Maldives on the cheap – what the travel agents don’t want you to know about!

The Maldives, with its turquoise blue waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious overwater villas, is a dream destination for many. However, it is often perceived as an expensive holiday destination that only the wealthy can afford. While it is true that the Maldives is a luxury travel destination, it is also possible to explore the Maldives on a budget.

By booking your own flight and hotel – you can experience the Maldives on a budget! Whilst you won’t be staying in a luxury all inclusive resort (alcohol may not be available) – you will be able to recharge your batteries and see the beauty of this island nation.

Rihiveli Inn

Set in Veymandoo, Rihiveli Inn offers accommodation with a private beach area, free WiFi, free shuttle service, and full-day security. The property features garden and quiet street views. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a picnic area.

All units come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with free toiletries, bidet and shower. For added convenience, the property can provide towels and linens for a supplement. The units at the guest house feature air conditioning and a desk.

Buffet and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fruits are available every morning at the guest house. Guests may eat in the on-site family-friendly restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch and high tea.

The area is popular for cycling and walking tours, and bike hire is available at Rihiveli Inn. The accommodation has a barbecue and a garden.

Rooms from £10 a night (per person)

Travel Beach Maldives

Travel Beach Maldives is a beachfront guest house in Hangnaameedhoo, offering guests a sustainable accommodation with scenic sea views. Boasting a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a picnic area. The guest house has family rooms as well as facilities for disabled guests.

Accessible via private entrance, all units have air conditioning, soundproofing, desk and a private bathroom with a shower. The units have a kettle, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box and free WiFi, while some rooms also offer a terrace and some have sea views. At the guest house, every unit has bed linen and towels.

The guest house specialises in a continental and Asian breakfast and breakfast in the room is also available.

Sightseeing tours are available close to the property. Travel Beach Maldives has a garden to relax in after a busy day, along with a private beach area.

Rooms from £13 a night per person

Ci-Ritorno View

Ci-Ritorno View is located in Maafushi in the Kaafu Atoll region, 26 km from Male City. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.

Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hairdryer.

Rooms from £14 a night per person

Addu Paradise Inn

Set in Midu in the Addu Atoll region with Eedhigamoolu Beach nearby, Addu Paradise Inn offers accommodation with free private parking. The air-conditioned accommodation is 2 km from Herathera Island Beach.

The homestay is fitted with a flat-screen TV. Towels and bed linen are offered in the homestay.

Rooms from £15 a night per person

Return flights can be booked from £490 return on ManchesterTravelShop.com