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Approx.
1'200 islands, of which a few are merely large sandbanks,
divided into 19 atolls form the Republic of the Maldives. Of
all these many islands only 250 are inhabited, and the total
population just surpasses 200'000 people. The capital Malé
situated at the end of the North Male Atoll has a population
of about 35'000 people.
The
tourists occupy their own resort islands, separated from the
local population. Personal contacts with the Maldivians, who
are rather reserved, is quite difficult. Until
today 70 Resort Islands for the tourists have been developed.
We have selected for you a number of resorts which we would
like to present to you.
The
Maldives are not only a dream destination for Scuba Diving,
Snorkeling and Windsurfing. Just to bathe in clear blue waters
on a beach with coarse coral white sand is a sensation. - It
is also the perfect retreat for those wishing to get away from
it all and enjoy a totally relaxed and unsophisticated way of
life and just lazing under a palm tree.
Travel
Advisories
Beach
& Sea
The
house reefs around the islands bring about a very calm sea
ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Due to the corals, bathing
shoes are recommended. You do not have to be a diver to enjoy
the many wonders of the tropical sea, while snorkelling you
can also experience the underwater world.
Climate
Due
to its proximity to the equator the Maldives experience an
average humidity of about 80 percent during the whole year and
practically the same air (29° C.) and water (28° C.)
temperatures. The Southwest monsoon from May to November
brings relatively wet air masses, where as the Northeast
monsoon from December till April bestows dry weather to the
Maldives.
Currency
The
local currency is the Mal. Rufiyaa. As per law the prices in
all tourist resorts and hotels have to be quoted in US dollars
and paid by foreign visitors in foreign currency. All major
credit cards are accepted at major hotels and resorts, however
most of the resorts will add a surcharge up to 6 percent for
payments with credit cards. Exchange rate: 1 US $ = ca. 11 RF.
Embarkation
Tax
Upon
departure at the airport an embarkation tax of US $ 10.00 per
person will be levied.
Entertainment
For
people who are looking for entertainment and nightlife the
Maldives are not the ideal destination to spend their
holidays. In the evening after dinner one spends an hour or so
cosily at the resort bar or sits on the beach under the
sparkling stars.
Excursions
Excursions
are regularly organised to the neighbouring islands and also
to Male. Very popular is the night fishing followed by a
barbecue on the beach.
Language
The
local language is called Dhivehi. On all the resort islands
English is spoken.
What
to wear
T-shirts,
light cotton dresses of the drip-try, wash-and-wear variety,
shorts, lightweight suits are the most comfortable year round
attire. In addition swimming gear and a light pullover. Sun
glasses and a wide brimmed beach hat as well as enough sun
cream with a high protection factor should not be missing in
your luggage. |
