Maldives
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- CapitalMale
- Official languagesDhivehi
- CurrencyMaldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
- Time zoneUTC+5
- PopulationAbout 520,000
- Known forOverwater bungalows, coral reefs, luxury resorts, white sand beaches, marine life
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- Visa policyAll nationalities receive a 30-day visa on arrival for tourism purposes.
- Entry requirementsPassport must be valid for at least six months, with an onward ticket and sufficient funds.
- Check before you goMaldives Immigration
Rules change: always check official sources before you travel. AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Peak seasonDecember to April, offering the driest weather and best conditions for diving and snorkeling.
- Off-peak seasonMay to November, which is the wet monsoon season with higher chances of rain and wind.
- WeatherTropical climate with temperatures consistently between 25°C and 31°C year-round.
- Best time to visitJanuary to March for the driest weather and clearest waters.
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- Male CityThe bustling capital island featuring the Old Friday Mosque and local markets.
- Baa AtollA UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for manta ray sightings and diverse coral reefs.
- Banana ReefOne of the first discovered dive sites in the Maldives, known for vibrant marine life.
- Vaadhoo IslandFamous for the bioluminescent plankton that makes the beach glow at night.
- National MuseumLocated in Male, it houses a collection of historical artifacts from the Maldivian royal family.
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- Private Island ResortsLuxury experience with overwater villas, ideal for honeymooners and those seeking privacy. Prices about 40,000-150,000 INR per night.
- Maafushi IslandPopular for budget-conscious travelers and guesthouses, offering local culture and excursions. Prices about 5,000-15,000 INR per night.
- Male CityConvenient for short stays or transit, close to the airport and local amenities. Prices about 6,000-12,000 INR per night.
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- Mas HuniA traditional breakfast dish made of shredded smoked tuna, coconut, lime, and chili, served with flatbread.
- GarudhiyaA fragrant, clear fish broth served with rice, lime, and chili.
- HedhikaaVarious short eats or snacks, often fried, served in cafes during the late afternoon.
- Mas RihaA rich, spicy Maldivian fish curry made with fresh coconut milk.
- Dining tipAlcohol is only available on resort islands and liveaboard boats, not on local inhabited islands.
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- From the airportVelana International Airport connects to resorts via speedboat or seaplane. Fares vary widely by distance.
- SpeedboatsThe primary mode of transport between nearby islands and resorts.
- SeaplanesUsed for reaching more distant resorts; scenic but expensive.
- Public FerriesAffordable way to travel between local islands, though schedules are limited.
- TipAlways confirm transfer arrangements with your resort well in advance of arrival.
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- Is it required?Not required but recommended.
- Medical careModerate quality in Male; limited on remote islands. Evacuation to Male or abroad is often necessary for serious issues.
- Risks to coverMedical evacuation, water sports accidents, and trip cancellation.
- What to checkEnsure your policy covers scuba diving if you plan to participate.
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- CurrencyMaldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
- Exchange rateAbout 1 MVR = 5.4 INR
- Cards or cashResorts accept cards; local islands rely more on cash.
- TippingService charge is often included in resorts; tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
- Mobile dataTourist SIM cards are available at the airport from providers like Dhiraagu and Ooredoo.
- Power plugsTypes D, G, J, K, L; 230V.
- Emergency number119
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