A Tale of Two Travelers: The Cost of a Maldivian’s Holiday in New York vs. a New Yorker’s Escape to the Maldives

The Maldives and New York City—two dream destinations that couldn’t be more different. From the turquoise waters and serene overwater villas of the Maldives to New York’s skyscrapers and bustling streets, both locales promise unforgettable adventures. But how do the costs stack up when a Maldivian ventures to the Big Apple versus a New Yorker jetting off to the Maldives? Let’s break it down.

Maldivian’s Holiday in New York vs. a New Yorker’s Escape to the Maldives

Airfare: The Price of Getting There

Maldivian Traveling to New York

A round-trip flight from Malé to New York typically costs $1,200 to $1,500, depending on the season. With layovers in major hubs like Doha or Dubai, the journey can stretch over 20+ hours, making it both time-intensive and pricey.

New Yorker Flying to the Maldives

New Yorkers heading to Malé face a similar flight price, ranging from $1,000 to $1,400. However, the travel time—18 to 24 hours with layovers—can feel like a mini-journey itself.

Accommodation: Where They Stay

Maldivian Staying in New York

Mid-range hotels in Manhattan demand $200 to $300 per night, while luxury accommodations can exceed $500 per night. Over a week, this adds up to $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the level of indulgence.

New Yorker Relaxing in the Maldives

The Maldives offers diverse lodging options: from guesthouses starting at $300 per night to high-end overwater villas costing over $1,000 per night. A week-long stay might cost $2,500 to $7,000, particularly for those seeking luxury.

Dining: From Street Eats to Fine Dining

Maldivian Dining in New York

Food in New York can be pricey, with meals at mid-range restaurants averaging $20 to $50 per person. A splurge at a fine dining establishment can easily hit $100 per person. Over a week, a Maldivian traveler might spend $500 to $1,000 on meals.

New Yorker Dining in the Maldives

Maldivian resorts often include all-inclusive meal plans, costing $100 to $300 per day. For à la carte dining, meals range from $30 to $100. A week’s dining expenses could total $700 to $1,500.

Activities: Exploring Paradise and the Big Apple

Maldivian Enjoying New York

From iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty to Broadway shows, activities in New York cost between $25 and $100 per experience. A week of sightseeing might add $300 to $700 to the trip.

New Yorker Adventuring in the Maldives

The Maldives offers unique experiences like snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping. These activities range from $50 to $200 per excursion, adding $500 to $1,000 to the week’s budget.

Crunching the Numbers: Total Weekly Costs

The Final Verdict

While both destinations deliver bucket-list experiences, the overall cost leans higher for New Yorkers visiting the Maldives due to its luxury-driven tourism and exclusive island experiences. Conversely, a Maldivian’s trip to New York, while costly, often includes more flexible lodging and dining options.

Whether you dream of city skylines or sun-soaked beaches, these destinations promise a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The question is—are you ready to make it happen?