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Maldives Vs Thailand
The traction that the Asian Subcontinent receives when it comes to planning and spending an exotic summer-y holiday is off-the-charts with a plethora of absolute stunners.
And in this blog post, we are discussing two of the most admired locations – The Maldives and its opponent Thailand.
So hold tight as we end an age-old debate on the Maldives Vs Thailand and which one is better with its scenic pleasantries, sultry beaches, culture and adventures.
Both The Maldives and Thailand are countries in the South-eastern region of Asia that are deemed as honeymooners trove, with the former being an island nation consisting of 26 atolls and the latter having 76 provinces.
The two countries bear many similarities than differences when it comes to the climate, vibrant topography, thriving marine life and shorelines, among more, and yet they offer something unique and exclusive to its visitors, making it quite the task to pick one among The Maldives Vs Thailand.
And on that note, we will dive into some crucial comparisons and other good to know information about The Maldives Vs Thailand that may help you make a more sound decision for your upcoming vacation.
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Visa and Getting There
The Maldives:
One does not need to meet a pre-approved Visa to gain entry in the Maldives. Visitors containing a valid passport with up to 6 months validity, a return ticket and other identification documents can get an on-the-spot entry visa for 30 days.
Besides this, travellers can catch a direct flight to the International Airport in Male (MLE), the Maldives from all the major metropolitans in India, like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru etc. with flight carriers like – Air India, Sri Lankan Airlines Emirates Airways and others.
Suggested Reads: Places to Visit in Maldives
Thailand:
On the other hand, one would need a pre-approved Visa from their native country (in this case, India) to get an entry in Thailand. The procedure for obtaining a vacation visa is easy and would not take any more than 3 days.
After which, you can show all the necessary documentation like a valid passport, photographs and any other important documents upon arrival at the airport in Thailand to enjoy a leisurely vacation.
Just like the Maldives, there are regular and direct flights operating from all metro cities in India with carriers like Thai Airways, Emirates Airways, Air India, Air Asia etc. to Thailand.
There are a total of seven International Airports, namely – Bangkok, Samutprakarn, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Hat Yai and U-Tapao.
Note: With the Tourist visa one cannot work in either of the two countries during the time of their stay.
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Travel Costs and Currencies
Although the cost of travel is somewhat similar for both the Maldives Vs Thailand, it is Thailand whose flight fare will still cost you more conveniently even during the peak-season trips.
The Maldives:
The overall airfare expenses for a one way trip to the Maldives can range anywhere between 20,000 – 25,000 INR per person. All the local inland travels between the different atolls from boats, ferries, and domestic flights would charge separately.
The official currency accepted in the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). Alongside this, USD is also accepted as a monetary tender throughout the Maldives.
Suggested Read: Maldives Tour Package
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Thailand:
The airfare to Thailand from India for one way can cost anywhere between 10,000 – 15000, INR per person, depending on when and with which company you make the bookings. The flight tickets aside, local travel in buses, metros, boats, tuk-tuks etc. would cost you separately and fairly cheaper compared to the Maldives.
The official currency accepted in Thailand is the Thai Baht (TBH) which is also the only accepted form of monetary exchanges.
Tip: To save big on the tickets, it is best to make advanced bookings way ahead of the trip. Another thing that can be done is an off-season trip so you can enjoy a budgeted vacation.
Note: There are many currency exchange outlets in both the countries, it is best to get the conversion done from authenticated places, banks and hotels you are staying at.
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Weather and When To Visit
The two countries have somewhat likely climates so you can choose either or both for your vacation at different times of the year. And this segment of the Maldives Vs Thailand ends with a tie.
The Maldives:
The Maldives has mainly two seasons – warm and dry summers, and humid monsoons that comprise the entire year.
Being on the southern end near the equator, the consistent climate in the country is tropical with almost no change in the temperatures. The wet season in the Maldives lasts from May till October with an average recorded rainfall of 200mm.
And the dry season follows from November to April with the highest temperatures reaching 29-30 degrees celsius. This is also the best time to plan your international rendezvous.
Suggested Read: Maldives Honeymoon Packages
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Thailand:
Much like the Maldives, Thailand is also a tropic realm that experiences the wet monsoon season from October to April consisting of sombre skies and frequent downpours.
Meanwhile, the dry season starts from May to September with cool breezy evenings and bright, clement days having an average temperature of 30-31 degrees. If arranging a sojourn in Thailand, summers would be the best ideal time for it.
Language
The Maldives:
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, used by the locals. However, due to the expanding travelling market, many in the hospitality business and otherwise have adopted the English language for better communication with tourists.
Suggested Read: Resorts in Maldives
Thailand:
The official language spoken in most parts of Thailand is Central Thai which is a dialect. There is also a Southern, Northern and Lao dialect used by the locals in some provinces of the country. Furthermore, with growing tourism, the natives, particularly the younger generations can verse well in English.
Expenses
Due to the sheer options and variety, it’s Thailand that takes a point for this round of The Maldives Vs Thailand.
The Maldives:
The Maldives holds an image of being this whimsical island that might end up running dry of your expenditure.
And you CAN get that here if you want your holiday to be lavish and flashy with an average spending of 1000 – 1200 USD for one person a day on accommodation, meals, drinks, a few activities and the transportation.
But if you are on a more stringent vacation budget then think more like 75 – 100 USD per person a day for all the aforementioned necessities and facilities, and you will still get your fanciful travels.
Suggested Read: Water Villas in Maldives
Thailand:
It is definitely a more practical option to visit Thailand instead of the Maldives for our economical trotters as the bargainous accommodations, eateries, public transportation, and other experiences can cost around 30-50 USD per person for a day.
And while Thailand is obviously the cheaper place to visit among the Maldives Vs Thailand, there is nothing cheap about this country.
The ultra-modern cityscape of its many renowned provinces can lure the extravagant guests and offer them the luxuries of shopping at branded stores, staying in high-end accommodations, exclusive dining and more with an everyday budget averaging at a solid 750 – 1000 USD per person.
Where to Stay
Thailand will rank a point for this round of The Maldive Vs Thailand comparison. While there is no dearth of accommodation in either place, Thailand will just have more and comparatively cheaper options for both luxury and affordable trotters.
The Maldives:
We’ve all seen pictures of water-bungalows and the striking beachfront properties on The Maldivian atolls on our social media feeds and maybe that is the reason we are so drawn to this paradisiacal land. And to fully live this fantasy of yours, here are some of the best islands and accommodations to stay in, both expensive and budget-friendly.
South of Male Atoll is the Maafushi Island that is home to sought after dive sites, clear lagoon and exquisite coral reefs, and scenic beaches. And yet, this place is considered to be the best for its affordability with several economy hotels, resorts and guest houses.
Thulusdhoo is an island on the North Male Atoll which can easily be reached by a quick ferry or speedboat ride.Initially, the island attracted surfers to the coast with the manoeuvrable waves, but over recent years a diverse crowd of tourists looking for different experiences that are also reasonably priced.
The small and secluded island of Bodufolhudhoo on North Ari Atoll is yet another picturesque region where travellers can head to when allocated with a shoe-string budget. The guesthouses here would be well-suited for moderate accommodation while you will get to splurge on activities and water-sports to have the best time.
The Velaa Private Island located on Noonu Atoll is for all the affluent holidaymakers who can actually experience luxury beyond imagination. Right from the ocean cottages to Michelin dining and everything in between.
An extravagant private resort situated on an artificial island in the North Male Atoll, One & Only, Reethi Rah cannot go amiss when speaking of the boisterous places to stay in the Maldives. You should book a stay to enjoy the private villas, personalized facilities and exclusivity.
Male is the capital of the Maldives and the largest island in the country with the most available options of all types of lodgings.
There are well-acquainted luxury hotels and resorts, as well as inexpensive abodes, striking a balance for all types of vacationers perfectly.
Thailand:
Thailand is the go-to holiday destination for people from other parts of Asia and the rest of the world, and you scale up or down your holiday as per your liking and you will find just what you’re looking for.
Here we will be focusing on the different areas and options of living spaces for the big and modest spenders.
Bangkok, the capital city is where your Thai excursion will commence, and the cost of accommodation here can have a stark difference. One can easily find big names in the hospitality industry while looking at resorts and hotels.
But many relaxed accommodations are also available, given if you are okay going the contemporary way like homestays, hostels, shared spaces etc.
Koh Samui is an east Thailand island that is the ideal place for budget travellers as many of the attractions here would not require spending on tickets. And the money saved on sightseeing can be used upon elegant stays and good food.
Phuket is probably the more expensive pick in the list and well-appointed for a lavish holiday. But it is in no way limited to that, and low-cost vacationers too can find a fun leisure getaway in Phuket given that they make advanced bookings and stick to a list of costs.
Tip: You can always enjoy both the countries and comfortable stay just by looking for properties that are not necessarily beachfront.
Gastronomy
This round will go to Thailand for The Maldives Vs Thailand discussion for the more options and convenient pricing of food available.
The Maldives:
The Maldivian culinary experience would feel more at home as the local dishes derive similarities from Indian and Sri Lankan flavour palettes. One can find a range of spicy and flavourful curries accompanied by bread, vegetarian variants as well as halal options as the Maldives is an Islamic country.
The use of freshly and locally sourced seafood is widespread in the dishes and the non-vegetarians and pescatarian would find the variety amusing.
However, there may be limited eateries and outlets, especially on the lesser developed atolls and islands, with prices of meals being on the higher end.
Some of the must-try dishes here include:
Masroshi – A Deep-Fried Dough with Stuffings of Tuna Fish and Spices
Garudhiya – A Seafood Based Soup
Gulha – A Dumpling Filled With Seafood/Metas/Vegetables
Aluvi Boakibaa – Cassava and Coconut Cake
Saagu Bondibai – A Sweet Pudding
Thailand:
Thailand is the place one would want to visit to savour the global and street food culture, and for all the good reasons. The wondrous sight of chaotic food markets and eateries filled with charred and spicy smells, vibrancy and lingering taste, it’s truly an experience for all your senses.
The traditional Thai cuisine is categorized namely – tom (boiled dishes), yam (spicy salads), tam (pounded foods), and gaeng (curries). Deep-fries, stir-fries, and steamed dishes inspired by Chinese flavours.
The use of meats and seafood is prominent but many authentic vegetarian options and variants are also available. For the vegan guests, the cafes and restaurants would comply with dietary restrictions.
And to best immerse in the food scene, head to the night markets, food courts in malls, stalls, and high-end restaurants like – Nahm.
Some of the must-try dishes here include:
Guay Teow – Noodle Soup
Som Tam – Spicy Green Papaya Salad
Panang – Thai Curry
Khao Niew MaMuang – Mango and Sticky Rice
Pad Thai – Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Meat and Vegetables
Tom Yum Goong – Spicy Thai Soup with Shrimps and Herbs
Types of Travellers
The Maldives:
For Families – The Maldives has been seen as a honeymoon destination but there is much to do for families as well. When travelling with children, it is best to plan the trip in Male and the nearby islands.
Maafushi can be great for a budgeted family holiday where you can get to stay in cushy yet affordable accommodations, indulge in water-sports, commute to other islands with ease, go for sightseeing and shopping.
For the Romanticists – The couple’s haven, there are many secluded and private islands in the Maldives that offer a par excellence experience. You and your partner, be it a honeymoon or just another escape to celebrate your love, can live in flashy villas and get pampered with world-class facilities.
Some adventures and personalized experiences are also available, such as beach-dining, island hopping, cruises, snorkelling etc.
For the Pals and Solo Trotters – The youthful travellers, especially a group of friends or individuals can look for a holiday experience in Male and its urban vibes which can be right up your alley.
The hippest clubs, restaurants, markets and other social outlets can be found in the capital of the Maldives. For adventure and water-sports, Ari Atoll and the nearby islands to the Male Atoll can be both low-costing and convenient.
For the LGBTQAI+ Community – The Maldives is an Islamic state that does not accept same-sex couples and does not have pro-LGBT community laws. However, the queer tourist thus far have not faced any atrocities or harsh reactions.
However, it is advisable to avoid PDA or any action in the public space that may hurt the resident’s sentiments or cause hassle to oneself. Resort and private islands are actually quite safe for guests to spend a blissful sojourn.
Thailand:
For Families – The families visiting Thailand should look for the subdued locations like Chiang Mai, Phi Phi, Koh Samui.
These are also places that would offer apt accommodations, activities and opportunities for sightseeing that can be enjoyable for all, particularly young kids.
For the Romanticists – Home to many lovey-dovey sites and locales, Thailand is for all kinds of couples, the newly-weds, the outgoing and spontaneous, and the laid-back lovers.
Just choose your ideal travels and pick Bangkok and Koh Samui for the partying and metropolitan ambience, Phi Phi and Pattaya for leisure and endless hours on the beach, Kanchanaburi and Krabi as the honeymooners’ retreat.
For the Pals and Solo Trotters – Be it an entourage or just yourself, the range in Thailand will lure you into having an immersive experience nonetheless.
Firstly, Thailand is super safe for solo trippers, especially women as you can find and befriend many like yourself, navigating through the tapered lanes of the bustling country.
Apart from that, there is an array of interesting adventures worth delving into for both groups and young unaccompanied folks.
For the LGBTQAI+ Community – A lot like the Maldives, Thailand hasn’t legalized the LGBT+ rights. However, on a social level, same-sex couples are more than accepted and welcomed in the country, particularly in suburban areas like Bangkok, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phuket etc.
And unlike the Maldivian nation, PDA and other forms of romantic gestures are not frowned upon so all the guests falling under the umbrella can have an unbothered holiday here.
Things To Do
Among Thailand Vs the Maldives, it is erstwhile that has ranked a tad bit higher because the costs of tickets and bookings for activities would be lesser than what one would have to bear in the Maldives.
The Maldives:
The Maldivian Archipelago has made a mark on the world for its remarkable diving sites, lagoons and the colourful coral reefs. So this goes without saying that all the water-sport enthusiasts would have a gala time diving in the depths of the ocean to explore the underwater world. Scuba-diving, snorkelling, sea-walking are some of the available adventures.
But even when staying above the waters, one would have plenty of activities, such as boating, cruises, island hopping, parasailing etc. to satiate the risk-taker in you.
If you are not a water-baby, fret not because things like – treks, nature walks, sightseeing, shopping, on-the-beach dining, and nightlife (ideally on the commercialized islands) would keep you busy and entertained throughout the Maldives trip.
Read More: Things to Do in Maldives
Thailand:
Thailand holds its position when it comes to adventure and activities as the favoured holiday destination in South Asia. The abundance of experiences involving the sea, beaches and even otherwise would drench you completely.
Starting with water-sports, just like the co-contender the Maldive, Thailand has stunning beaches and islands on which one can indulge in activities like – kayaking, boating, cruises and more.
Besides this, the other escapades like sightseeing, shopping at floating markets, street-food tours, day trips to zoos, and amusement parks, safaris, nightlife, theatrical performances, cabarets etc. would also further enhance the fun-factor of your Thai holiday.
The Verdict
As much as we love both Thailand and the Maldives, the emergent winner of the entire The Maldives Vs Thailand discourse is Thailand by a vast margin because of the sheer ease of affordability, options, experiences and inclusivity that all types of travellers can have.
Meanwhile, the Maldives is still a great holiday destination and we in fact only hope that by the end of this post you would like to visit and enjoy them both equally!!
FAQs
Which place offers the best places to stay Maldives or Thailand?
Thailand offers the best places to stay as the country is blessed to have a higher number of accommodation facilities in comparison to that of Maldives.
Furthermore, Thailand also offers comparatively cheaper stays for luxury as well as budget travelers. Hence, Thailand makes for the clear winner of the Maldives vs Thailand debate when the context is about the best accommodation available.
Which one is cheaper Maldives or Thailand?
For a budget traveler, the average per day expense in Maldives on food, accommodation, and some recreational activities would sum up to anywhere between 75 to 100 USD per day.
For a luxury traveler, the average per day expense on the aforementioned aspects would be in the range of 1000 to 1200 USD per day.
On the contrary, the average per day expense in Thailand for a budget traveler would be 30 to 50 USD per day, owing to the availability of economical accommodations, public transportation services, and eateries.
The average per day expense in Thailand for a luxury traveler, staying in swanky accommodation, shopping at high-end stores, and enjoying exclusive dining, will sum up to somewhere between 750 to 1000 USD per day.
Hence, Thailand would be a better pick between Thailand vs Maldives, when the matter of discussion is the availability of a cheaper holiday.
Which is better for honeymoon Maldives or Thailand?
Maldives has a higher number of luxury floating resorts, invigorating spa retreats, and pristine private beaches in comparison to Thailand. So, Maldives wins the Maldives vs Thailand debate as a better honeymoon destination.
Which place is better for water activities Maldives or Thailand?
Both Maldives and Thailand allow the adventure junkies to indulge in a wide range of water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, parasailing, and jet skiing.
However, the cost of water sports is lesser in Thailand in comparison to that of Maldives. Hence, Thailand projects as the winner in the Maldives vs Thailand comparison, in terms of availability of better water sports opportunity.
Which place offers the best food Maldives or Thailand?
Maldives has a lesser number of eateries, especially on the non-commercialized islands and atolls and the food items here are also priced a bit high. On the contrary,
Thailand has more number of cafes, restaurants, food markets, stalls, and food courts and the meals here are also conveniently priced.
Hence, a Thailand vs Maldives debate in the context of food will always have Thailand as the unrivaled winner.
Which place has the best nightlife Maldives or Thailand?
Thailand has a larger number of jazzy and budget-friendly nightclubs, pubs, discos, restaurants, and night markets, which offer the most amazing and affordable nightlife experience.
So, unarguably Thailand is a better choice between Thailand vs Maldives, when the focus is on the nightlife offered.
What is the best time to visit Maldives?
The most ideal time for visiting Maldives is during the dry season, which starts in November and lasts until April.
During this period, the weather remains sunny and balmy with sporadic rainfall and the sea remains calm, allowing tourists to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including water sports.
What is the best time to visit Thailand?
Thailand is best visited during its dry months of May to September, when the days are clement and bright and the evenings are breezy and cool.
This makes for the most suitable time for enjoying shopping, sightseeing, and water sports in Thailand.
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