Maldives : Paradise on Earth

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.

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 

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 

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%. 

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. 

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 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited