Nobody has to be persuaded of the wonders of the Maldives. Swimming with whale sharks, living in an over-water villa, or having a picnic on your own private island all sound like heaven on earth experiences but it may be pricey. The Maldives is one of the most gorgeous and exclusive locations on the globe, but it’s not relatively inexpensive. Don’t cross it off your list just yet. Contrary to popular belief, it is feasible to visit the Maldives on a budget. Here’s how to go about it:

• Explore Inhabited Islands.

People normally think of the Maldives as a single place, but did you know that the tropical nation is really made up of multiple atolls, each of which has several islands? Malé is the capital of the Maldives and home to Velana International Airport. When choosing your lodgings, choose one that is closer to Malé because they are less expensive. local islands now have several hotels and guesthouses on the island that will provide you with a lovely beach view without breaking the budget. Fishing, snorkeling, and canoeing are popular activities, and there are even island mosques and lots of cafés where you may meet the locals! if you enjoy island hopping, you may enhance your local island experience by choosing an atoll with several islands and staying in a different hotel every 1-2 nights.

• Take the local ferry instead of the pricey seaplanes.

A seaplane journey might cost as much as your hotel room! Unless it’s an adventure you’re longing to do, keep your money for other things and take the local ferries instead. These local ferries operate 24 hours a day (except on Fridays) and typically cost between $5 to $10.

However, if you want to visit any of the less frequented islands, make sure to prepare ahead of time because boats only run two to three times a week. On days when the public ferries do not run, the public speed boats are reasonably priced at US$20 – $50 — still ten times less than Seaplanes.

• Consider traveling during the off-season.

The ideal time to visit the Maldives, weather-wise, is from November to April — but it’s also the busiest and most costly period to visit. Instead, travel during the low season, when hotels cut their costs in half and frequently throw in free transfers, free nights, boosts to better room categories, and upgrades from half-board to full-board. There is a greater risk of overcast days, the occasional squally rain, and choppier seas, although temperatures will stay in the high 20s.

• Instead of luxury villa resorts, choose guesthouses.

Staying in an over-water villa has obvious benefits, but they’re generally located on private resorts with nothing else to do unless you pay extra for that pricey day excursion out. Over the last decade, the number of guesthouses on inhabited islands has increased, with some offering exquisite accommodations at a fraction of the cost of a luxury resort. The room prices vary, but they are far less expensive than resort accommodations. You’re not only saving money for the more exciting activities on your trip, but you’re also helping the local businesses on the islands!

• Tours can be arranged with your accommodation host.

Guesthouses on less inhabited islands would normally assign you a host who will show you around the island as well as the family and friends who administer the business. They are also the ideal people to question about activities both on and off the island.

For US$50 or less, you may be escorted on a speed boat to your very own private island or rather sandbank, swim with whale sharks and manta rays, or even sign up for an introductory diving course – certainly the greatest way to see the Maldives. These experiences may appear to be expensive, yet they are a deal when compared to what you can enjoy at private island resorts.

Imagine the activities that you can enjoy just on a budget at the Maldives, exploring the picturesque landscapes it has to offer and trying out the tasty taste bud bubbling Maldivian Cuisine.