Thailand vs Maldives - Choosing the Best Vacation Spot

Planning for a vacation, be it anywhere in the world, takes up a lot of time, especially when you have come down to choosing between two of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Asia. Maldives and Thailand offer amazing options when it comes to natural beauty, nightlife and lots of activities to do! Both of these countries have multiple beaches and numerous water activities. 

Tip: For both places, the ideal vacation time can range from 1 week to 2 weeks, at the most. 

Visa Procedure and Currency

Getting a Thailand visa is pretty easy. It can take up to 3 working days to get your hands on it. With this, you can spend a vacation for up to 60 days in Thailand. You will need some documents to verify your identity and residency, passport and photograph. The number of entries allowed is single, double or multiple. 

Thailand currency is known as Thai Baht (THB), which is equivalent to INR 2.21.

Getting a Maldives visa is a no-brainer, as the country has no pre-arrival visa policy. This means the country is open to nationals from around the world! You will be given a thirty-day visa upon your entry in the country. One should have a valid ticket and passport, with some documents to verify one's identity. 

Maldivian currency is known as Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), which is equivalent to INR 4.69.

Things To Do in Thailand and Maldives

Thailand

Thailand is one of the most visited tourist destinations is Southeast Asia. Best known for its beaches, beautiful temples and city life in Bangkok, this place has a lot to offer for those looking for shopping and nightlife. So let's get started as we tell you the first thing to do in Thailand as you step into this beautiful country.

Visiting the Grand Palace:

Located at the heart of Bangkok, this 150-year-old palace (covering an area of 218,400 sq.metres) was once home to Kings of Siam. This massive palace is now a converted complex with numerous buildings. The palace hosts a huge Emerald Buddha statue in the middle of the premises, thus, is unarguably the most important Buddha statue in the city. This place has a strict dress code. Any inappropriate clothing will restrict the entry on palace premises. 

Indulge in a Thai Massage:

We have all heard about the world-famous Thai massage. This unique massage style is an experience of utmost relaxation and rejuvenation. You will surely love this experience, like the thousands of others who try this massage every day! This whole experience is available throughout the city and is quite cheap compared to the usual spa prices.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

This is one of the most unique things to witness in Thailand. Although there are plenty of floating markets in Thailand, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the biggest and the busiest. You will witness plenty of boats selling goods throughout the canals. Situated approximately 100 km from Bangkok, the market will give you insight into the olden-day commerce. 

A small Trip to Nana Plaza:

A trip to Bangkok would be incomplete if you don't visit the Nana Plaza. Induced with bars and grills, this plaza is often frequented by tourists every night.

Climb the Sathorn Unique Tower: 

Situated at the heart of Bangkok, the Sathorn Unique Tower is a massive skyscraper built in the '90s. Although left incomplete due to global financial crisis, it is an unofficial tourist attraction which is a thrilling experience through the- 49 storied building.
KOH PHI PHI: The Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island situated in the province of Krabi. Featured in multiple films such as James Bond and Leonardo Dicaprio's "THE BEACH", the Island can be reached only via boats. 

Try Some Local Street Food:

Thailand is home to various street foods. Each street in almost every Thai city will have multiple displays of foods. From pom pad, papaya salad to grilled meat to ice cream- it's all available on the streets any time of the day. Each item is pocket-friendly. 

Water Fight During Sangkron:

Songkran is a traditional Thai New Year's Eve celebration. Celebrated on the13th to 15th April across the country, Songkran witnesses people with water guns soaking each other with water. Not only is this an enjoyable event for the little ones, but you will also see adults having just as much fun! So if you are in Thailand around this time, do not miss out on this festival.

Khao Yai National Park:

The first national park to be established in Thailand, Khao Yai National Park is one of the largest ones. Covering an area of 2,168 square kilometres, this park comprises of a rainforest, which houses various birds and animals and plenty of waterfalls.

Wat Arun:

Thailand itself has over 31,000 Buddhist temples. Wat Arun is one of them. Named after Aruna" The God of Dawn", the temple lies on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Covered in porcelain and ceramic tiles, the structure is 79 metres tall.  

Maldives

Como Cocoa Island: This Island is no doubt one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you are a couple on a honeymoon, this place offers multiple resorts and water villas for the perfect romantic vacation.

Baros Island: One of the most popular islands of Maldives, Baros Island houses white sand beaches bracketing crystal clear water. This Island is also well known for its beautiful resorts and villas.

Seagull Cafe, Male: The Seagull Cafe is a must-visit for food lovers. The eatery hosts beautiful decor along with various food and drink options. They have an extensive seafood menu.

Banana Reef: For the adventure-seekers, Banana Reef is the most sought-after underwater diving destination. As just after a peek, you can witness the most exotic and spectacular marine life. Scuba diving and snorkelling are common activities here.

Utheemu Ganduvaru: The Maldives is more than just sea and beaches. Utheemu Ganduvaru is hugely popular among locals and tourists as it is the birthplace for Sultan Muhammed Thakarufaanu, who is considered as the leader who brought Maldivian freedom from the Portuguese.

Male: This capital city houses some of the top tourist attractions such as the 17th-century Friday Mosque and the gold-tipped Islamic centre.
Maldives National Museum: A gift from China, the Maldives National Museum houses ancient weapons, household wares and various historical artefacts of this beautiful place.

Maldives Fish Market: Also known as the soul of the Maldives, the Maldives Fish Market is one of the most visited sites. People here still use old traditional ways of fishing.

Tsunami Monument: The Tsunami monument is dedicated to those who lost their lives on 26th December 2004, due to the tragic Tsunami. 
Manta Point: One of the best diving sites for scuba divers, Manta Point houses Manta rays that weigh up to 5,000 pounds with a wingspan of 25 feet among other marine creatures. 

National Art Gallery: Established in 1999, the National Art Gallery displays beautiful art, depicting the Maldivian culture.
Hulhumale: This is a beautifully designed mosque with a massive golden dome on top. Located at the borders of the reclaimed Island of Hulhumale, this site is the traditional Islamic place worship.

Location and Getting Around

Thailand

Thailand is located in southeast Asia. It is right above Malaysia and Cambodia to the east.

Modes of Transport in Thailand

Out of these most common modes of transport in Thailand is the tuk-tuk, which is a three-wheeled vehicle. 

Motorcycle taxi is the most convenient way for solo travellers. You can use this ride to quickly get around the city as Bangkok is a quite densely populated city.

A songthaew is a two-row pick-up truck for passengers which comes at very low transportation charge. It is a convenient mode of transport in Bangkok.  

Thailand also has underground BTS Skytrain, buses, taxis, boats and trains. You can reach the country by flight from anywhere in the world. Nearby countries offer bus services, cars and trains to reach Thailand.

Maldives

The country is located towards the southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Situated on the Arabian Sea, the Maldives is an island in southeast Asia.

Modes of Transport in the Maldives

Being an island, Maldives has plenty of ferries and Maldivian Dhoni to get around various places in the country. Even though speedboats are on the costlier side, they are another common way of getting around, as they are much faster than ferries. Other such rides are the yachts and seaplanes.

Taxis, buses, cycles are also common modes of transport. To reach the country, you can take flights from anywhere in the world. From nearby countries like Sri Lanka, you can avail speedboats, ferries or cruises.

Weather

Thailand has both dry and rainy seasons. May to September is dry season, whereas October to April is almost rainy. On the other hand, June and August remain windy. During the average sunny day, the temperature is around to 29 degrees celsius and can peak up to 31 degrees. Myanmar borders Thailand to the north and from the south, the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia.

The Maldives also has both dry and rainy seasons. The dry season is the time where you could really enjoy the Island, and it lasts from November to April. The monsoons are from May to October. The average temperature on the Island remains between 28-29 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees. 

Food

The street food in Thailand is a must-try. While you are here, make sure you taste the following famous dishes too!
Tom yum goong - This spicy Thai soup served with shrimps is one of the best traditional foods served throughout the country 
Phat Kapharao - This is delicious stir-fried meat with basil and chilli. 
Laap - Laap is one of the famous rustic dishes made from minced meat, lime juice, fish sauce etc. 

Amazing foods to try in the Maldives

Some of the popular cuisines of Maldives are centred around seafood. Some must-try dishes are:

Garudhiya- This is a traditional dish of Maldives usually cooked with fish, saltwater and spices which is then served with lime rice, chilli and onions.
Mas Huini- This delicious dish is made with shredded tuna and is served with grated coconuts lemons and onions. 
Maldivian lobster - A very delicious cuisine made up of live lobsters; the Maldivian Lobster dish is cooked with lime juice and spices. This is a must-try while you visit the Maldives. 

Safety

Thailand is generally a safe country for both solo and group travellers but is always better to take early precautions while dealing with strangers (both locals and foreigners) in a new country.

The rate of assaults on foreigners has been minimal to date. Possession of any kind of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties and prison time of minimum a year due. Although amicable, sometimes, it can lead to a false sense of security and can result in various scams, so its recommended to stay cautious. The police and security people here are on the job 24/7. In cases of doubt, you can contact them, and they will help you out.

The Maldives is a Muslim country and is considered to be one of the safest countries for tourists. However, a few petty robberies have been reported in the last few years, especially in the capital city of Male. The Maldives is an Islamic country, so if you have never travelled to an Islamic country before its good to know the basic laws and rules before visiting. 

Possession of any illegal drugs, weapons, firearms can lead to severe penalties and life imprisonment. Alcohol is generally prohibited under Islamic law, but you can still find it in some resorts and restaurants that have a permit. Ensure to dress appropriately and by the local law and beliefs. 

During Ramadan, be extra respectful and cautious about the culture, dress conservatively, avoid food, alcohol in public places and any display of public affection will not be tolerated during that time. So do respect their tradition as it is considered rude to ignore their customs.

Best Time to Visit

Maldives 

The Maldives can be hot and sunny all year round with an optimal daytime temperature of 23 degrees Celsius on an average which can peak up to 31 degrees. The best time to visit the Maldives is between November to April, when the temperature remains pleasant with less humidity and more visibility of the oceans.

Thailand

The weather in Thailand varies throughout the year and the best time to visit would be from November to early April as the temperature remains 24 degree celsius on an average that may peak up to 31 degrees.

For Solo Travellers

In The Maldives

The Maldives is not just a place for couples; there are plenty of activities that a solo traveller can indulge in and enjoy. When you travel solo, you can take more time to interact with the locals and learn about their lifestyles, food and do things the local way.

People are friendly and helpful, especially towards solo travellers.

In Thailand

Travelling solo to Thailand is affordable and also quite safe. People can hire two-wheelers and travel around the city by themselves. It is advised not to hire scooters if you are not very confident to ride on busy streets. 

For Couples

Maldives

If you are on a honeymoon to the Maldives, there are plenty of options to witness the Maldivian beauty. Couples generally frequent the country for its luxurious villas and resorts. The resorts and villas here leave no stone unturned when it comes to making couples feel above the clouds!

Thailand

Thailand is not too far behind when it comes to honeymoon-ing. Romantic dinners by the beach, boat rides and many other activities are available for couples.

For LGBTQ+

Maldives for LGBTQI + Community 

Homosexuality is considered an offence in Islamic law, and you can serve a long time in prison, severe penalties or even deportation. However, there has been no issues till now with the LGBTQI+ couples checking into hotels together and enjoying a vacation on the Island. 

Thailand for LGBTQI+ Community

Currently, Thailand law does not approve same-sex marriages, despite formal legal recognition, the community is particularly safe under Thai law, primarily in the urban areas such as Pattaya, Phuket and Bangkok. 

For Families

Maldives

The Maldives is a place of wonder where everyone can enjoy to the fullest. For families who are on vacation to the Maldives, there are plenty of options available for them such as diving, sunset cruise rides, sandbanks picnic, snorkelling, jet ski rides and many safe water sport activities. 

Thailand

Thailand is a party place, but for families who want to visit, it can be a completely relaxing environment as this place covers it all. There is an array of options such as the beautiful sea world Bangkok Aquarium, the Chiang Mai Zoo, Siam Park, Sriracha Tiger Zoo and many more.

Cost- Of Travelling, Food and Living