I stayed at a luxurious overwater bungalow in the Maldives and a budget option. I had a great time for less than $100 a night.

Fiona Chandra

• I stayed at two different overwater bungalows in the Maldives at very different price points.
• The expensive resort was nicer, but the beaches and ocean were equally beautiful at both places.
• I found there's no need to spend $1,000 a night to sleep over Maldives' blue waters.

Early 2024 saw record-breaking increases in tourist arrivals to the Maldives, and I can see why.

The Asian country is beautiful...