Tasha, who has been travelling the world for two years, recently visited the Maldives and was left amazed by the paradise islands – and how affordable they can be
A savvy traveller has taken to TikTok to share how to enjoy the Maldives on a budget, proving that paradise doesn’t have to cost the earth.
Tasha, a seasoned explorer who’s been trotting the globe for two years, unveiled the truth about affordable Maldivian adventures, stating: “Why don’t more people know this about the Maldives? And that is that you don’t have to be a millionaire to visit here.”
Keen to share her knowledge, Tasha explained that swerving the costly private resorts in favour of cosier, more economical options is the key.
Reliving her visit to Dhigurah, one of the archipelago’s local islands, she called it “just the most beautiful island paradise surrounded by palm trees and blue water”.
This scenic bliss could slash your trip expenses by half since digs can be scooped up starting at just £50 per night – a fraction of the overwater villa prices often flaunted online.
Tasha divulged: “There are hundreds of local islands that you can choose from.”
She explained how public ferry transportation is a bargain at merely £1, and pointed out beachfront accommodation deals starting at around £50 per night; local fare can be found at about £5, while outings are pegged at £50, astonishingly less than resort equivalent excursions.
“I don’t know why more people aren’t discovering the local island of the Maldives, because this is the way you can discover paradise on a budget,” Tasha gushed enthusiastically.
She continued: “So next time you’re thinking of a tropical island getaway, forget Thailand, forget the Philippines, Maldives needs to be number one on your bucket list.”
Tasha did point out some constraints when visiting local islands, like the requirement to dress modestly and avoid alcohol due to the Maldives being a predominantly Muslim nation with specific public decorum.
Opting for a private beach or island allows for a more laid-back vibe and lenient rules, but be warned – it comes with a heftier price tag.
Tasha’s insider info has struck a chord with other globetrotters; comments poured in with one travel enthusiast sharing, “I loved Dhigurah! So gorgeous,” and another chimed in, saying, “Dhigurah is the best place. I miss it so much!”.
One commenter expressed surprise: “I had no idea. Always wanted to go to the Maldives but thought it wouldn’t happen for a long time.”
While yet another grateful wanderer added: “Maldives is honestly so amazing, thanks so much for the tips.”
How to do Maldives on a budget
1. Go off peak – The Maldives’ off-season is from May to October, which overlaps with the monsoon season. Although you might experience occasional rain, you can enjoy significant discounts on flights, accommodations, and activities.
2. Stick to local islands – Instead of staying at luxurious private island resorts, opt for budget-friendly guesthouses or boutique hotels on inhabited local islands. Popular local islands for budget travellers are Maafushi, Dhigurah, Fulidhoo, Thoddoo, and Hulhumalé.
3. Take the ferry – The Maldives has a reliable ferry network connecting Malé (the capital) to local islands. Public ferries are incredibly affordable, costing as little as £1 per trip.
4. Eat like a local – Skip the pricey resort restaurants and eat at local cafés (called “hotaa”). Traditional meals cost around £5. Traditional Maldivian dishes include mas huni (tuna and coconut), fish curries, and roshi (flatbread).
5. Book affordable trips – Excursions (like snorkelling, diving, or sandbank trips) from resorts are usually quite expensive, but guesthouses on local islands offer budget-friendly packages starting at about £20-£50 per activity.