Traveling to the Maldives soon? Here is AFC’s Ultimate Maldives Travel Guide Before You Go. We have gathered all the things you must know so that you may have an easier and more stress-free time on your trip.
Language
ENGLISH is widely spoken by the Maldivian people along with the local language DHIVEHI
What Weather to Expect
The Maldives has TWO SEASONS, dry season (January to March/April), a period of unpredictable weather (Late April to May), and a wet season (May to November).
However, the country is sunny all year round. The yearly average temperature is highs around 30 °C (86 °F) and lows around 25 °C (77 °F).
The country is sunny all year round, this is why the Maldives is every lovers’ favorite getaway destination (Especially during Valentine’s Day)
What kind of clothes to pack?
April – November: Umbrella/ Raincoat/ Rainbag (Waterproof covers) *Rainiest Month being October
All Seasons: Bring appropriate sun protection products i.e. sunblock for the body, face, etc.; Hat/ caps/ sunglasses; Light cotton garments; Comfortable walking shoes.
Maldivian Religion
PREDOMINANTLY ISLAM
Because of this, wearing bikinis and alcohol consumption is not allowed in capital / local islands. However, the resorts are allowed to serve alcohol and are more lenient with swimwear.
That being said, bring a cover-up as a countermeasure or opt for generally modest swimwear. At least enough to cover shoulders and thighs. This is just advice if you want to avoid awkward situations when exploring general premises outside the swimming areas.
Currency
MALDIVIAN RUFIYAA (MVR) - Settling transactions in USD is widely accepted in the capital, especially by tourist establishments. You wouldn’t need MVR unless you have transactions to be made in local shops. Keep USDs in small notes and make sure you are only exchanging from banks so that you can keep receipts and exchange back without much difficulty.
Should you bargain?
Bargaining is not widely part of Maldivian culture. Moreover, this should only be attempted in tourist establishments.
Should you leave a tip?
Service taxes are generally included in restaurant cheques. However, Tips are welcomed by hotel staff in all denominations.
Service taxes are generally included in restaurant cheques. However, Tips are welcomed by hotel staff in all denominations.
How much is a day in the Maldives?
Minimum USD 400 per day or more depending on interest and choice of activity.
Power plugs and socket
MALDIVIAN RUFIYAA (MVR)
Settling transactions in USD is widely accepted in the capital, especially by tourist establishments. You wouldn’t need MVR unless you have transactions to be made in local shops. Keep USDs in small notes and make sure you are only exchanging from banks so that you can keep receipts and exchange back without much difficulty.
MALDIVIAN RUFIYAA (MVR)
Settling transactions in USD is widely accepted in the capital, especially by tourist establishments. You wouldn’t need MVR unless you have transactions to be made in local shops. Keep USDs in small notes and make sure you are only exchanging from banks so that you can keep receipts and exchange back without much difficulty.
The Maldives uses Type D and G power plugs at 230 Volts and 50 Frequency. Bringing power plug adapters is advisable.
Getting Around
A more practical approach is taking the bus. However, it only runs limited routes between Male to Hulhumale with fares starting at MVR 3.
Getting to other islands could be tricky because of the archipelagic nature. They are mostly accessed by sea vessels/speedboats.
Maldives Travel Guide – The Checklist
Guide to Snorkeling
Care for the Corals! Bring a sunscreen that doesn’t have oxybenzone and octinoxate, or parabens like methylparaben, butylparaben, or phenoxyethanol (as they have proven to harm the reefs).
Opt for zinc oxide-based sunscreen or invest in UPF sun shirts/swim gear if possible.
Bring snorkeling gear like goggles, fins, or water shoes if available.
Bring waterproof camera/waterproof phone cases with a float strap.
Guide to Traveling with Kids
Keep the beach fun with the right safety swimming gears like arm floaties and kiddie snorkeling set.
Need Internet Everywhere in the Maldives?
Keep your passport and phone prepared when purchasing a local sim card. Tourists will commonly find local SIM cards with ready network access straight out of Male’ International Airport. Some of the more common options include Dhiraagu and Ooredoo. They can cost somewhere from 30 MVR (2 USD) to 230 MVR (15 USD). Preferably paid in MVR.
Guide to Bringing Medications
Prepare preferred over-the-counter medicines (Keep in original containers/with labels for easy identification) in small quantities (or as you find necessary) into a simple first aid. i.e. Diarrhea medicines, antacids, antihistamines, motion sickness, cough drops, decongestants, pain and fever relief, mild laxatives, bandages, and small antiseptic solutions. Along with your masks and preferred sanitizer.
Bring a doctor’s prescription for other prescriptions that you may have as needed and check for the allowed amount of quantity depending on your stay.
Now that you’ve read this Maldives Travel Guide
You are officially ready to travel to the Maldives. Don’t forget that you’re always free to contact your AFC Representative if you have any more concerns before your departure! We wish you safe and happy travels!