Cover image via bashtravel.netIt used to be that Maldives seemed like an unattainable holiday destination with a backpacker's budget. Things have changed and although budget travel is relatively new to Maldives, it can be done.
When you think of Maldives, you think of luxury resorts with overwater bungalows that come with a very hefty price tag. Although that is still true, the new regulations set by the Maldivian government has allowed guesthouses to open their doors to outsiders, thus providing travellers an affordable way to explore the beauty of the country.
Before we talk about financing your trip to the Maldives, here are some pertinent things to take note of before you set off on an independent travel there:
Information on Maldives is scarce. You'll need to stalk blogs, travel agencies, etc. for all the info you can get, otherwise planning can get tricky!
Maldives is a strict Muslim country and everyone, including tourists, are to comply with the sharia law unless you are in a designated tourist resort
Image via Globotreks
The best time to travel is when it's off-season, between the period of May to October
Image via Globotreks
Now with all this information at hand, here's a breakdown on the things you will be spending your money on:
1. Flight tickets. There's no other way to get to Maldives than to fly, which will cost approximately RM169 for one way.
Flying to Maldives shouldn't break the bank, especially with deals on flights out there. With AirAsia's latest route launch, you can afford to fly to Maldives from as low as RM169 for one-way all-inclusive, from Kuala Lumpur straight to Malé, the capital of Maldives. You can book your tickets [here](http://bit.ly/airasiamaldives).
2. Accommodation. Guesthouses or budget hotels will run you anywhere from RM95 per night and onwards.
There are hotel deals available on AirAsiaGo from RM179/night onwards. You can also find a selection of affordable hotels from other hotel providers.
Image via Happy Life Maldives
3. Transport. The best option for travelling between islands within budget is by ferries and one ride can be as low as RM1.37!
Image via Globetrotter Odyssey
4. Food. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine of fresh seafood, delicious curry, warm flat bread and more, with meal options at RM13 and onwards.
If you're lucky, the guesthouse you're staying at might provide you with breakfast. That's one meal all settled!
5. Excursions. You can go frolicking in the sun in your bathing suit and revel in five-star luxury by going on day trips to other island resorts.
Image via Kuramathi
So, how much will an independent trip for 5 days, 4 nights to Maldives cost?
Taking the 5 factors mentioned above into account, here's a rough summary of budget for a **5D4N** trip to the Maldives.
**1. Flight: RM506 and onwards**
AirAsia offers a one-way all-inclusive flight from KL to Malé at RM169, while the return fare is RM337. Don't miss out on this promotional fare, available from 21st – 26th July 2015. Get your tickets [here](http://bit.ly/airasiamaldives).
**2. Accommodation: RM380 – RM716**
With AirAsiaGo deals, you can get deals for RM179 per night. There is a range of guesthouses available in the many islands in Maldives, some as low as RM95 per night.
**3. Transport: RM3 – RM152**
Considering the frequency and distance you travel between the islands in Maldives, the cost of transport will vary. One ferry ride can as low as RM1.37, and if you're travelling further, it can be anywhere from RM11 to RM76.
**4. Food: RM200 – RM570**
This is taking into account of a total 3 meals a day, for 5 days, with decent meals of seafood, meats, curry, flat bread and more.
**5. Excursions: RM190 and onwards** *(optional)*
Going for excursions is completely optional and up to personal preference. They can take up a big chunk of your budget, so look out and compare prices offered at different guesthouses. Don't be afraid to shop around for the best bargain on excursions!
**TOTAL: RM1,089 and onwards**
*(this sum is not including the cost of excursions)*
In summary, you can easily go for a trip to the Maldives in under RM2,000, debunking the myth that Maldives is a luxury holiday destination. With a little bit of saving up, you can have a comfortable trip to the beautiful islands of Maldives and get the benefit of immersing yourselves in the local culture. You also don't have to miss out on the full experience of the beauty of this paradise, that many only dream of going.
