Tourism / Maldives
Discover the Maldives on a budget
Affordable tourism is set to increase arrivals after 'guesthouse' policy opens new islands
Chinese tourist relaxes on the beach
Travelers can now experience the Maldives’ idyllic paradise for under $100 a night. The guest-house business in inhabited islands was legalized in 2009 and the regulation is now being extended. The “one island, one resort” policy was relaxed and accommodation sprung up on not only “resort islands” but also on local islands – ever since the number of affordable rooms has increased at an average annual rate of 60 percent.
Due to the proximity to the airport of the capital city, Malé is most commonly used for overnight transits. Its neighboring islands are therefore often forgotten. Guesthouse tourism is changing this. Hulhumalé, Villingili and Maafushi are cheap and easy to access, offering low-cost stays.
Guests arriving in Hulhumalé discover a one-kilometer beach, cobalt-blue lagoon and rich choice of water sports centers. The absence of vehicles gives Villingili a laid-back atmosphere; its diving centers and restaurants near the two beaches offer both activity and calm. The largest collection of guest-houses however is on Maafushi. The island offers a bikini beach, live music and a more festive experience.
Tourists looking to spend a little less will also have the chance to see Maldivian culture up-close. This full immersion in Sunni Muslim communities does mean the sale of alcohol is prohibited, however many islands offer day trips to cocktail-selling resorts.
Affordable tourism is expected to grow fast as the government opens more islands to similar projects on the Laamu, Haa Alif and Addu atolls.
