Maldives Travel Guide

Maldives is one of the best spots in the world known for its diving. It is usually considered to be expensive as well. But with the right information and knowledge, along with an adventurous soul, you can experience the best diving in Maldives without making your wallet cry.

For those planning to visit Maldives, whether or not you are a diver or snorkeler, you have to know a little bit more about it. It is an archipelago with over 1,000 islands close to Sri Lanka, all of which are filled with soft white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Like being in a tropical beach paradise, Maldives also has beautiful reefs and tons of marine life that is rarely ever found in other locations. There are over 80 resorts whose prices range from expensive to through the roof prices that you do not even want to imagine. Also, there are dive programs that visit the many dive sites where one can experience nature first-hand. Not everyone is up for these prices, but still want to go adventuring in Maldives, do not worry, here is a great help.

The best non-season months available are June and July. Although they are sometimes damp, it does not interfere with the sights of diving. Make sure to book early so that you have accommodations for your stay. Hotels are often the most affordable options, and are usually not that far off of the diving sites. There are a few hotels whose rates are below a hundred dollars, such as Mookai Hotel, Relax Inn, Central hotel, Kam Hotel and others you can find. If you are staying in Male, the capital of Maldives, then one has to take a boat ride from the airport in Hulhule. You could also stay in the guest houses available at Hulhumale and Vilinghili. If you like, you can find a resort and ask for a low rate and book on Thursday evening for the weekend.

If you are strapped for cash, then you can book into the hotel at the airport in Hulhule, which is inexpensive. You can experience a pool and a bar, which is not allowed in Male. Also, you can ask for help from the front desk with your diving trip.

Take advantage of a diving package. There are many diving places that offer affordable diving packages. One example is Ocean Dive Desk which is right near the ferry dock after arriving from the airport. These shops give you all the equipment you will need, although it is not brand new, it is functional. You will also have to help out the crew when you travel to go diving. These also have experienced dive masters who can bring you to the best places for diving. There are a lot of Europeans and North Americans at Maldives who dive along with you, which is helpful for company in Maldives. Not to mention, you can get your certificate for diving in the dive shops.

Fit in two dives per day. A close site to dive is Manta Ray, a station where Manta rays are cleaned. The Manta rays can be over three meters across and when you are so close, it is dangerous so be careful. Afterwards, you can take a dive in a scenic area with colorful marine flora and fauna. Without breaking your bank, you will have a great time.

Snorkel. When you are not diving, snorkeling is a great idea, since it is free. You only need fins, a mask, and a snorkel. You can do this at Hulhumale or Vilinghili, and observe the beauty of nature right in front of you.

Take a diving holiday on a safari boat. Here, you can try out night diving and diving whenever you want, not to mention visiting some places that you cannot find near Male. You can take packages that offer this, and if you want to get the best spots, then this is a great option for you.