A first-timer's guide to the Maldives

The Maldives rewards a little planning. Because each resort is an isolated island, you cannot simply wander out for dinner or a cheaper coffee — so the choices you make at booking time really matter. Here are the essentials.

1. Understand board types

This is the single biggest budget lever. Meal plans are quoted as:

• BB (bed & breakfast): breakfast only. Cheapest headline rate, but you pay for every other meal — and island restaurants are expensive.
• HB (half board): breakfast and dinner. A popular middle ground.
• FB (full board): all three meals.
• AI (all-inclusive): meals plus most drinks and some activities. Often the best value in the Maldives precisely because you cannot leave the island to eat.

A cheap BB rate can end up costing more than an all-inclusive once you add meals and drinks. Always compare the total, not just the room price.

2. Budget for the transfer

Seaplane transfers can add several hundred dollars per person. Factor this in before you fall for a distant resort — see our transfers guide.

3. Watch for taxes and fees

Maldives resorts typically add a Green Tax (a small nightly per-person fee), a service charge and GST. Reputable booking platforms show these before you pay — another reason to always confirm the final total on the platform.

4. Pick your atoll for the right reasons

Closer atolls mean cheaper, more flexible transfers; farther ones mean seclusion and often better diving. Our atolls guide breaks down the trade-offs.

5. Compare the same villa across sites

The exact same room, for the exact same nights, is regularly cheaper on one platform than another. This is the easiest money you will ever save — and it takes seconds.