How to choose a Maldives resort without overpaying

The resort you choose in the Maldives decides your entire trip, because you cannot casually change islands. Three things drive both cost and experience: how you get there, what you eat, and what is under the water outside your villa. Speedboat resorts are cheaper to reach and let you arrive at any hour. Seaplane resorts are further out, more scenic and add a significant per-person cost — and they only fly in daylight. On meals, half board is the sweet spot for most couples. All-inclusive only pays off if you drink, or if the resort is far from any alternative. Finally, ask about the house reef. A resort with a good one gives you a free activity every single day. Without it, snorkelling becomes a paid excursion every time.