5 Top Things to Know About the Maldives

The Maldives has long been a popular exotic and romantic destination. The Maldive Islands have recently become of greater interest because they were one of the first foreign nations to welcome American tourists. So what should you know about the Maldives?

Where and What Are They?

The Maldives is an archipelago of over 1,100 tiny coral islands in  South Asia. The archipelago is in the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean and about 267 miles from the border of India. They are officially the Republic of Maldives and have a long history and well over 2,500 years old. Tourism has been active since the 1970’s.

What are They Known For?

They are known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. These beaches offer white sand and crystal clear waters. They are also known for the flora and fauna under the sea. There are 187 species of coral forming the coral reefs.  In addition to 1,100 species of fish, the local waters house numerous species of whale, dolphins and sea turtles. Not surprisingly, the Maldives are a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.

Activities to Do There

Many tourists just stay  and relax within the confines of the resort they are staying at including getting pampered at one of several top notch spas. Nonetheless the Maldives offers varied activities. Many of them not surprisingly are water related. In addition to snorkeling and scuba diving, water sport options include wind-surfing and jet-skiing to kite-surfing. Fishing and boat trips are other options For those looking for something cultural to do, Male, the Maldives’ capital,  is home to the National Museum which houses a collection of impressive thrones and robes worn by local sultans.

You Can Do the Maldives On a Budget

Yes, you can. As of press time, there are flight/hotel packages from LAX in economy and 6 nights at a good 4-star hotel including breakfast for about $1,250 a person based on double occupancy.  There are many resort options in different price ranges including basic 3 star properties as well as lavish 5-star ones. Some of the luxury resorts   offer romantic overwater bungalows. Accommodation option include not just resorts, but also guesthouses and boutique hotels.

Other Things To Know About the Maldives

The food is excellent in the Maldives. Many of the restaurants specialize in fresh seafood but the options are varied. The seafood choices include red snapper and king prawns. Curry varieties both mild and spicy are a local specialty. Rice dishes including Muran’ga Baiy or Moringa rice are also a specialty. The Maldives is also known for unusual desserts such as Naroh Falidha made with breadfruit and jasmine water and resembles donuts.

The Maldives are a Muslim nation and rather conservative on things like bikinis except at resorts or at designated bikini beaches. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon.

The Maldives has its own currency (the Maldivian Rufiyaa) and its own language (Dhivehi), but English is widely spoken.

You need a visa to go but they issue them upon arrival.

Want to book a trip to Maldives or learn more about them? Please reach out to us and we would happy to help.

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