The Maldives is more than a luxury escape. It’s a chain of nearly 1,200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, each one a dot of white sand and palm trees floating in endless blue. Some islands hum with resort life, others are quiet fishing villages where the rhythm of the day is set by the tide.
The real magic here isn’t just the overwater villas—it’s the silence when you're snorkeling above a coral reef, the soft sand between your toes, and the color of the sea changing with every cloud that passes. The Maldives invites you to slow down and just be.
Why Go to the Maldives?
Because sometimes, doing nothing is exactly what you need. This is a place where the days unfold gently. Wake with the sun, swim in warm clear water, eat grilled fish on the beach, and fall asleep to the sound of waves.
It’s not just for honeymooners. It’s for anyone who wants to disconnect from noise and reconnect with nature. And if you look past the resorts, there’s real island culture here too—mosques made of coral stone, boat builders shaping dhonis by hand, and local markets filled with coconut sweets and dried fish.
Whether you stay on a private island or a local one, the Maldives shows you how beautiful simplicity can be.
Must-See Spots in the Maldives
Maafushi
One of the most popular inhabited islands for budget travelers. Great for diving, local food, and guesthouses right by the beach.
Male
The tiny capital city. Dense, colorful, and lively. Visit the fish market, local mosques, and the waterfront for a dose of urban island life.
Vaadhoo Island
Known for the “Sea of Stars” effect, where bioluminescent plankton light up the shore at night. A surreal experience.
Ari Atoll
Famous for diving and snorkeling. Swim with whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant schools of reef fish.
Dhigurah
A long, narrow island with sandy paths, friendly locals, and access to some of the best marine life in the Maldives.
Fulhadhoo
Remote, peaceful, and postcard-perfect. No crowds, just quiet beauty and clear water.
What to Eat in the Maldives
Mas Huni
A traditional Maldivian breakfast made with shredded smoked tuna, coconut, onion, and chili. Usually served with flatbread called roshi.
Garudhiya
A fragrant fish broth eaten with rice, lime, and chili. Light, warm, and comforting.
Fihunu Mas
Grilled fish seasoned with a spicy Maldivian marinade. Usually served beachside and best eaten fresh.
Hedhikaa
Maldivian short eats. Try bajiya (tuna-filled pastries), gulha (fried tuna balls), and keemia (spiced fish rolls).
Bondibaiy
Sweet sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and sugar. Served during festivals and family celebrations.
Essential Travel Tips for the Maldives
Best Time to Visit
Dry season: November to April — calm seas, clear skies, and perfect beach days.
Wet season: May to October — more rain, but also fewer tourists and better surf.
Money & Payments
- Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
- Cards: Widely accepted at resorts and most guesthouses
- Cash: Useful on local islands for shops and ferries
- Tipping: Not required, but appreciated—especially for helpful staff or boat crews
Getting Around
- Speedboats and ferries connect many islands
- Seaplanes serve far-off resorts
- On local islands, walking is the main way to get around
- Plan transfers in advance—they may not run every day
Staying Safe
- The Maldives is very safe for travelers
- Respect local customs, especially on inhabited islands (modest dress, no alcohol)
- Reef-safe sunscreen is essential—coral health is delicate
Staying Connected in the Maldives
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and guesthouses, but it can be slow or unstable, especially on remote islands. Roaming with your home provider can be expensive and unreliable.
Getting a local SIM means visiting a shop in Male or the airport, showing ID, and sometimes buying prepaid credit. It’s not always convenient—especially if you’re hopping between islands.
JetSet eSIM makes it easy.
Activate your Maldives JetSet eSIM before landing and stay connected the moment you arrive. Whether you're navigating ferry routes, sharing a reef dive photo, or calling your guesthouse from the dock, JetSet eSIM keeps you online without stress.
You don’t need a resort to stay connected. Just a signal and JetSet.
