🇲🇻 10+ Trips to Maldives – Brutally Honest Advice
🏝️ Island Selection 1️⃣ Budget Rules Sweet spot: 5-6★ resorts (~¥10k in low season) Luxury islands (¥20-30k) exist... but avoid PEAK season! 🚫 2️⃣ No Perfect Island Prioritize TOP 3 needs (even ultra-luxury has flaws!). 3️⃣ Rainy Season? Luck > Forecast May-Sept can be wet... but I’ve seen bluest skies in July! 🌦️ 💡 Hidden Dealbreakers 4️⃣ Overlooked Factors: Service quality (makes/breaks your trip!) Chinese-speaking staff (if English is shaky) Lush vegetation = shade + privacy 🌴 5️⃣ Meal Plans: GO AI (All-Inclusive)! Even water costs extra on some islands. HB (Half-Board) if you’re light eater + love excursions. ⏰ Timing Hacks 6️⃣ Flight Strategy: Arrive AM + Depart PM = Max island time! 7️⃣ Booking Window: 1-2 months ahead = Best deals + room options. Exception: Top-tier resorts (e.g., Joali, Waldorf) → Book 6mo early! 💰 Money-Saving Secrets 8️⃣ Agents > DIY 99% cheaper + avoids "¥80 Coke" island prices! Pro tip: Haggle with multiple agents! 9️⃣ Resort vs. Local Islands Activities 1/3 price on local islands... but avoid obscure ones (safety first!). 🧳 Packing Musts 🔟 Bring EXTRA swimwear/clothes – humidity = nothing dries! 🩱 🌊 Final Truth "Maldives isn’t ‘cheap’... but smart choices make it worth every penny!" #MaldivesSecrets #LuxuryForLess #IslandHacks 🌴