Adjust your expectations Visiting the Maldives on a budget is unlike visiting other travel destinations like Mexico or Asia on a budget, where you may be able to get by spending less than $50 to $100 a day. There are some ways to save but overall a trip here is pretty pricey.

Choose flights wisely Airfare from the United States is incredibly expensive. If you can pair a vacation here with one in the Middle East or Europe (where you can catch a direct flight), the cost will be less ludicrous. Or, consider signing up for a travel credit card and use airline and hotel loyalty points to book a vacation here.

Pick accommodations carefully “Budget” hotels don’t exist here; even the low-end resorts are ritzy and advertise hefty price tags. If you’re trying to save some coin, forgo the luxury resort for the more affordable guest houses, inns and vacation rentals on local islands. Some rates at these lodging options even include meals, though chances are they won’t offer alcohol.

Cuisine in the Maldives relies heavily on the region’s available ingredients, which means seafood, coconut and starches feature prominently in many dishes. Tuna, wahoo and mahi mahi are a few of the fish you can expect to find on menus in the Maldives. Other popular dishes in the Maldives include samosas (pastries stuffed with savory filling like spiced potatoes and vegetables), curries and spicy fried fish.

Keep in mind, because the Maldives is an Islamic nation, the population does not drink alcohol. However, you will be able to enjoy alcoholic beverages at most resorts.

If you’re staying at a high-end resort, you will likely have more variety in terms of food, with dining options ranging from Italian and Spanish to Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine. Several hotels offer buffet lunches and dinners.