How many regions to visit: I recommend
two or three regions in a single trip. Flights are infrequent, a delay can eat a day, and slow time on one lagoon (warm water, coconut shade, the hum of generators at dusk) gives far more than box-ticking.
Choosing a kind of region: If you want comfort, restaurants and diving or surf logistics, choose a
developed atoll and take day trips. If you want quiet villages, reef fishing and nights under unpolluted stars, choose an
outer atoll, and accept bucket showers, rainwater, and rice with fish. Divers and history buffs should prioritize atolls with wrecks and testing-era sites, which need advance permits and costly charters.
What it costs: Budget about
US$60 to 120 a day in urban atolls, where guesthouses run US$50 to 110 and meals US$8 to 20. Outer atolls …
read more 👉 How many regions to visit: I recommend two or three regions in a single trip. Flights are infrequent, a delay can eat a day, and slow time on one lagoon (warm water, coconut shade, the hum of generators at dusk) gives far more than box-ticking. Choosing a kind of region: If you want comfort, restaurants and diving or surf logistics, choose a developed atoll and take day trips. If you want quiet villages, reef fishing and nights under unpolluted stars, choose an outer atoll, and accept bucket showers, rainwater, and rice with fish. Divers and history buffs should prioritize atolls with wrecks and testing-era sites, which need advance permits and costly charters. What it costs: Budget about US$60 to 120 a day in urban atolls, where guesthouses run US$50 to 110 and meals US$8 to 20. Outer atolls can cost US$40 to 80 a day with homestays, though domestic flights often cost US$150 to 400 return, and boat charters, guides and local fees add US$30 to 150 per outing. Bring cash in US dollars, since the US dollar is the currency and card acceptance is spotty. Safety and culture: Ask the landowner or mayor before swimming off, camping on or photographing private islets. Dress modestly: women usually wear knee-length skirts or shorts over swimwear, and men avoid going shirtless in villages. Sundays are quiet, with church central to life. Currents through lagoon passes can be strong, sun is fierce, and medical help on outer atolls is basic, so bring water purification, reef shoes, a first aid kit and any prescriptions.