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Where is Maldives?
The Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is a cluster of almost 1,192 small coral islands grouped across 26 naturally formed atolls, covering an area of over 90,000 square kilometers. The geographic coordinates of Maldives are between latitudes 3°15’N and 7°09’N and longitudes 72°32’E and 73°45’E.
The capital city, Malé, is situated on the island of the same name in the North Malé Atoll. The country consists of 26 atolls, each comprising numerous coral islands and islets, with a total land area of approximately 300 square kilometers. Maldives is known for its azure waters, powdery white beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and warm climate throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking luxury and natural beauty.
Where is Maldives? (Map)
Also read: Where are the Maldives islands on a Map?
Islands in the Maldives
In the Maldives, there are approximately 1,192 islands, with 187 of them being inhabited and the rest remaining uninhabited. The inhabited islands are officially recognized as towns, villages, fishing, and farming communities with permanent human habitation, each having an island office and island chiefs. On the other hand, the uninhabited islands have no permanent human habitations and are sometimes used for agricultural, industrial, tourist, or picnic purposes. These uninhabited islands are valuable breeding grounds for various species of seabirds and sea turtles, offering a truly untouched natural environment in the Maldives.
What language is spoken in Maldives?
The language spoken in the Maldives is Dhivehi, also known as Divehi, which is an Indo-Aryan language closely related to the Sinhala language of Sri Lanka. Dhivehi is the official and common language of the Maldives, written in the Thaana script and spoken by the majority of the population. Additionally, English is widely spoken by the locals, especially due to the country’s opening to the outside world, the use of English as a medium of instruction in education, and the opportunities offered through tourism. Arabic is also taught in schools and mosques as the religious language of Muslims and the language of the Quran and Sunnah, reflecting the influence of Islam in the Maldives.
Which Maldives island is best?
Based on the sources provided, the best Maldives island can vary depending on your preferences:
- Best for Luxury: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island offers a luxurious experience with rates as high as $10,000 a night.
- Best for Honeymooners: Kandolhu Maldives is a tiny, tranquil, and romantic island perfect for honeymooners, offering crystal-clear coral reefs and velvety white sands with maximum privacy.
- Best for Choice: Kuramathi Maldives provides a wide range of facilities and activities, making it ideal for those seeking adventure and relaxation, with various accommodation options and dining choices.
- Best for a Refreshing Sanctuary: Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a favorite among guests, offering world-class service, a gorgeous house reef for snorkeling, and a stunning overwater restaurant, providing a refreshing and serene atmosphere.
- Best for Beach Club Vibes: Finolhu stands out with its long stretch of powder-white sand, quirky beach club style, beach cinema, unique accommodations, and vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking beach club vibes.
- Best for Families: Niyama Private Islands caters to families with various activities for all age groups, ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Best for Foodies: Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences in Baa Atoll is recommended for food enthusiasts, offering a culinary experience that stands out, making it a foodie’s favorite.
Each island has its own unique charm and caters to different preferences, whether you seek luxury, romance, adventure, relaxation, family-friendly activities, or exceptional dining experiences.
Maldives currency
The currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (Dhivehi: ދިވެހި ރުފިޔާ; sign: Rf or ; code: MVR). It is controlled by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) and is subdivided into 100 laari.
The most commonly used symbols for the rufiyaa are MVR and Rf. The ISO 4217 code for the Maldivian Rufiyaa is MVR. The currency symbol represents the letter “Ra” of the Thaana script, which is also the first letter in spelling “Rufiyaa” in Dhivehi. The exchange rate fluctuates within a ±20% band, with the midpoint being Rf. 12/85 per US dollar. For more information, Visit Maldives
Can I use Credit Card in Maldives
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in the Maldives, especially at resorts and major establishments. Most bills at resorts are settled by credit or debit card or in US dollars rather than the local currency. ATMs are primarily found in Malé City, but all 4- and 5-star resorts accept major credit cards. It is advised to have some small denomination bills in the local currency or US dollars for tips to local guides during excursions outside the hotel. Additionally, there are specialist credit cards for travelers that offer excellent rates of exchange and charge zero “load” fees when purchasing items.
How to get to Maldives islands
To reach the Maldives islands, you can fly into the main airport, Velana International Airport, located on Hulhule Island near the capital city of Malé. From there, you can reach your specific island resort by sea plane, speedboat, or ferry. Seaplanes and speedboats are common modes of transportation to reach the various islands and resorts, with travel times ranging from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the location of your resort. If you plan to visit multiple resorts, you may need to return to Male Airport before heading to the next destination.
The Maldives islands are well-connected by ferry, making island hopping a feasible option, although it may require some planning. Additionally, domestic flights are available for reaching more remote resort islands, with seaplanes offering a unique and scenic way to travel between islands. Overall, transportation in the Maldives is either very fast or slow, with options like speedboats, seaplanes, and domestic flights providing convenient ways to explore this tropical paradise.
Things to Know before Visiting the Maldives in 2024
Based on the information from the provided sources, here are some key things to know before visiting the Maldives in 2024:
- Seasons and Weather: The Maldives has two main seasons – dry season from December to March and rainy season from June to November. The dry season is the high season with clear skies, while the rainy season may have light drizzles but still offers warm temperatures and quieter times with better deals on accommodations.
- Cultural Considerations: The Maldives is a Muslim country, so it’s important to respect local customs. Alcohol, pork products, and religious texts are prohibited on local islands, and modest dress is required in public areas on these islands. However, on resort islands, you have more freedom in terms of clothing and behavior.
- Visas and Entry Requirements: Travelers from most countries can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives, as long as their passport is valid for at least six months. No mandatory vaccines are required for entry into the country.
- Travel Costs: Travel within the Maldives can be expensive, especially for seaplane and speedboat transfers. It’s advisable to budget for these additional costs, especially if you arrive late and need to stay overnight before continuing to your resort.
- Island Time: The Maldives operates on “Island Time,” with resorts being 2 hours ahead of Malé to maximize daylight hours. This unique concept allows visitors to immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle and forget about time constraints.
- Accommodation Options: The Maldives offers a wide range of accommodation choices, from luxury overwater villas to budget guesthouses on local islands. Consider factors like location, amenities, entertainment, and budget when choosing where to stay.
- Transportation: Most international travelers arrive at Velana International Airport near Male, the capital of the Maldives. From there, you can reach your resort or local island by speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight. Seaplane rides offer a scenic view but can be expensive, while resorts usually arrange transfers for their guests.
- Island Choices: With over 1,000 islands in the Maldives, each offering a unique experience, it can be challenging to choose the perfect vacation spot. Popular islands like Alimata and Biyadu offer different attractions, from water sports to lush vegetation, catering to various preferences for a memorable holiday experience.
By being aware of these factors before your trip to the Maldives in 2024, you can better prepare for a smooth and enjoyable vacation in this tropical paradise.
Popular Tourist Destinations in the Maldives in 2024
The most popular tourist destinations in the Maldives in 2024 will include:
- Male: The capital of the Maldives, bustling with activity, offers attractions like the National Museum, Grand Friday Mosque, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
- Alimatha Island: Located in Vaavu Atoll, this island is perfect for diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and boating, making it an ideal spot for family vacations and honeymoons.
- Sun Island: Also known as Nalaguraidhoo Island, it boasts a vast turquoise lagoon, beautiful beaches, tropical flowers, and lush greenery, making it a popular honeymoon destination with luxurious resorts.
- Mirihi Island: Known for its exclusive reef, pristine beach, and water bungalows, Mirihi Island is a popular tourist spot offering a serene and ideal holiday experience.
- Banana Reef: A must-visit underwater destination between the Isles of North Male Atoll, famous for diving and exploring colorful marine life like reef sharks, barracudas, and more.
- Artificial Beach: Situated in North Malé Atoll, this man-made beach is a favorite spot for swimming enthusiasts and offers various food options, sports activities, and entertainment like musical performances.
- Addu Atoll: Located at the southern end of the Maldives, Addu Atoll includes islands like Meedhoo, Hithadhoo, Hulhudhoo, Gan, and Maradhoo, offering a mix of local life, beaches, and seaside beauty for tourists to explore.
These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from water sports and diving to cultural attractions and serene beach getaways, making them top choices for travelers visiting the Maldives in 2024.
FAQ’s
Where is Maldives?
Maldives is an independent island country located in the north-central Indian Ocean, consisting of about 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks grouped in clusters or atolls, southwest of Sri Lanka and India.
Is Maldives a part of Indian?
No, the Maldives is not a part of India; it is an independent island nation located in the Indian Ocean.
Is Maldives a rich country?
Maldives is classified as an upper-middle-income country with a robust growth trajectory, driven by sectors like tourism and fisheries, but it still faces challenges such as a large fiscal deficit and debt levels.