I’ve Been to the Maldives 15 Times: What First-Time Visitors Should Know
From seaplane baggage limits to resort etiquette, here’s how to avoid common surprises and make the most of your Maldives trip
Whenever I touch down in the Maldives, I pinch myself. Sliding doors open, and a floor-to-ceiling view over impossibly turquoise waters hits me first, followed by the big smiles of resort ambassadors ready to whisk me away to an overwater oasis.
The Maldives has long been a once-in-a-lifetime destination for honeymooners and couples celebrating milestone occasions. Its far-flung locale in the Indian Ocean and bank-breaking price tag make this a one-and-done destination for most Americans. As a Maldives expert, I’m lucky enough to have visited more than 15 times, staying at 48 different resorts.
But this small island nation isn’t the cookie-cutter beach experience you’re used to. Here’s everything you need to know before you embark on the dream vacation of a lifetime.
What to pack
While you may be tempted to stuff as many outfit options into your suitcase as possible, less is more in the Maldives. A carry-on may seem crazy for such a long-haul trip, but if you’re transferring to your resort via seaplane, travelers are typically limited to 44 pounds of checked luggage and 11 pounds of hand luggage.
Once you’re on your private island retreat, you only need beach attire and maybe some flip-flops. Some resorts, such as Gili Lankanfushi Maldives and Soneva, even encourage a no-shoes policy on the island.
A few casual evening dresses or linen outfits are also recommended for dinner. And, of course, sunscreen is a must. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to help protect fragile corals against bleaching caused by chemicals found in regular sunscreens. If you’re worried about forgetting something, every resort has a boutique that sells necessities, albeit overpriced.
(Note: Because the Maldives is a constitutionally Islamic country [Sunni Islam] with strict Islamic rules, travelers are forbidden from bringing alcohol into the country. Any alcoholic items stashed in suitcases will be confiscated upon arrival. Alcohol is, however, served at all the private island resorts.)
Check your paperwork
Americans get a visa on arrival when they touch down in the Maldives. However, since the pandemic, travelers are required to complete pre-arrival immigration form (called IMUGA) within 96 hours of arrival and again before departure.
This form is free, so avoid third-party websites that charge a small fee to submit it on your behalf. You’ll need to enter your passport details, your resort or accommodation information, and any current illness symptoms. Once submitted, a QR code will appear; be sure to save it, as you may be asked to show it upon arrival.
Not your average arrival process
When you land at Velana International Airport, your journey to paradise isn’t quite over. From the airport, you either transfer directly by speedboat to your resort or head to the seaplane terminal, a short 10-minute private car ride away.
Some of the country’s top resorts are just a speedboat or yacht ride away, such as Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, and JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. Most resorts require a 35- to 90-minute seaplane ride or short domestic flight.
After baggage claim, travelers enter the main hall where a sea of resort attendants wait with signs identifying the name of their resort. Once you spot yours, they’ll take your luggage and escort you to your transfer.
Speedboats are typically both faster and more affordable than seaplane transfers, but the aerial views of the Maldives’ string of islands from the seaplane are part of the once-in-a-lifetime experience. The downside is that travelers may have to wait up to four hours for their seaplane transfer. The upside is that each resort has its own private lounge in the seaplane terminal with comfortable seating, snacks, drinks, and sometimes even massages.
Island rules
When you finally reach your private island resort, it can feel like the strict rules of the country no longer apply. Guests typically have access to a wide range of imported goods, including alcohol, cigars, cigarettes, pork, and other items that are restricted elsewhere in the country.
Privacy is paramount at these high-end escapes, so drones are generally not allowed. Topless sunbathing is also a no-no, and collecting seashells from the beach or the ocean is actually illegal, as it harms the delicate beach ecosystem.
If you are staying on a local island, Islamic customs and regulations apply. There are designated “bikini beaches” where visitors can wear bathing suits, but elsewhere it’s respectful to keep knees and shoulders covered in line with local norms.
Tipping culture
Given its status as one of the world’s most luxurious travel destinations, most five-star resorts come with a personal butler or villa host service. A common guideline is to tip up to 10% of the cost of your stay. For housekeeping, leaving a tip of $2 to $10 per day is also common.
Across resorts—including all-inclusive and four-star properties—a 10% service charge is often added to bills at booking or checkout. Any additional tips are optional and much appreciated, especially for housekeeping staff, your favorite waiter, or standout bartenders.
Although I’ve traveled to the Maldives more than any other country on Earth, every visit to this stunning island nation still feels special. I’m currently planning my 16th visit, but trust me, the Maldives never gets old.