Maldives Island Selection Guide｜Stay in a Glass Sea Paradise for Just 10K RMB per Person

### **The Ultimate Maldives "One Island, One Resort" Guide: Island Selection, Activities & Pitfalls to Avoid** **"One island, one world; one villa, one ocean!"** The Maldives is a pearl necklace in the Indian Ocean, composed of **1,192 coral islands**, each resort island following the exclusive **"one island, one resort"** model. How to choose the right island? How to make the most of your trip? How to manage your budget? This guide will answer all your questions and help you plan the perfect Maldivian getaway! --- ## **🏝️ 1. What is "One Island, One Resort"?** Maldives resort islands are typically developed by **a single hotel group**, with only one resort per island, offering **overwater villas, beach bungalows, private pools, and exclusive dining**. This model ensures absolute privacy and luxury, but it also means: ✅ **Pros**: Fewer crowds, personalized service, and abundant activities (snorkeling, spa, fishing, etc.). ❌ **Cons**: Higher prices, significant variations between islands, and potential pitfalls if you choose wrong. --- ## **🔍 2. How to Choose an Island? Match Your Needs!** ### **1️⃣ By Budget** | **Type** | **Per Person Budget (5D4N)** | **Recommended Islands** | |---------------|----------------|------------| | **Budget** | 10K-15K RMB | Kuramathi, Cinnamon Hakuraa | | **Mid-Range** | 15K-30K RMB | OBLU Sangeli, Furaveri | | **Luxury** | 30K+ RMB | Cheval Blanc, Soneva Jani | ### **2️⃣ By Preference** - **Honeymoon Picks**: Veelaavaru, Huvafen Fushi - **Family-Friendly**: Centara Grand, Ozen Reserve - **Top Snorkeling**: Park Hyatt Hadahaa, Angsana Ihuru - **Instagram-Worthy**: Radisson Blu, Joali Being --- ## **💰 3. Budget Control Tips** 1. **Travel in Low Season (May-Oct)**: 30%-50% cheaper than peak season. 2. **Choose "All-Inclusive (AI)"**: Covers meals, drinks, and activities to avoid hidden costs. 3. **Mix Local & Resort Islands**: - Stay on local islands (e.g., Maafushi) for cheap accommodation ($50-100/night) and join island-hopping tours. - Splurge on 2 nights at a resort for the overwater villa experience—best of both worlds! --- ## **🤿 4. Must-Try Experiences** 1. **Snorkeling/Diving**: Swim with manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks (best from Aug-Nov). 2. **Sunset Cruise**: Chase dolphins on a traditional dhoni boat with champagne—super romantic! 3. **Underwater Dining/SPA**: Like Conrad’s underwater restaurant. 4. **Private Sandbank Picnic**: A secluded lunch arranged by the resort, perfect for photos. 5. **Water Sports**: Transparent kayaking, flyboarding, sailing. --- ## **🚤 5. Transportation Options** - **Speedboat** (30 mins-1 hour): Budget-friendly, ideal for nearby islands. - **Seaplane** (15-45 mins): Breathtaking aerial views but pricey ($300-$500/person). - **Domestic Flight + Speedboat**: For remote islands (e.g., Park Hyatt Hadahaa). --- ## **🏨 6. Resort Recommendations (Unique Picks)** 1. **Park Hyatt Hadahaa** - **Highlights**: Top-tier snorkeling, pristine ecology, ultra-private with 50+ rooms. - **Ideal for**: Divers and travelers seeking tranquility. 2. **Soneva Jani** - **Highlights**: Waterslide into the sea, retractable rooftop, ultra-luxury. - **Ideal for**: Honeymooners and those with generous budgets. 3. **RIU Atoll (Twin-Island Stay)** - **Highlights**: All-inclusive, ~¥7K/4 nights per person, great value. - **Ideal for**: Families and young couples. 4. **Hard Rock Hotel** - **Highlights**: Music-themed, lively parties, 15-minute speedboat transfer. - **Ideal for**: Fun-loving travelers. --- ## **📅 7. Classic Itinerary (5D4N)** **Day1**: Arrive in Malé → Speedboat/seaplane to resort → Check into overwater villa → Sunset cruise **Day2**: Snorkeling lesson → Coral reef exploration → Spa relaxation **Day3**: Island-hopping (local culture) → Fishing trip **Day4**: Private sandbank picnic → Water sports (kayaking, windsurfing) **Day5**: Check out → Half-day Malé tour (fish market, mosque) → Departure --- ## **💡 8. Travel Tips** ✅ **Internet**: Some resorts charge for WiFi; buy a local SIM (Dhiraagu). ✅ **Tipping**: $1-2 for luggage, $5-10 for butlers (optional but appreciated). ✅ **Cultural Etiquette**: Avoid bikinis on local islands; resorts are lenient. ✅ **Eco Rules**: No coral/shell collecting; some islands ban plastics. --- ### **✨ Final Words** There’s no "perfect" island in the Maldives—only the one that’s "perfect for you"! Choose based on budget and preferences, book 3-6 months ahead, and save by traveling off-peak. Save this guide!