Joanna James
The atolls surrounded by turquoise blue water make everyone fall in love with it instantly. Though the country is known to everybody, there are a few things many don't know.
The Maldives is an Islamic country, therefore consuming alcohol or possession of alcohol is prohibited. However, if you are planning on checking into one of the resorts Maldives – especially a resort that's similar to Niyama Private Islands Maldives – you will be served liquor if you want to – but you need to remember that it could cost you a pretty penny.
Though you have already booked your lodgings on a resort island, you shouldn't really stick to one island. Every island is distinctive and has various features – it'll be a good use of your time and money to enjoy as many islands as you can – if your budget stretches to it.
The country is an all-year-round travel destination. So, there isn't a specific time to visit. However, if you plan to spot whale sharks, the course between June and September is considered best. Also, if you so wish, you could swim alongside whale sharks – what could be more thrilling!
Like mentioned earlier, the Maldives is an all-year-round travel destination. However, if you want to travel on the cheap, the advice would be to avoid the period between December and April.
There are times when you can't straight away get to your resort island. If you arrive in the country after 04.00 pm, you will often have to stay at a hotel on the airport island – the next morning, you will be taken to your resort by a boat or seaplane. Furthermore, if you are on a budget, find a resort island you can travel to by boat as it's less costly than a seaplane.
There's only one ethnic group, and that is Maldivians. Early settlers of the country came from India and Sri Lanka. The religion is Islamic and official language is Dhivehi – though Hindi, Arabic and English are vastly spoken.
It will suffice to say that the country is among the poorest countries in the world. The economy is mainly based on vocations that are in relation to seafaring – though tourism is on the rise now.
Based on religious grounds, there's a strict code of clothing everybody has to follow including tourists. So, try not to take clothes that are too revealing.
Unlike other nationals, Maldivians aren't very keen on street food – an assumption made based on the fact that there isn't any to be found! So, chances of grabbing something on the go are nil. Most of the time, you can have whatever you like at your resort – but don't hope to go on a food excursion.
Yeah, you read that right. Due to water levels and erosion, some islands have begun to disappear – approximately 100 islands have already been sunken in by the rising water levels. If you still can't decide whether or not you should visit the country, this has to be a good enough reason for you. So, go experience what the country has to offer while you still can!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
