I stayed at a luxurious overwater bungalow in the Maldives and a budget option. I had a great time for less than $100 a night.

Fiona ChandraMay 29, 2024, 01:32 IST

The Conrad bungalow I stayed in had a jacuzzi. Fiona Chandra

I stayed at two different overwater bungalows in the Maldives at very different price points.
The expensive resort was nicer, but the beaches and ocean were equally beautiful at both places.

Early 2024 saw record-breaking increases in tourist arrivals to the Maldives, and I can see why.

The Asian country is beautiful, and after staying at two different overwater bungalows there, I learned you don't even need to spend thousands to have a luxurious vacation.

Here's how my stay at the high-end Conrad Maldives compared to my stay at the more affordable South Palm Resort — and why I don't think you need to spend thousands to have a nice overwater-bungalow vacation.

My first stay was at Conrad Maldives, which can get pricey.

I was wowed by the crystal-clear waters in the Maldives. Fiona Chandra

My room at the Conrad Maldives was spacious and luxurious.

My bungalow at Conrad Maldives had wood floors.Fiona Chandra

The food at Conrad was expensive but good.

The seafood dinner at Sunset Grill at Conrad Maldives was great.Fiona Chandra

I even splurged on a meal at Conrad's undersea restaurant, Ithaa.

Ithaa Undersea restaurant isn't cheap. Fiona Chandra

Later, I took advantage of a deal for South Palm Resort.

The online reviews of South Palm Resort seemed good. Fiona Chandra

Although our room at South Palm Resort wasn't as luxurious as the one at Conrad, it was still spacious and nice.

My room at South Palm Resort was nice. Fiona Chandra

The beach at South Palm Resort is as beautiful as any, with soft white sand.

I loved the white-sand beach at South Palm Resort.Fiona Chandra

There are only a few restaurants at South Palm Resort.

We were able to have food at tour room at the South Palm Resort. Fiona Chandra

After both stays, my takeaway is you don't have to spend a thousand dollars a night to visit the Maldives.

This trip proved to me it's possible to still have a great, luxurious trip with a cheaper resort.Fiona Chandra

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