Maldives

The Maldives is a popular honeymoon destination, but also a great place for solo travel, I spent 10days relaxing and taking part in water sports in the Maldives. I travelled to the Maldives from Sri Lanka on my way to Asia, I found the flight to be cheaper if you flew from Asia rather then Europe. I hope this short summary of the Maldives will help you plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit

The Maldives has a warm, tropical climate with a consistent 29°C to 31°C year-round. January to April are the driest months, with little rain and low humidity, making this the perfect time to travel to the resorts. From May to December there is a risk of storms.

Things to do and see

Spa treatment, there are all sorts of spa treatments available at most resorts.
Going Snorkelling in the Maldives is a great way to enjoy the marine life in the Maldives.
Dolphin Watching not a grantee you will see dolphins, but worth taking out the boat and enjoying the waters in the hope of seeing some beautiful Dolphins.

Food

There is a huge variety of international cuisine in resorts around the Maldives and a choice of fish and seafood dishes. Most resorts also serve a variety of Asian and European cuisine. All drinks are imported and prices for alcoholic drinks can be high. Alcohol is only served on the resorts or at sea. The islands are also influenced by Sri Lanka dishes.

Transportation

Air: There are no direct flights to the Maldives from London.

Roads: There are only roads in Male which have cars, the other islands with roads use golf buggy’s as transport around the Island.

Taxi: In Male the capital it is possible to get a taxi. Water taxis are also available from the airport to take you to your island resort.

Ferry: Speed boats meet arrivals at the airport to take people to their island resorts.

Visa

Visas are required by all EU, U.S, Canadian and Australian nationals. You can get a 30day visa on arrival.

Language

The official language spoken in the Maldives is Divehi, most officials speak English and it is the first language in most resorts.

Money

The official currency in the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiya (MVR) There are ATMs widely available in Male.

Tipping

Some resorts automatically add 10% to bills for additional services. Where is not included a 10% tip is expected.

Social etiquette

The Maldives is an Islamic country, so while bikinis and alcohol are allowed in the resorts, islands like Male which are inhabited by the indigenous people do not allow tourist to wear bikinis or drink alcohol. Women and men should wear modest clothing when visiting areas outside of resorts.

Adaptor

There are six plugs types used in the Maldives.