A thousand islands spread over 1000 kilometers of the Indian Ocean - that's what the Maldives are!

Luxurious resort in the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean

The territory of the Republic of Maldives is only 298 square kilometers of land and almost 90,000 of the Indian Ocean. The archipelago consists of 26 atolls that unite coral islands that arose on the site of volcanoes extinct in the distant past. The Maldives owe corals both the white sand of secluded beaches and the amazing beauty of the underwater world of their islands.

Maldives - a heavenly place to relax

The emerald water of the Indian Ocean, luxurious tropical nature, comfortable hotels and secluded luxury bungalows that fit perfectly into it, peace and tranquility - the Maldives has created truly heavenly conditions for relaxation.

Location on the map

To find the Maldives on the world map, it is enough to know where the southern tip of India is located, the Maldives are located at a distance of 595 km to the south-west of it and 670 km to the west of Sri Lanka.

The time difference with the Maldives for Moscow is + 1 hour.

Maldives Map

How to get to the resort

There are both direct flights from Moscow and flights with transfers to the Maldives archipelago. The duration of a direct flight is about nine hours, a flight with a transfer in Qatar will take up to 12 hours. Flying with a transfer in Colombo or Dubai takes a little longer, from 13 hours. The duration of the flight is affected by the great remoteness of the archipelago, where the Maldives are located, and in which country the transfer will be.

When to go on vacation to the Maldives: the weather conditions of the resort

Due to the proximity to the equator of the Maldives, the climate in the archipelago is monsoonal, subequatorial. This means that the weather is not affected by the amount of sunlight, it is approximately the same all year round, but by the monsoons, constantly blowing winds.

There are two seasons:

• dry, when the northeast monsoon blows, lasts from November to April.
• the rainy season, brought by the southwest monsoon, lasts from May to early November.

The average temperature for the dry season of air is 27-28°С, water - 28°С. During the rainy season, air is 29-31°C, water is 24-26°C.

March and April are the hottest and driest months of the year in the Maldives, temperatures can reach 33 degrees.

The time when it is better to relax in the Maldives is from November to April, that is, it coincides with the dry season. In it time is running little rain and strong winds do not blow. Also recommended for recreation is the "small" dry season - June-August.

Beach holidays in the Maldives

Resting in the Maldives, no matter which way you go, you will come to a beach with sand as white as flour. The Maldives beaches are some of the best in the world, with clean clear water and a gently sloping sandy bottom. There is nothing nicer than beach holiday in the Maldives - swimming in the coral lagoon, snorkeling among the corals and their inhabitants. Due to the features coastline many fairly secluded beaches. Occasionally there are rocky shores, but no one swims there, since it is easy to find a comfortable sandy beach nearby.

Most of the beaches in the Maldives are sandy, many are located on private islands, like Didu Finolhu in South Ari Atoll. The beaches are considered the best in the Maldives, large enough, in the north there is a sandy spit, so long that at low tide you can walk along it to the neighboring island.

The beach on the island of Fulhadhoo bears the same name and is considered one of the best in the world. Also beautiful beaches on the island of Dugra, long and not very crowded.

The beaches of hotels of all categories are equipped for a comfortable stay. Umbrellas and luxurious tropical greenery will protect sunbathers from the equatorial sun. In the Maldives it is forbidden to swim topless, and in some places even in a bikini. When booking a hotel, it is worth clarifying this in advance.

For lovers of diving and snorkeling, beaches with coral reefs, as in Male Atoll, are suitable. The fabulous beauty of the underwater world of the Maldives is not inferior in the richness of colors and quirkiness of forms to terrestrial nature. Diving into the ocean with a mask or scuba gear gives an incredible feeling, you will see what a beautiful sea and corals in the Maldives.

Every hotel and almost every beach has diving centers where instructors will teach you how to dive underwater.

Experienced divers from all over the world visit the Maldives every year. There are certified centers where you can dive not only for pleasure, but also to improve your skills.

Spearfishing and collecting coral is prohibited by law.

What to see in the Republic of Maldives

The capital of the Maldives, the city of Male, is located on the atoll of the same name, it is the largest city in the republic. The dimensions allow you to get around it on foot and see the sights in one day.

Worth seeing:

• Royal Palace, founded in the 18th century.
• National Museum Male, part of the palace complex, it presents historical exhibits dating back to the 5th century. BC.
• The Hukuru Misky Mosque, built in the 17th century, is decorated with unique wood carvings, some panels are 800 years old.

The greatest wealth of the Maldives is natural attractions. Unforgettable will be a trip to the marine reserve in Hanifaru Bay and Mandivara Reef, where you can communicate with the underwater inhabitants of the Indian Ocean, stingrays, sea turtles, you can see sunken ships under water, such as the Maldivian Victoria.

There are no mountains in the Maldives, but air communication between the islands is developed, you can view the gorgeous panorama of the islands and atolls from a hydroplane, which works here as an air taxi.

Active holidays in the Maldives

In addition to diving in the Maldives for active rest offer:

• fishing, you can fish from the shore or go to the open sea
• surfing, in the Maldives you can ride a wave on an artificial beach in Male or on the island of Thulusdhoo
• golf, golf courses are equipped in many large hotels.

The hotels have sports equipment, volleyball courts, courts, water polo and other sports games are played in the pools.

Nightlife at an exotic resort

Nightlife lovers also have something to do in the Maldives, youth hotels with nightclubs and discos on the territory invite famous DJs and are able to surprise guests with a unique program and unusual location. There is an underwater disco in the Maldives, through the panoramic roof of which you can see the ocean.

Local folklore groups often perform in hotels and restaurants, you can listen to the traditional music of the islanders, which combines Indian and African colors.

Shopping places

Many interesting shops are located in the northern district of the capital Chandhani Magu. Here you can buy souvenirs: palm fiber rugs, decorative boats, lacquered wooden dishes, bright local fabrics and clothes, seafood. Before buying, make sure that the products are made in the Maldives and that they are allowed to be exported from the country.

In the resorts, you can buy souvenirs, sun protection products, diving equipment and much more in the shops at the hotels.

original jewelry self made and handicrafts tourists often bring from excursions to the islands of Himafushi, Mafushi Khurra (Male atoll), Rasdhu, Tageti, Mahibadhu (Aria atoll).

Canned seafood is also often bought as a souvenir from the Maldives, considering what a generous catch the ocean gives to local fishermen. On the islands there are duty-free shops of the Duty Free network.

Maldives: where is it better to live, eat, what to travel on

A difficult question is where it is better to relax in the Maldives, the choice of a place depends on financial capabilities, and on what type of vacation is preferable.

There are 3 groups of atolls:

• northern
• southern
• far southern atolls.

On the northern atolls, the water is considered the cleanest and most transparent, there are interesting dive sites, but not all of them are suitable for beginners due to strong currents. The northern atolls have the most developed tourist infrastructure.

The southern atolls are close to the capital archipelago of Male, which provides a convenient transfer. The remoteness of the islands from each other makes it easy to find a deserted beach by boat. Here is a unique reef ridge 55 km long, which makes the southern atolls a desirable place for divers.

The far southern atolls are almost on the equator, and some islands are even further south. Here it is easy for the tourist to make contact with the locals in the equatorial village. The unique freshwater lake Eidigali-Kili is worthy of a separate excursion.

Best hotels

There are several types of hotels:

Guesthouses- Affordable room-type rooms, suitable for those who intend to actively go on excursions and walks to other islands, spend relatively little time at the hotel. Examples of such compact hotels:

• sun tan Beach Hotel, on the island of Marafushi, 27 km from Male
• Gaia Sunrise, Ukulhas Island, the hotel has its own beach
• Stingray Beach Inn, Marafushi Island, offers guests an interesting program of outdoor activities.

Resorts. The peculiarity of the resorts in the Maldives: they occupy the entire territory of small islands, have different themes:

• luxury resorts with the most expensive and luxurious service;
• for diver;
• for relax;
• for newlyweds, with interesting wedding packages.

When planning a romantic or honeymoon trip, feel free to choose the Maldives, the best vacation to start family life.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is one of the best hotels of this type, located on two private islands surrounded by a coral reef with rich marine life. At the guests' disposal are 12 restaurants, a swimming pool, a lounge bar, a training room.

Cottage hotels. The territory is built up with separate houses and bungalows on stilts over the lagoon.
Located on North Male Atoll, Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi is an excellent hotel of this type. The bungalow has a private sun terrace.
On the territory there are restaurants serving fresh seafood, bars, a spa center, a panoramic pool.

boutique hotels- the most luxurious and expensive, consist of several secluded comfortable villas with a private beach, swimming pool.
Resting in the magnificent Cheval Blanc Randheli, you can not only relax your body and soul in luxury villas, but also go diving in your own certified center. For guests with children, the hotel offers children's and teen club programs. A chic spa, 5 restaurants, wine and cigar cellars.

When choosing a hotel in the Maldives for families with children, you need to clarify the policy of the hotel. Some resorts do not accept guests with children under 12 years of age.

The most exotic and mobile type of accommodation - on board a yacht, the price will depend on the class of the vessel.

From firs in the Maldives differ in location and level of service. As a rule, they correspond to 4-5 stars. Three-star hotels are more common in the capital and on the larger islands, they are popular among young people due to their relatively low price.

Food in the Maldives: cafes, bars, restaurants

Many tourists prefer an all-inclusive holiday in the Maldives, which is very reasonable, as the prices in bars and restaurants on the islands are high due to the lack of competition.

The ban on the sale of alcohol in the Maldives does not apply to hotels. On the territory of most hotels there are a la carte restaurants, including those with local cuisine. Local cuisine is also on the buffet menu, its basis is fresh fish and seafood. On large islands and in the capital, thanks to competition, you can find a not very expensive restaurant or cafe.

WITH The most exotic restaurant in the Maldives can safely be called the world's only underwater restaurant, Itha, located at a depth of about five meters. It is designed for 14 tables, places in it are booked far in advance..

Transport

Road transport is not in demand here, and this is a plus, there is an opportunity to take a break from noise and exhaust gases. On the larger islands, you can rent a bike or motorbike.

The most common transport in the Maldives is by water. Renting a boat is quite expensive, about $ 200, a traditional dhoni boat will cost less and allow you to get closer to the local color.

Communication between the islands is provided by regular boat and ferry trips. You can fly a seaplane over very long distances.

Whatever holiday you choose in the Maldives - active, with many excursions and dives, romantic, under palm trees, or relaxed, in spas, it will be unforgettable.

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 shape of a triangle. From the southernmost point of this exotic country, it is necessary to mentally draw a line to the southwest. It is there that a large group of atolls is located - coral islands, which are called the Maldives.

Atolls are a closed or broken ring formed by the mouth 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 on a fairly large area, so the southernmost ones are 1,000 km away. The Maldives are washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean and, due to their proximity to the equator, have a unique climate with 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 (only about two meters) and a rather scarce 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 in the state of the 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 of the British, including the name, it is a distorted Hindi word: "" - the palace and "diva" - the island. The capital of the Republic of Maldives is the city of Male, by the way, it is the only locality having this status.

The Maldivians are Muslims, more specifically Sunnis. In the 12th century, a Muslim preacher landed on the islands, who founded a dynasty that ruled until the arrival of the Portuguese, the Dutch, and later the British.

How to get to the Maldives

Traveling to the Maldives will require the tourist not only to spend time and money, but also patience, because a direct flight from Moscow to the capital of Male lasts more than 8 hours. If a non-stop flight is not available for some reason, you will have to plan a route with a connection at an intermediate airport, usually Colombo in Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi in the UAE or Dubai in Saudi Arabia. In any case, it is worth considering that from Male to the desired island you will have to get to water transport or by seaplane.

This small country is located on 20 atolls in the equatorial Indian Ocean. More than 2000 km separates the Islamic Republic from India. The distance to Sri Lanka is much less: if you look at the Maldives on the world map, you can see that the states are about 700 km apart from each other.

Island Information

The state of Maldives is formed by almost 2000 coral islands. About 400 thousand people live here, and Islam is the dominant religion. The total area of ​​the Republic of Maldives is 90 thousand km 2, however, no more than 300 km 2 fall on the share of land from it.

Interestingly, the only city and port of the country is its capital, Male, located on the atoll of the same name. The remaining islets 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 changing time zones.

Monthly weather in the Maldives

Climate features are determined by the location of the Maldives. It belongs to the subequatorial monsoon type, so the weather is drastically different in the dry and rainy seasons. Depending on the month of the trip, you have to prepare for the following:

January. A trip to the islands this month will definitely be successful due to the warm, sunny and calm weather and the calm that reigns in the ocean. Although technically January refers to the rainy season, the rainfall is minimal, which guarantees a wonderful beach holiday and the opportunity to go diving. In the daytime, the thermometer rises to at least +24 °C, and the water temperature averages +27 °C.

February. At this time, crowds of tourists usually flock here. The ocean continues to please comfortable temperature water - +25 °С, and the daytime air temperature rarely drops below +28 °С. There are practically no waves, and the sky is perfectly blue and cloudless. Therefore, even inexperienced divers can start learning the tricks of diving, and the almost complete absence of precipitation allows you to ride a yacht or a catamaran to your heart's content.

March. This month is also considered to be 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. In March, many local flora bloom, but be prepared for occasional sandstorms.

April. At this time, the southwest monsoon comes to the Maldives, bringing with it a change in weather. Storms in the ocean are rare, the heat intensifies, but the rains here are still infrequent guests. If you cannot stand stuffiness, it is worth postponing the trip: the air temperature is mostly +30 °C, and the water temperature reaches +28 °C.

May. Start to blow very strong winds sometimes turning into hurricanes. There is much more precipitation: about half of the days in May are rainy. At the same time, the weather constantly surprises. The sun is replaced by 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 maximum precipitation typical for this region falls in the Maldives, but their amount rarely exceeds 200 mm. Ocean waves sometimes reach gigantic proportions. 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 is partially cleared and the sun peeps 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 coolness is felt.

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 infrequently, and the atolls are still hot. But already at the end of the month, the sky becomes more and more covered with clouds, it often rains, and the wind intensifies.

September. Both day and night, the weather is predominantly warm, and the exhausting heat recedes. Saved enough high humidity and rainfall is up to 200 mm. The average number of rainy days in September is 15-16. Rains are often accompanied by severe thunderstorms, but the ocean remains quite warm with water temperatures around +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 thermometer on average shows +28 ° С. Water warms up to +25 °C.

December. At this time of the year, everything blooms on the islands, so they turn into a real tropical paradise. Daytime temperatures rise to +30-32 °С, and the water temperature in the ocean rarely drops below +25 °С.

How to get to the Maldives

In any guidebook, where you will find everything you wanted to know about the Maldives, it is indicated that the connection between the island state and 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 of Aeroflot from Moscow. New Airbus A-330-200 aircraft take off 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 airfare.

A flight with a transfer of Qatar Airways (transfer point - Doha), Singapore Airlines (transfer point - Singapore) or Emirates Airlines (transfer point - Dubai). The cost of tickets for airliners of these air carriers already includes the airport tax.

On a Srilankan Airlines connecting flight. To do this, you will first have to fly to Dubai or Colombo and purchase a ticket to Male for 180 USD - 250 USD at the local airport. This is the most a budget option flights 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.

Visa to the Maldives and customs clearance

There is no need for residents of Russia and the CIS countries to obtain a visa to travel to the Maldives, since there is a visa-free agreement between the countries. However, given the dramatic change in climate and the exotic nature of the region, it does not hurt to purchase a medical insurance policy. Weekly insurance will cost about 25 USD - 45 USD.

It is very important to comply with the rules of the customs legislation of the Republic of Maldives. They talk about the following:

• You can import and export foreign currency in unlimited quantities.
• 125 ml of perfume or cologne and 200 cigarettes, as well as no more than one personal item per passenger, are allowed without payment of duty.
• It is strictly forbidden to transport with you pork and meat products from it, salami sausages, pornographic goods, drugs, souvenirs from the shell of a sea turtle 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.

The cost of holidays in the Maldives

Many Russian celebrities such as Volochkova are very fond of relaxing in the Maldives. This is due to the very comfortable climate and reasonable prices for accommodation. If you are wondering how much a standard ticket 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 the hotel offers for vacationers (SPA, swimming pools, animation, sauna and much more), the more expensive the rest will be. If you are planning a trip for 7-8 days with 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 decoration of the room, services of photographers and musicians, fruits, wine or champagne and a festive wedding ceremony informal character. An all-inclusive tour is suitable for those who want to completely relax during their trip. Its price - from 3500 USD to 7000 USD for a weekly stay in a 4 or 5 star hotel - includes three meals a day and free drinks throughout the stay.

Those who want to save money should pay attention to last-minute tours: they are usually 30% cheaper. Also on the most budget holiday in the Maldives for 8 days you will have to spend about 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.

WITHOUT A VISA!

Packages and tours

about country

In the Indian Ocean, southwest of Ceylon, almost on the very equator, there is a coral archipelago - Maldives. It consists of twenty-six coral atolls, most of which are uninhabited. They have never been part of the mainland. Just a myriad of tiny polyps built their limestone houses on top of each other - as a result, islands were formed.

The Maldives enjoy the greatest success among newlyweds - such a combination of privacy, comfort, luxury and primitiveness does not exist at the same time, perhaps nowhere else in the world. This is one of the few places where a miracle is possible: a complete detachment from the present, immersion in a space woven from blue skies, sand the color of snow and emerald water of extraordinary transparency.

Nature and geography

The island state of the Maldives is located in South Asia, southwest of Sri Lanka, in the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean. The Maldives archipelago has about 2000 islands, forming 26 atolls and only 202 of them are inhabited. The nearest neighbors - India and Sri Lanka are located at a distance of 600 and 700 km to the north and south of the archipelago.

The capital of the Maldives - Male - is located on the island of Male. Time is ahead of Moscow by 2 hours, and from the last Sunday of March to the last Sunday of October - by 1 hour.

The climate of the Maldives

The Maldives has a warm tropical climate with even temperatures throughout the year (air temperature 25-30 C, water 24-27 C). The best travel season is from October to May.

Average monthly air temperature in the capital:

Attractions Maldives

are widely known for their resorts, each of which is a unique world surrounded by the purest golden sands. This is a place "at the end of the world", where there is no noise of cities and European civilization, where only exotic nature and endless expanses of the ocean.

Numerous underwater coral caves stretch throughout the Maldives archipelago, lush tropical vegetation creates the pristine and unique beauty of the islands.

The Maldives is a discovery for diving enthusiasts. Numerous coral caves are interesting places for underwater research. Coral reefs protect coastal waters from predatory fish, so diving enthusiasts do not have to fear for their lives.

The attractions of the Maldives include the National Museum, Sultan Park, the Singapore Bazaar, the Islamic Center and 20 picturesque mosques in the capital.

Cuisine of the Maldives and its features

The local cuisine usually includes rice, fish curry cooked with coconut milk, spiced with lime, chili and small onion. Roshi - local bread - usually eaten with mas huni - a fish cocktail flavored with coconut, onion, chili and lime.

Of the local snacks, fihunu mas - fish baked with chili paste, keemia - fried fish rolls, kulhi borkihaa - the most delicate fish pie are very popular. Among the sweets, bondi - white coconut sticks - are very tasty.

Population, language, religion

The population of the Maldives is made up mainly of Maldivians and Indians.

The official language is Divehi, which belongs to the Indo-Iranian group. English language widespread in the capital Male and resorts.

The population professes Sunni Islam.

Customs regulations, visa, currency, embassies

Tourist visa for 30 days is affixed free of charge upon arrival at the airport.
Israeli passport holders are not allowed to enter the country. When departing from Hulule Airport, an airport tax of USD 10 per person will be charged.

Stay mode. There are no restrictions on movement. To visit one of the islands inhabited by the indigenous population, you must obtain a special permit.

On Maldives no Russian embassy. You can contact the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka, Colombo. Tel. (94-1) 57-35-55, 57-49-59 (around the clock).

Currency. The official currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa. One rufiyaa contains 100 lari. In circulation there are banknotes of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 rufiyaas and coins of 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 lari.

Customs regulations. When passing through customs control at the airport in Male, all items, including hand luggage, must be presented for inspection. Import prohibited alcoholic beverages, drugs, any materials of pornographic content, recorded video cassettes, weapons for spearfishing.

Upon departure from Male, by presenting the appropriate receipt, you can get back alcoholic beverages that were selected at customs upon entry.

Travel Tips

Holidays and non-working days. January 1 - New Year, January 8-10 - Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan fasting), March 15-18 - Eid al-Kebir (Day of Sacrifice), April 6 - Islamic New Year, June 4-5 - National holiday, June 15 - Mulud (Birthday of the Prophet), July 26-27 - Independence Day, November 11-12 - Republic Day, September 1 - Hurawi Day, October 28 - Martyrs' Day, November 3 - Victory Day.

Souvenirs. As souvenirs, shark jaws, handicrafts, light summer clothes, coconut oil, shells, etc. are brought from the Maldives.

Transport. Any Maldivian island can be crossed in 1.5 - 2 hours. The Maldives is dominated water sports transport: local taxi - wooden boat "dhoni" with a flat roof.

Bicycles and motorcycles are the most popular species land transport. Taxis are available to get around Male. The price of one trip in any direction costs 10 rufiyaas. In Male and elsewhere major islands you can rent a car.

Cloth. Any light clothing of your choice is acceptable. Even in deluxe hotels, evening dresses are not required when visiting most restaurants. For the beach, regular beachwear is recommended. It should be remembered that nudism and topless are prohibited in the Maldives (the exception is the island of Kuramathi, where topless is allowed). When visiting the fishing villages and the capital Male, tourists should, respecting Muslim traditions, wear modest clothing.

Behavior rules. Despite the fact that Islam practiced in the Maldives is softer than in most Arab countries, one should not forget the following:

• spearfishing and unauthorized fishing are prohibited
• it is forbidden to get corals, shells, starfish, etc. from the sea.
• nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago.

/ Maldives

Maldives - country information

CAPITAL OF THE MALDIVES: Male
SQUARE: 298 sq. km.
POPULATION SIZE: 301475
POPULATION: Maldivians, Arabs, Africans
LANGUAGE: Dhivehi
RELIGION: Islam
CURRENCY UNIT: Maldivian rufiyaa, equal to 100 lari. 1 US dollar is approximately equal to 12 rufiyaa. In circulation there are banknotes of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 rufiyaas and coins of 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 lari. However, US dollars and major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Therefore, it is not at all necessary to exchange dollars for local currency upon arrival.

GEOGRAPHY:

Millions of years ago, during global geological cataclysms, a large number of volcanoes erupted from the bottom of the Indian Ocean. Over the years, the volcanoes have subsided, leaving behind only coral reefs in the sea. The reefs gradually turned into tiny coral islands with desperate sailors drifting around them in search of treasure.
Maldives today best known for their white sandy beaches, crystal lagoons and azure skies - a dream come true for any vacationer.
The Maldives consists of 1,190 small coral islands and covers an area of ​​10,400 sq. km. These islands lie no higher than 2 meters above sea level and 73 degrees east of the equator. The islands are grouped into 26 "atolls" and vary in size and features. Some of them are completely sandy, while others are tropical islands with rich vegetation, amazing lagoons full of marine life and white sandy beaches.

Maldives located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka on both sides of the Equator. In total, there are 1190 islands of coral origin, forming 26 atolls, stretching in a double chain perpendicular to the equator. The local population lives on 201 islands, 88 islands are used as tourist resorts. They have a variety of sizes and are designed to receive a different number of tourists. The length of the Maldivian archipelago from north to south is 820 km, from east to west - 120 km. General area The Maldives, together with land and sea, is about 90 thousand square meters. km.

POPULATION:

The inhabitants of the Maldives are of one race, one culture and one religion - Islam. Physically, the inhabitants of the Maldives are a mixture of Asian, Arab, Negroid and Mongoloid races.
The origin of the inhabitants of the Maldives is shrouded in mystery. The faces of today's Maldivians reflect the influence of Arabs, Africans and Indonesians who have contributed to racial and cultural characteristics Maldives. The people here are friendly and "sunny and warm" by nature. The population of the Maldives is about 260,000 people with a literacy rate of 98%. Since 1960, English secondary education has been declared in the country and is now standardized.
Dhivehi Maldivian is the national language, which is a mixture of Singaporean, Tamil, Urdu, Persian and Arabic. The Maldivian script known as "Thaana" is written from left to right.
The Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean southwest of India. The Maldives are 26 natural atolls, each surrounded by coral reefs and several deep natural channels. Each island is also surrounded by a protective layer of coral reefs and a shallow lagoon.
The Maldives consists of 1190 islands and only 207 of them are inhabited.

HOLIDAYS IN THE MALDIVES:

Almost all visitors to the Maldives arrive in International Airport Male. All visitors must have a valid passport. Visitors from areas affected by yellow fever require a vaccination certificate. A visa does not need to be issued in advance. Tourist visa for 30 days will be issued to all tourists with properly executed documents.
During the period from December to March, when most resort islands are full, it is recommended to get a booking confirmation before traveling to the Maldives. However, for the convenience of visitors without prior reservation, there is a Tourist Information Center located in the arrivals hall, where you can also book a vacation. For clean entry, you must have information from the hotel. All visitors to the Maldives must have a return air ticket and at least $25 for each day of stay.

WHERE TO STAY:

Maldives have big choice to accommodate their visitors. You can choose hotels and guest houses on 69 resort islands, which will soon become 74.
The resort island is a world in itself. Created from uninhabited islands, each island is only one hotel, specially maintained in its original form and serving a limited number of guests. Pristine white beaches are ideal for relaxation and a healthy tan under the Maldivian sun. Surrounded by the majestic coconut palms that characterize the Maldives, the vegetation on the islands is remarkably similar; rings of tropical vegetation, adapting to different environments, sea salt and other conditions, closer to the beach line open the way to shrubs and plants, and towards the center to more sensitive and dense plants.
Just inside the line of vegetation for maximum privacy on a typical resort island, small bungalow-style rooms are scattered along the beach where accommodation is offered. Most of the rooms are shaded by trees. All of them are equipped with modern amenities and devices. Most of the resort islands have at least 2 restaurants. Some large resorts are able to offer up to 5 different restaurants. In addition to exotic buffets and barbecues, there is local and continental cuisine.

Most entertainment centers are located around the sea. The reefs around the islands are ideal for diving and underwater photography. Activities such as water skiing and windsurfing can seem a bit extreme. Water sports equipment can be rented on almost all resort islands.
Those who want to relax can relax on the beach; sitting under the sun or in the cool shade of greenery; admiring the beauty of the surrounding nature or just looking at the ocean and the horizon line, where green islands jump out of the blue ocean. The beaches seem secluded and never crowded. Each resort island is a Robinson Crusoe island, but equipped with modern pleasant little things that are invisible at first. As local artists in the Maldives describe, relaxing on the beach is not only an aesthetic pleasure, but also a sport and an art. There are very few places in the world where you can truly have a lot of fun doing nothing.

Holidays in the Maldives and cruises along the islands can be a great alternative to relaxing on resort beaches. Some of the larger ships have diving and windsurfing equipment with qualified instructors on board. The food prepared by the team members from freshly caught fish may seem modest, but it costs nothing for a tourist to stop somewhere for sumptuous food or drinks.
Dinner on the cruise open sky Maldives can leave unforgettable impression. The equator crossing the Maldives could be any astronomer's dream.
In addition to safari boats and resorts, there are several hotels and guest houses. These dwellings serve mainly business travelers. Large establishments provide meals. Tourist accommodation is also possible on Gan Island, the southernmost atoll of the Maldives.

TRANSPORT IN THE MALDIVES:

Tourist resort islands have their own boats for transfers and serving their clients. Visitors with confirmed reservations are met upon arrival at the airport and taken by boat, helicopter or plane to the selected resort island. The transport and communication services provided to tourists are usually of high quality.
There is no regular inter-island transport system between the inhabited islands. The ad hoc transport system is operated mainly by local dhoni or baththeli boats, which have an average speed of about 10 km/h. You can rent dhoni and even modern motor boats. Air Maldives, the national airline, offers scheduled flights to Hanimaadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Kaadhdhoo and Ghana airports.

VISITING THE CAPITAL:

Male, the capital of the Maldives, is the commercial center, seat of government and many important historical and religious sites. With an area of ​​over 1.77 sq. km., it is home to more than 60 thousand people and the most intense and popular island of the archipelago. In the past it was known as Sultan's Island.
Good Friday Mosque, Massid al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufanu-al-Az Zam is the largest mosque in the Maldives. It also includes the Islamic Center. This Great Mosque, with its majestic golden dome, adorns the landscape of Male. It can accommodate over 5,000 believers.
The Old Friday Mosque, with its unique minaret and the tombs of national heroes and royalty, gives the visitor a glimpse into the past. Paintings in the mosque and royal cemeteries are unique and priceless.
Other important attractions in Male include the tombs of legendary saints, Mulee-age - the Presidential Palace and the National Museum in Sultan Park, which show past glory in different centuries. All of them are within 10 minutes walk from each other.
Fruit, vegetable and wood markets are never empty and are picturesque places where islanders from other atolls trade their goods. The fish market, located nearby, is empty at first while the fish are being caught, and in the afternoon fishermen begin to flock here with their prey. Fishermen cutting and cleaning fish have turned this process into an art. It is a clean and well developed area that attracts many tourists and gives a glimpse into the life of a typical Maldivian fisherman.

SHOPPING:

Male - the best place for shopping if you are interested in buying imported goods. Most tourist-oriented shops sell handicrafts and souvenirs. It's always interesting when you can walk among the shops, choosing something better. Stores recommended by guides or sellers hired as guides are not the best place to shop.
If you are looking for tax-free duty free shops, you can find several of them at Male International Airport.

CURRENCY:

The Maldivian currency is the rufiyaa and the laari.
1 Maldivian rufiyaa is equal to 100 laari.
1 US dollar is approximately equal to 12 rufiyaa.
In the Maldives, there are banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 rufiyaas and coins of 2 and 1 rufiyaa, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laari.

ECONOMY:

The dominant industries in the Maldives are fishing and tourism. The Maldives exports canned tuna, dried and frozen fish, tropical aquarium fish, as well as fresh-frozen Shashimi - all caught in the unpolluted waters of the Maldives with waste and chemicals. Behind last years tourist growth increased by 10%. More than 300,000 tourists visit the Maldives every year.
Several charter flights serve the capital Male. It takes about 10 hours to get to Male from Moscow via Europe and 8 hours by direct charter flights.

CLIMATE:

Tropical warm, even due to the proximity of the equator, without significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The best weather conditions are from November to the end of April (northeast monsoon): the sea is calm, the weather is sunny and dry. Sometimes in June-July there are short rains, but they are not so long - 20-25 minutes, and the sun shines again. The average daily maximum is +30.4oC. The average night low is +25.4oC. The water temperature is +24-27oС all year round.

LANGUAGE:

Dhivehi and English. Dhivehi is a local language spoken only in the Maldives. The writing is called "Thaana". English is the main language taught in schools. Most people in Male and the tourist resorts speak English.

RELIGION:

The Maldives is perhaps the only country in the world with a 100% Muslim population. Islam came about 800 years ago and the middle form practiced in the Maldives has remained unchanged.

LIMITATIONS AND PROHIBITIONS:

Attention! When flying by seaplane in the Maldives, you are allowed to carry baggage up to 25 kg free of charge. For 1 kg overweight surcharge $2.

INTO THE COUNTRY IS PROHIBITED TO IMPORT

Any alcoholic product
Any video materials
Weapons for spearfishing
pornographic material
Narcotic substances
Gunpowder and explosives, chemicals
Firearms, incl. spearfishing weapons
Animals

IF YOU BRING:

Alcoholic products. They will pick you up at the airport (luggage office) and give you a receipt.
Video materials. All video / film production is withdrawn for viewing by special in exchange for a receipt. When flying back from the Maldives, after passing through customs control, you can receive the confiscated alcohol and video materials in a special window of the storage room by presenting a receipt.
Upon departure from the Maldives, when passing through customs control, you will be seized:
All piercing and cutting items from hand luggage (decorative knives, nail files, etc.). We advise you to take all piercing and cutting objects in your luggage, do not leave them in your hand luggage.

ON THE TERRITORY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES IT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED:

Break, tear live and dead corals in the ocean and near the coast.
Damage shells and raise them to the surface.
Catch fish near the islands. For this purpose, fishing is organized in hotels, both for ordinary and large non-commercial fish.
Spearfishing is strictly prohibited.
Throw empty cans, tin, glass and plastic bottles and other rubbish on the islands.
It is forbidden to visit the capital Male and the islands where the locals live in beachwear.
Nudism and topless (topless) are prohibited.

TIME:

Time difference with Moscow: +1 hour in summer, +2 hours in winter.

VISA:

The Maldives is a visa-free country. A visa is issued upon arrival at the airport in Male upon presentation of a passport, a return ticket and an amount of money sufficient to live in the country. Instead of money, you can present a voucher for a hotel. The maximum validity of a visa is 30 days. There are no restrictions on the number of entries into the country. When leaving the country, you must pay an airport tax of 10 am. USD

Customs formalities and airport fees: In accordance with the laws of the Republic of Maldives, tourists are not allowed to import: any alcoholic beverages, drugs, any pornographic materials, recorded video cassettes, weapons for spearfishing. Upon departure from Male, by presenting the appropriate receipt, you can get back alcoholic beverages that were selected at customs upon entry.

VACCINATIONS:

Vaccinations are not needed.

STAY MODE:

There are no restrictions on movement. To visit one of the islands inhabited by the indigenous population, you must obtain a special permit.

EMBASSY:

There is no Russian embassy in the Maldives. Contact the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka, Colombo. Tel. (94-1) 57-35-55, 57-49-59 (around the clock).

SOUVENIRS:

As souvenirs, shark jaws, handicrafts, light summer clothes, coconut oil, shells, etc. are brought from the Maldives.

CLOTH:

any light clothing of your choice is acceptable. Even in deluxe hotels, most restaurants do not require evening wear. For the beach, regular beachwear is recommended. It should be remembered that nudism and topless are prohibited in the Maldives (with the exception of the Kuramathi Islands, where topless is allowed).
When visiting the fishing villages and the capital Male, tourists should, respecting Muslim traditions, wear modest clothing.

BEHAVIOR RULES:

Despite the fact that Islam practiced in the Maldives is softer than in most Arab countries, one should not forget the following:
spearfishing and unauthorized fishing are prohibited;
it is forbidden to get corals, shells, starfish, etc. from the sea;
nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago.

ATTRACTIONS:

The attractions of the Maldives include the National Museum, Sultan Park, the Singapore Bazaar, the Islamic Center and 20 picturesque mosques in the capital.

KITCHEN MALDIVES:

local cuisine usually includes rice, fish curry cooked with coconut milk, spiced with lime, chili and small onions. Roshi, local bread, is usually eaten with mas huni, a fish cocktail flavored with coconut, onion, chili, and lime.
Among the local snacks, fihunu mas - fish baked with chili paste, keemia - fried fish rolls, kulhi borkihaa - the most delicate fish pie are very popular. Among the sweets, there is a very tasty bondi - white coconut sticks.