Fiji Maldives: Which is Better for You?

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Gene Openshaw
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27.08.2022 16:18
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Every year, many people spend hours browsing the internet deciding where their next beach vacation should be. Whether you’re looking for a winter getaway, honeymoon, romantic break, or just a holiday in general, you might have been presented with the options of Fiji and Maldives. From the outside, the Maldives and Fiji can often seem similar due to their tropical white beaches that surround each country — not forgetting their turquoise waters, hot weather, and Instagram-worthy resorts and properties.

But other than this, there are subtle differences about each country that are worth knowing before you choose your vacation. Today we’re going to cover everything about Fiji vs Maldives to make your vacation planning that little bit easier.

Beach in Fiji.

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Best Time to Visit Fiji and Maldives

To know more about Fiji and Maldives, it’s best to first look at the seasons and temperatures before visiting. The truth is the climate can vary dramatically based on the country and time of year you pick.

Fiji

Generally, Fiji is divided into two seasons: hot and humid, lasting between November-April. You might experience some tropical storms alongside the hot heat during this time. The other season is more mild and dry and runs through May-October.

  • July - September: If you visit during this time of year, you can expect a lot of sun in the high season. The daily temperatures range between 60°C-80°C. However, if you want a quieter vacation, you should avoid coming during these months. This is the most popular time for tourists and often the most expensive time. It’s also winter vacation for many Australians and New Zealanders; therefore, it’s not uncommon for many families to visit.
  • October: This is known as one of the shoulder seasons, sandwiched between the high and rainy seasons. The temperatures are still high during this time, ranging between the upper 60s and upper 80s. The price of hotels and flights fluctuate in this season too.
  • November - April: This is the wet season where many typhoons occur. The temperatures range from 70°F - 90°C and accommodation is the cheapest.
  • May – June: You can expect to find little crowds and discounts on hotels during this season. Temperatures during this period range from 60°F - 80°F.

Maldives

The Maldives has two seasons a dry and wet season. If you want to have good temperatures when visiting, you should consider visiting between November and April. On the contrary, if you want to go in a less busy time and save money, you should consider visiting in May-October, in the rainy season. During this time, there is around 5-10 inches of precipitation and strong winds, making it a bit difficult to travel.

  • May-October: Few people visit the resorts during these months due to the short periods of heavy rainfall. The Maldives also experiences extremely hot temperatures during these months, around 80°F all day and night.
  • November - April: The rainfall tends to be less frequent during these months; however, the weather can reach up to 80°F. During this time, room rates are at their highest.

Landscape at Maldives.

Fiji vs Maldives: Average Hotel Price

The cost of hotels in Fiji and Maldives is influenced based on the season, demand from tourists, and the type of accommodation. If you’re looking for discounts and more affordable options for travel, you should visit Fiji from November-April during the typhoon season. On the contrary, you should visit in the wet season between May-August with the Maldives.

For both countries, their peak seasons are different, and hotel prices are at their highest at different times of the year. For instance, July-September is the most expensive for Fiji due to many Australians and New Zealanders visiting for their winter vacation. In contrast, the Maldives is the most expensive in November-April.

Resort in Fiji.

Things to Do in Fiji and Maldives

When looking to choose Fiji or Maldives a major deciding factor is often the activities each country has.

Well, in Fiji, you can go island hopping across 20 different islands known as the Yasawas. On these islands, you can expect to find volcanoes, blue lagoons, hot springs, and sunshine all around. You can also go scuba diving and snorkeling in their coral reefs. However, if beaches aren’t your thing, you can also visit the Fiji Museum of Indian artwork or participate in a firewalking ceremony.

If you want to see more than 20 islands on your vacation, then you have the opportunity to hop and visit up to 1000 islands in the Maldives. This country also has lots of watersports activities like water skiing, dolphin watching, snorkeling, jet-skiing, and more.

It also has many luxury accommodations where you can stay in water bungalows and dine underwater. Plus, if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, there are many spas and private excursions specifically designed for couples.

Conclusion: Which is Better Fiji or Maldives?

So which is better Fiji or Maldives? Well, it can be a tricky one to decide which destination is better for you. After all, you know your interests, budget, and availability for your vacation. Generally, though, Fiji and Maldives are pretty amazing countries to visit. The only significant differences are their tourist, dry and wet seasons.

FAQ

Which is better: Fiji or Maldives?

If you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, then Fiji may be the better option as it offers more sandy beaches and clear waters. Maldives is also a great choice for a beach vacation, but it is more expensive and the beaches are not as well-known.

What is the difference between Fiji and Maldives?

Fiji is known for its soft-sand beaches, lush vegetation, and coral reefs. Maldives is known for its clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and extensive coral reefs. Both Fiji and Maldives offer a variety of activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, swimming, and exploring the local culture. Fiji is more affordable than Maldives, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers. Maldives is more exclusive and expensive, making it a better choice for those looking for a luxurious experience.

Is Fiji more expensive than Fiji vs Maldives?

The cost of living in Fiji is generally lower than in Maldives, though it can vary depending on your lifestyle. Fiji offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, so you can find a place to stay that fits your budget. The cost of food and drink is also lower in Fiji than in Maldives, though again, it depends on your lifestyle. If you want to save money, cook your own meals and buy groceries from the market, rather than eating out all the time. Fiji also has a lower cost of transportation than Maldives, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers.

Is the weather better in Fiji or Fiji vs Maldives?

The weather is definitely better in Fiji. The Maldives is incredibly hot and humid, and there are often typhoons. Fiji, on the other hand, has a more moderate climate with cooler temperatures and less humidity. It also rarely experiences typhoons. Overall, Fiji is the better choice if you're looking for a pleasant weather experience.

Are beaches better in Fiji or Fiji vs Maldives?

Fiji and Maldives are both renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. If you are looking for a more laid-back beach vacation with plenty of opportunity to relax and explore the natural surroundings, then Fiji may be the better choice. If you are looking for a more luxurious and exclusive beach experience, then Maldives is likely to be a better option.

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