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Bali Vs Maldives
Tropical, Exotic, Culture, Paradise, Beaches, Fruity Cocktails, Instagramable, Romantic, these are some of the words and adjectives that come to mind when speaking about the two most popular island destinations in Asia – Bali in Indonesia and Maldives.
And while we dream of visiting both, it’s that constant tussle of where to go first or which one is better.
So, here is an article that will help you decide between Bali Vs Maldives, and where should you be heading for that long pending holiday.
About The Destination
Bali
Bali is a province in Indonesia and the westernmost Lesser Sunda Islands, an archipelago constituting of many smaller islands including Bali Island. Tt covers east of Java and west of Lombok.
The tropical heaven lies a mere 8 degrees south of the equator which is why it’s always sunny in Bali. It is also the most popular region in Indonesia with the highest tourism traffic.
Famous for its captivating landscape of beaches, paddy fields, volcanic mountains, ancient temples and clear lagoons, once you have been to Bali, you would never want to leave.
Check out some of the best Bali Tour Packages:
Maldives
A small island nation, the Republic of Maldives is afloat on the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean in South Asia. Consisting of 26 atolls, including Ihavandhippolhu Atoll in the north to Addu Atoll in the south to the equator, the Maldives archipelago is a direct competing contender for Bali as a tropical vacation destination, especially for couples and newly-weds.
The islands of Maldives are adorned by long stretches of bleached sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, lush vegetation and natural attractions, pictures of which on your social-media will make everyone envious.
Though, in the end, it is Bali that will present with different and more experiences. At the same time, the Maldives would offer a paradisiacal escape to an island with ample seclusion and privacy. And depending on what your preference is, either of them is ideal for travelling.
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Maldives
Check out some of the best Maldives Tour Packages:
Weather and Best Time To Visit
Weather and Best Time To Visit Bali
Bali weather remains unchanged almost all year round with just a slight dip in the average temperatures during the cooler and drier months from September to December.
Being close to the equator, Bali has tropical, balmy summers and heavy rains which constitutes the two seasons on the island.
The average temperature remains between 25 – 33 degrees with the hottest month being May which can be avoided for a visit.
Weather and Best Time To Visit Maldives
The climate in the Maldives is also tropical and remains the same all year. The location of the island in South Asia sees a similar pattern of hot and humid monsoons with rising temperatures and the dry summer season with pleasantly sunny days and easy-breezy evenings.
The best time to consider a vacation in the Maldives is November till April. The average temperature is 29 degrees, and rainfall in the region is 200mm during peak monsoons.
And since the weather conditions are similar for both Bali Vs Maldives, you can visit the destinations at different times of the year and still get the sweltering tropic experience.
Suggested Read: Water Villas in Maldives
Getting There and Around
Bali takes the point for this round of Bali Vs Maldives as it is a single island that can be explored quickly and because of the well-connected, inexpensive local transportation.
Getting to & Around Bali
The fastest way to reach Bali from India is by taking a flight to the Ngurah Rai International as regular direct flights from Delhi, and Mumbai Airports commute with carriers like – Singapore Airlines, Air India etc.
The ticket fare for a one way trip from India can cost anywhere between 15,000 – 20,000 INR per person. You can also board a cruise ship from India to get to Bali.
Even travelling in and around Bali is cheap and comfortable with one too many options available, like – Tuk-Tuks, Ferries, Taxis, Buses, and Rentals.
Getting to & Around Maldives
Again the two available options to get to the Maldives are also by a cruise ship tour and the more convenient one, by flight.
Regular flights operate from all major metropolitan cities in India as well as other countries to Male Airport (MLE). The average airfare for a one way trip is somewhat similar to Bali, costing between 15,000 – 20,000 INR per person.
However, when it comes to commuting around the Maldives and its Islands, it can be a wee more expensive since not many local transportation options are available.
One would have to take domestic flights, ferries and boat-rides to go from point A to point B.
Suggested Read: Maldives Honeymoon Packages
Where To Stay
Although one can find their desired digs at either place, it is the Bali that has ranked higher between Bali Vs Maldives because of the opulent options and relatively bargainous rates.
Where To Stay in Bali
It is essential to know of places and areas in a foreign land to be able to stay in comfortable accommodations both cheap and luxurious.
If you want to spend your holiday next to the beach and mostly in one part of Bali, then a resort or beachfront property would be ideal.
Otherwise, you should divide the expense on lodging between 3-4 places as you progress with the travel itinerary.
Where To Stay in Maldives
Mostly the Maldives is seen as this costly and high-end destination with on-the-ocean resorts and private villas.
And well, it’s not entirely untrue, Maldives does have all of that, but if you are on a shoestring budget, then you can also find decent resorts and hotels to stay in.
Just keep in mind that commuting to the closer atolls to the capital Male will be relaxed on the pocket and the money saved there can eventually be spent on better accommodations.
Tip: Look for accommodations like guest houses or boutique stays instead of water-bungalows and beachfront properties, to remain under your desired spendings (especially when on a budget and in Maldives).
Suggested Read: Resorts in Maldives
Special Accommodations
For the sheer uniqueness and different experience, the Maldives has won this round of the Bali Vs Maldives comparison.
Bali – Private Pool Villas
What’s the one thing you cannot get enough of in Bali, water. We mean beaches, swimming pools, jacuzzis and so on. Despite no dearth of shorelines, the many uber fancy resorts offer private plunge pools in the villa accommodations. And the hospitality industry in Bali knows how to deliver something rather familiar with a newness. So after a full day of excursions and wandering in Bali, you can come back to a plush villa and unwind in a private swimming pool. This luxury feature is more appealing to the couples and youthful trotters who want to add a tinge of extravagance to their Balinese vacay.
Here are some of the best picks for Private Pool Villas in Bali to stay in:
- Alila Villas Uluwatu, Uluwatu
- St. Regis Bali Resort, Nusa Dua
- Villa Seminyak Estate And Spa, Denpasar
- Villa Komea, Canggu
- Twin Island Villa, Lembongan island – Badung
The Maldives – Water Bungalows
The one thing that makes the Maldives stand out in this and many other comparisons are the on-the-ocean water villas or bungalows. The ideation of having accommodations standing on stilts on water, branching out from the main property is unique to the Maldives and has us all in awe. You can choose from a range of different budget-friendly and luxury water villas, some of them having a private plunge pool, slides that open in the ocean, terraces to enjoy views of the merging azure sea and sky, among more.
Such retreats are mostly chosen by honeymooners and couples on romantic getaways, quite literally. Nevertheless, more and more diverse and more accommodating water villas are being offered that can be suited for families as well.
Here are all the best islands to stay in water bungalows:
- Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll
- Guraidhoo, South Male Atoll
- South Male Atoll
- Meerufenfushi, North Male’ Atoll
- Villingili Island
Food
Bali Vs Maldives, both offer a scrumptious experience with the range of nosh, but Bali is just a bit ahead due to the reasonably-priced outlets, with comfortable reach.
Food in Bali
Replete with seafood and spices, the love for food is evident all across Bali in forms of street-food markets, posh restaurants and quaint cafes. The lip-smackingly delicious delicacies are also really cheap, making it a gastronome’s paradise!
Although most of the dishes have meat as the primary protein, many traditional vegetarian and versions of original non-vegetarian dishes are also readily available.
Vegans might have to look a tad bit harder for restaurants around the island, but the resorts and hotels would be able to better cater to any dietary restrictions.
Food in Maldives
Meanwhile, the food scene in the Maldives is also diversifying with more and different tourists flocking to the country. The traditional Maldivian cuisine has also taken influence from Indian palate and spun their own take on it by incorporating local and more nuanced flavour profiles.
Thus, it is better suited for vegetarians and vegans with many available options in the Dhivehi dishes, as well as Halal food as pork is not served at the restaurants due to religious beliefs. Just like Bali, seafood is prominent all across the cafes, restaurants and menus offered at the resorts and hotels.
Activities
Maldives will rank higher for this part of the discussion when it comes to exciting activities between Bali Vs Maldives.
Activities to Do in Bali
A thriving hub for water-sports activities, nightlife, sightseeing and shopping, Bali is a one-stop destination to have a gala time during your vacation.
One day you can effortlessly get around the picturesque beaches to participate in parasailing, windsurfing, scuba-diving and more. While on the other, a walk around the tapered markets and lanes would leave you with unique finds and traditional handicrafts.
The fun wouldn’t just end here, though. You can trek to the volcanic mountain, soak in the natural abundance, visit the temples, get a relaxing massage, sit on the instagramable swings, and it is just the tip of an iceberg with so much still left to uncover.
Want to party? Head to the bustling districts in Seminyak, Kuta and Ubud littered with neon sign boards on clubs, loud music and lively vibe of the crowds will keep you up until dawn.
Activities to Do in Maldives
The resplendent lagoons of Maldives are some of the best for snorkelling and scuba diving in the world. The clear waters and unspoiled surroundings attract varied species of marine life form and diving to see this magnificence is a must-have experience.
Also, add to that, attractive shorelines offering many other water-sports like kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing etc. just like in Bali. The local markets, although less in number, are also perfect to buy traditional items and handicrafts.
For other adventures, one can enjoy walking tours of historical attractions in Male, beach-dining at any of the prolific islands, parties, treks and nature walks among more.
Furthermore, the one unique activity that you can indulge in the Maldives is island hopping and cruises to explore the group of different and picture-postcard islets of the archipelago.
Nightlife
Bali will take a point for its happening and zesty nightlife among Bali Vs Maldives.
Nightlife in Bali
Thrilling, boisterous and unabashed that’s what a night out in Bali is like. The appeal of glimmering lights, chaos, cheers and variety is something that has kept the popularity of the island still going strong.
It doesn’t matter if you are visiting for the first time or are of a certain age, Bali will woo you with its charm nonetheless. There are loud streets laced with clubs and bars for the party enthusiasts, cruises and dining experiences for the romantics, shows, theatre, cabaret and more for the aficionados, night markets to shop and eat till you get full, among much more. And the best part of all this is the low-costs and convenience of travelling.
Nightlife in Maldives
Nightlife and party culture have started to develop in the Maldives with more and more vigorous travellers visiting the country.
However, it is not at par when compared to its competitor Bali. There are many beach parties, music performances, open-air movie nights, private island dining, bar hopping etc. organized. Still, most of the astir are prominent in Male and the more established islands.
So if you are staying at an atoll that is quieter and more secluded, nightlife would only mean wine and dine or star-gazing at the beach (which may not be everyone’s cup of tea).
Suggested Reads: Places to Visit in Maldives
Language
Language in Bali
The locals in Bali use colloquial Indonesian and Malayo-Polynesian languages to communicate with others, although many can speak good English to talk to the tourists.
Language in Maldives
The official language used in the Maldives is Dhivehi, but the locals use English as a common language to communicate with tourists.
Tip – It is always a good idea to learn up on some phrases and words in the native language, especially greetings, basic questions etc. before the trip.
Currency
Currency in Bali
The official currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) which comes in the denomination of IDR 500 to 100,000 banknotes and IDR 25 to 1,000 coins.
Currency in Maldives
The official currency accepted in the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). Besides this, USD is also accepted as legal tender throughout the Maldives.
Expenses
Expenses in Bali
If you’ve postponed a Bali trip thinking that it will be way too expensive and burn a hole in your pocket, you might want to reconsider. Unlike many pricey tropical destinations, Bali is quite affordable in comparison.
The average cost of living, meals and transportation for one person can cost anywhere between 40-50 USD (3,000 INR) per day. But that’s not all, for the big spenders Bali can also be lavish and boujee with the most luxurious resorts, Michelin restaurants, with an average cost of 1000 USD (70,000 INR) for one person per day.
Expenses in Maldives
While there is no debate about the two islands being nothing short of a dream, the expenditure on living, food and transportation among Bali Vs Maldives has a stark difference. The Maldives being the expensive one due to the lack of availability and options at the less developed islands and other hefty taxes.
The average spending for one person per day can range anywhere between 70- 100 USD (7,000 INR), and this does not include the domestic flight fare for the travel between different atolls.
And for the ones seeking luxury vacation experiences, they can expect to spend a generous 1000- 1500 USD for all the necessary facilities.
Finally, our pick is Bali with a vast margin. It is more affordable and offers almost the same holiday experience, in terms of the coastlines, stunning beaches, luxury stays, activities and more.
Also, it would be a better idea to plan a trip to the Maldives during the off-season to stay under a budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bali takes the cake as the better choice between Bali Vs Maldives for a tropical vacation. The pocket-friendly, glut of options that one gets has made the Indonesian Island victorious.
Moreover, we mean no bias and think the Maldives is an absolute stunner by all means and a place that one has to see in their lifetime. But for a wholesome travel experience for ALL, it may not suffice.
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