Destination Guides
Maldives
Maldives Beach
The Maldives is the definition of a barefoot luxury escape, overwater bungalows, private island resorts, and some of the clearest water in the world, with almost every trip built entirely around a single resort stay. Warm weather holds year-round, though the dry season (November-April) brings the calmest seas and best visibility for snorkeling and diving. A 5-7 day resort stay is the standard trip length, since the appeal is relaxation rather than sightseeing. Because Maldives resorts vary enormously in style, price, and atoll location, an advisor's firsthand knowledge of which property actually matches a couple's or family's expectations is essential, this isn't a destination to book based on photos alone.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Maldivian culture is Islamic and relatively conservative outside the resort islands.
Friendly greetings: A warm, polite greeting, handshakes between men are standard.
Dress respectfully: Resort islands allow swimwear at the beach and pool, modest dress is expected on local inhabited islands.
Dining times: Standard resort dining hours, many resorts operate on an all-inclusive or meal-plan basis.
Local customs: Alcohol is only available on resort islands, not on local inhabited islands, which follow Islamic law.
Transportation and timing: Seaplanes or speedboats transfer guests from the airport to resort islands, a notable part of the arrival experience.
Practical tip: Confirm resort transfer type and cost when booking, seaplane transfers can be a significant added expense depending on the resort's location.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: Maldivian dried tuna or a jar of local chili sauce.
For the Fashionistas: A sarong or beach cover-up from a resort boutique.
For the Home: A piece of lacquered wood art, a traditional Maldivian craft.
Suggested Gratuities
Private Tour Guides: $20-25 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: $10 per person
Taxis/Boat Transfers: Not typically applicable, resort transfers are pre-arranged
Restaurants: A service charge is often included at resorts, add a little more for great service
Private Drivers: Not applicable
Housekeeping: $3-5 per night
Porters: $2-3 per bag
Spa Staff: 10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa, US dollars widely accepted at resorts
Language: Dhivehi, English widely spoken at resorts
Transportation: Seaplane or speedboat transfers from the airport to resort islands
Weather: Warm and humid year-round, dry season November-April is calmest
Walking: Resort islands are small and easily walkable, often barefoot-friendly