Why You Must Stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the Maldives: A Pinch-Me-Moment Getaway

​For over ten years, the Maldives sat firmly at the top of my travel bucket list. After visiting 49 countries, I finally ticked it off—and it was everything I dreamed of and more. From luxury overwater bungalows to unforgettable marine encounters, this was the ultimate “pinch me” holiday.

Are Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re going to make the journey to the Maldives, don’t skip the upgrade--stay in an overwater bungalow. Stepping into our villa, we were greeted by a glass floor panel peering straight into the turquoise water and a private deck with stairs leading directly into the Indian Ocean.

​Waking up each morning to the sound of the sea, taking a dip just steps from our bed, and watching fish swim below while sipping coffee—it was a dream come true. This is one splurge you’ll never regret.
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​Epic Sunsets and Oceanfront Cocktails

Our very first evening delivered one of the most jaw-dropping sunsets I’ve ever seen. We couldn’t tear ourselves away from the deck. As the sky lit up in golds, purples, and fiery pinks, we sat in complete awe—with a cocktail (or two) in hand.

​Honestly, every night felt like a postcard come to life.
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​Incredible Snorkelling and Sea Life (Including Sharks!)

I’ve snorkelled all over the world, but the Maldives marine life blew me away. On our final day, just 50 metres from our bungalow, a graceful manta ray glided right beneath me. After years of trying (and several tours chasing them!), it was pure magic to see one naturally and so close.

And yes—there was a shark! When a reef shark swam past me unexpectedly, I panicked. (Nobody told me they’re harmless!) So here’s your heads-up: reef sharks in the Maldives are totally safe to swim with. They're part of the unique underwater ecosystem that makes this place so special.
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​All-Inclusive Bliss: Cocktails, Cuisine & Comfort

We stayed on an all-inclusive island resort—and let me tell you, free-flowing cocktails from 10am set the tone. The drinks were strong (the bar staff weren’t playing!), and after the first couple, I started ordering a glass of ice with each one. Maybe I’m just a lightweight?

The meals were delicious, and while I would have loved some bubbly by the pool, sparkling wine was only served with lunch and dinner in the restaurants. If you’re a champagne fan like me, that’s something to note—but not a dealbreaker.
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​How to Book a Maldives Overwater Bungalow Trip

I booked this trip as part of the TripADeal Maldives and Sri Lanka all-inclusive tour, and it was excellent value. It combined beach bliss with cultural adventure—and everything from transfers to meals was taken care of.

🧳 Itchy Feet Tip: Book a bungalow with a sunset view side if you can. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof phone pouch, and a good snorkel mask—you’ll use it daily!
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​Is the Maldives Worth It? 1000% Yes.

Whether you’re planning a romantic couples retreat, a luxurious girls’ getaway, or simply chasing that next pinch me moment, the Maldives delivers. From the turquoise waters to the underwater wonders and the pure barefoot luxury—this trip left me floating long after I flew home.
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Ready to make your dream trip happen? Start planning your own Maldives escape today—you won’t regret it.

​Penny
Itchy Feet Family
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