First-Timer Guide: Everything You Need To Know
Observing your first trip to Maldives can in fact be a worrying thing for you. It is an extraordinary group of islands located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa, which boasts pristine seas, powdered beaches, colourful corals, and neat overwater villas. So, let the journey begin and to make sure your journey will be mesmerizing, read the following tips, information and highlights on what to do when you get there.
Checklist of Facts about the Maldives That You Should Consider
1. Visa Requirements
Visiting the Maldives can be easily planned since most countries are issued with a 30-day visa upon arrival for the purpose of tourist. However, always ensure you consult the current visa requirements of specific nationality that applies at the time of your travel.
2. Best Time to Visit
The climatic condition of the Maldives is tropical with moderate temperatures prevailing in both; the lowlands and highlands. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April:However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April:
Dry Season (November to April): Great for beach activities, diving, water related sports due to tropical climate with few instances of rainfall.
Wet Season (May to October): That is why you are likely to experience more rain and humidity, this is also a great time to travel to Jamaica especially if you are a budget traveler because many resorts will be offering their discount rates for the year.
3. Currency and Payment Methods
The currency used in Maldives is Maldivian Rufiyaa but one can use American dollars which are accepted in almost all places. Almost all the resorts and the hotels around use credit and debit cards in their daily operations. It is recommended to have some money with you for petty shopping and tipping in addition to those who are interested in visiting local islands.
4. Language and Communication
Dhivehi is the official language of the MV and while most people speak this language, English is easily understood especially in the tourist.
influenced regions.
5. Cultural Etiquette
Maldives is an Islamic nation and hence, tourists should respect this and avoid lagging on Islamic cultural values. When it comes to dressing, this is recommended for local islands or when in Malé which is the capital city. Men must wear trunks when at the resort or on the specified beaches where bikinis are allowed; women should wear their bath suits at these places but put on a respectable covering when going for other places. Alcohol is only available in resorts because,some people develop health complications as a result of taking alcohol.
6. Health and Safety
The Maldives is generally a safe destination for travelers of all types, whether solo travelers, couples, families, or groups of friends. However, common sense measures should be employed when appreciating the beauty of what surrounds them such as being cautious with personal belongings and using non-toxic sunscreens that do not harm the reef. This water is not safe for drinking, so drink only water in the bottled container. To avoid such occurrences, it is encouraged to take a travel insurance policy that would provide coverage for medical expenses and water related risks.
7. Transportation
Need for transport: The Maldives Islands are distributed in large numbers and transportation is normally achieved through speedboats, seaplanes and local flight. Movement from an airport to your resort is always provided by lifting airplanes, and mostly arranged by your resort. Local ferries can be used in making journeys across the local islands in case of ferry services.
8. Local Cuisine
Maldivian culinary preferences show a definite and dominant influence from Indian sub-continental and Sri Lankan and Arabic Peninsular neighbours, especially so because of trades and interaction. Unfortunately, dishes such as Mas Huni (tuna salad), Garudhiya (fish soup) and Fihunu Mas (grilled fish) are some of the good ones one cannot afford to miss when in Maldives. Seafood is cheap, fresh and extremely tasty.
9. Dress Code
Tropical climate: This implies that the candidate should avoid wearingirect clothing that makes them uncomfortable through absorbing heat, therefore loose and light clothings should be worn. Simplicity and little dresses and trousers are valued when visiting local islands or Malé city. Swimsuit is appropriate for beach only, do not wear it other than the designated beach areas. All you need to do is wear a swim suit when you are in the beach but be sure to put on appropriate clothing when you are not at the beach.
10. Power Plugs and Adapters
While the power sockets used in the Maldives are type D and G sockets, the country’s standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50 Hz. The power outlets that are used are ‘C,’ ‘D,’ ‘G,’ and ‘L. ’ It is recommended that one should bring an international adapter to charge their electronics.
11. Packing Essentials
Bring only casual, light and loose fitting clothing, beach wear, hats, sun block lotion, insect repellent, a water bottle and comfortable sandals or slip ins. Carrying snorkel and the rest gear is advisable if one has intentions of often visiting the reefs.
When planning a trip to the Maldives, below are some of the most popular attractions and activities In Maldives ;
There are so many things that one is able to do and see in the Maldives given the natural beauty that the place has to offer. Here are some must-visit spots and activities:Here are some must-visit spots and activities:
1. Overwater Bungalows
Switch to an over water bungalow accommodation, providing for direct lagoon front and with beautiful sea views.
2. Snorkeling and Diving
Swim among colorful corals and discover various kinds of animals like manta rays and whale sharks, fish and more.
3. Malé
Go shop in the local markets or perhaps tour the Maldives Islamic Centre or the National Museum found in Male.
4. Island Hopping
Experience the landscapes of various islands: inhabited islands where Islanders live or deserted and almost untouched by tourism ones.
5. Bioluminescent Beaches
See the beautiful phenomenon of the night time shore, highlighted by plankton on an island, most probably, Vaadhoo.
6. Water Sports
Travelers can indulge themselves in different water activities such as, paddling a kayak, sailing wind propel, scootering, parasailing.
7. Sunset Cruises
Join a sunset cruise in a Maldivian seas to be part of the beautiful sunsets that Maldives is known for.
8. Fishing Trips
Go for the manual fishing experiences that are so common to Maldives, or opt for deep sea fishing.
9. Spa Treatments
Nourish yourself with the finest quality of spares in your resort which is always equipped with fine looking and attractive over water bungalows.
10. Submarine Tours
Take a submarine ride and learn all about the ocean life without actually having to get wet, this is also available in some resort tours.
11. Dolphin Watching
Visit dolphins on a dolphin viewing trip so that you can enjoy having a play with dolphins in their natural environment .
12. Surfing
Actually experience the baron, even better ride on the high quality waves that are in the North and South Malé Atolls.
13. Cultural Tours
There are cultural shows that one can attend including music and dance shows organized on Maldivian local islands.
14. Private Island Picnic
Whether it’s your beloved or your family, spending time with someone dear to you on a peaceful island filled with food and water sources is a unique experience.
15. Luxury Yacht Charter
You might also want to rent a boat or indeed charter a luxury yacht to have a closer look at the atolls in a more elegant manner.
Culinary Delights:
Living in the Maldives is a great way to start in planning for a diet being that it is an island civilization.
The Maldivian cuisine is a very tasteful combination of different kinds of dishes and meat with fresh agricultural products. Here are some dishes you must try:Here are some dishes you must try:
1. Mas Huni
A breakfast staple in the Maldives, considered to be a seasfood curry prepared from shredded smoked tuna, coconut, onions, and chili coconut relish served with flat bread (roshi).
2. Garudhiya
A fish soup fish, tuna, well prepared, Served with rice, lime, chili and onions.
3. Fihunu Mas
A form of grilled fish prepared using chili marinated with lime and mainly eaten as grilled fish near the coast.
4. Hedhikaa
Small dishes of meat or fish specialties, fried or baked snacks and cutlets, fish cakes, samosas and pastries that are taken with tea.
5. Dhon Riha
A fish preparation that uses coconut milk and spices and is medium spicy and full of the local flavour.
6. Kulhi Boakibaa
A crunchy and hot food product prepared from tuna fish, coconut, and rice, and commonly consumed in Malaysia as a snack.
7. Bis Keemiya
These are pastries made in a form that resembles the spring roll, in that they are small rolls of pastry filled with tuna, hard-boiled egg and cabbage.
8. Rihaakuru
It is a thick type of fish paste which is made from tuna fish and is usually used to accompany many types of food.
9. Saagu Bondibai
One of the most famous coconut based Maldivian sweets made from sago tapioca, coconut milk and condensed milk.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruits
Try the local tropical fruits like paw paw, avocado, mangoes, and coconut which can be fresh fruits, juices or even wine.
Final Thoughts
With these tips in mind and with the help of our guide of attractive locations and mouthwatering foods, you are all set for this exciting tour in the tourist paradise that is the Maldives. The island destination offers visitors breathtaking sceneries, exquisite lodgings, and adventure that are rare to find in other parts of the world.
Whether you are a couple, a parent with children or a group of young persons, the Maldives have something to offer to every tourist. Any time spent in the Maldives means that each minute will be full of relaxation and discoveries starting from the sandy shores of the sea to the unique marine life and even the tasteful cuisine. Happy travels!
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