Travel to Maldives

Maldives

Maldives
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The Maldives consists of 1200 idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean, and offers visitors the opportunity to experience living on an (almost) private island. Every resort in the Maldives is on its own island, ranging in size from tiny to extensive. There are more then 100 resorts to choose from, and the opulence of some of these is extraordinary. Want an overwater bungalow that comes with a private butler, a private swimming pool, or a private masseuse? Whatever you dream up, you can have one all to yourself, at least while you stay. The Maldives do deliver a royal experience, at a princely price.

This pampering and extreme luxury lures a million romance travelers to the Maldives each year, but the upscale family market is growing, and resorts just for families are now flourishing.

In addition to paradisaical beaches, luxurious 6 star accommodation and sumptuous fine dining, the Maldives offer world class diving and snorkeling. The richness and variety delights; in the reef, colorful corals and tropical fish await, while in deeper waters manta rays, turtles and even whale sharks are to be found. Best of all? The water temperature is so warm that diving without a wetsuit is common. Staying in an overwater bungalow allows guests to swim and snorkel at will within sight of their home away from home.

People

Maldivians are a mixture of South Indian, Sinhalese and Arab influences. The Maldivian weekend occurs on Friday and Saturday. On island resorts, however, guests will notice no disruption in their vacation routine no matter what day it is.

Language

Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, however English is widely spoken in the tourist sector.

History

The Maldives are currently a republic, after many years of Dutch and British protection. After independence, leadership passed from one dictator to another, and several decades were peppered with riots by dissidents, which has finally settled down.

The tsunami of 2004 caused horrific damage to the Maldives, affected over one third of the 300,000 residents, making them homeless. International aid got the islands back on track and today there is little evidence of the event.

Currency

The official currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, however all purchases in resorts are by USD cash or credit card, and there is no need to exchange money unless you plan to make purchases at markets, or ride the local ferries.

Weather

The Maldives are tropical, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 90 degrees F throughout the year. However, rainfall increases considerably during the April-October southwest monsoon, particularly from June to August.

Health Requirements

No shots or medications are required for entry to Maldives.

Visa Requirements

A free 30 day entry permit is given to travelers with passports valid for at least 6 months beyond their travel dates.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted with Visa and Mastercard being more common, and American Express less so.

Electrical Appliances

Electricity supply is 220V to 240V, 50Hz AC. The standard socket is the UK-style three-pin, although there are some variations, so an international adaptor is recommended.

Water

Tap water in resorts may not be potable, but you will be advised by management, and supplied with bottled water if necessary. Away from resorts, bottled water is advised.