The  Maldives has long been perceived as a luxury destination and not for those on a limited budget.  However, a change of Government has meant that the country is starting to ‘open up’ and areas previously closed to overseas visitors are now beginning to offer alternatives to the cultivated and in some cases heavily manicured and even artificial, resort islands.

There are a considerable number of Guest Houses on the capital island Male offering reasonably priced accommodation, but Male itself cannot be viewed as a holiday destination.  Okay for a stopover and great for a half day visit, a longer stay may leave the holiday maker needing a holiday!  Also, beware the offer that seems to good to be true – it probably is.  Do seek advice on the forums before booking a particular Guest House on Male.  Some really are not for the faint hearted.

However, a longer stay at one of the newer Local Island Guest Houses, is an entirely different matter.  These are, ‘as it says on the tin’, Guest Houses specifically for overseas tourists, located on local islands, previously closed to international tourists.  They offer the opportunity to observe the ‘Real Maldives’ at close quarters.  Visitors live with and mix with Maldivian nationals.  They offer the opportunity to observe Maldivian life first hand.  A word of warning:  whilst not enforced on the more expensive Resort Islands, Muslim Laws have to be observed on Local Islands.  What does this mean? Well, no alcohol is available for starters, and ‘modest dress’ is required at all times.  So, no bikinis or other forms of swimwear, no see-thru clothing and shoulders and knees should be covered at all times.  Don’t be put off though.  Most (if not all) of these establishments will offer trips to nearby un-inhabited islands where swimming and sunbathing can be enjoyed ‘as normal’.

Is it worth it? If you want to experience the Maldives – the sun, the sand, the magnificent underwater world,   – and aren’t too bothered about fancy restaurants, bars and entertainment, then probably , ‘yes’.

However, do check very carefully:-

·         what is included in the daily rate – this may not be such good value as it at first seems, especially if the bed tax has to be added on

·         the mode of transfers and how much they will cost

·         the opportunities to leave the local island and how much these will cost

Remember:  On a Resort island everything not included in your board basis attracts 10% service charge and 3.5% GST.  Check whether this applies at the Guest House you are interested in. Published Guest House rates may not include the mandatory nightly bed tax.

Another great way to experience the ‘Real’ Maldives is to participate in a volunteer program. Volunteer Maldives is a well established pay to volunteer company registered in the Maldives and organises volunteer placements around the countre, which are on the local Maldivian islands.   The company is very well connected, and often can arrange visits to tourist islands for their volunteers at just a fraction of the price normally paid!

Be aware though, this is not a cheap way to get a holiday and Volunteer Maldives work very closely with volunteers and the communities they are on to ensure both parties benefit from what can be a very rewarding cultural experience. The have places for teachers, teaching assistants, sports and youth workers, and have just extended their programs to include placements within the Arts and Culture world of the Maldives – great opportunities for Students, ‘Gappers’ and professional taking a Sabbatical.

July 2011

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Travel-g293953-c161150/Maldives:Maldives.On.A.Budget.html