.

The resort offers 20 detached water bungalows with a view of either sunset or sunrise. Each villa has a private entrance to the crystal clear water of the Indian Ocean.

The size of the villa is 44 m2.

Room amenities include: air conditioning, hot/cold water, tea/coffee making facilities, terrazzo bathtub, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe. In addition, the bathroom has a window overlooking the ocean.

Angaga Island Resort 4*

Price Range: $ 302 – $ 470/night/villa with half board (breakfast and dinner)

Transfer: 15 min. by seaplane. Cost – $ 345 / person, round trip.

The resort has a magnificent house reef for scuba diving. Get ready to see the huge schools of sea bass, soldierfish, batfish and many others. Stingrays, sharks and turtles often come to the reef, and it is very likely that you will encounter them while diving around the reef.

The resort offers 20 detached water bungalows of Water Villa and 20 Superior Water Bungalow. There is big difference, except, perhaps, the size. The second category is cheaper, but its area is larger (65 m2 versus 56 m2 at Water Villa). Each villa has a private entrance to the water of the Indian Ocean.

The interior of Angaga water villas is made in the traditional Maldives style with a large number of bamboo elements. Together with the observation windows, all this creates a unique atmosphere of unity with the natural beauty of the islands.

Room amenities include: air conditioning, cold/hot water, tea/coffee making facilities, bathtub, floor observation window, terrace, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, flat-screen TV, safe, 180-degree view windows.

Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort 4*

Price range: 504 – $ 700/night/villa with “All inclusive” (breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, etc.)

Transfer: 45 min by speed boat. Cost – 210 $ / person, round trip.

I would call Olhuveli one of the best price/quality options. And it’s the only one in my list with All-Inclusive plan. In addition to food and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), it includes several excursions, discounts on SPA and more.

The second feature of the resort is a large number of villa types: beach villa, beach villa with pool, water villa, water villa with pool, etc.

In the budget type of water villas – Deluxe Water Villa – in addition to standard amenities, the bath has a huge window with ocean view. And on the terrace at your disposal is another bubble bath!

The size of the villa is impressive – 64 m2! Each villa has its own private entrance to the water, which is good news!

#maldives #holidays #vacation #ocean #luxury #resorts

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