Maldives Holidays

Maldives Travel Guide:

Location:

The Maldives is based in the Indian Ocean, and is made up of 1192 islets (small islands). It is based to the South West of India making Maldives holidays warm and temperate.

Shopping:

Most of the islets don’t support shopping districts, however the larger islands do. The Local Market in the Capital of Male is probably the best place for shoppers. There is all kinds of amenities and products for people to purchase. Maldives holidays are famous for relaxing and allowing people to chill out. This shopping district gives people the opportunity walk through a warm and comforting atmosphere, surrounded by a selection of wines, various fruits, sweet meat and home made sweets.

One thing that all shoppers must be aware of: You must not try to export organic materials, so if you spot some nice looking coral or Turtle shell, you must be wary that you cannot take these back home.

History:

The Maldives have been ruled by Kings and Sultans, even since ancient times. This group of islands have always had strategic importance, mainly because of their position in between trade routes in the Indian Ocean. In these "ancient times" this country supplied a shell called the Cowries Shell which was actually used as currency throughout Asia and East Africa.

The Maldives was one of the islands that fell into a political mess in the 16th century but was pulled out of this spiral when it came under the British Trade Protectorate in the 19th Century. In 1965 the Maldives gained its own full independence and the Maldives Monarchs were granted a good measure of self governance.

Basic Information:

Language
The Official language across the Maldives is called Dhivehi, which is an Indo European language. English is however widely used throughout. Something to bear in mind for your holidays.

Currency
The currency in the Maldives is called Rufiyaa, which usually has an exchange rate of 21.12 rufiyaa to the pound. (Stats taken in November 2009).

Electricity
The Electricity type in the Maldives runs at 230 volts, and takes the three pin plug. Those travelling from England won’t need an adapter. The Plugs are 3 pin.

Diving
There are a lot of diving experiences in the Maldives, mainly swimming with Whale Sharks which have become very popular among Maldives holidays. Our sister site Holidays 4 Scuba Diving offers Maldives diving specialist holidays.

Time Difference
The Maldives is 5+ GMT.

Water
Bottled mineral water is recommended.

Tipping and local customs
It is customary to give chambermaids a small tip, as your room will be cleaned every day. In restaurants there is a service charge, but a small tip is usually expected.

Visas
If you only intend to go on holiday for no more than two weeks Maldives holidays do not require a Visa. Anything longer than two weeks means that will have to obtain a Visa, and passports must be valid for a previous 6 months.

What is so special about the Maldives?
The Maldives is one of the most stunning laces in the world, often compared to the Caribbean, the Maldives has plenty of Sun, Sea and sand, surrounded by some of the clearest ocean in the world. The diving opportunities are considered hotspots on the planet. There is a wide range of wildlife and the environment is very accommodating. One more thing that makes this place so special is the sheer beauty of the hotels, and the unique designs.

Where to Visit in the Maldives?
A trip to the Capital Male is a must. The shopping experience in the market is exciting, and the chance to get some rare and unique items is very appealing.

Diving off any of the islands can be arranged with either your tour operator or with the hotel that you are staying at.If diving isn’t your thing, then a stroll around these islands and a pleasant sunbathe on the beaches is highly recommended.