🏝️ 5 myths about the Maldives: truth and fiction

Maldives… How many myths go around this paradise. For many, this is a pipe dream, because prices for tours are unusually high. However, deep down, many people want to spend their unforgettable vacation there. Is it really that expensive there, and is it really heavenly good? Today we will look for answers to these questions. Let's compare the myths about the Maldives and the real truth.

Perhaps only these myths are stopping you from vacationing on the islands from the Bounty advertisement? Then it’s worth dispelling them, and be sure to contact Tiqets.com for a tour selection.

First myth: The Maldives is accessible only to the richest

We are all used to thinking that only people with some ludicrous amounts of money can go to the Maldives. Ten years ago this is exactly what happened. Even now, if you choose resort hotels, then, of course, the price will go through the roof. But the rest here is just like in the pictures. Excellent service, snow-white sand on the beaches, polite and attentive staff, turquoise sea. In one word – a dream.

But what has changed that now many tourists can afford a trip to the Maldives? And the fact that now you can visit not only resort hotels, but also the islands on which the locals themselves live – the so-called local islands. This makes it possible for ordinary people to visit the Maldives, and not just oligarchs.

Where can locals stay on these islands? Nowadays, holidays in guesthouses and boutique hotels are gaining popularity. These are small hotels, but often very comfortable and authentic. It may seem that by staying in such a hotel you will not be able to experience the very atmosphere of the Maldives. But this is absolutely not true. It is also full of palm trees, a beautiful ocean and all other delights. Yes, there are differences in service and other amenities of expensive hotels. But you will be able to feel the atmosphere of the islands during such an economical holiday.

Sometimes you can wade from the local island to the island on which the resort hotel is located. But, of course, no one will allow non-guests into the territory. True, on some islands you can buy an entrance ticket for a day and experience a luxurious vacation.

Many people recommend the local islands of Maafushi and Guraidhoo. This is where you can find quite decent guesthouses at affordable prices. By the way, about prices. A holiday in the Maldives will cost approximately the same as a holiday in Thailand. The Maldives is also perfect for a family holiday.

Myth two: The Maldives are terribly boring

Just when you mention these paradise islands, the association that immediately comes to mind is boredom. Eternally lying on the beach, swimming in the sea, being on only one island. Of course, some people really like this type of vacation and, in fact, is the main purpose of the vacation. But activity lovers are probably worried that the Maldives are absolutely unsuitable for extreme sports and drive.

This is not entirely true. The Maldives is a place where both sun lovers and activity fans will find something for themselves. 

Some hotels on the islands do not even have television or internet. This was done intentionally to allow guests to truly enjoy the atmosphere of relaxation without being distracted by work issues. This option is perfect for those who want to reboot without stressing about the excursion.

For those who, on the contrary, simply love to be on the move every second, there is one piece of advice: do not choose only one hotel for your entire vacation. By moving to different islands, you will not only compare hotels, but you will also be closer to a variety of activities.

To enjoy your vacation to the fullest and not be disappointed, you need to study hotel concepts. There are those that are perfect for surfers. There are hotels with their own reef for snorkelers. Be sure to take a bike and explore the entire island up and down.

The main activities in the Maldives are surfing, snorkeling, yachting, fishing or a helicopter ride. The local fauna also deserves special mention. Many underwater inhabitants – turtles, fish, stingrays, small sharks. If you wish, you can go to the capital – Male.

By the way, Valentine's Day is coming very soon. And where, if not in a corner of paradise, can we celebrate this holiday?

The third myth: you need to choose water villas

Of course, we are all accustomed to the fact that the symbol of the islands is water bungalows. Just imagine: you woke up in the morning, stretched and immediately got into the water.

But, firstly, such placement may be more expensive. And secondly, there is no greenery around. But there is a unique view of the ocean 24/7.

There are a lot of advantages to staying in a room on the beach: palm trees and other greenery, a sandy beach, and the opportunity to walk around the island. In addition, many rooms have direct access to the beach.

The ideal option is to try to combine living both on the water and near the beach. 

Myth four: It’s dangerous to swim in the Maldives – there are sharks there

Probably everyone has seen a photo on the Internet with azure water and sharks in it. Naturally, this appearance scares many people.

Dangerous sharks are found in Maldivian waters – tiger sharks, longimanus sharks and hammerheads. But these species choose for their habitat areas that are located further from the coast and, especially, from people.

Sharks living in coastal waters are absolutely not dangerous. And especially if you don’t bother them. If you don't touch, they won't touch you. Small reef shark species may be found near the shore, but their size is only about a meter, as well as nurse sharks or guitar sharks. 

As you can see, not going on holiday to the Maldives because of sharks is an unacceptable excuse. After all, in any sea or ocean you can meet a fish that will look cute, but in reality, will not be so harmless.  

Fifth myth: in the Maldives it is forbidden to wear a swimsuit, because the local religion is Islam

It is worth clarifying right away that, in principle, only Muslims can become citizens of the Maldives, according to the Constitution. Residents honor their traditions and regularly go to the mosque. 

What about tourists? Some things are undoubtedly prohibited. And the first of them is alcohol. If you decide to go to a local island, then it’s better to completely forget about alcoholic drinks during your vacation. You won’t find it in restaurants or stores, and you won’t be able to bring your own. But there are ways to circumvent the ban, and they are completely legal.

The second prohibition is pork. And this rule will also apply to resort islands. Meats will include chicken, beef and fish. 

The third rule is swimsuits. On resort islands, sunbathing in a bikini is possible and even necessary. But on local beaches things are different. There are special beaches called bikini beaches, where you can sunbathe in a swimsuit. But walking around the island in a bikini is prohibited.

What about other religions? No one will say anything if you bring a cross or a Bible with you. However, you should refrain from discussing religion in public. 

The Maldivians themselves have long known that their country is an ideal corner. Therefore, they try in every possible way to maintain this ideality. The locals are very kind and sympathetic people. Therefore, you should not worry too much about strict rules. And considering the Maldives as a summer vacation option is a great idea.

Myth 6: The Maldives has great weather all year round

Like many countries, the Maldives has a season and an off-season, or rather, a dry and a wet season. The dry season lasts from October to April, and the wet season lasts from April to October, sometimes even until December. Accordingly, the low season is accompanied by heavy precipitation. Of course, no one wants to ruin their holiday with torrential rains. But it is during the wet season that this option is possible.

The temperature throughout the year is approximately the same – +25. Therefore, you won't be able to freeze. But, of course, in the Maldives, storms, rain, and wind are possible, but this does not in any way affect the crystalline water.

By the way, in the low season you can find holidays at lower prices. It's up to you to decide whether to take risks or not.

The Maldives is beautiful at any time – that's a fact. Go and enjoy it to the fullest, because the pictures should come to life.