The Basics
Country: Maldives
Where is it?: The Maldives are a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India.
Why do people go here?: P eople come to the Maldives to relax on the beaches and to try some of the best scuba diving in the world. Unfortunately, independent tourism is pretty much close to impossible.
What are the main entry points?: The Male International Airport connects to India, Sri Lanka and a few European cities. It’s difficult to reach the Maldives by boat because of a number of restrictions.
Currency used: Rufiyaa
Country Code for Phones: 960
Area codes for Major Cities: No area codes required.
Religion: 99% Sunni Muslim
Population: 300,000
Ethnic Groups: South Indians, Sinhalese, Arabs
Government: Republic
Languages: Maldivian Dhivehi
Travel Information
Major Cities: Male, Seenu
Attractions: Diving, Resting, Relaxing on any of the 70+ island resorts
Accommodation: Asia Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Maldives Tourism Office
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Kudahuvadhoo
Health Issues: No Health Risks
Tips for Visiting
When to go: November through April are the best times to visit the islands.
Common Phrases: How are you?=Haalu kihineh?; Where are you from?=Kon rasheh?; Thank you=Shukuriyaal; I am sorry=Ma-aafu kurey; How old are you?= Umurun kihaa vareh?
Specific Events/Holidays: National Day; Victory Day, and Republic Day, Various Islamic Holidays
Getting Around: Getting around is organized by the restorts where you’re staying. Traveling independently is difficult, requiring special permits.
Good to know: Although the Maldives have glorious beaches, independent travel is extremely restricted and it’s close to impossible to visit the isolated communities, without a permit.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Maldives is the Hulule International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Maldives travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
