Maldives Travel Guide 2010-12-09 17:14:12 Source: Author: [Large Medium Small] Views: 4 times
Best Time to Visit Maldives
The weather and climate of the Maldives are like summer all year round. Although it is warm throughout the year, the monsoon can cause fluctuations in temperature. The best tourist season is from December to May. Early May is said to be the time when the most devil rays come, making it the best season for diving enthusiasts.
The monsoon in the Maldives is gentle, unlike the severe ones in other countries. From May to October, there is not much rain but occasional sudden showers. The non-optimal season has little impact on tourism, and basically, the whole year is suitable for sightseeing.
Local Customs and Mores of the Maldives
The Maldives is an Islamic country, where physical contact between men and women is prohibited. Do not casually greet or hold hands with local women. You should not invite indigenous Maldivians to consume alcohol, as Islamic religious customs forbid alcohol and pork consumption.
When touring the islands, you may ask residents about customs and traditions, but they do not appreciate people who always seek to dig deep into everything. Begging is quite common here; otherwise, one might be unwelcome or looked down upon. Men must not wear shorts when entering a mosque, and women should not wear skirts or short-sleeved tops that expose their knees or arms.
Do not make noise or litter on the island to ensure the beauty and tranquility of the natural environment. It is strictly forbidden to fish, pick or trample coral on the island without permission; cooking in hotel rooms is also prohibited. Violators may be fined up to $5000 USD.
Entry and Exit Requirements for the Maldives
No advance visa is required. A 30-day landing visa can be obtained upon arrival as long as you have valid travel documents. All you need is your original passport, along with an entry card, exit card, and declaration form. Note: The entry card, exit card, and declaration form will be distributed by the flight attendants on the plane heading to the Maldives.
It is illegal to bring alcoholic beverages, pork products, or other items considered taboo in Islam into the Maldives. Similarly, taking seawater, fragments of wrecked ships, shells from the island (unless purchased as merchandise), or coral out of the Maldives is prohibited. Purchasing items made from sea turtles is also illegal. Firearms, weapons, pornographic publications, drugs, and alcohol are strictly prohibited from entering the country.
Cuisine of the Maldives
Maldivian cuisine features typical tropical characteristics. Authentic Maldivian food is rich in local flavor and closely tied to the sea due to religious habits. Maldivians do not eat pork, and beef must be imported from abroad, making it expensive. Commonly consumed meats include poultry and lamb, and eggs are frequently eaten as well. Fish is the most commonly consumed food item.
They enjoy meat, fish, and vegetables cooked with spicy aromatic spices, along with rice and starchy foods such as sweet potatoes and taro. Tropical fruits and vegetables, breadfruit, coconuts, pineapples, and more are available year-round. Fish dishes like fried fish, curried fish, and fish soup are staples in every meal.
After understanding the basic situation of the Maldives, let's look at the most crucial step before traveling—choosing an island!
Among the thousands of islands in the Maldives, 87 have been developed into tourist destinations, attracting large numbers of visitors annually. Due to the "one island, one hotel" format, each of the 87 resort hotels has its own unique charm, so choosing the right island is particularly important!
Here are some tips for selecting an island:
3 "Don'ts":
1. Don’t go to overcrowded islands. Remember, we are there to enjoy the scenery, not to see crowds.
2. Unlike cities like Japan or Hong Kong, the Maldives does not offer shopping or other activities. The main attractions are snorkeling and swimming, so the quality of the seawater and sand is paramount. Don't waste money on subpar experiences.
3. Avoid overly commercialized islands if you're seeking a romantic feel.
4 "Dos":
1. Choose islands where you can see plenty of fish and coral.
2. Opt for islands accessible by seaplane (or choose nearby islands if you don't want to take a seaplane).
3. Ensure the island has overwater bungalows.
4. Look for islands with unique features.
Once you understand these points, consider your budget and preferences, then select from the detailed list below, eliminating those that are unaffordable or undesirable.
Budget-Friendly Islands — Suitable for guests with a budget under 10,000 RMB, for example:
Thulhagiri (Blue Jasmine): Preserves the original tropical island landscape without luxurious five-star facilities, offering an extraordinary experience of returning to nature. Blue Jasmine is an excellent snorkeling island with well-preserved coral reefs, abundant marine life, and a vibrant underwater world.
Chaaya Island Dhonveli: A four-star resort under the Chaaya Hotels chain from Sri Lanka. Dhonveli means "crystal white sand" in the Maldivian language. This moderately sized island lacks luxury amenities but embraces natural beauty, with its eastern beaches being famous surfing spots. The water bungalows here are affordable but high-quality, offering pure and romantic vibes that rival five-star islands.
Paradise Island: One of the older resort islands in the Maldives, Paradise Island is spacious with many rooms and was once the most familiar mass-market island for Chinese tourists. Recently renovated, its overwater bungalows are fully equipped and provide excellent conditions.
Classic Islands — Suitable for guests with a budget around 10,000-15,000 RMB, Kanifushi falls into this category.
Velassaru: Managed by the renowned Universal Group, previously known as Laguna Island. This idyllic hotel was the filming location for the movie "The Blue Lagoon." After a full renovation in 2008, every corner of the island exudes fairy-tale charm, with pristine white sandy beaches radiating romance, making it an ideal destination for newlyweds on their honeymoon.
Fullmoon Island: The flagship island of the Sheraton brand in the Maldives and one of the most familiar five-star resort islands for Chinese tourists. With its large area and complete facilities, both the beach and snorkeling are excellent, suitable for various types of tourists. If you don't want to spend too much effort choosing an island, Fullmoon Island would be our recommended choice as it is the safest and smartest option.
Olhuveli Beach & Spa: One of the older five-star islands in the Maldives, with simple yet comfortable facilities, boasting long stretches of white sandy beaches and good snorkeling opportunities, making it the most popular hotel among Japanese guests. The massage pool overwater villas on Olhuveli Island are particularly cost-effective, allowing you to enjoy open-air massages while admiring the stunning views of the blue sea and sky.
Luxury Islands — Suitable for guests with a budget around 15,000-20,000 RMB, such as:
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa: The flagship island of the Four Seasons in the Maldives, designed with privacy and elegance as key focuses, embodying the luxurious, comfortable, and service-oriented philosophy of the Four Seasons brand. The rooms are fully equipped, with land-based room types featuring private pools and lagoon access surrounded by lush gardens to ensure absolute privacy for guests.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: The flagship hotel of Banyan Tree in the Maldives, blessed with unparalleled natural conditions. Its world-renowned white sandy beaches and breathtaking coral reefs, paired with incomparable romantic ambiance, make it one of the most sought-after hotels in the Maldives. The most cost-effective beach villas often require booking a month in advance.
Baros: Managed by the renowned Universal Group, utilizing natural materials such as stones, wood, and coconuts to construct the entire hotel, aiming to highlight traditional Maldivian style amidst luxurious facilities. Baros' service level is widely praised, with excellent natural conditions, making it extremely popular among Western tourists.
Exclusive Islands — Suitable for guests with a budget exceeding 20,000 RMB per person:
Soneva Gili: The flagship island of Six Senses in the Maldives. A few years ago, an Indian billionaire fell in love with a Swedish supermodel in the Maldives, and to commemorate the beginning of their romance, he invested heavily in building this luxurious hotel, naming it after their namesake "Soneva." The island features seven luxurious overwater bungalows that are not connected to the island, floating independently in the sea, providing an exceptional experience.
Huvafen Fushi: The most prestigious luxury island under Per Aquum, dedicated to crafting an ultra-exclusive private holiday for guests. From its exquisite modern ocean design to its noble and thoughtful butler service, combined with perfect beaches and coral reefs, everything here is almost flawless.
One&Only Reethi Raah: The flagship hotel of One&Only in the Maldives. The concept of natural luxury is reflected in every detail, with super five-star facilities that do not disturb the ancient tranquility. The long stretch of sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoons perfectly depict the ultimate beauty of paradise.
Seaplane Islands — Other islands are reached by speedboat from Male, while seaplane islands require a seaplane ride, offering a bird's-eye view of the entire Maldives, though at a relatively higher price.
W Retreat: One of the most famous luxury islands in the Maldives, it follows the W Hotel's "Whatever/Whenever" service philosophy, blending top-tier modern design with perfect service experiences, striving to create an incomparable luxury holiday for business elites.
Diva Island: The flagship island of the Niyama Group in the Maldives, featuring long stretches of white sand and vast coconut groves, creating the classic island beauty. Diva Island is large, with numerous room types and complete facilities, but fewer guests, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable, peaceful, and naturally beautiful dreamy holiday.
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru: A hidden paradise filled with pristine natural beauty, preserving the Maldives' most original lagoon. The white sandy beaches and swaying colorful corals beneath the sea make it a diver's paradise.
Have you chosen the island you'd like to visit? Let's start preparing for your upcoming trip!
Currency
The currency in the Maldives is Rufiyaa and Laari (100 Laaris = 1 Rufiyaa).
1 USD = 12.72 Rufiyaa (for reference only, subject to current exchange rates). When traveling in the Maldives, there's no need to carry much cash; just bring a small amount for tipping.
Tips
1. Daily tips placed on the bedside cannot be skipped (1 USD/day), and it's best to give baggage handlers tips when checking in and leaving (1 USD).
2. Tips during activities like sea fishing can be tricky (sometimes there are too many crew members on board), depending on their service and the environment at the time.
3. For dining tips, if the restaurant adds a service charge (usually 10%), you don't have to tip. However, if you find the service particularly satisfactory, you can still tip (1 USD/person).
Language
In the resort islands, English is commonly used, while in the residential islands, Dhivehi is the main language.
Actually, for a Maldives free trip, you don't need to know much English, but you must be able to communicate in basic English. If you don't know any English at all, it's recommended to choose an island with a Chinese-speaking G.O., like Kanifushi Island. Alternatively, learn a few common English phrases and important words before your trip. The hotel staff have strong comprehension skills, so simple words will suffice.
Items
The Maldives is near the equator, with the most prominent climate feature being intense sunlight. Temperatures hover around 30°C, rarely dropping below 25°C. You'll likely be spending most days enjoying the sun, sea, and sand, so it's essential to apply sunscreen.
Wide-brimmed straw hats and sunglasses are must-haves. Sunscreen should have an SPF of over 40, and it's crucial to apply it thickly and evenly, especially around the edges where your swimsuit meets your skin.
Therefore, carefully prepare the following items:
Snorkeling Essentials
1) Snorkel: It's recommended to buy a dry snorkel unless you're an expert swimmer, as water entering the snorkel can significantly affect your mood.
2) Mask: It's suggested to buy one from a physical store where you can try it on, selecting the one that fits your face best and seals properly. Online purchases may not fit well.
3) Fins: They are a must-have. In the sea, especially against the current, fins will save you a lot of energy.
Notice: (a) Even dry snorkels may let in some water; hearing a gurgling sound indicates water has entered. In this case, take a deep breath and forcefully blow the water out.
(b) Foggy masks can obstruct your view of the underwater world. You can bring a small bottle of anti-fog liquid, or use toothpaste on the inside of the lens and rinse with seawater before entering the water, or even saliva. However, these methods are only moderately effective. Water entering the mask can be annoying, but you can expel it by exhaling through your nose. However, this often results in repeated water entry and expulsion. The best solution is to buy a mask that fits your face snugly and ensure it adheres tightly when worn by taking a deep breath.
(c) Pay attention to choosing the right size for the fin portion of the mask. Too tight can be uncomfortable, and too loose can cause it to fall off.
Clothing
You should aim for at least 1-2 outfits per day, including tank tops, skirts, and shorts. Besides vanity reasons, having fresh clothes to change into after daily water activities is essential. Women can bring a few colorful scarves to wrap around bikinis, turning them into skirts, which are both stylish and convenient. Men should bring 2-3 quick-drying beach pants and a T-shirt for each day. Additionally, bring synthetic long-sleeve T-shirts for snorkeling.
Notice: The Maldives is a Muslim country, and there is a dress code in public places on the islands. Essentially, women should not expose too much skin, and men should avoid exposing their chests. Of course, wearing bikinis to restaurants is not acceptable.
Other Items
1. Music, DVDs, Books: To pass the time, whether on the plane or relaxing on the island.
2. Medicines: Common travel medications. Remember to bring heatstroke prevention medicine, as the Maldives can get very hot. Also, bring remedies for insect bites.
3. Drinking Water: Seaplanes have weight restrictions, so there's no need to bring bottled water in bulk. Kanifushi Island provides one bottle per day (but it tastes like desalinated water), while other hotels may charge 3-4 USD for a large bottle.
4. Cosmetics: In the Maldives, you'll likely go makeup-free. Unless you can't leave home without makeup, moisturizing is sufficient.
5. Hair Care Products: Bring extra shampoo and hair care products, as your hair will be constantly exposed to saltwater and needs hydration. Also, bring makeup remover to remove sunscreen.
6. Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Slippers: Bring your own.
7. Disinfectant: For bathtub disinfection.
8. Food: Most tourists opt for half-board meals. Due to the Maldives' heat, appetites diminish, so two meals a day are sufficient. However, it's wise to bring some snacks, as many compatriots find the local cuisine unappealing and crave salty-spicy treats like pickled chicken feet.
9. Umbrella: Rooms on the island usually have umbrellas. Don't use it as a sunshade, as it might be considered a performance art.
10. Sunglasses: UV protection is essential. Blue-gray lenses enhance the daytime blue skies and seas; brown lenses make dawn and dusk more beautiful.
11. Hats: Wide-brimmed hats are important.
12. Laptop: For internet access. Free Wi-Fi is available at Kanifushi Island, and other islands likely offer wireless services.
13. Camera and Storage Devices: Definitely bring them! Don't return until you've captured enough memorable moments!
14. Paper and Pens: For filling out entry and exit cards.
15. Personal Documents: The Maldives offers visa-on-arrival. Currently, travelers from China do not need a third-country visa to pass through customs, so prepare your passport, airline tickets, and hotel confirmation (make multiple copies) to head to the Maldives.
For detailed travel routes, please refer to Maldives Travel.