Encompassing over 1000 coral islands that form about 25 natural atolls, the Maldives is separated from the rest of the world by the seemingly endless Indian Ocean, offering visitors a secluded little pocket of paradise. These exquisite tropical islands are best known for their white powder sand beaches, glistening blue lagoons and extensive reefs which are home to a diverse range of colourful marine life. The nation’s bustling capital of Male features an array of charming shops and restaurants as well as a busy fish market and a must-see 17th-century mosque known as Hukuru Miskiy which was constructed out of intricately carved white coral. Visitors will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained including: scuba diving, snorkelling, water skiing, stand up paddleboarding, spa visits, and hopping from one idyllic little island to the next.
Betalingen en Wisselkoersen
Currency
Local currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa
Symbol: MVR
ISO code: MVR
Subunit: Laari
Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 Rufiyaa
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 Laari, 1, 2 Rufiyaa
Banking
Card Transactions: Limited
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Reizen en Plaatselijk Transport
Air:
Main airlines: Maldivian, Trans Maldivian Airways
International Airports: Velana International Airport (MLE)
Domestic Airports: Velana International Airport (MLE), Gan International Airport (GAN), Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ) and many more.
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Limited
Gravel roads: Limited
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Limited
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: No
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Limited
Local city bus networks: Limited
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Eten, Drinken en Culinair Advies
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine: Maldivian cuisine is influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic flavors, focusing on seafood and coconut. A staple dish is Mas Huni, a mixture of tuna, coconut, onion, and chili.
Drinks: Notable local drinks include Kurumba (coconut milk), Sai (tea), and Raa (toddy tapped from palm trees).
Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated, usually around 10%.
Klimaat en Weersomstandigheden
Annual rainfall: Varies
Average temperature: 28°C
Summer:
Average highs: 31°C
Average lows: 26°C
Winter:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 25°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April during the dry season when the weather is sunny with little rainfall. This period is ideal for water activities like diving and snorkeling.
Kledingvoorschriften
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internetbeschikbaarheid
Internet cafes: Limited
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited
Libraries: Limited
Netspanning en Telefonie
Plug Type: Type G
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.