Overview of the Maldives The Maldives consists of 1192 coral islands, with only 200+ inhabited. Home to the world's most beautiful reefs and rich marine life, it is known as "God's necklace scattered on earth." Each resort island operates independently, offering options ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. Whether you're a honeymoon couple, a family traveling with children, or a diving enthusiast, you'll find your own paradise here. Island Selection Guide: How to Find Your Perfect Island With 160+ resort islands to choose from, selecting the right one is the most critical decision for independent travelers. Here are recommendations categorized by needs: By Budget - Budget (per person: ¥8000-15000): Local islands like Maafushi and Thulusdhoo, or 3-star resorts such as Embudu Village and Fun Island. Ideal for travelers on a tight budget. - Mid-range (per person: ¥15000-30000): Centara Grand, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. Great value with comprehensive amenities. - Luxury (per person: ¥30000-60000): Conrad Maldives, Anantara Veli, Six Senses Laamu. Overwater villas with private pools for an ultimate experience. - Ultra-Luxury (per person: ¥60000+): Cheval Blanc Randheli, Velaa Private Island, Soneva Jani. Celebrity favorites with dedicated butler service. By Purpose - Honeymoon Favorites: Kandolhu (small, chic, private), Baros (classic romantic), Milaidhoo (design-forward). - Family-Friendly: Club Med Kani (all-inclusive + kids club), Hard Rock Hotel (music-themed + teen activities), Kurumba (established family resort). - Diving Mecca: Maaya Thila (top dive site), Ari Atoll (whale shark sightings), South Ari Atoll (manta ray aggregation). - Snorkeling Hotspots: Vilamendhoo (coral gardens nearby), Waldorf Astoria (artificial reef restoration), Dhigali (Grade A snorkeling). Getting Around: How to Reach Your Resort Island From China, fly first to Velana International Airport in Malé (MLE), then transfer via: - Speedboat: For islands near Malé (30 mins–1.5 hrs). Lower cost ($50-150/person one-way). Best for budget and mid-range resorts. - Domestic Flight + Speedboat: For medium-distance islands. Flight time 30-60 mins + boat transfer. Cost $200-400/person one-way. - Seaplane: Standard for distant islands. Flight time 30-60 mins; the aerial view of the atolls is part of the experience. Cost $400-700/person one-way. Note: Seaplanes operate only during daylight hours (approx. 6:00-16:00). Overnight stays in Malé are required for late flights. Important: Most resort transfers must be booked through the resort and cannot be arranged independently. Confirm inclusion and costs when booking your room. Best Time to Visit - Dry Season (11–4): Peak travel season. Sunny skies, clear water, calm seas—perfect for diving and water sports. Prices are highest, especially around Christmas and New Year. - Wet Season (5-10): Southwest monsoon brings rain and waves, usually in short bursts that don't disrupt the whole day. Prices drop to 50%-70% of dry-season rates, offering excellent value. Ideal for surfers. - Shoulder Season (End of 4-Start of 5, End of 10-Start of 11): Unpredictable weather but moderate prices. Lucky travelers may catch the tail end of dry-season conditions. Accommodation Types Explained - Beach Villa: Built on the sand with direct beach access. Typically spacious, ideal for families. Costs 30%-50% less than overwater villas. - Water Villa: Built over the water, connected by a jetty. Jump straight into the sea from your balcony or view fish through glass floors. The iconic Maldivian experience. - Water Villa with Pool: An overwater villa featuring a private infinity pool for enhanced privacy and comfort. - Guesthouses on Local Islands: Stay in places like Maafushi for $50-150/night. Experience local life, but respect dress codes and cultural norms. Dining Plans - BB (Bed & Breakfast): Breakfast only. Other meals are extra. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers or those planning off-island activities. - HB (Half Board): Breakfast + Dinner. The most popular option; lunch can be handled with casual dining on the island. - FB (Full Board): Three meals included. Convenient, though beverages are typically charged separately. - AI (All Inclusive): All meals, drinks, and select activities included. Standard at brands like Club Med. Often more cost-effective than paying per meal. Money-Saving Tips: Food and drink prices on resorts are 3-5 times higher than outside. If choosing BB/HB, bring snacks and drinks. Affordable restaurants are available on local islands. Must-Try Water Activities - Snorkeling: Most islands provide gear free of charge. Explore coral gardens, swim with turtles, and encounter manta rays. - Scuba Diving: PADI certification courses range from $100-200; discovery dives cost $80-150. The Maldives offers world-class dive sites. - Fishing Trips: Sunset or deep-sea fishing. Catch-and-cook dinners available. Approx. $80-200/person. - Sunset Cruises: Ride a traditional dhoni to watch the sunset, often accompanied by dolphins. Approx. $50-100/person. - Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, etc. Equipment rental is free at some resorts. - Spa: Overwater spas offer unique relaxation with ocean sounds. Prices range from $100-300/session. Practical Tips - Visa: Chinese citizens enjoy visa-free entry for 30 days upon arrival. Bring hotel confirmation and return flight tickets. - Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted; all resorts settle in USD. Carry small bills for tips. - Tipping Culture: Bellhop $1-2/bag, Butler $5-10/day, Restaurant $1-2/meal, Dive Instructor $5-10/session. - Sun Protection: Intense equatorial sun requires SPF0+ sunscreen. Use reef-safe products to protect marine ecosystems. - Internet: Most resorts offer free WiFi, though speeds vary. Consider buying a local SIM card (Dhiraagu/Ooredoo) beforehand. - Environmental Rules: Collecting coral/shells, feeding fish, and using single-use plastics are prohibited. Violations may result in fines. - Local Island Etiquette: As Muslim communities, cover shoulders and knees in public areas. Bikinis are restricted to designated beaches. - Booking Timing: Book 3-6 months in advance for Early Bird discounts. Last-minute deals (within 2 weeks) occasionally appear.