*prem eco/high season* New York to Maldives at $1233 RT

Who says you can't have luxury and affordability at the same time?

It's easy to see why Maldives stays high on the dream vacation leaderboard - can't beat beaches like this or these views. And now with more affordable options popping up, you don't have to pay an arm and a leg for an over-water resort.

Instead, you can save your limbs for more important things, like holding a fruity cocktail or taking a dip with some friendly whale sharks.

Now we know this isn't the cheapest fish in the sea, but if you're willing to splurge a little, American Airlines has got your back with their extra reclining seats. Perfect for these 12+ hour flights, or for the vertically blessed among us.

And while the flights from Doha to Maldives and back are economy class, at least it'd be with the luxurious 5-star rated Qatar.

Just don't forget to stretch those legs during your 7-hour layover in Doha. Who knows, maybe you'll even find time to take a dip in their vitality pool.

And if the extra legroom, priority boarding and additional free checked bag isn't important to you... you can fly main cabin. for a little less at $980 RT.