Destinations › Maldives › Malé › Scams
Malé, Maldives
8 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Malé, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Guesthouse and resort bookings relocated or downgraded on arrival, where leaving is not practical because the island is the destination.
Resort packages sold through third-party sites excluding the seaplane or speedboat transfer, which can run to several hundred dollars per person and cannot be arranged independently.
Ferry and excursion tickets sold for services that do not run on the day, with no refund.
Transfer arrangements offered at Velana arrivals by people not connected to any resort; genuine transfers are booked in advance.
Undisclosed service charges and per-person minimums added to bills on the local islands.
Dollar prices converted to rufiyaa at a rate well below the bank rate when giving change.
Excursion and diving trips sold at the guesthouse that are run without the claimed certification or equipment standard.
Unofficial guides at the Malé sights charging for commentary that is freely available.
