5 Things We Used in the Maldives & 3 We Didn’t

Maldives Packing Hacks: What We Used & What Didn’t

Packing for the Maldives can be tricky—you want to be prepared without overpacking. After visiting 4 Maldives local islands and 1 resort islands, here are five things I actually used and three that stayed in my bag.

✅ 5 Things I Actually Used

1. Full-Sleeve Sun Protection Shirt - The Maldivian sun is strong and this lightweight shirt kept me cool while protecting my skin during snorkeling and beach walks.

2. Sunblock (High SPF) - An absolute must. Whether relaxing on the beach or on a boat trip, sunblock was essential every single day.

3. Crocs Sandals - Comfortable, waterproof, and perfect for sandy beaches and rocky paths. On our boat tour, we left them on the dock in the open sun for 6 hours and still didn’t find any damage from overheating.

4. Light Portable Foldable Backpack - Ideal for carrying essentials during day trips without feeling bulky.

5. Mini Flashlight - Dhigurah’s roads were pitch black at night with no street lamps. This small flashlight was a lifesaver for evening walks.

❌ 3 Things I Didn't Use

1. Mosquito Repellent - I packed 5 bottles expecting trouble, but mosquitoes were barely an issue. We only used one. The rest I gave to hotel employees on different islands.

2. Extra Coffee & Brewing Gear - Every island had plenty of coffee shops and hotel rooms offered complimentary coffee. Our Tim Hortons coffee and filters stayed unused.

3. Rain Jacket - The Maldives rain comes in short bursts and clears quickly. We carried our rain jackets everywhere but never needed them.

What I Would Do Differently Next Time

Packing smart for the Maldives means focusing on sun protection and practical essentials. Leave behind the "just in case” or excess items. Instead, bring what you'll truly use—like a good sunblock and even a mini flashlight for those quiet island nights. We would still carry our light foldable rain jacket next time but the rest of the items we didn’t use won’t make the cut. The Maldives is all about simplicity, so travel light and enjoy paradise.

12 Surprising Maldives Secrets Every Traveler Should Know

12 Maldives Facts You Didn’t Know

When you think of the Maldives, you probably imagine overwater villas, endless tuna dishes, and heavy rain during the monsoon season. But after spending two weeks exploring the local islands, I discovered that many common assumptions about the Maldives are completely wrong. Here are 12 surprising realities that will change how you plan your trip.

 1. Solo Female Travelers Are Safe and Thriving

Despite what some blogs and videos claim, the Maldives is generally safe for solo female travelers. I met many young women exploring the local islands without any issues. The community vibe and hospitality make it a welcoming destination.

 2. You Won’t Be Eating Tuna All Day

Yes, tuna is a staple in Maldivian cuisine, but don’t worry—you won’t be stuck eating it for every meal. Local cafés and guesthouses serve a variety of dishes, from flavorful curries to fried rice and even Western options. I barely ate tuna during my trip!

 3. Mosquito Myths Are Overblown

Before my trip, I stocked up on mosquito repellent, expecting swarms on the islands. In reality? There was hardly any mosquitoes. Sea breezes and clean surroundings keep them away, so don’t overpack repellents.

 4. Rainy Season Isn’t Really “Rainy”

I visited during the southwest monsoon (May–October), expecting constant rain. It rained only once in two weeks—and just for a short burst. Booking in the rainy season can save you a lot of money without sacrificing good weather.

 5. Most People Working Aren’t Maldivian

Here’s something few people know: the majority of workers in resorts and guesthouses are from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Stores, groceries, cafes, restaurants, construction, and everywhere else most of the people we met were from Bangladesh. We found local employees only on tours and diving.

 6. The Maldives Is the Flattest Country on Earth

With an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, the Maldives is the world’s lowest-lying nation. This unique geography creates stunning horizons but also makes the islands vulnerable to rising seas.

 7. Local Islands Offer Authentic Culture

Luxury resorts are beautiful, but the local islands give you a real taste of Maldivian life—family-run cafés, traditional dhoni boats, and cultural music like Bodu Beru drumming. Plus, staying on these local islands is far more affordable.

 8. Freshwater Comes from the Ocean

There are no rivers or lakes in the Maldives. Drinking water comes from desalination plants that convert seawater into fresh water—a fascinating sustainability practice you’ll notice everywhere.

 9. You Can’t Go Wrong with Any Island

Every single one of the Maldives’ 1,190 islands is a coral paradise with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. There’s truly nothing else like this in the world—there are no “bad” islands here. Whether you choose a resort or a local island, the beaches will blow your mind.

 10. You Can Save Big in Off-Peak Season

Traveling during the rainy season or staying on local islands can cut your costs by up to 50%. Combine that with fewer crowds and mostly sunny weather, and you’ve got a smart travel hack.

 11. Sharks, Manta Rays, and Whale Sharks Are Gentle Giants

The Maldives is one of the few places where you can swim alongside incredible marine life without fear. Reef sharks don’t eat humans, manta rays don’t bite, and even the humongous whale shark peacefully shares the water with snorkelers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and found only in the Maldives.

 12. Everyone Speaks English

Another thing about the Maldives is that everyone speaks English – even the kids. Also, I was shocked to have a conversation with them finding out that they are fluent in English and do not have a thick accent that many other countries have where it’s difficult to understand.

 Final Thoughts

The Maldives isn’t just about luxury resorts and postcard-perfect beaches—it’s full of surprises that make it more accessible and enjoyable than most people think. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a budget explorer, or someone seeking authentic culture, these insights will help you plan a smarter, more rewarding trip.

Best Budget Island in Maldives - Local Island Dhigurah Travel Guide

Maldives Under $100/Day? Dhigurah Island Budget Travel
Dhigurah vs Maafushi vs Ukulhas | Which Maldives Island Is Best for You?

Forget the five-star, thousand-dollar-a-night resorts. This is Dhigurah—the best budget island in the Maldives, where you can swim with whale sharks, walk a massive sandbank, and enjoy the full experience for genuinely under $100 a day.

If you’ve looked into local islands, you’ve definitely seen Maafushi and Ukulhas. I've been to them all, and I'm telling you right now: Dhigurah is the undisputed winner. It delivers the best mix of world-class marine life, beautiful beaches, and true value for your trip.

You want the specific costs, so let’s get straight to the numbers. We’re starting with the full, detailed Budget Breakdown—your exact costs for accommodation, transport, and food—so you can start planning right now.

The Full Budget Breakdown

Let's start with the biggest expense: where to sleep. You can comfortably stay here in a clean, modern guesthouse for $60 to $90 per night. I personally stayed at Tides Dhigurah for around $100 per night.

Food is where Dhigurah differs. Because it has fewer local restaurant options, the food prices are slightly higher. You should expect a hearty dinner at a local café to run you $12 to $18—a bit higher than other islands. This is the crucial trade-off you make for the tranquility and the unique marine life experience.

Now, let's talk transport. The boat transfer to Dhigurah is the most expensive and time-consuming because it’s the furthest. A one-way speedboat costs about $80 US and takes nearly 2 hours. For comparison, Maafushi is just 25 minutes for $25, and Ukulhas is $50 for 1.5 hours. Yes, Dhigurah is pricier to reach, but you can opt for the local ferry if you have time, although service is limited and takes much longer.

So, what's the grand total? If you factor in the slightly higher transport and food costs, but only book one excursion, your all-in daily spend is genuinely around $100+ a day.

Must-Do Activities & Experiences

This is the main event: Whale Sharks. Dhigurah is famous for them because it borders the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area, giving you the highest concentration and the unrivaled chance in the world for year-round sightings. Here is the full cost of the Whale Shark Tour (around $50 to $80) and the best time of day to book it—always go for the half-day trip.

Dhigurah’s crown jewel is the massive sandbank at its tip. This sandbank is unparalleled among all local islands. It stretches into the ocean like a private runway of white sand. Go at low tide for the best photos and bring water—it's a long walk, but it’s worth it.

And yes, Dhigurah has an incredible Bikini Beach. It’s long, spotless, and separate from the local village, so you can relax comfortably. This island truly delivers the resort feel without the resort price tag.

The Comparison

The question everyone asks: Dhigurah vs Maafushi? Maafushi wins on transport cost and food price, but Dhigurah wins on unparalleled experience. You cannot find the massive, unparalleled sandbank or the highest concentration of whale sharks anywhere else in the budget islands. Dhigurah is a higher quality experience that justifies the extra travel cost.

Ukulhas is a good alternative, but its bikini beach is smaller, and it doesn't have the famous Dhigurah Sandbank. When you factor in the easy access to whale shark tours, Dhigurah just offers a stronger, more complete package for the budget traveler.

Essential Tips & Conclusion

Before you go, here are three tips that could save your trip and your wallet:

1. The ATM Trick: There is only one reliable ATM here, located near the main ferry dock. Take out cash immediately upon arrival.

2. Ferry Timing: The speed boat schedule changes often. Always confirm your return time directly with the operator 24 hours before you plan to leave.

3. Local Eats: Lots of restaurants and cafes on the island. You wont miss any food.

Is Dhigurah the Best Budget Island in Maldives? For what it offers—whale sharks, an incredible sandbank, and low prices—absolutely. It's the clearest winner.

Toronto to Niagara Falls by Train: A Scenic VIA Rail Journey

How to Travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls by Train

I have traveled to Niagara Falls many times, but never had a chance to take a train. So I was excited to try VIA Rail to get there for the first time. If you're looking for a relaxing and picturesque way to travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls, VIA Rail offers a compelling alternative to driving. I documented the full experience—from Union Station in downtown Toronto to the iconic falls in my video linked below.

The journey begins at Union Station, a historic and bustling hub that connects travelers across Ontario and beyond. Boarding the VIA Rail train is seamless, with comfortable seating, ample legroom, and large windows that frame the scenic countryside. As the train glides past Lake Ontario and through charming towns like Oakville and St. Catharines, passengers are treated to a tranquil escape from city life.

This train (called Maple Leaf) is a cross-border train jointly operated by VIA Rail and Amtrak, running between Toronto and New York City. It’s serviced by VIA Rail within Canada and after crossing the border into the United States, Amtrak takes over operations en route to Niagara Falls and beyond.

One of the standout features of this trip is the affordability and convenience. Tickets can be booked online and the train leaves at 8:20 AM from Toronto. The onboard amenities—clean restrooms and various dining options—add to the comfort, especially for those traveling with family or gear.

Upon arrival in Niagara Falls, the station is just a short cab or bus ride from the main attractions. Whether you're headed to the falls themselves, Clifton Hill, or one of the many restaurants and casinos, the train drops you close to the action without the hassle of parking or traffic.

For travelers seeking a stress-free, scenic, and sustainable way to reach Niagara Falls, VIA Rail delivers. Watch the full video on my YouTube channel to see the journey unfold in real time.

How to Take the Train to Niagara Falls from Toronto

FlixBus Ride from Niagara Falls to Toronto: Budget Travel in Style

Exploring Ontario by Bus: FlixBus Trip from Niagara Falls to Toronto 

In my past travel video, I reviewed my journey from Toronto to Niagara Falls on VIA Rail Train. Today, I will take a firsthand look at one of the most budget-friendly and scenic ways to travel from Niagara Falls to Toronto—two iconic Canadian destinations.

The trip began at Table Rock Centre, a popular tourist hub near the falls. Table Rock is pretty much the centre of Niagara Falls attractions. The FlixBus terminal was easy to locate and boarding was straightforward. While FlixBus is known for its affordability, the experience was surprisingly comfortable. The bus was clean, punctual, and offered a smooth ride throughout the journey.

One notable aspect of this trip was the leased Galaxy Tours bus used by FlixBus. While it lacked headrests and power outlets, the seating was adequate for the short ride. The absence of seat selection might be a downside for some, but for spontaneous travelers like me it wasn’t a major issue.

As we departed Niagara Falls, the scenic views of the countryside and small towns added some charm to the ride. The journey took approximately two hours, ending at Union Station Bus Terminal in downtown Toronto. Despite being a budget option, FlixBus delivered a reliable and efficient service. The trip took about an hour and a half.

This video is part of my ongoing effort to share real, unsponsored travel experiences. I don’t use affiliate links or paid promotions—just honest reviews to help fellow travelers make informed decisions. If you find my content helpful, you can support me via PayPal or through a Super Thanks on YouTube.

Whether you're a local exploring Ontario or a tourist looking for a cost-effective way to travel, FlixBus is worth considering. Watch the full video here to see the journey unfold.

Trip Report: FlixBus Niagara Falls To Toronto🍁