This small country is located on 20 atolls in the equatorial part Indian Ocean. The Islamic Republic is separated from India by more than 2,000 km. The distance to Sri Lanka is significantly less: if you look at Maldives On the world map, it can be seen that the states are approximately 700 km apart from each other.
Information about the islands
The state of the Maldives is formed by almost 2000 coral islets. About 400 thousand people live here, and the dominant religion is Islam. The total area of the Republic of Maldives is 90 thousand km 2, but the land share of it accounts for no more than 300 km 2.
Interestingly, the only city and port of the country is its capital Male, located on the atoll of the same name. The remaining islands are almost uninhabited and only occasionally there are hotels on them.
The time in the Maldives is UTC +5, so when flying you should prepare in advance for a change in time zones.
Weather by month in the Maldives
The climate is determined by where exactly the Maldives is located. It belongs to the subequatorial monsoon type, so the weather is radically different in the dry and rainy seasons. Depending on the month of your trip, you will have to prepare for the following:
January. A trip to the islands this month will definitely be successful thanks to the warm, sunny and windless weather and the calm that reigns in the ocean. Although January is technically the rainy season, there is minimal precipitation, which guarantees a wonderful beach holiday and the opportunity to go diving. During the daytime, the thermometer rises to at least +24 °C, and the water temperature averages +27 °C.
February. Crowds of vacationers usually flock here at this time. The ocean continues to delight with a comfortable water temperature of +25 °C, and daytime air temperatures rarely fall below +28 °C. There are practically no waves, and the sky is perfectly blue and cloudless. Therefore, even inexperienced divers can begin to learn the intricacies of diving, and the almost complete absence of precipitation allows you to have fun on a yacht or catamaran.
March. This month is also considered quite hot and dry, and the average air and water temperatures differ little from February. The sand remains very warm, and there are practically no tropical showers. March sees plenty of native flora bloom, but be prepared for the occasional sandstorm.
April. At this time, the southwest monsoon arrives in the Maldives, bringing with it a change in weather. Storms in the ocean are rare, the heat is increasing, but rain is still an infrequent visitor here. If you cannot stand the stuffiness, you should postpone your trip: the air temperature is generally +30 °C, and the water temperature reaches +28 °C.
May. Very strong winds begin to blow, sometimes turning into hurricanes. There is significantly more precipitation: approximately half of the days in May are rainy. At the same time, the weather constantly brings surprises. The sun gives way to heavy rain and vice versa.
June. This month continues the May trend as the southwest monsoon takes over. There are very strong gusts of warm wind. In June, the Maldives receives the maximum precipitation typical for this region, but its amount rarely exceeds 200 mm. Ocean waves sometimes reach gigantic sizes. The thermometer stays at an average of +30 °C, and the water temperature in the ocean is +27 °C.
July. At this time, the islands are not very comfortable due to frequent rains. However, they quickly end, and soon the sky partially clears and the sun peeks through the clouds. In July, approximately 160 mm of precipitation falls, and the air temperature is +31 °C. In water, the thermometer usually shows +27 °C. Thunderstorms are possible, during which it feels cool.
August. This month is considered the most changeable on the islands. In early August, the sea is quite warm and calm, winds and hurricanes practically stop. It rains relatively rarely, and the atolls are still hot. But already at the end of the month the sky becomes increasingly cloudy, it rains often, and the wind gets stronger.
September. Both day and night, the weather remains mostly warm, and the sweltering heat recedes. Humidity remains quite high, and precipitation falls up to 200 mm. Average number rainy days in September - 15-16. The rains are often accompanied by strong thunderstorms, but the ocean remains quite warm with water temperatures of approximately +27 °C.
October. The air temperature drops slightly to +27-29 °C, and the water temperature drops to +26 °C, which does not interfere with swimming at all. It rains much less often: usually no more than 100 mm of precipitation falls.
November. This month the northeast monsoon arrives in the Maldives, bringing with it warm and dry weather. Winds and rains rarely bother tourists, and the average thermometer shows +28 °C. The water warms up to +25 °C.
December. At this time of year, everything blooms on the islands, so they turn into a real tropical paradise. Daytime temperatures rise to +30-32 °C, and the water temperature in the ocean rarely drops below +25 °C.
How to get to the Maldives
Any guidebook where you will find everything you wanted to know about the Maldives will indicate that the connection island state with the mainland is carried out exclusively by air. The country's only airport is located in the capital Male. You can get to it in the following ways:
Direct flight from Aeroflot from Moscow. New Airbus A-330-200 aircraft fly from the Russian capital twice a week: on Wednesdays and Saturdays. If it is important for you to know how long it takes to fly from Moscow on such a direct flight, you will have to be patient: the flight duration is approximately 9 hours.
Please note that when returning from the Maldives you will have to pay an airport tax of 10 USD - 15 USD, which is not always included in the air ticket price.
Connecting flight with Qatar Airways (connection point - Doha), Singapore Airlines (connection point - Singapore) or Emirates Airlines (connection point - Dubai). The cost of tickets for airliners of these air carriers already includes an airport tax.
Connecting flight with Srilankan Airlines. To do this, you will first have to fly to Dubai or Colombo and purchase a ticket to Male at the local airport for 180 USD - 250 USD. This is the most budget flight option for those who want to save money.
The average cost of a flight between the capitals of Russia and the Maldives ranges from 570 USD to 720 USD one way.
Maldives visa and customs clearance
Residents of Russia and the CIS countries do not need to obtain a visa to travel to the Maldives, since there is a visa-free agreement between the countries. However, given the sudden change in climate and the exotic nature of the region, it would not hurt to purchase a health insurance policy. Weekly insurance will cost approximately 25 USD - 45 USD.
It is very important to comply with the rules of customs legislation of the Republic of Maldives. They talk about the following:
- You can import and export foreign currency in unlimited quantities.
- Without paying a duty, 125 ml of perfume or cologne and 200 cigarettes are allowed to be imported, as well as no more than one item related to goods for personal use per passenger.
- It is strictly forbidden to transport pork and meat products made from it, salami sausages, pornographic goods, narcotic substances, souvenirs made from a sea turtle shell or dark coral, as well as antiques found at the bottom of the ocean.
Be sure to note that the import and export of any alcoholic beverages in the Maldives is prohibited. Violation of this rule may result in arrest.
Cost of a holiday in the Maldives
Many Russian celebrities like Volochkova love to vacation in the Maldives. This is due to the very comfortable climate and reasonable prices for accommodation. If you are wondering how much a standard trip to the Maldives costs, please note that it depends on the following factors:
- duration of the trip;
- hotel category;
- the island on which the hotel is located;
- food and entertainment included in the price;
- season.
The more services a hotel offers for vacationers (SPA, swimming pools, animation, sauna and much more), the more expensive the vacation will cost. If you are planning a trip for 7-8 days, booking a single or double room with half board and a minimum of entertainment, you will have to spend from 2600 USD to 5500 USD.
The wedding tour involves a romantic weekend for the newlyweds and will cost from 1750 USD to 2500 USD. The price includes room decoration, services of photographers and musicians, fruits, wine or champagne and an informal wedding ceremony. The all-inclusive tour is suitable for those who want to completely relax during their trip. Its price - from 3,500 USD to 7,000 USD for a week's stay in a 4 or 5 star hotel - includes three meals a day and free drinks throughout the entire stay.
Those looking to save money should pay attention to last-minute tours: they are usually 30% cheaper. Also at the most budget holiday in the Maldives for 8 days you will have to spend approximately 2000 USD if you book a room in an inexpensive three-star hotel without special amenities. The price includes airfare and medical insurance.
The Maldives is a real sunny paradise on earth, where you can easily recuperate after a long-awaited vacation.
The local population lives and works, tourists relax. We invite you to find out what islands are in the Maldives and why they are interesting.
How many islands are there in the Maldives?
There are 1,192 Maldives islands on the world map, and not all of them are inhabited. Each of the islands belongs to one of 21 island groups - these are the so-called atolls. They are the main administrative-territorial unit of the state. Let's look at each atoll separately.
List of islands in the Maldives
So, it's time to go to the very heavenly place on the planet:
- - the name of the main island of the Maldives. It has the highest population density (as many as 103,693 people per 4.39 sq. km!). The capital of the Maldives itself, the largest settlement on the archipelago, also bears the name “Male”. Besides residential areas, is located here (on Hulule Island). It is in Male that there are most tourist, entertainment complexes, souvenir and other shops. The Male Atoll in the Maldives also includes the artificial island of Hulumale, settled relatively recently, in 2004.
- (or Haa-Alifa) wears official name Northern Thiladunmati, or Thiladunmati Uthuruburi. It ranks 3rd in the list of Maldivian atolls in terms of population and area. It consists of 43 islands (14 are inhabited), which are located in the very north of the archipelago. The resorts of Haa Alif Atoll opened for tourists only in 2005. The most popular islands for holidays are Donakuli, Alidu, Utim. On the atoll you can visit an 18th-century mosque and the ancient mausoleum of the Maldivian kings.
- – about 16 thousand people live on the 16 inhabited islands of the atoll. There is a small regional airport on Hanimadhoo Island, and ancient Buddhist ruins on Faridhoo.
- (or Shaviyani) are pristine beaches and rich undersea world. The atoll includes 51 islands with the capital at Funadhu. Most islands small size. Among the unusual places, the mangrove swamps of Maroshi Island stand out. Today, Shaviyani Atoll in the Maldives offers only 3 hotels (Vagaru, Doliyada and Komandu islands), but the tourism infrastructure is actively expanding.
- (or Noonu), with its capital on the island of Manadu, has 13 residential islands out of a total of 70. This atoll is famous not only for its luxury hotels, but also for the possibility of an excellent romantic getaway: those who wish can rent a dhoni boat and get to any of the uninhabited islands of this Maldives atoll, to feel what a vacation away from civilization is like. All the attractions of Nunu Atoll are underwater - these are a variety of dive sites. It is also convenient that everyone local resort has its own dive center.
- (aka North Maalosmadulu) is one of the most frequently visited foreign tourists. The atoll's 88 islands, of which 15 are inhabited, are located 140 km from the capital of the country. The capital of Raa, the island of Ungofaru, is famous as a center for the production of traditional dhoni boats. The most popular islands of Raa Atoll in the Maldives are Midhupparu, Rasgethimu, Kandoludhu, Rasmaadu.
- (Goydhu Atoll or South Malosmadulu). The islands of this atoll are considered the most beautiful in the Maldives. Its virgin forests, coupled with snow-white beaches, remind vacationers of a tropical paradise. Moreover, Baa Atoll in the Maldives has been considered a biosphere reserve since 2001. Of its 75 islands, only 13 are inhabited, and luxury hotels and resorts are concentrated on them. On the islands of Eidafushi and Tuladhoo you can buy excellent souvenirs - people even come here from Male to buy them. Vacationers stop on the islands of Khorubadhu, Fonimagudhu, Dhunikolu, Kihaduffaru.
- (Laviyani or Faadhippolu) is famous for its popular dive sites. It has only 5 inhabited islands, among which it is the leader in terms of attendance - it is the most famous resort in the Maldives - and no less popular, the best budget island in the country. In general, Lhaviyani Atoll is romantic place with plenty of options for water activities. Its islands are the best in the Maldives for a beach holiday. In addition to this, this includes snorkeling, wind surfing, fishing, yachting and sea canoeing, and walking along the sand spit at dusk.
- - the center of the Maldives Republic. Its resorts are convenient because they are closest to the country's only airport. The capital of Kaafu in the Maldives is. The atoll is home to many house reef hotels, honeymoon hotels, family hotels and, of course, all-inclusive establishments. Here is Thilafushi, the only garbage island in the Maldives, created as a landfill, and the popular tourist islands of Huraa and Bandos.
- , or Ari - 8 islands of the atoll have a permanent population. This place in the Maldives is more than popular among tourists: Paradise islands, are the most popular among those who want to relax by the warm sea.
- Alif-Dhaal welcomes guests with historical sights - you can visit a beautiful wooden mosque and a Buddhist stupa. In addition, guests of the island will find several hotels, mini-hotels and a unique underwater restaurant located at a depth of 5 m - it was the first of its kind in the world.
- (aka Felidhu) is an atoll with a population of only 2,300 people living on 5 islands. They are considered the best diving in the Maldives, and the most interesting of the dive sites is.
- (Meemu) began accepting foreign holidaymakers not so long ago. There are only 2 hotels here, but they are truly luxurious resorts. Among guests, trips to the beaches of the uninhabited part of the atoll are popular for a romantic holiday in the lap of pristine nature. Among the attractions, noteworthy is the mosque on the island of Kolufushi, where an ancient artifact is kept - the sword of Sultan Muhammad Takurufaan.
- (Nilande Atoll). Of the 23 islands, there is only one resort island - Filitheyo. Its villas are designed in an eco-style with a slight touch of luxury, and at the same time equipped to the highest standards. On the island you can see an ancient cemetery, where you will be shown the grave of a local wizard. Faafu once conducted research on the atoll famous traveler Thor Heyerdahl: it was here that he found the oldest evidence that Buddhism was practiced in the Maldives in pre-Islamic times.
- (or Daalu) gives tourists a romantic atmosphere, privacy and communication with wildlife. It was even nicknamed “turtle island” - these animals lay their eggs here, and tourists enjoy admiring the newborn turtles. Of the 56 picturesque islands, only 7 are inhabited, and 2 are given over to tourism businesses. The capital of the atoll is the city of Kudahuvadhu. Tourists go to the islands of Rinbudu and Hulundeli to buy magnificent jewelry from local craftsmen.
- (Kolumadulu), with its capital Weimandu, consists of 66 islands. People inhabit 13 of them. All the attractions of Thaa Atoll are pristine nature: most of the islands are in the condition in which they were created by nature, and this is their main value.
- has as many as 82 islands, but only 12 are inhabited. They have conditions not only for diving, but also for surfing. Those who like snorkeling will also like the islands of Laamu Atoll - there are shallow lagoons. Interesting in this area and archaeological sites– ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas.
- (Gaafu Alifa) will delight you with only a few hotels, but only the most luxurious ones. But there are many excellent diving spots where you can find octopuses, manta rays and huge glowing jellyfish. The atoll is considered one of nature reserves Maldives. Travelers are drawn here by the seclusion of these places and especially the heart-shaped island, the only one in the Maldives.
- has a permanent population located on 9 islands. The first resort here was built in 2006 on the island of Vatavarrehaa - it was a luxurious hotel designed for 150 people. It appealed to lovers of secluded relaxation. And today, numerous surfers come to Fiyoari Island.
- - a special atoll. There is no lagoon inside it - it is completely filled with corals, forming one large island. Mangoes, bananas, and papaya are grown on its fertile soil. Notable features on Fuvahmulah Island are Reading Hill and the Kedera Mosque.
- - the southernmost atoll of the Maldives archipelago, it is also the highest (2.4 m above sea level). Here is Gan, the second most important airport in the country, built on the island of the same name in the Maldives, the largest in the country. The archipelago has 6 inhabited islands of total number 24. The capital of the atoll is Hithadhoo, and it is in greatest demand among tourists in the Maldives. Natural beauties include luxurious lush gardens, banana and coconut plantations and the only freshwater lake in the Maldives.
The Maldives is a chain of 26 atolls that stretches in the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean. Or rather, in the Arabian Sea on its outskirts. The republic is located approximately 700 km from Sri Lanka. In total there are about 1200 islands of coral origin. Maximum height above water level - only 2.4 m.
The Indian Ocean is the third largest in terms of area and depth. It occupies about 20% of the Earth's water surface and washes Africa, Asia, Australia and Antarctica. The region of the Maldives has created ideal conditions for relaxation.
The Indian Ocean is also rich in amazing fauna. These are dolphins, sea turtles, sea devils and whale sharks. There are no species dangerous to humans in the vicinity of the Maldives. Even whale sharks, which sometimes swim to the shores, feed on plankton.
Diving in the Indian Ocean Which sea or ocean should you go diving in in the Maldives?
– one of the main entertainments in the Maldives. There are at least several reasons to dive into the Indian Ocean:
- The atolls are located close together and there are many channels between them. Therefore, water is constantly in motion. This attracts sea animals and rare species fish, such as napoleons, parrots or trevally;
- Huge manta rays are amazing rays, the width of which reaches up to 6 m. In the Maldives, you can dive under the water and watch whole flocks above your head;
- Great whale sharks are the largest fish in existence. They are safe and you can swim with them here;
- Among the huge number of atolls and house reefs, there are both places for beginners and rare little-explored locations with practically untouched corals.
Climate on the Indian Ocean coast
Have you found out where the Maldives are, what sea or ocean washes it and how to get there? It's time to sort out the climate on the coast.
The islands are warm and sunny throughout the year. Temperature variations in tropical climates are slight, but the weather is greatly influenced by the monsoons. The average annual rate is +28 degrees. Minimum – +25.
- From December to March, the islands experience winter monsoons. There are short storms in December, but after them the sun comes out again. So this is not a hindrance to your vacation;
- From April to October the southwest monsoon takes over. It brings short-term precipitation, but the hot sun quickly dries out the sand and prevents the ocean from cooling.
The coldest month is December, and the warmest month is April. However, the temperature difference is 1-2 degrees. The amount of precipitation also depends on the season. Most often it rains in May and October. But January-April is the dry season. It rains least in February.
The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean southwest of India. Green coconut palms and white sandy beaches surrounded by the emerald sea create the charm of a tropical paradise in the Maldives. The country consists of thousands of small islands (100-800 meters in diameter), on each island there is no more than one hotel. A calm, secluded style of relaxation prevails here. Newlyweds and diving enthusiasts come here. The audience is mostly rich and respectable.Geographical position.
The Maldives archipelago consists of 26 atolls, is located 700 km southwest of Sri Lanka and crosses the equator line. The total area is 90 thousand km2. Of the 1,190 islands, only 200 are inhabited (population - about 270 thousand people), and 87 islands are tourist resorts.Flight to the Maldives.
A non-stop flight from Moscow to Male lasts approximately 8 hours. international Airport Hulule is located on a separate island with the same name, at a distance of 1 km - a 10-minute ride on the national boat "dhoni" - from the capital of the Maldives - Male. Such flights are carried out by Aeroflot, Transaero, and also by charter companies during the season (from October to May). Connecting flights are convenient on Emirates airlines (via Dubai, UAE) and Areroflot (via Colombo, Sri Lanka).State capital
Male is the smallest capital in the world (length 2.5 km, width 1 km). Its main attraction is the “Good Friday” mosque, decorated with a golden dome. The Islamic Center is located on its territory. This largest mosque in the Maldives can accommodate more than 5,000 people at a time. Nearby is the old “Good Friday” mosque with a unique minaret, graves of national heroes and members of ruling families. Among other attractions of the capital, the Presidential Palace, National Museum, located in Sultan Park, and the burial places of legendary Maldivian saints. It is also interesting to visit the colorful local markets - fruit, vegetable and craft markets - places where residents of many Maldivian islands bring goods.In 1995, the population of Male was 65 thousand people.
State structure
Democratic Republic. The head of state and government is the president (elected for 5 years). The legislative body is a unicameral parliament (54 deputies). Administratively, the Maldives is divided into 19 provinces (atolls) and the capital district of Male.Official language
- The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi (Indo-Iranian language group). English is widely spoken at the resorts.Population
As of 1995, 261 thousand 310 people lived in the Maldives. About 99% of the population are Maldivians (the ethnogenesis is not entirely clear), as well as Arabs and people from the African continent. The population can be divided into the following ethnic groups: Sinhalese, Dravidians, Arabs and Africans. A distinctive feature of the Maldivians is their small stature and non-aggressive character. Archaeological evidence has shown that these islands were inhabited more than 3,000 years ago and are associated with the Indian Valley Civilization. Modern Maldivians are a mixed race, influenced by the inhabitants of Sri Lanka, India and Arab countries.Religion
The majority of the population professes Sunni Islam.Time
It is ahead of Moscow by 1 hour in summer, and by 2 hours in winter.Money
Maldivian rufiyaa (rupiah, MVR, Rf), equal to 100 lari. 1 US dollar is equal to approximately 12 rufiyaa, 1 euro - 15 rufiyaa (as of September 2004). There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 rufiyaa, as well as coins in denominations of 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 lari. US dollars are accepted everywhere (Euros are often accepted) as well as major credit cards, so there is no need to exchange currency immediately upon arrival. Traveler's checks in the capital and most hotels can also be cashed without problems.You can exchange currency at a clear official rate at any of the banks, exchange offices or at the airport (reverse exchange can be made at the same points). On remote tourist islands, the exchange rate is usually less favorable, and moreover, most often only rufiyaa is accepted. For payments you will need mainly small bills, since no one will give change from large ones.
Banks are usually open from 09.00 to 13.00 from Saturday to Thursday. The day off, as in all Islamic countries, is Friday.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited.
Approximate prices
Soft drinks - 1.5 dollars, beer - 2-3 dollars per can, European cigarettes - 3-5 dollars, Italian or French wine - from 14 dollars per bottle, alcoholic cocktails - from 6 dollars, whiskey - 70-100 dollars per bottle, sandwiches - from $5, dinner or lunch (food only, no drinks) - from $15, windsurfing - $13 per hour, parachute - $50 lap (15-20 minutes), water skiing - $3 per minute, night fishing- 18 dollars, scuba - from 33 dollars for one dive, rental of a mask, snorkel, fins - 3 dollars per day, massage - 30 dollars per hour, 1 minute of conversation with Moscow - 8 USD.Connection
Dialing code: 960.The entire territory of the country is divided into a number of telephone zones. The cost of a call within one zone usually costs about 0.25 rufiyaa per minute, between different zones - from 0.55 to 3 rufiyaa per minute. The call can be made from any pay phone that operates using calling cards from the local operator "Dhiraagu" (cost 30, 50, 100, 200 and 500 rufiyaa). Cards can be purchased from a special store "Dhiiraagu Teleshop" in the capital or from card sellers on any of the major islands.
On a number of islands there are no payphones, and communication is carried out from call centers (usually open from Sunday to Thursday from 7.30 to 20.00, on Fridays - from 14.00 to 18.00, on Saturdays - from 9.00 to 18.00), served by telephone operators. The cost of a call depends on the distance and is slightly higher than from a pay phone. From 24.00 to 06.00 the cost of a call is 20% cheaper.
Works in the Maldives mobile connection GSM-900 standard. Mobile phones of other standards do not work in the Maldives, but you can get them at the office of the local operator "Dhiraagu" in Male (tel. 322 802, fax 322 800). mobile phone for rent. More detailed advice can be obtained from the office of your mobile operator.
customs control
There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency. All luggage undergoes strict customs inspection. Duty-free import of up to 200 pieces is allowed. cigarettes and up to 125 ml. perfumery products, as well as personal consumption goods within reason (no more than one item per person).It is strictly prohibited to transport alcoholic beverages, salami sausage, pork and pork products, pornographic publications and drugs, as well as shipwreck idols. The export of black coral and products made from it (except for souvenirs made by officially certified government manufacturers), products made from sea turtle shells, as well as objects and things found at the bottom of the sea is prohibited.
Healthcare
No special vaccinations are required, but vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended. If necessary, it is recommended to bring medications with you, since there are practically no pharmacies on the islands, and medications sold in hotels are extremely expensive. Medical insurance international standard is highly recommended.The best
The Soneva Gili resort complex is considered the largest seaside villa in the world.Transport
The Maldives is the only country in the world where there are practically no cars, and why are they needed if one of the most big islands, where the capital is located, is slightly more than one square kilometer. The most popular transport is high-speed boats and gliders, which provide communication between all the islands of the archipelago.Due to the geography of the archipelago, most transportation is carried out by seaplanes, helicopters and boats. Public transport does not exist as such.
Hydroaviation does not serve all atolls. There are 2 air carriers in the country - Maldivian Air Taxi and Hummingbird Island Airways. The prices are quite high; it is somewhat cheaper to book a plane through the hotel administration or a travel agency. In addition, companies offer sightseeing flights and day excursions with picnics on uninhabited islands for US$250 (estimated). You can take up to 20 kg with you free of charge. luggage plus 5 kg. hand luggage.
Renting a speedboat or boat costs US$100-400 per day, plus fuel, or about 20-250Rf depending on the type of vessel per trip. The distances between the islands are relatively short, so the trips are short. On average, you can get to the neighboring islands on the Dhoni for 20 US dollars, and to the most distant islands for 70 US dollars. You can bargain with private carriers. There is no schedule; ships depart as soon as they are filled with passengers.
Car taxis (and roads!) exist only in the capital Male, on the Gan and Addu atolls. Any trip, regardless of distance, is paid at the rate of 15Rf plus 5Rf for luggage during the day and 20Rf after 24.00. If the car stops even for a minute, the trip is considered completed and must be paid for. If you need to go further, then this is considered a new trip. There are several taxi companies (operating 24 hours a day), all cars are equipped with air conditioning. A taxi can be stopped on the street or called by phone (in this case the trip will cost 10Rf).
Cuisine in the Maldives
Local cuisine is built on the traditions of Indian and, partly, Arab culinary traditions. Rice, seafood and various spices and hot seasonings are widely used. Smoked, dried and boiled fish are used in most traditional dishes. The basis of the cuisine is boiled tuna with rice, seasoned with various sauces (primarily coconut curry) and pepper, as well as “hikimas” - dried and smoked fish. Also good are the fish, coconut and onion pie "bajia", the fish pie "kuli borkiba", the traditional fish soup and rice "garudiya", tuna cutlets with coconut "gulu", baked fish with chili paste "fihunu mas", rolls from fried fish “kimia”, fish paste “rihaukuru”, fried fish with pepper and garlic “teluli mae”, etc.Meat, mainly chicken, is consumed only on holidays or as part of special dishes. Basically, rice is used in all variations - boiled in coconut milk, with various vegetables, peppers, fish or sea arthropods, as well as with bananas, papaya, mango, pumpkin, sweet potatoes or breadfruit.
The main dessert is coconut in all forms, as well as sweet dishes made from rice and fruits. Coconut milk, various puddings, vegetable and fruit salads and baked goods are widely consumed. The main drink is tea, consumed with plenty of milk and sugar. Black tea is not widely distributed, but is found everywhere, local residents I'm just not used to drinking it. Coffee, mainly in Arabic, is becoming increasingly widespread, but like all imported products, it is quite expensive here. Juices that are very good in hot weather are the local sweet milk "kiru sarbat", sweet palm juice "raz", the drink "suji" and the low-alcohol drink "gaa" made from fermented palm milk.
Embassy of the Maldives in Russia:
The interests of the state are represented by the Embassy of Sri Lanka:Moscow, st. Shchepkina, 24
Tel: 288-16-20, 288-14-63, 288-16-51.
Days for receiving documents:
Monday - Friday from 9.00 to 17.00
The Russian Embassy:
Embassy of the Russian Federation, 62 Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo-7, Sri-Lanka Tel.: (8-10-941) 57-4959, 57-3555 (8-10-941) 57-4957, 68- 6864 (trade mission)Holidays and weekends
According to Muslim lunar calendar, religious holidays fall on different dates.January 1 - New Year.
beginning of January - Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan or "Rorda Mas").
March - Eid al-Kebir (Day of Sacrifice).
beginning of April - Islamic New Year.
June 4-5 - National holiday Republic of Maldives.
June 15 - Mulud (Milyad an Nabi, Birthday of the Prophet).
July 6-7 - National holiday commemorating the expulsion of the Portuguese occupiers in 1573.
July 26-27 - Independence Day, a celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence of the Maldives in 1965.
November 11-12 - Republic Day.
September 1 is Huravi Day.
October 28 is Martyrs' Day.
November 3 - Victory Day.
November 9 is the Day of the Victims.
November 11-12 - Day of adoption of the third constitution of the Republic of Maldives.
December 25-26 - Christmas.
Friday is a day off in the Maldives.
Telephone
Telephone network helpline - 110.International telephone operator - 190.
Communication operator between atolls - 188.
Meteorological service - 317-171.
Male Airport Information Center - 332-211.
Maldives Tourism Development Bureau - 323-228.
Customs Department - 322-001, 310-045.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Police - 119.
National Security Service - 313-281.
Fire service - 118.
Ambulance - 102.
Hotels
There is no "star" classification of hotels in the Maldives. The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Maldives has proposed the following hotel classification: Deluxe, Superior, Standard, which approximately corresponds to the European classification of 5, 4 and 3 star hotels. In the Maldives, a special classification has been introduced due to the specificity of local hotels: hotels are located on small islands, with limited infrastructure due to the size of the island; We offer accommodation in bungalows or cottages no higher than 2 floors. When choosing a hotel, it is recommended to carefully read the specific list of services provided by a particular hotel.In Maldives resorts no animation programs(with the exception of hotels of Italian chains, but, unfortunately, these hotels often operate mainly on the Italian market) and not all hotels offer an evening program.
In many hotels, upon presentation of a hotel card, services are provided on credit. The credit limit is usually $700, after which the debt must be paid, after which the credit is renewed again.
Mains voltage
- 220-240 V, 50 Hz, standard European sockets, but due to the fact that electricity is generated by hotel generators, power surges are frequent.Tips
Tips are usually 10% of the bill. It is customary to leave a small amount to the service employee personally (US$10 per week for a hotel employee or 5% for a waiter). Some resorts add a service charge to the bill (usually 10%), in which case tipping is not necessary. In the case of renting a boat or speedboat, the amount should be discussed in advance.The shops
Store opening hours vary. They vary between 07.00-08.00 and 21.00-23.00. During the siesta period, some shops are open from 13.00 to 15.00 and from 18.00 to 20.00Diving
The water temperature at the dive sites is +27 - +30°C all year round.A significant part of the dives take place in conditions of strong currents near vertical reef walls, going to depths of 30-50 m or more. Sometimes dives are carried out in the atoll's channels, also in conditions of strong currents. Strong currents are characteristic feature waters of the Maldives. Currents can be directed horizontally, along reef walls, and vertically - up or down.
Visibility in Maldivian waters varies greatly depending on the season and location of the dive. Even during the winter monsoon, the season of maximum visibility, when diving in the atoll's channels, visibility can vary from 30 to 5 m. In this case, the direction of the current plays a significant role.
Souvenirs
The Maldives, unlike the Emirates or Turkey, is not a big “shopping center”. The most traditional souvenirs and purchases are postcards, posters, shorts, T-shirts with local symbols, shark jaws, handicrafts, light summer clothes, coconut oil, shells, etc. . In small shops in the capital and at resorts you can buy some small things - photographic film, simple electronics, Indian spices, fruits, light clothing.According to tourists, souvenirs in the Maldives are quite expensive. Alcohol. The Maldives is a Muslim country, which creates certain problems for fans of strong drinks. It is prohibited to bring alcohol here with you (even if you bought it at the airport upon arrival). You can drink only in specially designated places - in bars and restaurants of hotels where visitors from Sri Lanka and India serve (citizens of the Maldives are prohibited from selling alcohol). But alcohol is expensive there and is not sold for takeaway.
Underwater hunting and unauthorized fishing are prohibited, and it is strictly forbidden to lift corals (both living and dead), shells and other marine life from the bottom of the sea. Violations result in large fines. The country has one of the most large markets in the region selling shells, corals and various exotic marine animals, so you can always purchase these souvenirs without violating local laws. The hotels freely organize all types of sea fishing, independent fishing is also punishable.
Collecting corals and, especially, taking them out of the country is a criminal offense. It is better to buy a T-shirt with the inscription “No news, no shoes - Maldives”. The slogan is true. Shoes there are an unnecessary extravagance, and there is no news at all. No newspapers, no television. Except maybe two radio stations broadcasting in an incomprehensible Dhivehi language.
Although the Maldives is relatively liberal as an Islamic state, visitors to the country must carefully observe the laws. Don't try to contact local women! No drugs! For a walk in Male, it is recommended to dress in accordance with Muslim ideas about morality: long trousers or a skirt, a shirt or blouse. However, formal evening wear is not required to visit most restaurants.
When visiting mosques, clothing must cover your legs and arms. Shoes should be removed and feet should be washed in ritual pools. No photography allowed. Mosque guards usually insist on accompanying tourists, hoping to charge a fee, but in fact, you can explore the mosque on your own.
Nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago with the exception of Kuramati Island. Violating the laws of the country may result in imprisonment.
To get to a “non-tourist island”, you need a special permit from the Ministry of Atoll Administration, which indicates the name of the island or group of islands (relevant for those traveling independently), to obtain which you must have a passport, indicate the purpose, time of visit, name of the island or atoll and provide confirmation of the availability of a place to stay. For group visits, such permits are issued through a travel agency. Landing on any island of tourists living elsewhere is permitted only with the consent of the administration of the island (hotel). However, staying on such an island is only allowed until 6 pm.
It is recommended to drink BOTTLED water and soft drinks. Although local water is purified quite thoroughly (often it is desalinated sea water), but due to high temperatures it quickly becomes unusable.
You can bargain at markets and in private stores, but the size of the “discount” is usually small.
It is strongly recommended to use protective creams, and in the first days of rest, always wear hats and sunbathe for a limited amount of time - it is easy to “get sunburned” even in cloudy weather. In addition, it is even recommended to swim in a T-shirt - solar radiation easily penetrates the surface layer of water.
During diving and regular swimming, you should carefully monitor your surroundings - coral massifs have quite sharp edges, and many of the marine inhabitants are poisonous. Some marine predators pose a particular danger to sea urchins. There are few blood-sucking insects, but in the evening it is still worth using repellents.
In the evening and at night the air is practically still, so it feels stuffy. The change of time of day is typical for equatorial regions - morning and evening last almost 15 minutes, no more, and a bright day with a hot sun immediately sets in.
Environmental issues on the islands are of paramount importance. Tourists are often given special garbage bags, and their garbage in these bags must be removed from the islands. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to carefully monitor the implementation of environmental procedures and follow the instructions of the hotel management, otherwise large fines and even deportation may occur.
Diving schools are usually equipped with all the necessary equipment. All activities related to scuba diving are supervised by highly qualified instructors (there are also Russian-speaking instructors). Scuba diving equipment, PADI training course, solo and group scuba diving, motor boat or helicopter rental are paid separately. Delivery to the dive site is usually carried out by yachts or dive boats, with transfer to shallow-draft boats "dhonis" to pass between the reefs, so it often takes quite a long time. Diving outside the reef zone should only be carried out with local instructors, as the nature of ocean currents outside the shelf zone is quite unpredictable. Night dives in the Maldives are organized quite rarely due to strong currents and unpredictability of marine life. Swimming in the open sea is also not recommended.
The metric system is used, but often distances are given in nautical miles (1.61 km) and lengths in yards (0.92 m).
Road traffic is practically not regulated; there are either no markings or road signs, or they have long been destroyed; there are also no traffic lights. The speed is low, but drivers never give way to pedestrians, so you should be extremely careful on the few roads in the Maldives.
Mira, first you need to find India on it. This is not difficult - the peninsula on which this state is located is located in the south of Asia and has the outline of a triangle. From the southernmost point of this exotic country, you need to mentally draw a line to the southwest. It is there that there is a large group of atolls - coral islands, which are called the Maldives.
Atolls are a closed or broken ring formed by the crater of an extinct volcano, that is, in the middle of such an “island” there is a lagoon filled with sea water.
The distance to India is approximately 700 km; it is worth noting that the atolls are located quite large area, so the southernmost ones are 1,000 km away. The Maldives is washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean and, due to its proximity to the equator, has a unique climate with an almost constant temperature throughout the year and only two distinct seasons - dry and rainy.
Due to their volcanic origin, the islands have a low altitude above sea level (only about two meters) and a rather sparse fauna - only a few species of mammals live here. But the underwater world is very diverse.
State of Maldives
All atolls located in this part of the Indian Ocean are united into a state Republic of Maldives. It is worth noting that its history began in 1965, when Britain, under whose protectorate the islands were, generously granted them independence, however, not just like that, but after violent uprisings of the population against the power of the empire.However, much remains from the British, including the name; it is a distortion of the words in Hindi: “” - palace and “diva” - island. The capital of the state of the Republic of Maldives is the city of Male; by the way, it is the only settlement with such status.
Maldivians are Muslims, or rather Sunnis. In the 12th century, a Muslim preacher landed on the islands, who founded a dynasty that ruled until the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch, and subsequently the British.
