Maldives has been the most sought after beach holiday destination since it started concentrating on developing its resorts to boost tourism. Having suffered a series of natural disasters in the past few years, Maldives is currently enjoying incredible growth again. It has bounced back from major setbacks like the coral bleaching wrought by el Niño and the horror of the 2004 tsunami. With its beautiful white beaches, sapphire blue waters and friendly atmosphere, the country has become the epitome of paradise for honeymooners, sightseers and diving/surfing enthusiasts. Formed of 26 atolls, Maldives is a geological peculiarity nestled in the mid
Visiting Maldives, one of the most exciting tourist attractions is the National Museum. An old palace building in the Sultan Park has been converted to house the museum. A large collection of historical objects are on exibit at the museum that portrays the rich past and cultural legacy of Maldives.
The Republic Square is beautifully built with green grass and lush plantation, along the northern waterfront. It is Male's most popular venue amongst adults and children alike for social gatherings and recreation. On the Eastern end of the square stands the official flag post on which the largest permanent flag in the country is hoisted. When you arrive in Male, this is the place where you are mostly likely to step out to when you get off your boat. The sea is active on one side of the square with the placement of the Presidential Jetty used by the President and members of the cabinet on trips to various locations around the Maldives and the world. On the west are some commercial buildings and located in the south is the Islamic Centre and the headquarters of the National Security Service (NSS). The new Headquarters of the Police are located on the east of the square.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Maldives is the island of Fuamulaku. The island is exceptionally fertile and has numerous fruit and vegetable farms where one can get delicious locally grown pineapples, mangoes and oranges etc. The fruits and vegetables grown over here are not found elsewhere in the country. Fuamulaku is a secluded island in the middle of the Equatorial Channel and a very unusual place to visit. Since Fuamulaku is located out of the tourist zone, visitors need a special permit and a local person to visit this place with them. This permit can be arranged by the resorts hosting the visitors. The best time to visit the Fuamulaku, Maldives is between the months of December and April, which is the dry season.
Huvafenfushi Maldives Resort is a paradise for nature lovers. It is surrounded by picturesque silvery beaches and set amidst a serene lagoon enveloped in lush greenery; it offers just the right locale for a relaxed peaceful holiday. Located on Male Atoll, it is home to the first underwater spa in Maldives. The abundance of aquamarine species is also one of the attractions for nature-loving tourists. The resort offers unmatched extravagant accommodations and hospitality with its beautiful bungalows which overlook the azure sea and charming staff. The resort offers a number of exciting activities for the guests’ leisure like a yoga pavilion, swimming pool, CD/DVD library, in-house souvenir shop, fully equipped gym and a wide range of water sports activities for an adventurous stir. All this and much more makes Huvafen Fushi Resort one of the most fascinating places to visit.
Hulhumale is an artificial island located in the south of North Male Atoll. The island was restored to create more room to meet the existing and future housing, industrial and commercial development needs of the Male region. The official settlement was inaugurated by President Gayoom on May 12, 2004 and the development and management of the island is being undertaken by a Government owned corporation. For many tourists this is an interesting destination as it provides an opportunity to be close to nature as well as see modern Maldivian architecture.
The Helengeli Island Resort has one of the finest house reefs, making it an ideal place for divers and snorkelers. It is located on an island with a spectacular house reef and a white sandy beach bordered by a magnificent blue lagoon. Helengeli offers a variety of culinary delights at its comfortable restaurants. The resort arranges excursions to inhabited local islands to give you the unique opportunity to learn more of the Maldives way of life. A special excursion which is arranged is the dolphin search, as the waters surrounding Helengeli are home to dolphins. Guests can also go for a snorkel safari and snorkeling with manta rays. Due to Helengeli's location on the outer reef, the unspoiled house reef is just off the beach and is easily accessible to both snorkellers and divers. The "Helengeli Thila" is one of the best diving sites. A diving excursion is arranged twice a day to some of the 36 dive sites nearby Helengeli. The diving school is run by Ocean Pro and equipped with the best modern equipment. Experienced, multilingual European diving instructors teach PADI courses.
Adaaran Club Rannalhi is located in south Male Island and is known for its untouched natural beauty and fertility. Perhaps this is the reason why the island is also called "Rannalhi”, which in Dhivehi means a "A Measure of Gold”. This is a very lively place where something is always happening. Some guests are enjoying water sports, while others are part of group activities led by friendly animators during the day or become part of restaurant theme nights, enjoy music or dance till the wee hours of the night. Guests can watch the play of wind and water around the award-winning Dhoni bar, or enjoy the more private ambience of the Bungalow Bar.The club also houses a boutique which has a rich selection of clothing, souvenirs, accessories etc. The gem and jewellery shop offers fine Sri Lankan gemstones and a selection of exquisite jewellery. The Ayurvedic Massage Centre uses traditional Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate the soul.
In the south of the country lies the heart shaped Addu Atoll from where travelers, from Gan can cycle to three inhabited islands via a causeway. Addu Atoll is the main economic and administrative centre in the south of the country and is just a little smaller than Male’. It has a population of 28, 000 across seven islands. The biggest influence on Addu’s modern history has been the British bases, first established on Gan during WWII as part of the Indian Ocean defense. The base had around 600 personnel permanently stationed here with the number rising up to 3000 during periods of peak activity. The British built a series of causeways connecting Feydhoo, Maradhoo and Hithadhoo islands and had most of the population working for them on or around the base. In 1976 when the British went for good, they left an airport, some large industrial buildings, barracks and a lot of unemployed people who spoke English and had experience working for Westerners. In the 70s when the Maldives tourism industry took off, many of the men of Addu went to Male’ to seek work in resorts and tourist shops. As a result, at resorts all over the country, most of the staff are from Addu. There are several flights a day to Male’ and direct charter flights to Gan. Island Aviation flies from Male’ to Gan and back two or three times a day. The standard fare for foreigners is US$ 271 round trip. Private yachts report by radio to the NSS in Gan or Hithadhoo to arrange security and customs clearance, but many have to continue to Male’ for health and immigration checks to complete the ‘clear-in’ process. The best way to get around Gan and over the causeway to neighbouring villages is by bicycle. Taxis shuttle between the islands and around the villages; from Gan to Hithadhoo and cost about Rf100. Taxis wait at the airport and you can order one from any resort. The buses seen on the main road are only for workers in the Gan garment factories. Resorts pick up guests by free minibus from the airport, though you may need to call at arrival.
South Ari Atoll (Alifu) is one of the most exciting dive locations in Maldives with several world-class dive sites and magnificent tropical plantation. It has thilas and outer reefs which are much better for diving rather than channels. These thilas include: Hangngnaameedhoo Thila, Dhangeti Bodu Thila, Omadhoo Thila, Tinfushi Thila, Kudarah Thila, Broken Rock Thila, Angaga Thila, Mandhoo Thila, Bulhaalohi Thila, Kandholhundhoo Thila Ellaidhoo Thila.
The Maldives is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches but its capital city Male is not blessed with beaches. So for the people of Male an artificial beach has been constructed. It receives hundreds of visitors in the late afternoon. Infact, the beach is now not just meant for enjoying an evening walk or a swim, but it also is gaining popularity as a number of entertainment and cultural activities take place here like carnivals, parades, different kinds of water sports, live music shows etc.
As the name implies this is a Thai food restaurant in Male. It is a small in size with traditional Thai décor and sitting arrangement. The food tastes authentic as the cook is a Thai National. Tables have to be booked early because space is limited and the restaurant is crowded most of the times.
Salsa Royal is located in the centre of Male and is easy to find as it is one of the famous restaurants around the city. They serve a number of cuisines like Italian, Mediterranean, Thai etc. Salsa Royal is popular for its Thai cuisine. The décor is nothing to write home about. It has been decorated according to Maldivian style. The staff is very attentive and polite.
If you are confused about what to eat, at the Olive Garden you can choose from delicious and mouth-watering meat or vegetarian pizzas or Continental, Western & Italian food. A variety of soft drinks and juices are also available. Address: Fareedhee Magu,Maafannu,Male' Phone: +960 3312231 Fax: +960 3317024 Email: [email protected]
Located just a few minutes walk from the Airport Jetty No.9, this restaurant serves sumptuous local and continental snacks and European cuisine. It is very casually decorated and has a friendly atmosphere. Open from Saturdays to Thursdays Fridays from 15:30 - 23:00 Address: Finihiya Goalhi,Henveiru,Male' Phone: +960 3333686 Email: [email protected] Opening hours: 08:30am to to 11:00pm
This restaurant gives you the opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner sitting right in front of the beautiful blue sea. It serves fresh pastries, light snacks and fresh fruit drinks.
A very popular restaurant of Male, it is famous for its business lunches and romantic dinners. This is an outdoor restaurant located by the sea side, so you can see launches and boats passing by Male. The disadvantage to restaurants like these is that if the wind blows you might get a little bit of sea spray on your food so be prepared! The food offered includes western and oriental dishes as well as light meals (snacks and the local snack Hedhika). They also serve excellent coffee. The restaurant can also be booked for weddings, birthday parties and other events. Address: Bodu thakurufaanu Magu Male, Maldives +960 3325738
The Thai Wok is just a block away from the busy main street of Male. The food here is very tasty. Their most recommended dish is the Tom Yum Koong soup. The restaurant has very low prices and the portions served are large. A reservation is needed at the Thai Wok, as it is full most of the times. The bill can be paid in local currency or in USD. They also accept credit cards. Address: Ameer Ahmed Magu, H. 20094, Male' Tel: 310007 Fax: 329020
Pizza Italiano is located on Orchid de Magu Street. It’s a walking distance away from jetty no.1 or the presidential jetty at Republic Square. This restaurant serves excellent Italian dishes, appetizers, pasta, pizza, gelato, tiramisu, etc. The restaurant has two floors, the first floor is air conditioned and on the second floor the seating arrangement is outdoors on a terrace, with electric fans on the wall. The staff is quick and attentive. It’s the ideal place to eat after a shopping spree as it is located right in the middle of a cluster of shops.
You can find middle class politicians here throughout the day and get an update of the most recent political affairs of the country. This café is a very popular hangout and they serve good coffee and snacks as well as sumptuous meals. Most people come here to have coffee, and light drinks and discuss the current affairs and political issues. Address: Aa Harbour kan mathi Male, Maldives +960 3378665
An Indian restaurant, specializing in chicken Biryani that is served with gravy.
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The Four Seasons Resort offers luxurious and quality accommodation with its 106 bungalows and villas built in the Balinese style of architecture and decorated with classic cane furniture, natural teak finishes, thatched roofs and terracotta tile floors. Some of the bungalows even include a private open-air garden shower or a personal pool. Water Bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort are situated over the lagoon itself, with picturesque water views and a private veranda with steps leading down to the water. The resort also houses, Café Huraa, open 24 hours, overlooking the swimming pool and lagoon where you can dine all day. Or you can enjoy your evening at the Poolside Terrace and Bar or Nautilus Lounge with innovative cocktails and exquisite drinks. The resort offers numerous facilities and services to its guests as far as recreational activities are concerned. From aerial excursions, banana boat riding, big game fishing, canoeing, catamaran sailing and island hopping to live music, Male' excursions, night diving, night fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, table tennis, water skiing and windsurfing, guests can enjoy numerous sports. Location: Kuda Huraa, North Male Atoll Number of Rooms: 106 bungalows and villas www.fourseasons.com
Hilton Maldives Resort and Spa, Rangali Island is a flagship of the Hilton Hotels. The resort has been built on two isles namely Rangali and Ranglifinolhu, which are linked by a 500 meter footbridge running across a lagoon. The accommodation is luxurious with excellent facilities. The resort’s enticing Beach Villas, furnished exclusively, have been decorated in contemporary Maldivian style. All rooms are equipped with modern conveniences and are provided with a private terrace and a wonderful outdoor bathroom. The resort also offers a variety of cuisines in a beautiful ambience. The main dining room-Atoll Restaurant serves unique "Meditoriental" cuisine, a fusion of Mediterranean and Oriental cooking styles. The Sunset Bar and Grill is the specialty restaurant of the resort providing views of the lagoon and magnificent sunset scenes. You can spend your evenings, having your favorite drink at The Rangali Bar. The option of dining in the rooms is also provided. As far as activities are concerned, guests can enjoy banana boat riding, boating, canoeing, diving, fishing, snorkeling, and surfing at this beautiful island. Guests can play games like billiards, chess, table tennis, tennis court, volleyball and darts. They are also provided facilities like health and fitness center, swimming pool, and spa.
This breathtaking resort is surrounded by clear blue water, consists of villas and offers its customers incomparable luxury, choice and activities. The island on which this resort is located is one of the largest islands in North Male' Atoll. It has stretches of white sand coves and turquoise bays. All villas enjoy beautiful ocean views and direct access to the lagoon. This resort is just 35km (22 miles) from the airport at Male', the capital of the Maldives. A 75-minute luxury launch aboard the One & Only yacht brings guests directly to the resort.
If you wish to stay on Villingili Island, your first choice should be Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa. It is an ultra stylish and luxurious boutique resort with endless natural dense vegetation. The resort features 12 hectares of lush vegetation, towering banyan trees, and 17,000 coconut trees, 45 species of plants, three natural lagoons and nature trails for guests to explore. This one of a kind resort offers five different styles of luxurious villas which are centrally air conditioned, each room has two iPods and a docking station, a 40-inch television, DVD player, IDD telephones with voice mail and laundry and valet services, well-stocked minibar, espresso machine, personal safe etc. To dine one can chose from a variety of traditional Maldivian or continental cuisine and a variety of seafood. Location: Villingili Island, Addu Atoll www.shangri-la.com/en/property/male/villingiliresort
Sun Island Resort is one of the most remarkable resorts in Maldives, with its deep blue lagoon and lush green tropical plants. It is located on Nalaguraidhoo Island in South Ari Atoll, approximately 62 miles from the Male' International Airport. All bungalows at this resort are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities. The resort offers a vast array of facilities and services like restaurants, coffee shop, bar, business center, conference facilities, Internet, sauna, porters, jacuzzi, Pizza express, doctor on call and First Aid. The spa also provides various modern and traditional health care and beauty treatments to rejuvenate the body and soul.
The villas at Taj Exotica Maldives are constructed in the traditional Maldivian style, complete with thatched roofs. The interior is beautifully furnished with carved wooden furniture. The resort, located on Emboodhu Finolhu Island, offers various facilities like boutique and spa, living room with library, indoor games room, water sports center, gymnasium and 24 hours speedboat service. It also has conference and function halls, which are suitable for conducting small conferences. Taj Exotica Resort provides many leisure activities like Billiards, football, aerobics, volleyball, wind surfing, water skiing, catamaran sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, banana boat riding, Spa, Island Hopping, sunset cruise, sunset fishing, and shark watching to revive your energy. Jive Grande Spa at Taj Exotica Resort provides refreshing beauty and health treatments. For dining there are two restaurants and a bar which provides captivating views of the sea and wide variety of mouthwatering cuisines. Location: South Male' Atoll Numbers of Rooms: 62 Rooms www.tajexoticamaldives.com
This beautiful resort is surrounded by cobalt blue waters, white beaches and tropical plants. All rooms and villas face the sea. In addition to its beauty, Cinnamon Island resort boasts an extensive list of culinary delights prepared at the restaurants. Enclosed swaying coconut and Banyan trees, the Village is a marvelously designed open air restaurant, which offers a sumptuous array of dining options including that of themed dining pavilions in the middle of the tropical jungle. The Bliss bar is located by the poolside with a breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. ‘Waves’ offers the freshest catch prepared to perfection.
The Kandooma Resort is popular for its many recreational options and dive sites, unique plants and unusual marine life. The resort is a major diving destination and has the most number of dive sites than any other island resort of the country.
To enter a world of peace and tranquility, visit the Komandoo Maldives resort resting amidst the sapphire blue waters of the Indian Ocean and hidden by rich tropical gardens. This resort is located 130 km north of Male' International Airport and is 40 minutes away by seaplane. Flying to Komandoo offers you breathtaking views of reefs and lagoons of the North of Male' and of the Lhaviyani Atolls. You can pamper yourself at the spa or go for world-class diving or a sunset cruise courtesy of Komandoo Maldives.
Located on the peaceful Meemu Atoll, the Medhufushi Island Resort, is about 40 minutes away by seaplane from Male International Airport. The resort is acclaimed for its culinary delights and harmonious accommodation. The Malaafaiy Restaurant located alongside the swimming pool and overlooking the magnificent lagoon, serves International & Asian cuisine. Al Fresco Restaurant, built over water is an open air restaurant which allows you to enjoy the soothing tropical breeze. Vilu Bar is also located over water with a magnificent view of the island and the lagoon. You can also pamper yourself at the spa where traditional Maldivian-style treatments are offered. The facilities available at the resort include a gym, reading room, baby cot/crib, souvenir shops, foreign currency exchange etc. Many recreational activities are also offered like billiards, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, dolphin watching trips etc.
If you love the sun, Maldives is the perfect holiday destination for you. It is extremely sunny from December to April and during these months Maldives is frequented by hundreds of visitors, mostly Europeans. While most continents are experiencing the cold wave, the islands, during this period are enjoying the dry monsoon with little rain and low humidity. February to April is the hottest period and resorts are brimming with tourists from all over the world. Mid-December to early January the visitors increase largely because of Christmas and New Year and prices are inflated at all resorts. Easter and the Italian holiday week in August also call for inflated pricing at most resorts, especially the ones which are Italian-themed. The slow season starts from May to June as storms and rain are more likely during this period. It’s still warm, but skies can be cloudy and the humidity levels are high. The islands receive fewer visitors and thus prices drop during these months, with the exception of August. Divers would be pleased to learn that in the Maldives, diving is good all year round. A basic rule has to be remembered that life on the reef is more diverse and visibility is better on the western side of any atoll from May to November and from the eastern side of any atoll from December to April. Thus divers should choose their resorts accordingly. March to October is the surfing season, which is great news for surfers, as this is when resorts are operating at the cheapest prices.
Religious holidays vary annually in accordance to the lunar calendar.; 1 Jan New Year's Day.: 26 Feb National Day. -Mawlid al-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet). in Malé. 29 Mar The Day Maldives Embraced Islam. 26-27 Jul Independence Day. -Ramadan begins. Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan ends). 3 Nov Victory Day. -Hajj. 11 Nov Republic Day. -Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice). -Islamic New Year.
No pre-arrival visa is required to enter Maldives. A 30 day free visa is issued on arrival for all nationalities, provided the following conditions are met (a) they possess a valid passport (with 6 months minimum validity) and (b) they have a valid ticket to continue the journey out of Maldives. Citizens of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal are given a 90-day free visa. To stay longer visitors need to apply for a visa or leave the country when the 90 days are up, then return. Visitors are officially supposed to show US$30 for every day’s stay though this is not usually enforced, and showing a credit card will usually placate concerns. However, if asked by immigration officials, one should know the name of the hotel where ones residing and be able to show a return air ticket out of the country. For further information, please contact Honorary Consulate of Maldives in UAE Office No. 13, Medina Road PO Box 5995 Zip code 21432 Jeddah Saudi Arabia (+966-2) 6608411, 6612151) (+966-2) 6611755) [email protected]
Location: The Republic of Maldives, is an island country consisting of 26 atolls (or islands of coral and within these atolls are 1,192 islets, out of which only 200 are inhabited. It is geographically located at the south-west of Sri Lanka and it stretches out from India's Lakshadweep islands to Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago. The Maldives is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Capital: Male
Currency Maldivian Rufiya (MVR; symbol MRf) = 100 laari. Notes are in denominations of MRf500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of MRf2 and 1, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laari. Currency Exchange Major currencies can be exchanged at banks, tourist resort islands, hotels and leading shops. Payments in hotels can be made in most hard currencies (particularly US Dollars) in cash, traveller's cheques or credit cards. Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs Most major island resorts, local and souvenir shops will accept American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Arrangements vary from each island. There are ATMs widely available Exchange Rate Indicators
Maldivians are friendly and extremely down to earth. Ethnically they are a mix of different descendants, and most trace their roots to the Sinhalese people who arrived first from Sri Lanka. Others are descendants of South Indian and Arab traders and sailors. Traits and customs prevalent also prove the fact that the Gujratis sailed from India during the Indus Valley period and settled in Maldives. Because of the country' s location on the main sea route on the Indian Ocean, it has been the meeting place for African, Arab, Malay and Indonesian mariners for a long period of time. In Male, most residents are the Giraavarus, who are considered to be descendents of the Tamils of South India and follow a unique set of customs and traditions, different from the rest of the Maldivian race. For instance, the women tie their hair into a neat bun on the right side unlike the rest of the country, who tie it on the left side.
Maldives has been the most sought after beach holiday destination since it started concentrating on developing its resorts to boost tourism. Having suffered a series of natural disasters in the past few years, Maldives is currently enjoying incredible growth again. It has bounced back from major setbacks like the coral bleaching wrought by el Niño and the horror of the 2004 tsunami. With its beautiful white beaches, sapphire blue waters and friendly atmosphere, the country has become the epitome of paradise for honeymooners, sightseers and diving/surfing enthusiasts. Formed of 26 atolls, Maldives is a geological peculiarity nestled in the middle of the Indian Ocean. These atolls are a series of ancient coral reefs that grew up around the sides of towering prehistoric volcanoes. These immense structures have long since sunk into the ocean, leaving behind coral islands of incredible natural beauty. These islands are now being occupied by travelers seeking unmatched pampering and romance, from the modernity and hustle and bustle of Male’ to the tranquil ambience of the Southern Atolls.
The earliest settlers in The Republic of Maldives probably hailed from southern India and they were later followed by Indo-European speakers from Sri Lanka between the fourth and fifth centuries BC. In the 12th century AD, sailors from East Africa and other Arab countries discovered the islands and began settling there. As a result, Maldivian ethnic identity today is a mixture of these cultures, and this is reinforced by religion and language. The early history of the Maldives is unclear but a popular legend is that a Sinhalese prince named KoiMale was stranded with his bride, a Sri Lankan princess, in a Maldivian lagoon. He then decided to stay on to rule as the first sultan. The islands, over the centuries, have been occupied by sailors from countries on the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean littorals and the Islands development has been influenced by these cultures. The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century and subjugated and ruled the islands for 15 years (1558-73). They were driven away by the warrior-patriot Muhammad Thakurufar Al-Azam. The British ruled Maldives from 1887 to 1965 but essentially the country has been governed as an independent Islamic sultanate for most of its history from 1153 to 1968. In 1953, there was a brief, unsuccessful attempt at a republican form of government, after which the sultanate was re-imposed. After gaining independence from Britain in 1965, the sultanate continued to rule for another 3 years. On November 11, 1968, it was abolished and replaced by a republic, and the country adopted its present name.
Jewellery Shop Address: Fareedhee Magu, Maafannu, Male' Phone: +960 3316133 Fax: +960 3324865 Email: [email protected]
Located on the main road of Male, the Majeedhee Magu houses numerous shops selling goods ranging from the smallest commodities to the latest gadgets to locally crafted items. The shops have a fabulous collection of garments, perfumes and cosmetics, jewellery, handbags, watches or electronics and much more. All the shops remain open till 11’ o clock in the night, except for prayer times, when they are closed for 15 minutes.
Address: Chandhanee Magu, Machchan Goalhi, Male' Phone: +960 3334847 Fax: +960 3312995
Address: Male' International Airport Hulhule Island Phone: +960 3328925 Fax: +960 3324865 Email: [email protected]
Address: STO Trade Center, Orchid Magu, Maafannu, Male' Phone: +960 3324373 Fax: +960 3313182 Email: [email protected]
Chaandanee Magu is the best place for souvenir shopping. The shops are stocked with an abundance of gifts, curios or souvenir items. Best picks include the “thudu kuna”, the Maldivian mat woven with local natural fibres. Also available here are attractive wooden miniature dhonis, which are a great souvenir.
Heritage sells creative arts and crafts and souvenirs. Address: Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Henveiru, Male' Email: [email protected]
Phone: +960 3318175 Fax: +960 3325336 Email: [email protected]
Address: Orchid Magu, Maafannu, Male' Phone: +960 3322372 Fax: +960 3313035
Sports World is a convenient centre to pick up swimming and surf equipment. Address: Zaab, Fareedhee Magu, Maafannu, Male' Phone: +960 3331991 Fax: +960 3318381 Email: [email protected]
The Bandos Island Resort, or "The Island of Hospitality" as it’s also called, was built in the 1970's. It is one of the pioneer tourist resorts of Maldives. Located just 7km from Male International Airport, this tropical paradise is where sun, sand and sea can be found in perfect harmony with comfort and luxury. Recently refurbished, the resort houses very fine restaurants. The Harbour Restaurant defines fine-dining and specializes, among many other culinary delights, in Maldivian game fish, innumerable seafood delicacies, and superb Italian pastas. The Gallery Restaurant is the main restaurant at Bandos and usually has elaborate buffet setups during mealtimes. The Sea Breeze Café is situated at the edge of the water where guests can enjoy the breathtaking view of the lagoon. Guests can view the sunset at the Sundowners Bar, located next to the diving facility or enjoy tropical cocktails at the Sand Bar, while participating in the night-time karaoke events, or just by grooving to the live band at the resort nightclub.
Fushifaru Thila, one of the many sites of the Fushifaru region, is a picturesque diving site. The sea here is calm but there’s a lot of movement happening underneath with fabulous coral and fish species. The thila is nearly 250 m long and 30 m wide, with the reef sides sloping gently from the reef-top at 10 to 15 m to the atoll bed at 30 m, the top of the thila is the best part of the site with excellent hard and soft corals. In many places the water is clear enough to see some marine action without even putting your head under water. Large Porites or finger corals where large numbers of wrasses are found are placed throughout the length of the thila. Mantas are also often spotted here from May to November. Out of the channel divers can see smaller fish ducking and diving on top of the table reef on one side of the channel. This is a great site for diving as well as observing marine life.
Hangngnaameedhoo Thila is 150 m long with hordes of various sea creatures. Broken Rock Thila is around 100 meters long and houses fusiliers, trevallies and blue-lined snappers. Hukuruelhi Faru, a great dive spot, is a fantastic manta ray cleaning station. The dive site can be reached easily from Rangali, within 10 minutes by boat, and from Mirihi Island, within 35 minutes.
Located on the eastern tip of North Male' Atoll, Paradise Island Resort, locally known as Lankanfinolhu, is a sight for sore eyes. The third largest resort in Maldives, it offers superb accommodation to tourists with its water and beach bungalows. Paradise Resort offers plenty of recreational and water sports facilities like diving, wind surfing, water skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, canoeing, basket ball, volleyball, gymnasium and island hopping. The five restaurants at the resort offer a wide variety of cuisines like Maldivian, Japanese, Chinese, French, Italian, Thai, and delectable seafood. There are five bars providing delicious cocktails. Theme parties are also arranged to provide an element of fun mixed with entertainment to its guests. www.paradiseislandmaldives.net
This is the site where Buddhist remains from the Maldives' pre-Islamic past have been impressively excavated. Isdhoo or Isd? is one of the inhabited islands of Haddhunmathi Atoll, Laamu. Located on this island are important ruins from the historical Maldivian Buddhist era. These ruins include one of the largest stupas (a structure with Buddhist relics) found in Maldives to date. L?m?f?nu, which are ancient royal edicts written on copper plates, are also found here. The l?m?f?nu were written in the curly Ev?la form of the Divehi script or old Maldive alphabet. These are very important documents as they bear the History of the Maldives.
Located on the beautiful island of Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Island Resort is quite popular for its sea life, beautiful beaches and tropical plants. It is 80 miles north of the International Hulhule Airport. It has 300 rooms, tastefully decorated with bamboo furniture. There are five restaurants at the resort offering traditional Maldivian atmosphere, which is open walls and thatched roofs. The Grill, Francos, Far East, the Maldivian Teahouse and Sports Café serve excellent quality food. Babuna Bar organizes various games and theme parties and at the Akiri Bar, one can enjoy a quiet evening. Besides these two bars, there are various beach bars at the resort. Recreational activities at the resort include scuba diving, tennis, badminton, wind surfing, island excursions, volleyball, golf, parasailing, and swimming.
The National Day is celebrated in honour of Mohammed Thakurufannu and commemorates his victory over the Portuguese in 1573. It is observed during the month of Rabee-ul-Awwal,
After being a British Colony for about 78 years, Maldives attained independence on July 26, 1965. On the Independence Day, celebrated on July 26 every year, a special official event is held at the Republic Square. The celebrations start in the evening with a march past by the National Security Service and the National Cadet Corps. The march past is followed by performances of drills and traditional dances by local school children.
Maldives had been ruled by a monarchy for about a century and on January 1 1953, became a republic. However, this elected government was transitory as the monarchy was reinstated within the same year. However, on November 11, 1968, a republic was formed once again and thereafter; the Republic Day is celebrated on November 11, each year.
Eid ul-Al Adha is celebrated approximately 70 days after Eid ul Fitr. It falls on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Zul-Hijja. It is also called the "Festival of Sacrifice" because it commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to God. Eid al-Adha is celebrated the day after the pilgrims performing Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, descend from Mount Arafat. This Eid brings with it the longest public holiday (from five to seven days) in Maldives along with an atmosphere of revelry and feasting. People plan ahead and visit their friends and relatives staying in different islands. Sports, music and dance all form a part of the festivities with people of all age groups and from all walks of life participating in the celebrations.
Ramadan is the Islamic month of fasting. The daily fast begins at true dawn, at Fajr, and ends at sunset, at Maghrib.
A liveaboard booking agency for cruising, fishing or diving around the Maldives http://www.yachttoursmaldives.com/
You cannot miss the most technologically advanced and mesmerizing attraction of the Maldives – the Whale Submarine. A visit to the underwater world in the state-of-the-art Whale Submarine, the deep diving largest passenger submarine in the world that takes you on an underwater adventure at 120ft below the surface.
H. Abadhahfehi Magu, Male', 20-05 Republic of Maldives Telephone: +960 333 3939 FAX: +960 333 3838 e-mail: [email protected]
A luxury safari ship operator for dive trips in the Maldives. http://www.vaagalicruise.com
In the Atoll Lagoon, under moonlight or starlight, using handlines and the raw fish as bait, comes Night Fishing. A guaranteed enjoyable night out for all the family since it is popular with all age groups. http://www.kuredu.com/sportˍfun/kureduˍislandˍresortˍtripsˍtours.aspx
A full-day excursion that includes a visit to an uninhabited island – ideal for swimming or relaxing under the sun after (or even before) a delicious barbeque lunch. A visit to an inhabited island offers a taste of Maldivian life and culture, the perfect end to a perfect day.
South Malé Atoll (Kaafu), Maldives Tel: +960 6642688 Fax: +960 6640235 Email: [email protected]
The Village Tour – a glimpse of the life and heritage of a community of around a thousand people living on one of Maldives’ magical islands. This is an ideal place to acquire souvenirs and local handicrafts and get a lasting memory of exotic Maldives. Club Rannalhi South Malé Atoll (Kaafu), Maldives Tel: +960 6642688 Fax: +960 6640235 Email: [email protected]
The oldest mosque in Maldives is the Hukuru Miskiiy. This mosque was built in 1956 when Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar I was the ruler of Maldives. The fine lacquer work and intricate woodcarvings in the mosque attract a lot of visitors. The interior and exterior walls of the mosque, built with coral stones, are beautifully carved with Arabic writings and other ornamental designs. The doors, window frames and the roof of the mosque have been made with various kinds of woods. Also displayed in the compound of the mosque are various ancient tombstones.
The Islamic Centre, housing the mosque Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu-al-A'z'am.
Fonadhoo, Maldives
Fonadhoo, Maldives
Bodu Magu, Isdhoo, Maldives
Isdhoo, Maldives
Since the distances on the island are usually not that long, a bicycle is a good way to travel. But there’s no place to rent one. You could request your resort/guesthouse to arrange one. Always lock it when you get off and always use a light at night.
While driving in Male, as in any other country, make sure you are carrying your international driving license with you. Be cautious on the roads and keep in mind the following points in mind while driving:
Two seaplane companies offer seaplane transfers from Malé airport to individual resorts. These are Trans Maldivian Airways and Maldivian Air Taxi. These services are also available for trips around the islands. Trans Maldivian Airways: www.tma.com.mv Maldivian Air Taxi: www.maldivianairtaxi.com
The Maldives’ internal air services are operated by Maldivian (Q2) ,linking Malé with Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo and Gan. Services are also available to Hanimaadhoo in the north. All international flights to the Maldives use Male’ International Airport, which is located on an island called Hulhule’, about 2km east of Male’ island. Domestic flights and seaplane transfers to resorts also use Hulhule Island. Male’ is linked by daily scheduled flights to Colombo, Qatar, Dubai and Trivandrum. Occasional flights also go to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Vienna and Moscow. Several times a week, Charter flights from Male’ travel to many European capitals.
Visitors to Male experience a few minutes of cool, air-conditioned comfort if they take the taxis and a driver who can usually find any address in Male. Be prepared for delays as many streets are one-way forcing drivers to go around roundabouts often, and others may be blocked by construction work or stationary vehicles. During the day, a fare of Rf 15 is fixed, for all distances but after midnight they charge Rf 20. Taxis may charge Rf 5 extra for luggage. You are not required to tip. Beach Cab Taxi Centre Address: Beach Cab, Shamsudheen Magu, Beyrumathi 19020 , S. Hithadhoo Tel: 578989
A widely available mode of transport is the “dhoni” charters for island hopping. High-speed boats are sent by the resort to meet visitors at the airport. Also, boats are available for hire at the ferry counter near the jetty area. The speedboats connect the airport with North and South Malé Atolls. If you wish to travel to any resort from Male, the airport functions as the largest transport center in the country, so take the airport ferry and you can get a transfer to your desired destination. You’ll need to book the transfer in advance and pay for it at the resort. Dhonis, to and from the airport, dock at the east end of Boduthakurufaanu Magu, which is also the best place to charter a dhoni for a day trip. Boats to Hulhumale’, located on the other side of the airport island, depart from the brand-new ferry terminal east of the airport ferry dock. Dhonis going to nearby Viligili use the New Harbour on the southwest corner of Male’. The water between Viligili and Male or the lagoon west of Hulhemale is commonly used by safari boats and private yachts to moor. Safari-boat operators usually pick up new passengers from the airport or Male’, and ferry them directly to the boat. Blue Horizon Ltd Address: M.P.A Building, Hilaalee Magu 20255 , Male' Tel: 321169 Fax: 328797 Email: [email protected] Island Ferry Services Address: #12 Boduthakurufaanu Magu Tel: 318252 Fax: 318256 Email: [email protected]
There is very little crime in the Maldives. It a very peaceful country and visitors feel safe on their own at all times. Generally Maldivians are honest, helpful and welcoming people although you are unlikely to come into much contact with them at the resorts. There are no drugs anywhere in the resorts and most Maldivians rarely come into contact with anything more than an occasional beer that has been smuggled out of a resort. However there is a growing drug problem among the local population and hence petty crime to support this has risen. Take the usual precautions; do not leave money and valuables lying around. There are safe deposits at almost all the resorts and hotels to facilitate visitors. While planning to travel, travel insurance is usually the last thing that strikes our mind but problems can arise and to be safe it is essential to have travel insurance. Your baggage or any other valuable might get lost, your flight schedule might change or you might get injured. Travel insurance plays a crucial role by enabling you to continue with your journey despite the unforeseen emergencies. If you are not in a position to travel, it might provide you with the necessary treatment.
