A dream trip to the Maldives: how to avoid mistakes that will increase your expenses

The Maldives fascinates travelers with its pristine white beaches, bright turquoise water, and expensive resorts. Many tourists book a trip to these islands, which are located in the warm Indian Ocean, for a honeymoon or a once-in-a-lifetime trip because of the high prices.

Fortunately, there are ways to save money on a trip to the Maldives. For example, visit local islands where hotels are cheap but alcohol is prohibited, or find a good deal online, such as the 50% off offer offered by Destination2.Experts shared their tips for booking a vacation to the Maldives with the DailyStar, saying that people make a number of big mistakes before heading there.

You should plan your trip to the Maldives carefully, as this island nation doesn't always work the way many other, larger countries do. Getting to the different atolls and resorts can be tricky as they are not as close to each other as you might think. Also, when you're on an isolated island, you can't just run to the store for something you might need or hop in a taxi to another hot spot.If you plan how you'll get to the resort and how you'll be able to meet all your needs - from food and drink to entertainment - then your trip will be memorable. But if you don't, you could end up wasting a lot of money.

Nadine's tips can save vacationers a few pounds - airfares in February are now around £200 cheaper than during peak tourist season, so it's time to think about booking a bargain winter vacation in the sun. Check out her guide to the most common mistakes to avoid.

Mistake 1 - refusing to go all-inclusive

Nadine notes: "Many people believe that half-board or all-inclusive hotels are an unnecessary luxury. There is a perception that you end up paying more for food and drinks that you won't actually consume, so people try to book the cheapest hotel.

"In fact, since most hotels in the Maldives are located on private islands, if your reservation does not include meals, you will most likely have to pay out of pocket for food at the hotel restaurant or other establishments on the island. Many all-inclusive packages include perks such as free water sports and unlimited drinks, so it's really worth it."

Mistake 2 - not booking a transfer

The expert adds: "The Maldives is known as a paradise island, but many clients don't realize how isolated each island is and how far apart hotels can be. I've seen many cases where people have booked excursions, such as diving, and then gotten stuck without transportation (or paid extremely inflated prices for transfers during the day).

"I always recommend booking a hotel with airport transfers included, at the very least. Many resorts we work with also provide transportation and help with day trips, which can save money," the expert advises.

Mistake 3 - seaplane versus speedboat

"When it comes to hotel transfers, it's important to check what kind your resort offers," says Nadine. - "Depending on the location and type of resort, some only offer seaplane or speedboat transfers - so once you've booked your room, you won't have the option of choosing how you'll get from the airport. Make sure you check what your hotel offers in advance and plan how you will get around."

Mistake 4 - no taxis!

She adds: "Since you don't have to think about public transportation or traffic rules like in other countries, many people don't think about transportation at all when it comes to vacationing in the Maldives. But in fact, it's very important to think in advance about how you will get from island to island or on exciting excursions. You can't just call a taxi if your destination is on the other side of the Indian Ocean. Be sure to talk to your travel agent or hotel about organizing transfers and transportation before departure - this way you will arrange everything and you will not have to worry. Only sun, sand and relaxation with a cocktail!"

Paradise destinations that are not inferior to the Maldives

Of course, there are great alternatives to the Maldives for those who don't want to spend so much. One Greek hotel boasts overwater bungalows that are much cheaper than those in the Maldives, and it has been dubbed the "Maldivian experience in the Mediterranean."

The Maldives is known for its perfect white sand beaches, but it actually has a lesser-known rival that is just as beautiful and less crowded all year round. Less than 5,000 people come to the Marshall Islands because they are not a typical vacation destination, but they certainly have all the qualities necessary for that. We're talking soft sandy beaches, swimmable turquoise waters that are the stuff of Instagram dreams, palm-lined trails, amazing food, and friendly locals.