Maldives Holidays

What are the Maldives known for?

The Maldives are known for their perfect postcard views – think clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and lofty palm trees. Travellers are drawn by the beauty, barefoot luxury and escapism offered by this archipelagic nation. And with thousands of idyllic islands (around 200 of which are inhabited) to discover, you can claim your own little slice of paradise.

What is the food like in the Maldives?

The cuisine in the Maldives is fresh, simple and scrumptious – think fish, coconut, taro, potatoes, pineapples and breadfruit. The sea serves up an abundant buffet for the many hotels dotted across the islands, and tuna has long been an important ingredient within Maldivian cooking. Thanks to influences from India, Sri Lanka and Arabia, dishes are enriched with spices, wheat and rice. One dish you simply must sample? Spicy dried fish curry with rice – it’s a local speciality.

What can I drink in the Maldives?

You should drink bottled water and avoid ice to be on the safe side. You can only buy alcohol in hotels, resorts and on liveaboards, except in the capital, Male, where hotels and restaurants are not permitted to sell alcohol at all. Non-alcoholic beer is popular on many islands and there’s a plentiful supply of soft drinks, tea and coffee.

Do I need to tip when I’m in the Maldives?

Generally, you’re not expected to tip in the Maldives – regardless of the level of service or friendliness of your server. Most all-inclusive resorts include a service charge as part of the bill, so there’s no need to add to this.

That said, if you receive excellent service from a dive instructor, waiter or any other staff, a small tip will go a long way in showing your gratitude. And because it’s not expected, Maldivians are very appreciative of the gesture.

What are the rules around alcohol consumption?

Alcohol is strictly forbidden outside of resorts, as Islam is the state religion in the Maldives. If you do fancy a cocktail, you’ll be able to get one at your hotel. Otherwise, there are plenty of other refreshing beverages on offer.

What should I wear?

Be mindful of how you dress during your trip. The Maldives is a traditional Muslim country so avoid wearing revealing clothing and cover your legs, shoulders and chest when you leave the beach. Some beaches ban bikinis, but the dress code in resorts is usually a little less strict. Always check if you’re not sure, and pack plenty of options so you’re (quite literally) covered no matter the rules.

Are there any other etiquette rules I need to know?

Non-Muslims are generally not allowed to enter any mosques on the islands, so bear this in mind for your stay. However, there’s an array of other activities, from diving and paddleboarding to sunset cruises and spa treatments.

When is the best time to go to the Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, when there is less rain and temperatures are pleasant, between 23°C and 30°C – perfect weather for lazing on castaway beaches and snorkelling over coral reefs.

However, if you’re a diving enthusiast, you may prefer the wet season, when visibility is better, improving your chances of spotting the archipelago’s magnificent marine life – we’re talking turtles, manta rays and reef fish.

What is the weather in the Maldives like?

Thanks to its proximity to the equator, the Maldives archipelago is protected from hurricanes and enjoys stable temperatures year-round. However, given its size (the archipelago spans around 500 miles), the weather varies by area.

At night, temperatures fall slightly due to the trade winds, but don't drop below 23°C. The average during the day varies between 28°C and 31°C. December is the hottest month and April the coolest.

When is the dry season in the Maldives?

The dry season runs between December and March, with sunny skies – ideal for admiring the lagoons. From February onwards, temperatures are higher, between 23°C and 30°C. February is the driest month, and rainfall is very low. This is the most popular season for water sports enthusiasts, and the fiery sunsets make a seriously swoon-worthy backdrop.

When is the rainy season in the Maldives?

The wet season in the Maldives runs from April to November. May, June, July and October are the wettest and windiest months.

The northern part of the archipelago is most affected by this season. There are heavy rain showers during this period but they are short-lived, and the sun soon returns.

The wet season is accompanied by strong westerly or south-westerly winds, making the sea rough and only suitable for experienced divers.

From June to August, the weather in changeable. Rainfall is high, and the wind and rain are sometimes accompanied by thunderstorms. Mornings can be pleasant but prone to showers, and the rain can last for days. However, more often than not, this bad weather is only fleeting.

Where are the Maldives located?

The Maldives are in South Asia, in the north-central Indian Ocean.

How many islands are in the Maldives?

There are 1,192 islands in the Maldives, of which 187 are inhabited.

What plugs do they use in the Maldives?

The standard plug is the UK three-pin style, although some may be US-style plugs (with two flat prongs), so it might be worth bringing a universal adapter, just in case. The electricity is 220 V.

What is the capital of the Maldives?

The capital of the Maldives is Male.

What language is spoken in the Maldives?

The national language is Dhivehi, although most Maldivians speak English very well.

What’s the time difference in the Maldives?

The Maldives are five hours ahead of GMT and don’t observe daylight savings time. So, once the clocks go forward, they’re only four hours ahead.

Some islands operate one hour ahead of Male, the capital, so it’s worth checking this with your resort. This is normally done to give guests an extra hour of daylight in the evenings.

What’s the currency in the Maldives?

The official currency is the rufiyaa (MVR), which divides into 100 laari. Notes are available in denominations of two, five, ten, 20, 50, 100 and 500 rufiyaa. Coins are available in one and two rufiyaa, and ten, 25 and 50 laari.

Do they accept US dollars?

US dollars are widely used in the Maldives, and you may even go your entire trip without needing to use rufiyaa, as your resort will likely charge you in dollars. Most resorts should accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards.

If you find you do need a bank, they are open from 8am to 1.30pm Sunday-Thursday and are closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

When do the local amenities open?

Shops are usually open every day from 9.30am to 11pm, although some businesses may not open until 2pm on Fridays or may be closed entirely.

Restaurants are usually open from 12pm until 2pm and again from 6pm to 9pm (sometimes later), although again this may vary on Fridays.

Are there sharks in the Maldives?

Yes, there are sharks in the Maldives. Many people, particularly divers, travel there hoping to spot them patrolling the waters. Some of the most common types of sharks in the Maldives include whale sharks, grey reef sharks and leopard sharks.

How long is the flight to the Maldives?

The flight to the Maldives takes around ten hours and 25 minutes from London, if you fly direct. If you stop along the way, it takes between 12 and 16 hours depending on how long the stopover is.

Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?

Yes, you need a visa to enter the Maldives, but this is given to you on arrival, so you don’t need to apply in advance. British nationals can get a tourist visa valid for up to 30 days, provided you have an onward or return ticket and enough funds to cover your trip.

What are the passport requirements?

Your passport must be valid for at least one month from the date of your arrival in the Maldives. You may be stopped by immigration if your passport is damaged.

Are there any other entry requirements for the Maldives?

You must complete a traveller declaration form (IMUGA) within the 96 hours prior to your flight arrival time. The form covers your personal and travel details, and you must make health and customs declarations.

Do you need vaccinations for the Maldives?

You must be up to date on your vaccinations for life in the UK. If you’re travelling from a country listed as a yellow fever transmission risk, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.