The stunning interplay of vast azure seas, glimmering sandy beaches, and colorful sea life makes the Maldives an extraordinary destination. With more than a 1,000 islands, Maldives is perfect for scuba divers, nature admirers, and newly wedded couples looking for a place to relax in the sun.
However, tourists often make mistakes that could largely affect their travel experience. Don’t worry. In order to help you make the most of this slice of heaven on earth, we’ll highlight the common travel mistakes and tips on how to mitigate them.
Not Learning About the Culture
The Maldives have some of the most impressive examples of nature willing to take center stage, giving you plenty of reasons to forget about everything else that is equally important to know about this destination. Remember forgoing local formality might limit portions of Maldives which are known to give exquisite experiences.
Be Ready to Cover Up While on Local Islands
While private resorts along Maldives allow visitors to roam comfortably in swimsuits, island inhabitants like to see portions of ladies covered while maxi dresses, and loose pants or shirts are the most ideal.
Use Limitation To Allow For Expansion Consideration
Prayer is practiced widely in The Maldives and the business in the region stops during these times to cater to the needs of the locals. Showing up at a local business on the islands during these periods for activities may not be well received hence the local customs need to be respected.
Why It Matters
Familiarizing oneself while traveling to The Maldives not only enhances the trip experience but also ensures better engagement with locals as well as showcases consideration for one’s place in the world.
Focusing Only Luxury Resorts
You walk into your private island, adorned with overwater villas, luxurious infinity pools and everything imaginable… and that is when the reality sinks in – you are in a luxury bubble. Resorts, although breathtaking, have the potential to completely detach one from the glorifying culture of the Maldives.
Focus On Islands With Local Guesthouses
These local guesthouses are located on the islands of Maafushi or Thulusdhoo and guarantee a value for money. In addition to warm hospitality, many family-owned businesses organize unforgettable excursions like a visit to a sandbank or fishing trips.
Support Local Businesses
Local islands depend heavily on tourism and spending money there greatly benefits the community. Economically speaking, your travel is beneficial when it comes to consuming local delicacies such as mas huni, which includes tuna and coconut, or purchasing artisan crafts.
Why It Matters
Local communities in the Maldives offer unique cultures and traditions that are invaluable compared to staying at luxury resorts. They give great insight and knowledge about their maldivian culture not found within resorts.
Underestimating the Power of the Sun
While the Maldives may be a tropical paradise, it is essential to respect powerful forces like the sun. A common mistake made by many travelers is not having sun protection which turns a relaxing vacation to a painful experience of recovering from sunburns.
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Your best option is to invest in a high SPF reef-safe sunscreen. Coral reefs as well as your skin will appreciate it. Make sure to apply the sunscreen liberally while paying special attention to frequently reapplying after sweating or swimming.
Stay Chill
Bring along a wide-brimmed hat, flowing cover-ups, and sunshades to protect yourself from the tropical sun. Also, do remember to drink enough coconut water to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Why It Matters
Taking brushing care of the sun means enjoying your holiday without any effort- and, wont perfect memories of over-exposed shoulders and sunburnt noses haunt you in those Instagram-perfect shots!
Forgetting to Respect Nature
The Maldives is famously known for its unparalleled picturesque views, but that beauty is really not that robust. It is sad that tourism has this detrimental effect on nature that seems like it is going to live on forever.
No Littering, Please
Take a reusable water bottle, stop using plastic bags, and simply do not leave a mess behind. Most islands have trash cans which help keep the beaches clean, make use of them.
Save Coral Reefs
When snorkeling or swimming, do not touch coral reefs or try not to step on them since they are very sensitive. Work with, and through, sustainable-focused companies who value eco-responsible practices.
Why It Matters
Taking a considered approach to tourism means making sure that the spectacular biodiversity the Maldives offers remains for generations to come, letting one travel without remorse.
Heavy Bag Packing
While it may be tempting to pack clothes for every shore for which there is a picture on Instagram, this can be fallacious as it equate to packing heavy and unnecessary stress.
Pack Dress Codes For The Maldivian Islands
Clothes should be minimal, light, and airy. Swimsuits, cover ups, and sandals do the job. Don’t forget a book for the beach, reef eco-friendly sunscreen, and a waterproof camera.
Local Shops
For a sun hat or a sarong that you might have left behind, the beachfront shops sell these items. Form the community and local economy by shopping at these stores.
Why It Matters
Traveling in the Maldives is straightforward, so pack light and enjoy the luxury of island life
Experiences of Your Life
The Maldives is more vivid than any postcard, turquoise oceans filled with adventurous nature, friendly people, and luxurious places. If you avoid errors, your chances of fulfilling an adventure in wonderful are boundless.
Looking to get more insider information? Start packing for your trip of a lifetime and don’t forget to bookmark this page. It’s time to enjoy!
