Фотогалерея ‒ Maldives

Guide to Maldives

Basic Information

The Maldives, with its white sand beaches, glistening under the sun, and graceful palm trees casting their shade over crystal-clear waters, surpasses the idyllic image painted by tourist brochures. Surprisingly, the reality is even more enchanting, provided you choose the right time to visit and have the budget for it. While the Maldives is renowned for beach vacations, diving, surfing, and fishing, it's important to note that tours to this paradise come with a premium price tag. However, it's this exclusivity that makes memories of a vacation, honeymoon, or romantic getaway here all the more precious.

Capital
Male
Language
Maldivian
Currency
Ruth
Time zone
GMT +5
Population
341 256
Territory
298 km²

Dishes worth trying:

Tuna with rice or vermicelli — is the most common dish on the islands. But each house may use different seasonings and sauces.

Garudhi — is a clear tuna broth.

Rikaakuru — a highly concentrated tuna paste. Maldivians eat it in many different variations: spread on bread, mixed with onions, boiled rice and chili.

Maskhuni — is tuna, but smoke-smoked and mixed with coconut, lime juice, onion and chili.

Roshi — national rice-based breads.

Things to do in Maldives

  • See the Presidential Palace, erected by the Sultan for his son in Male'.
  • Learn about the country's history at the National Museum in Male'.
  • See the English prison and the remains of the fort on Maradu Island.
  • View the artificial island of Tilafushi, formed from trash.
  • Have your wedding ceremony or romantic evening on Velassaru or any other favorite island.
  • Take a scuba dive off the reefs of Ellaidu Resort.

Tips

It is strictly forbidden to destroy or catch live or dead corals. It is also prohibited to take them out of the country.
All necessary medicines, as well as those that may come in handy, it is better to bring with you, as at the resort their cost is quite high.
Drink tap water only after it has been filtered and boiled. However, it is still recommended to drink bottled water and pasteurized drinks.

Sights

The Maldives' primary allure lies in its breathtaking seascapes and island coastlines, attracting visitors from around the globe. The coral reefs here are truly a marvel, making it a wise choice to opt for a hotel near the reef for an immersive experience. However, the Maldives also boasts other equally astonishing attractions such as mosques, gardens, and palaces. Although, in reality, you can explore them all in just a day or two. These attractions are primarily located in the capital, Male, which covers an area of less than 6 km².

Tours to Maldives

The Maldives, with its unbroken ring of atolls in the Indian Ocean, has long been a symbol of prestige and luxury for local tourists. Maldives tours are not just a dream but a reality for those seeking the utmost in beauty and relaxation.

Anyone who has ever seen a photo from the shores of these islands secretly or openly yearns to experience the natural beauty firsthand. Even though there might not be many traditional tourist attractions, this doesn't deter enthusiasts from seeking suitable vacation packages.

Tours to the Maldives cater to various types of travelers, whether it's a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a wedding ceremony. Each hotel is situated on its own small island with its pristine beaches, eliminating the need to search for the best spots.

Undoubtedly, such levels of comfort and natural splendor come at a price. The cost of a two-week stay here averages around $1,500 USD, but relatively affordable deals can be found when booking well in advance.

Another option for finding reasonably priced offers is to explore last-minute deals, and the tripmydream service is a valuable resource for discovering the latest hot offers from tour operators.

Where to go Maldives

If your travel objective is a tranquil beach getaway with pristine lagoons, the choice of which resort to visit becomes less critical. Each of the islands assures you of the purest white sands, crystal-clear warm waters, and serene surroundings. However, the decision ultimately depends on your budget. Some islands boast luxurious five-star hotels, while others offer more affordable options. For those seeking the utmost luxury, Wabbinfaru Island in Kaafu Atoll is renowned but comes at a premium. Velassaru Island in South Male is a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. If spa services are your focus, Raa Atoll is an ideal destination. Diving enthusiasts can head to Baa Atoll, although diving opportunities are available on almost every island.

When to go Maldives

The ideal period for a vacation in the Maldives is generally considered to be from December to April. During this time, there is minimal rainfall, and you can expect the most sunny days. The rest of the year is considered the low season, characterized by strong winds and tropical showers on the islands. However, the Maldives can be enjoyed year-round. The average air temperature hovers around 28-30°C, and the water temperature is a pleasant 26-27°C. In the summer, humidity rises to around 82% due to rains, but it's still possible to experience good weather and enjoy a tour in paradise conditions, including the beaches and local cuisine. The tripmydream service can provide recommendations on where to organize your trip, when to go for your vacation in the Maldives, and how to make it as enjoyable as possible.

Maldives in spring

Spring in the islands is an unpredictable season. You may get a week of tropical showers, which usually occur in the first half of the month, or you may catch cloudless days. The hottest month of the year is April. Towards the end of the period the rains become more frequent and the humidity increases.

Maldives in summer

Summer is considered the low season on the islands, but not because of the air temperature - it rarely exceeds +30ºC. It is a time of heavy downpours and strong gale force winds that agitate the sea. But the high waves attract professional surfers.

Maldives in fall

The Maldives experiences a change of season in the fall. If the beginning of September can mar the rest with prolonged showers and strong wind, then by the end of November dry, almost windless weather is established. But even in the midst of autumn you can get 3-5 days of sunshine and cloudless skies.

Maldives in winter

Winter is the high season in the Maldives as rainfall is extremely rare. The only exception is the second half of December, when they are more frequent and longer. The ideal time for a vacation with dry weather is February.

Usefulness

Preparing for a trip can be quite a task, especially when heading to a new destination. That's why tripmydream is here to simplify the process by providing essential travel tips and guidance.

Visa to Maldives

No visa needed for European citizens

Customs & Tax Free

The country has a strict ban on the import of alcohol and pork products. However, these are not the only prohibited items that customs officers pay attention to.

Travel by car

There is no point in traveling by car on the islands. Only a few islands are equipped with tracks. Otherwise, scooters and bicycles are used.

Phrasebook for tourists

In the Maldives, all the staff speaks excellent English. You can learn a few catchphrases in Dhivehi to make the locals feel at ease.

Public transport and prices

Public transportation, cabs, operates only on a few islands. There are water and air connections between the islands.

Events

It is worth checking in advance which national holidays coincide with your trip. Mass festivities are not very common in the Maldives.

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