The Islands of Maldives has the most beautiful tropical scenery, graceful coconut palms leaning over crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs promising great snorkelling and scuba diving, and lots of sunshine. With the increasing pace of life in the modern world, it has become the ultimate getaway for those who like sun, white sand beach, sea, watersports and doing nothing. Maldives Islands... the last Paradise.

Maldives Resort Hotels - Maldives Beach and Diving Resorts - Maldive Travel Guide

Maldives Travel Tips

About The Maldives. The Maldives is situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean. There are 1,190 islands within the archipelago consisting of 26 natural atolls, which for purposes of administration are grouped into 19 units, called Atolls. Most of the islands are quite small. They are low-lying with an average elevation of 1.6m above mean sea level and only about 199 islands are inhabited l. Shallow, crystal clear lagoons enclosed by coral reefs surround the islands.

Climate. The climate is tropical. It is warm and humid, with two pronounced monsoon seasons. Daily temperature varies little throughout the year. The annual mean temperature is 28 degrees Celsius with a maximum of 32 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 25 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity ranges from 73% to 85%.

Entry. The most convenient way of getting to the Maldives is by air. Male International Airport is located on the island adjacent to Male which is 10 minutes by water taxi and close to many resort islands. There are many scheduled airlines and charter flights operating directly to and from Male International Airport, many of which cater for the tourist trade. These include flights from Europe, the Far East, Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Visa. A tourist visa of thirty days will be granted on arrival to all visitors with valid travel documents. A confirmed hotel reservation is required for immigration clearance. Visitors without hotel reservation should seek assistance at the airport tourist information counter right outside the arrival hall.

Customs. Strict laws prohibited the import of pornographic materials, weapons, and drugs, into the country, and the penalties are severe. Alcohol cannot be imported without a license. It should be declared at the customs and will be returned to you on departure. The export of coral, shells and other objects remove from their marine habitat is prohibited in the Maldives. Please assist us in preserving our environment by taking only photographs and memories with you while leaving only footprints.

Language. Divehi is the official language of the Maldives, and English is the working language used-by the government offices and within the tourism industry.

Time. The Maldives is five hours ahead, of Greenwich Mean Time, and half an hour behind India and Sri Lanka.

Currency. The Maldivian currency is Rufiyaa (RF) which is divided into 100 Laari (L). Coins in use are 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 Laari and one Rufiyaa. The notes in denominations of 2, 5;10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 Rufiyaas.

Credit Cards. Most of the shops and souvenir shops on the capital island, Male' accept all major credit cards. The ATM's at the moment are only for locals and will not accept your credit or debit card.

Clothing. Light cotton clothes are recommended when you visit local islands.