Maldives Information Guide

New 7 Wonders of Nature: Vote MALDIVES

2009-04-14T15:47:00.005+05:00

The Maldives archipelago has been nominated for the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign. This campaign is a process in which seven natural wonders of the world are chosen by people through a global poll which will be declared in the year 2011.

The campaign is being organized by the Swiss based New7Wonders Foundation after their success in organizing the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. 261 qualified national and multinational nominees are now competing to make it to the top 77.

Voting continues from January 7th until July 7th 2009 to determine the top 77 in each of the seven competing categories. The New7Wonders Panel of Experts will select the 21 finalists from the top 77 nominees.

Big Game Fishing in Maldives

2008-11-03T16:56:00.004+05:00

Big Game Fishing in Maldives can be one of the most unforgetable experiences of a lifetime for both first timers and keen fishermen. The coral atolls boast one of the greatest concentrations and diversities of sea life found on earth - big billfish are caught within meters of the tourist resorts. The Maldives, a country that straddles the equator, remains sunny almost all year around. There are two main seasons, however, - the South West Monsoon and the North East Monsoon. The South West Monsoon, which usually starts in May and continues until August, is the rainy season. Bad weather in the Maldives is not common but the varying temperatures can effect the underwater currents and consequently the movements of fish.

To catch big game like sailfish, marlin, barracuda, yellowfish tuna, wahoo, swordfish and many other big fishes, outside the atoll morning time is suitable for fishing. Hire speedboat and latest fishing equipments from the resort or dive school in Maldives. Before going for big game fishing acquired information about protected marine areas and best fishing areas. The fishing methods in the Maldives are interesting to watch, and bait less fishing is the most fascinating among them.

Popular Surf Sights of Maldives

2008-11-02T13:18:00.003+05:00

Chickens
Villingilimathi Huraa (Kuda Villingili), Uninhabited island. Eastern reef of North Male’ Atoll:

Requires speed. Long, excellent left-hander that has two sections. A pleasant thin, peeling, racing lip. However conditions must be perfect, otherwise it’s not make able. Best winds are NW-NNE (offshore). Named because of a poultry farm on the island. Access by boat.

Cokes
Thulusdhoo, Atoll Capital. Eastern reef of North Male’ Atoll:

A short but intense ride. A big wave tube spot. A steep barreling takeoff, then a very shallow inside section that opens up even more than the takeoff. Best on mid to high tide, however, can be surfed at low tide if the swell is big enough. Ideal on a straight south swell and winds NW however, can be surfed in winds from any direction W - N.
Named after the Coca-Cola factory on the island, beautiful view of palm fringed beach from the surf zone. Access by boat.

Lhohi
Lohifushi Island Resort. Eastern reef of North Male’ Atoll

Good and hollow left-hander with two sections. Need big SE swells and high tides to work well. Best during NW-NE offshore winds. Named after the island resort Lohifushi. Access by boat or from Lohifushi Resort.

Piddlies / Ninjas
Kanifinolhu Resort. Eastern Reef of North Male’ Atoll

Slow right-hander, good for beginners and long-boarders. Best on W-NW winds with a moderate S swell. However swells larger than 4 feet spoils it. Named Ninjas because many Japanese surfers seem to like it. Access by boat.

Sultans
Tari Village Resort (Kanu Huraa) . Eastern reef of North Male’ Atoll

Perfect long left, which picks up more swell and is more consistent than any other break. ‘Macaroni Bowl’-a second tube section, which develops after the fast take off section, mellows out for a cutback. ‘Lockjaws’ - if you are game try out this very fast and shallow end section, which comes after the ‘Macaroni Bowl’. Rides are 75 to 100 yards long. Reserved for the exclusive use of the resort guests. (Strictly enforced by Tari Village Resort management) Best winds; N, but can be surfed with NE-NW. Best months - February, March and April. Accessible from the shore.

Honkey’s
Thamburudhoo (Uninhabited Island), Eastern Reef of North Male’ Atoll

Excellent, long, world-class right-hander. One of the most consistent waves of Male’ Atoll, which never closes out, even on the biggest swells. The take-off is a steep outside peak called ‘Phantoms’, which slingshots into a very long, walled, super fast section called the ‘Pinnacles’, over four feet. All three sections can be thrilling, almost insane tubes. Rides are 100 to 150 yards. Best on high tide with any wind from W to N. Access by boat.

Tomb Stones
Thamburudhoo (Uninhabited Island), Adjacent to ‘Sultans’. Eastern Reef of North Male’ Atoll

Long, left-hander. Starts small and increases in size and intensity as it wraps 90 degrees around the island. A six feet wave on the take-off will end up at least eight feet on the end section, called ‘Fred’s Ledge’. Long rides and tubes through all sections. Best on low tides unless swell is huge. Best winds, ENE-N (this is the only wave that works on a ENE wind). Best swell, straight S. Best months for this wave, February, March and April. Affected by strong currents in the Southwest monsoon from May to October. Access by boat.

Male’ Island Point
Full Moon Beach Resort, Furana Fushi Island, Eastern Reef of North Male’ Atoll

Long, right-hander, offshore in winds S to W. Breaks rarely and only large swells. At three feet it has a dry reef to surf on. In the big swells of 1987, when many of the islands were flooded, this was surfed at a perfect six to eight feet.

Gurus
Male’, the capital. Eastern reef of Male’, Southern tip of North Male’ Atoll

A couple of shifting peaks, popular with locals, riding surfboards and boogie boards. The reef picks up plenty of swell. Best in W winds. Accessible from the shore.

Twin Peaks
Miyaru Faru near the island of Gulhi, inhabited island, Eastern Reef of South Male’ Atoll

Sectiony left, which picks up more swell than most of the breaks in South Male’ Atoll. Can have a good end section in a big S swell. Best in N winds, the higher the tide, the better. Access by boat.

Quarters
Gulhigaathuhuraa, uninhabited island attached to Palm Tree Island Resort. Eastern Reef of South Male’ Atoll: Really nice, fast little right-hander that picks up less swell than most other places.

Best in winds W to NW. Named after the resort workers’ quarters on the island.

Kate’s
Boduhuraa, Uninhabited Island near the Palm Tree Island Resort. Eastern Reef of South Male’ Atoll: Small short left. Best in winds NW to N.

Natives
Kandooma Resort, Eastern Reef of North Male’ Atoll

A short right, that needs a big swell. Best SW winds.

Riptides
Guraidhoo, Inhabited Island. Eastern Reef of South Male’ Atoll

Small reef in the middle of the channel on the southern side of the island; fast right-hander, one of the best waves in the area. The area is subject to strong currents. Best on W to SW winds. Access by boat

Related Topics:

Surf In Maldives

Unforgettable Scenery of Maldives

2008-11-02T04:20:00.003+05:00

Adaaran "Club" Bathala

2008-11-01T15:15:00.003+05:00

Bathala is most probably one of the best dive resorts in the Maldives. If has easy access to famous reefs or thila, including protected marine reserves like Maaya Thila. However, you don’t have to be a diver to enjoy your holiday here. Bathala is perfect for relaxation, a place to lie back in hammock with a book, watch the moon rise and sun set, sunbathe, stroll, snorkel or just spend a few quite uninterrupted days and nights with someone special.

Excursions off Bathala Island Resort includes diving excursions, night dive and boat dives. They have a beautiful house reef for snorkeling and diving. You can easily swim to the reef edge, which drops sharply to about 28m.

Adaaran "Club" Bathala
North Ari Atoll - Bathala
URL: www.bathala.com
Email: bathala@aitkenspence.com.mv

Related links:

Surfing In Maldives

2008-06-22T06:09:00.004+05:00

Surfing in the Maldives began long time back. Maldivians have been surfing the waves using materials such as planks for a long time. However, modern surfing was introduced to Maldives in the late 1970s by late Tony Hinde. Tony Hinde, an Australian surfer who took a break from surfing in Sri Lanka and set sail with a friend towards Africa. Though, he was never to reach his destination. His ship dangerously off course and was shipwrecked on the shore breaks of Malé. Tony was exposed to the thrill of surfing on the Maldives reefs. He married a local woman, changed his name to Tony Hussein Hinde, opened his own surf agency and decided to stay for good. Late Tony Hussein Hinde died on a Tuesday afternoon in a freak accident while surfing at Pasta Point in Male' Atoll.

The recent O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives has positioned Maldives resolutely on the world’s surf map. As most of the known surf breaks are in Malé Atoll, there is certainly more to be exposed in the Maldives.

Most resorts offer boats (Dhonis) to transport surfers out past the breaks up to three times per day for two hour time periods while charters offer surfers the possibility to surf the reefs for much longer periods.

Related Topics:

Popular Surf Sights of Maldives

Dive In Maldives

2008-05-20T17:52:00.004+05:00

The Maldives is recognized throughout the world as a prominent diving destination. There are about 70 diverse species of multicolored coral reefs make up the flora of this underwater metropolis and more than 700 species of fishes and other aqua marine life form the populace here. This makes Maldives a top diving destination - a dream destination of divers from all over the world. In the channels, divers can come across caves and overhangs full of soft coral, broad variety of invertebrates, gorgonians, and sponges. There are also canyons and on the outside corners are steep drop offs. At these impressive sites, vast schools of fish feed in colliding waters.

Some of the most significant and attractive diving sites are the Guaridoo Corner (plenty of gracious Napoleon Fishes can be sighted here), Cocoa Corner (Sharks, Rays and other marine life abound here) and the Maldive Victory (A wreck sitting upright in the water and bounded by coral reefs and a profusion of marine life). Mantas, sting rays, turtles, whale sharks, and an variety of corals add energy to the marine environment while multi-coloured fish deepen the unique diving experience.

There are three distinct types of diving in the Maldives: within the atolls, outside the atolls and inside the channels or passes, where the currents are strongest and you'll find the most congregation of marine life. Most fascinating are the cleaning stations, found around every corner and under every ledge. Groupers, Snappers, Surgeonfish, Eels, Parrotfish, even Giant Napoleon Wrasse park offhandedly in corners while crowds of wrasse, shrimp and other assorted cleaners pick at debris in their open gills and cavernous mouths.

Resorts and Travel Agents in Maldives provide diving tours and offer many courses of different durations. Once the courses are attended, even those with no previous diving experience can enjoy the excitement derived from witnessing the beauty of this underwater city.

Maldives: Sun, Sea and Sand

2008-05-20T07:00:00.003+05:00

Video By: Aqua Dream Imaging

Maldives Visitors Guide 2007

2008-05-16T01:01:00.000+05:00

Download the Maldives Visitors Guide 2007

Frequently Asked Questions

2008-05-15T13:22:00.000+05:00

Do I need a Visa to visit Maldives?
There is no requirement to obtain a visa in advance. A valid passport and health documents are the only travel documents required to enter the Maldives. All visitors receive a 30-day free tourist visa on arrival. Tourist visas can be extended in need be, by lodging an application to the Department of Immigration and Emigration. A charge of approximately US$60 is levied on tourist visa extensions.

Related link:

How to get to Maldives

When is the best time to visit Maldives?
If you're looking for a few extra hours of sunshine then you should visit the Maldives between December and April, which is the dry season. This is the high season, however, and resorts can be fully booked and prices are higher than the rest of the year. The Christmas-New Year period is the busiest and most expensive part of the high season. Between May and November it's still warm, but the skies can be cloudy, humidity is higher and rain is more likely. This is the low season, and there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. The transition months of November and April are said to be associated with increased water clarity and better visibility for divers.

Will I be able to use my electrical equipment in Maldives?
Voltage in Maldives is 110 or 220 volts, depending on your location. An adapter is recommended for using appliances you bring with you. Most major hotels provide hair dryers and other amenities.

Can I use my Visa Card, Master Card, and Debit Card to get cash from the bank?
Most of the local and souvenir shops in Male? accept all major credit cards but none of these shops can get you cash from your card. There are two or three merchants who get can get you limited cash and this is only possible during weekdays as these merchants will be issuing you a cash check which you will have to en-cash it from the bank. One bank in the Maldives offers encashment of credit cards. However the withdrawals are well limited.

What is the currency used?
In Maldives we have our own currency called ""Maldivian Ruffiya"" (MRf). One United States Dollar is equivalent to 12.85 MRf (Maldives Monetary Authority buying rate) and this value doesn't vary much.

Are there hospitals and medical facilities?
Maldives has excellent medical and dental services, pharmacies, a large government hospital and many private clinics in the capital city of Male’, all of the resorts are also equipped with outstanding medical facilities and clinics.

What's the time difference?
Maldives is five hours ahead (GMT +05:00) of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What types of water activities are available?
Most visitors enjoy the lagoons as the natives do, swimming and snorkeling in the warm, turquoise waters, or canoeing, sailing, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing and water skiing. The Maldive islands are world renowned for their scuba diving and snorkeling. Or you can go on a shark feeding/ whale shark watching expedition, where you're in the water with hungry reef sharks that are being hand-fed by a guide. You can charter a yacht, perhaps with a captain and chef, to sail among the islands. In Maldivian resorts they offer an enormous range of water activities. more...

What is the Taxi Fare?
Tourists normally pay US$2. If tourists pay in Maldivian Rufiyaa, they may pay MRF 20.00 for any given trip from one point to the other. You maybe charged for the luggage based on number of pieces.

Could I be able to take liquor to the Capital City/Island?
Nobody is allowed to bring in liquor to Maldives, unless he or she has a special import license for liquor, beer and related products. If somebody has bought liquor and beer and related items on his/her way to Maldives from a duty free center, then products should be bonded in custom on their arrival to Maldives. And the goods will be released on their departure. Further nobody is allowed to bring in liquor, beer or related products to the Capital City/Island. Thus the Capital City Hotel's will not offer liquor, beer and related products.

Is Maldives safe for the visitor?
Yes, Maldives is probably one of the safest places in the world.

How do I book a travel package to Maldives?
Find your choice of travel agent, safari or the resort island from this website.

Related links:

Resorts In Maldives

Hotels In Malé

Cruise Boats

Do I need to pay Departure Tax?
If the airport tax has not been paid before, you may need to pay US$12.00 at the airport. Only US$ Dollar is accepted.

Cruise Boats

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Adventure 2
Tel:(+960) 332 6734 / 778 3365
Fax:(+960) 3326734
www.maldivesdiving.com

Alpashah
Tel:(+960) 3316454
Fax:(+960) 3310206

Baraabaru
Tel:(+960) 3316172
Fax:(+960) 3316783
www.seafariadventures.com

Barutheela
Tel:(+960) 3316172
Fax:(+960) 3316783
www.seafariadventures.com

Blue Dolphin
Tel:(+960) 3315439 / 7771419
Fax:(+960) 3321549
www.bluedolphin.com.mv

Blue Shark
Tel:(+960) 3327826 / 7774038
Fax:(+960) 3326382

BOLERO of The Grand Safari
Tel:(960) 334 0970
Fax:(960) 334 0971
www.thegrandholidays.com

Britt
Tel:(+960) 3326545 / 3321751
Fax:(+960) 3326544
www.kuredu.com

Cat Fish
Tel:(+960) 334 3840
Fax:(+960) 334 3841
www.pch.com.mv

Cozy
Tel:(+960) 3321447 / 7772339
Fax:(+960) 3317850
www.tropicalexcursions.com.mv

Cyrus
Tel:(+960) 3315450 / 3315451
Fax:(+960) 3314783
www.atollvacations.com

Dhandahelu II
Tel:(+960) 3323181
Fax:(+960) 3325499

Dhinasha
Tel:(+960) 3321079
Fax:(+960) 3325397
www.canopusmaldives.com.mv

Dhondhooni
Tel:(+960) 3316454
Fax:(+960) 3310206

Dolphin Safari
Tel:(+960) 3317077 / 7771322
Fax:(+960) 3335060
www.blueksafari.com

Dorado
Tel:(+960) 3327225
Fax:(+960) 3327256
www.innermaldives.com

Dream Catcher 2
Tel:(960) 334 1860
Fax:(960) 334 1860
www.sunprincess.com

Eagle Ray
Tel:(+960) 3314841 / 7772403
Fax:(+960) 3314811
www.maldivesboatclub.com.mv

Finolhu
Tel:(+960) 3321588 / 7771326
Fax:(+960) 3334765

Flying Fish
Tel:(+960) 3327066 / 3327067
Fax:(+960) 3326542
www.panoramamaldives.com

Gaaviya
Tel:(+960) 3331811 / 7775080
Fax:(+960) 3318815
www.gaaviya.com

Gahaa
Tel:(+960) 3322019 / 3323617
Fax:(+960) 3325336
www.voyagesmaldives.com

Goma Fulhu
Tel:(+960) 6643157
Fax:(+960) 6645946
www.meeru.com

Gulfaam
Tel:(+960) 3322019, 3323617
Fax:(+960) 3325336
www.voyagesmaldives.com

Hamathi
Tel:(+960) 3324525 / 7772749
Fax:(+960) 3310563

Hammer Head
Tel:(+960) 3324213 / 7771176
Fax:(+960) 3318354

Hammer Head II
Tel:(+960) 3324213 / 7771176
Fax:(+960) 3318354

Handhu
Tel:(+960) 3312985 / 3334845
Fax:(+960) 3324948 / 3314483
www.radheattravel.com

Handhu Falhi
Tel:(+960) 3312985 / 3334845
Fax:(+960) 3324948 / 3314483
www.radheattravel.com

Haveyli
Tel:(+960) 3327066 / 3327067
Fax:(+960) 3326542
www.panoramamaldives.com

Island Safari
Tel:(+960) 3320952 / 3332504
Fax:(+960) 3318035
www.vistamaldives.com

Island Safari 1 (Deluxe)
Tel:(+960) 3320952 / 3332504
Fax:(+960) 3318035
www.vistamaldives.com

Kethi
Tel:(+960) 3322019, 3323617
Fax:(+960) 3325336
www.voyagesmaldives.com

Kirudooni
Tel:(+960) 3316454
Fax:(+960) 3310206

Maavahi Safari Boat
Tel:(+960) 3316620
Fax:(+960) 3321085

Maldivian Romance
Tel:(+960) 3324658
Fax:(+960) 3325543

Maldivian Romance l
Tel:(+960) 3324658
Fax:(+960) 3325543

Maleesha Royal Cruiser
Tel:(+960) 3322265
Fax:(+960) 3318521
www.maleesha.com.mv

Mandhu
Tel:(+960) 3323181
Fax:(+960) 3325499

Manthiri
Tel:(+960) 3325634 / 3320323
Fax:(+960) 3325633
www.manthiri.com

Muna
Tel:(+960) 3314149
Fax:(+960) 3314150
www.meeru.com

MV Atoll Explorer
Tel:(+960) 3323080
Fax:(+960) 3322678
www.unisurf.com

MV Faiymini
Tel:(+960) 3315089
Fax:(+960) 3320336
www.capitaltravel.net

MV Fathhul Bari
Tel:(+960) 3325977
Fax:(+960) 3318273 / 3320419
www.sunholidays.com

MV Fathhul Bari
Tel:(+960) 3325977
Fax:(+960) 3318273 / 3320419
www.sunholidays.com

MV Horizon
Tel:(+960) 3321169
Fax:(+960) 3328797
www.blue-horizon.com.mv

MV Island Explorer
Tel:(+960) 3323080
Fax:(+960) 3322678
www.unisurf.com

MV Nooraanee Queen
Tel:(+960) 3310314 / 3315798
Fax:(+960) 3310264
www.movinmaldives.com

MV Pretty Tombili
Tel:(+960) 3320981 / 7772051
Fax:(+960) 3320981
www.tombili.com

MV Sunset Cruiser
Tel:(+960) 3325977
Fax:(+960) 3318273 / 3320419
www.sunholidays.com

MY Moodhumaa
Tel:(+960) 3331512
Fax:(+960) 3331513
www.muni.com.mv

MY Moonimaa
Tel:(+960) 3331512
Fax:(+960) 3331513
www.muni.com.mv

Nasru (Orca)
Tel:(+960) 3327066 / 3327067
Fax:(+960) 3326542
www.panorama-maldives.com

Nasru Ali
Tel:(+960) 3324222
Fax:(+960) 3330076

Nasrumano Safari Boat
Tel:(+960) 3390097 / 3390081
Fax:(+960) 3390098

Nautilus l
Tel:(+960) 3315253
Fax:(+960) 7772381
www.nautilus.at

Panorama
Tel:(+960) 3327066 / 3327067
Fax:(+960) 3326542
www.panorama-maldives.com

Rani l
Tel:(+960) 3312743 / 3327438
Fax:(+960) 3326542

Rani ll
Tel:(+960) 3312743 / 3327438
Fax:(+960) 3326542

S.Y Dream Voyager
Tel:(+960) 3312256
Fax:(+960) 3332870
www.aquasunmaldives.com

Sea Farer
Tel:(+960) 3322019 / 3323617
Fax:(+960) 3325336
www.voyagesmaldives.com.mv

Sea Life Safari
Tel:(+960) 3316516
Fax:(+960) 3316518
www.worldlinktours.com

Silvester
Tel:(+960) 3316454
Fax:(+960) 3310206

Soleil Safari
Tel:(+960) 3335035 / 7771322
Fax:(+960) 3335060
www.blueksafari.com.mv

Southern Cross
Tel:(+960) 3337554
Fax:(+960) 3335830
www.dive-dive.com

Sting Ray
Tel:(+960) 7772403 / 3314841
Fax:(+960) 3314811
www.maldivesboatclub.com.mv

SULTAN OF BLUES
Tel:(960) 332 0330
Fax:(960) 332 0440
www.sultansoftheseas.com

SULTAN OF FERVOUR
Tel:(960) 332 0330
Fax:(960) 332 0440
www.sultansoftheseas.com

SULTAN OF MADIVARU
Tel:(960) 332 0330
Fax:(960) 332 0440
www.sultansoftheseas.com

SULTAN OF MALDIVES
Tel:(960) 332 0330
Fax:(960) 332 0440
www.sultansoftheseas.com

Suwasa ll
Tel:(+960) 3323181
Fax:(+960) 3325499

Triton
Tel:(+960) 49(0)362395
Fax:(+960) (0)80361470
www.triton-safari.com

Umeedhu 5
Tel:(+960) 3340622 / 9775289
Fax:(+960) 3340621
www.hopetours.com

Resorts In Maldives

2008-05-15T02:40:00.002+05:00

Adaaran "Club" Bathala
North Ari Atoll - Bathala
URL: www.bathala.com
Email: bathala@aitkenspence.com.mv

Adaaran "Club" Rannalhi
Kaafu Atoll - Rannalhi
URL: www.clubrannalhi.com
Email: reserve@rannalhi.com.mv

Adaaran "Select" Meedhupparu
Raa Atoll Meedhupparu
URL: www.meedhupparu.com
Email: res@meedhupparu.com.mv

Alimatha Aquatic Resort
Vaavu Atoll- Alimatha
Email: safari@dhivehinet.net.mv

Angaaga Island Resort & Spa
South Ari Atoll - Angaaga
Email: angaga@dhivehinet.net.mv

Angsana Resort & Spa Maldives Ihuru
Kaafu Atoll - Ihuru
URL: www.angsana.com
Email: maldives@angsana.com

Angsana Resort & Spa Maldives Velavaru
Dhaalu Atoll - Velavaru
URL: www.velavaru.com
Email: reservations@velavaru.com

Asdhu Sun Island
Kaafu Atoll - Asdhu
URL: www.asdu.com
Email: info@asdu.com.mv

Athurugau Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Athurugau
Email: athadmin@dhivehnet.net.mv

Bandos Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Bandos
URL: www.bandosmaldives.com
Email: sales@bandos.com.mv

Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru
Kaafu Atoll - Vabbinfaru
URL: www.banyantree.com
Email: reservations-maldives@banyantree.com

Baros Holiday Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Baros
URL: www.universalresorts.com
Email: baros@baros.com.mv

Biyadhoo Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Biyadhoo
URL: www.biyadoo.com.mv
Email: admin@biyadoo.com.mv

Club Faru, Farukolhufushi
Kaafu Atoll - Farukolhufushi
URL: www.clubmed.com
Email: gesfar@clubmed-faru.com.mv

Club Med Kanifinolhu
Kaafu Atoll - Kanifinolhu
URL: www.clubmed.com
Email: reckan@clubmed-kani.com.mv

Coco Palm Boduhithi
Kaafu Atoll - Boduhithi
URL: www.cococollection.com.mv
Email: sunland@dhivehinet.net.mv

Dhiggiri Tourist Resort
Vaavu Atoll - Dhiggiri
Email: mmtours@dhivehinet.net.mv

Ellaidhoo Tourist Resort
North Ari Atoll - Ellaidhoo
URL: www.travelin-maldives.com
Email: info@ellaidhoo.com.mv

Embudu Village
Kaafu Atoll - Embudu
URL: www.embudu.com
Email: embvil@dhivehinet.net.mv

Eriyadu Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Eriyadhoo
URL: www.pch.com.mv
Email: res-eriyadu@pch.com.mv

Fihaalhohi Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Fihaalhohi
URL: www.fihalhohi.net
Email: fiha@dhivehinet.net.mv

Filitheyo Island Resort
Faafu Atoll - Filitheyo
URL: www.aaaresortsmaldives.com
Email: fili@aaa.com.mv

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Kaafu Atoll - Kuda Huraa
URL: www.fourseasons.com
Email: maldivesreservations.mal@fourseasons.com

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
Baa Atoll - Landaa Giraavaruwww.fourseasons.com/maldives
Email: reservations.mal@fourseasons.com

Full Moon Beach Maldives
Kaafu Atoll - Furanafushi
URL: www.universalresorts.com
Email: frontoffice@fullmoon.com.mv

Fun Island Resort (under re-construction)
Kaafu Atoll - Bodufinolhu
URL: www.villahotels.com
Email: reservations@fun-island.com.mv

Gasfinolhu Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Gasfinolhu
URL: www.valtur.it
Email: respfoff.mahureva@valtur.it

Giraavaru Tourist Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Giraavaru
URL: www.giravaru.com
Email: giravaru@dhivehinet.net.mv

Halaveli Holiday Village
North Ari Atoll - Halaveli
URL: www.halaveli.com
Email: halaveli@dhivehinet.net.mv

Helengeli Tourist Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Helengeli
URL: www.helengeli.net
Email: info@helengeli.net

Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa Rangali Island
South Ari Atoll - Rangalifinolhu
URL: www.hilton.com
Email: maldives@hilton.com

Holiday Island
South Ari Atoll - Dhiffushi
URL: www.villahotels.com
Email: reservations@holiday-island.com.mv

Huvafen Fushi
Kaafu Atoll - Nakatchafushi
URL: www.huvafenfushi.com
Email: info@huvafenfushi.com

Island Hideaway At Dhonakulhi Maldives Spa Resort & Marina
Haa Alifu Atoll - Dhonakulhi
URL: www.island-hideaway.com
Email: sales@island-hideaway.com

Island of Bolifushi
Kaafu Atoll - Bolifushi
URL: www.bolifushi.com
Email: gateway@dhivehinet.net.mv

Kandooma~Maldives (opening mid 2008)
Kaafu Atoll - Kandoomafushi
URL: www.kandooma-maldives.com
Email: info@kandooma-maldives.com

Kihaadhuffaru Resort
Baa Atoll - Kihaadhuffaru
URL: www.valtur.it
Email: respfoff.kihaad@valtur.it

Komandoo Maldive Island Resort
Lhaviyani Atoll - Komandoo
URL: www.komandoo.com
Email: info@komandoo.com

Kuramathi Tourist Resort
North Ari Atoll - Kuramathi
URL: www.kuramathi.com.mv
Email: village@kuramathi.com.mv

Kuredu Island Resort
Lhaviyani Atoll - Kuredhdhu
URL: www.kuredu.com
Email: reservations@kuredu.com

Kurumba Maldives
Kaafu Atoll - Vihamanaafushi
URL: www.universalresorts.com
Email: kurumba@kurumba.com.mv

Laguna Beach Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Velassaru
URL: www.universalresorts.com
Email: lbr@dhivehinet.com.mv

Lily Beach Resort
South Ari Atoll - Huvahendhoo
URL: www.lilybeachmaldives.com
Email: info@lilybeachmaldives.com

Maayafushi Tourist Resort
North Ari Atoll - Maayafushi
Email: maaya@dhivehinet.net.mv

Madoogali Resort
North Ari Atoll - Madoogali
URL: www.skorpiontravel.com
Email: madugali@dhivehinet.net.mv

Makunudu Island
Kaafu Atoll - Makunudhoo
URL: www.makunudu.com
Email: makunudu@sunland.net.mv

Meeru Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Meerufenfushi
URL: www.meeru.com
Email: reservations@meeru.com

Mirihi Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Mirihi
URL: www.mirihi.com
Email: info@mirihi.com.mv

Moofushi Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Moofushi
URL: www.moofushi.com
Email: moofushi@dhivehinet.net.mv

Nika Island Resort
North Ari Atoll - Kudhafoludhoo
URL: www.nikaisland.com.mv
Email: reservation@nikaisland.com.mv

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Olhuveli
URL: www.olhuveli.com
Email: olhuveli@dhivehinet.net.mv

One&Only at Reethi Rah
Kaafu Atoll - Medhufinolhu
URL: www.oneandonlyreethirah.com
Email: reservations@oneandonlyresorts.com.mv

One&Only Kanuhura
Lhaviyani Atoll - Kanuhura
URL: www.oneandonlykanuhura.com
Email: info@oneandonlykanuhura.com.mv

Palm Beach Island
Lhaviyani Atoll - Madhiriguraidhoo
URL: www.palmbeachmaldives.com
Email: palmbech@sportingholiday.com.mv

Palm Tree Island
Kaafu Atoll - Veligan'du Huraa
Email: veli@palmtree.com.mv

Paradise Island Resort and Spa
Kaafu Atoll - Lankanfinolhu
URL: www.villahotels.com
Email: reservations@paradise-island.com.mv

Ranveli Village & Spa
South Ari Atoll - Villingilivaru
URL: www.ranvelivillage.com
Email: info@ranvelivillage.com

Reethi Beach Resort
Baa Atoll - Fonimagoodhoo
URL: www.reethibeach.com
Email: info@reethibeach.com.mv

Rihiveli Beach Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Mahaana elhi Huraa
URL: www.rihiveli-maldives.com
Email: reservation@rihiveli-maldives.com

Royal Island Resort & Spa
Baa Atoll - Horubadhu
URL: www.royal-island.com
Email: reservations@royal-island.com.mv

Sonevafushi by Six Senses
Baa Atoll - Kunfunadhoo
URL: www.sixsenses.com
Email: reservations-fushi@sonevaresorts.com

Sonevagili by Six Senses
Kaafu Atoll - Lankanfushi
URL: www.sixsenses.com
Email: reservations-gili@sonevaresorts.com

Summer Island Village
Kaafu Atoll - Ziyaaraiyfushi
URL: www.summerislandvillage.com
Email: siv@dhivehinet.net.mv

Sun Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Nalaguraidhoo
URL: www.villahotels.com
Email: reservations@sun-island.com.mv

Taj Coral Reef Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Hembadhu
URL: www.tajhotels.com
Email: tajcr@dhivehinet.net.mv

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa
Kaafu Atoll - Embudhu Finolhu
URL: www.tajhotels.com/maldives
Email: roomrsv@tajexotica.com.mv

The Regent Maldives
Thaa Atoll Atoll - Maalefushi
URL: www.carlsonhotelsasiapacific.com
Email: resort@rainbow.com.mv

Thudufushi Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Thudufushi
Email: thuadmin@dhivehinet.net.mv

Thulhagiri Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Thulhagiri
URL: www.thulhaagiri.com.mv
Email: reserve@thulhaagiri.com.mv

Twin Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Maafushivaru
URL: www.unisurf.com
Email: sales@unient.com

Vadoo Island Resort
Kaafu Atoll - Vaadhoo
URL: www.vadoo.net
Email: rsvn@vadoo.com.mv

Vakarufalhi Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Vakarufalhi
URL: www.vakaru.com
Email: reservations@vakaru.com

Velidhu Island Resort
North Ari Atoll - Velidhoo
URL: www.johnkeellshotels.com
Email: velidhu@dhivehinet.net.mv

Veligandu Island Resort
North Ari Atoll - Veligan'du
URL: www.veliganduisland.com
Email: reservations@veliganduisland.com

Vilamendhoo Island Resort
South Ari Atoll - Vilamendhoo
URL: www.pch.com.mv
Email: res-eriyadu@pch.com.mv

Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort
Dhaalu Atoll - Meedhuffushi
URL: www.vilureef.com
Email: info@vilureef.com.mv

W Retreat and Spa Maldives
North Ari Atoll - Fesdhoo
URL: www.whotels.com/maldives
Email: wmaldives.welcome@whotels.com

White Sands Resort & Spa
South Ari Atoll - Dhidhoofinolhu
URL: www.maldiveswhitesands.com
Email: resort@maldiveswhitesands.com

Hotels in Male'

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Central Hotel
Tel: +960 331 7766
Fax: +960 331 5383
Email: central@dhivehinet.net.mv
Kam Hotel
Tel: +960 332 0611
Fax: +960 332 0614
Email: kamhotel@dhivehinet.net.mv
Marble Hotel
Tel: +960 330 2678
Fax: +960 332 6237
Email: reservations@marble.mv
URL: www.marble.mv
Kai Lodge
Tel: +960 332 8742
Fax: +960 338738
Mookai Hotel
Tel: +960 333 8811
Fax: +960 333 8822
Relax Inn
Tel: +960 331 4531
Fax: +960 331 4533
Email: relaxinn@dhivehinet.net.mv

Important Historical Events of Maldives

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400 BC Buddhist Kingdom

Discovery of ruined temples on some islands indicate an early Buddhist reign.

1153

Conversion from Buddhism to Islam
Foundation of the first Sultanate
Islam becomes the national religion
The first Sultan of the Maldives was Mohamed Bin Ibnu Abdulla (1141 - 1156, he disappeared during a pilgrimage to Mecca)

1344

Ibnu Batuta, Arabian historian and scholar travelled around the Maldives and worked as a Judge.

1558

The Portuguese capture Male'. Sultan Ali VI falls in battle.

1573

Under the leadership of Mohamed Thakurfaanu and his two brothers, the Maldives frees itself after 15 years of Portuguese rule.
Sultan Thakurufaanu (from 1573 - 1583) is honoured as national hero.

1887

On December 16, 1887 the Sultan of the Maldives signs a Protectorate Treaty with England. The Sultan receives protective rights for the Maldives, and is obliged to pay a tribute to the English Crown.

1932

The first written constitution comes into force. (Constitutional Sultanate)

1947

The last tribute payment to England.

1953

January 1 - After 800 years as a Sultanate (between 1153 - 1953), the first Republic is declared. The first President is Mohamed Amin Didi who dies only one year later.

1953, August 21

Return to Sultanate.

1959

Secession of the Southern Atolls and deceleration of the Republic of Suvadhuva.

1965

On July 26, 1965 the Maldives becomes independent and in the same year, a full member of the United Nations.

1968

On November 11, 1968 the second Republic comes into force (Presidential Republic by plebiscite). The first President is Ibrahim Nasir.

1972

The beginnings of tourism came after Hans Hass with his boat Xarifa. Produced the first film on the Maldives, both over and underwater in 1957/58.

1976

Accepted in the group of Non-Aligned States. The British leave the airbase at Gan.

1978

The current President, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom is elected for the first time and is confirmed in office in 1983, 1988 and again in 1993.

1988

Failed attempted coup by Tamil separatists on 3 November 1988. The President asks for foreign support. On the same evening, 1600 Indian parachutists land on the main island and suppress the rebellion.

How to get to Maldives

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The Maldives is in the middle of the Indian Ocean. The most convenient way of getting to the Maldives is by air. The international airport is located on Hulhulé Island, adjacent to Malé. The airport is strategically located close to the centre of commerce and many tourist resorts.

Several scheduled and charter flights operate to the Maldives. Scheduled flights operate to the Maldives from Sri Lanka, India, Singapore, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and many European capitals. In addition, several charter operators from European and Asian cities, catering mainly to the tourist trade, also operate to the Maldives round the year.

Entry Requirement

There is no requirement to obtain a visa in advance. A valid passport and health documents are the only travel documents required to enter the Maldives. All visitors receive a 30-day free tourist visa on arrival. Tourist visas can be extended in need be, by lodging an application to the Department of Immigration and Emigration. A charge of approximately US$60 is levied on tourist visa extensions. Firearms, ammunition, narcotic drugs and pornographic materials are prohibited items and should not be brought into the Maldives.

Work and Resident Permit

Those intending to work in the Maldives must acquire a work permit, issued by the Ministry of Higher Education, Employment and Social Security. Employers intending to employ foreign nationals in the Maldives are required to apply for a work permit number prior to the prospective employees’ arrival in the Maldives. A completed work permit application is processed within a period of one to three working days.

Those intending to invest in the Maldives may visit the Maldives on a tourist visa and may carry out any information search and work relating to the approval and set up of the foreign investment in the Maldives. Once an investment is approved by the government, all foreign employees recruited for the operations show follow the normal process of obtaining a work permit as described above.

Currency: Rufiyaa

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The local currency is the Rufiyaa (MRF). One rufiyaa is divided into one hundred Laaris. Presently the exchange rate is US$ 1 = MRF 12.85. The United States dollar is the most widely used foreign currency. Other major international currencies can also be bought and sold at banks and authorized money changers in the country. Major credit cards and traveler’s cheques are accepted in resorts, hotels, banks and many retail outlets. The Maldives has never had any restrictions on currency movements and visitors and investors are free to bring in our take out foreign currency as they wish.

Brief History and Language

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History evidence suggests that people settled in the Maldives more than 2500 years ago, in 500 B.C. Despite frequent contact with seafarers in ancient times, the inhabitants have remained uniquely homogeneous in terms of language, religion and culture. The Maldivian state has evolved to suite the conditions in the country and the independence of the people. The political system has evolved from Sultanate to a Republic.

For most of its history, the Maldives has been fortunate in being an independent country, free from foreign domination. Prior to becoming independent in 1965, the Maldives was a British protectorate from 1887. The Maldives was a sultanate through its known history, but became a republic in 1968. The head of state and chief executive is the president, elected by every 5 years by a public referendum. The Maldives is member of the United Nations, the Common Wealth of Nations, the South Asian Association of Regional Co-Operation, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the Asian Development Bank, the World Trade Organization, and several other UN bodies.

The official language is Dhivehi, which is unique to the Maldives. However, English is widely spoken by a majority of the people, and also widely used in business and commerce.

Divehi is an Indo-Aryan language closely related to the Sinhalese language of Sri Lanka. Divehi represents the southernmost Indo-Aryan language, and thus the southernmost Indo-European language. Together with Sinhala, Divehi represents a special subgroup within the Modern Indo-Aryan languages which is called Insular Indo-Aryan.

Whereas earlier it was believed that Divehi was a descendant of the Sinhalese language, in 1969 Sinhalese philologist M. W. S. de Silva for the first time proposed that Dhivehi and Sinhalese have branched off from a common mother language (a Prakrit). He says that “the earliest Indic element in Maldivian is not so much a result of branching off from Sinhalese as a result of a simultaneous separation with Sinhalese from the Indic languages of the mainland of India”. S. Fritz has recently reached the same conclusion in a detailed study of the language. De Silva refers to the Dravidian influences seen in the Dhivehi language such as in the old place names. De Silva’s theory is supported by the legend of Prince Vijaya as told in the Mahavamsa because if this legend is to be believed, the migration of Indo-Aryan colonists to the Maldives and Sri Lanka from the mainland (India) must have taken place simultaneously.
Source: Wikipedia.com

About Maldives...

2008-05-11T18:08:00.000+05:00

The republic of Maldives consists of 1190 coral islands which form a chain in 820 km in length and 130 km in width, set in a territorial area of 859,000 sq. km. of the Indian Ocean. The total land area of the Maldives is approximately 300 square kilometers. Sri Lanka and India are the country’s closest neighbors, lying 750km and 600km north and north-east of Maldives, respectively.

The island of Maldives is formed into 26 natural atolls, which, for purposes of administration, are grouped into 20 administrative regions. Most of the islands are quite small and low-lying, with an average elevation of 1.6m above sea-level. The islands are surrounded by shallow, crystal-clear lagoons enclosed by coral reefs. Out of the 1192 islands, 199 are inhabited and 87 islands have been developed as tourist resorts.

The Maldives has a tropical climate. With two monsoons in the year, it is warm and humid throughout. Daily temperatures vary little. The annual mean temperature is 28.3˚C with temperatures ranging from 25.1˚C to 31.5˚C. The average relative humidity ranges from 78% to 85%.

The Maldivians are said to be racially homogeneous. It is a mixed race of predominantly Aryan and Dravidian origins. The estimated population of Maldives, according to national census 2006 is 298,842. The population is spread over 199 inhabited islands. The most populous of the inhabited islands and the center of commerce is the capital, Male’. The rest of the islands are largely uninhabited, except for 87 islands which have been developed exclusively as luxury resorts.

Maldivian society is very cohesive, with one language, one culture and one religion. The official language is Dhivehi, which is unique to the Maldives. However, English is spoken by a majority of the people, and is also widely used in business and commerce. The people are generally enterprising and very hospitable. Approximately 79% of the population is under 35 years of age, and the national literacy rate currently stands at a very impressive 98%, and is the highest in the region.