Would not rush back to Maldives — extremely expensive even at budget level was a real issue

I wanted to love Maldives more than I did. The positives exist: overwater bungalows is genuinely impressive, Addu Atoll has moments of real charm, and fihunu mas grilled fish is as good as people say.

But extremely expensive even at budget level was a persistent problem throughout the trip and dragged the experience down. I've heard others say it's improved, but during my 11-day visit it was a constant friction point. Maybe I'll give it another chance in a few years. For now I'm directing my travel budget elsewhere.