What is the difference between Half Board, Full Board and All Inclusive meal plans in the Maldives?
When booking a holiday to the Maldives, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right meal plan. Since resorts are located on their own private islands, you will likely be dining at the resort for the duration of your stay. Unlike other destinations, you cannot simply walk out to a local restaurant for a cheap meal.
Understanding the difference between Bed & Breakfast, Half Board, Full Board, and All Inclusive is essential for managing your budget and your experience.
Bed and Breakfast
As the name suggests, this plan includes your accommodation and breakfast only.
This is the standard inclusion for most resort bookings.Understanding the difference between Bed & Breakfast,
Half Board, Full Board, and All Inclusive is essential for managing your budget and your experience.
Half Board
What is Half Board?
Half Board is a very popular option for travelers. It includes two meals a day:
Breakfast and Dinner. Lunch is not included, meaning you are free during the middle of the day.
Pros
Full Board
What is Full Board?
Full Board includes all three main meals of the day: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. It is essentially the "food only" version of All Inclusive.
All Inclusive
What is All Inclusive?
This is the most comprehensive meal plan. It includes all your meals and beverages.
It is designed for a completely worry-free holiday where you don't have to think about the bill.
Cons
Why is a Meal Plan Essential for Your Maldives Holiday?
The Maldives is one of the most exclusive destinations in the world, and due to the unique “one island, one resort” concept, you do not have access to outside dining options. The cost of accommodation at even standard 3-star or 4-star properties typically starts between USD 300 to USD 500 per night. Because of this, dining costs can quickly escalate if not planned carefully. However, with the right strategy, you can enjoy a luxury experience without overspending.
The Advantage of Booking Early: Beyond securing the best room rates, booking your holiday in advance opens the door to exclusive value-adds. Many resorts offer “Early Bird” incentives, which often include complimentary meal plan upgrades—for example, paying for Half Board but receiving a free upgrade to Full Board or All Inclusive.
Financial Peace of Mind: Choosing a meal plan allows you to settle the majority of your holiday expenses before you even board the plane. This means you can enjoy your trip without constantly calculating costs. By finalizing your meal plan early with the guidance of our travel advisors, you ensure a smoother checkout experience with fewer surprise expenses, saving you both time and money.
