Joanna James
If heading to the Maldives anytime soon, it's good to keep in mind these facts so you can plan well ahead and minimise any mishaps and have an amazing time!
It is a fun adventure, but visitors are normally deterred from going to non-resort islands as the government wants to ensure that the islands and their residents remain unaffected by western influence. Make sure you have a licensed guide if going on such an excursion. Get your recommendations from your accommodation, the likes of the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives are sound options.
When travelling to inhabited islands, remote villages, and even Male, it is important to be mindful of your attire. The Maldives upholds traditional Islamic values.
While in the Maldives, travelling to other islands will require you to use a boat or seaplane. The majority are in good condition, but some could be dilapidated. Most accommodations will arrange the transfer but go with your gut instinct and refrain from travelling if you seem unsure about its safety.
Crime is very low in the Maldives, but belongings can go missing in hotel rooms or beaches. Don't leave valuables inside the room unattended. Do use the safety lockers provided in the rooms.
Be a conscious tourist and adhere to some ethical standards when shopping. Refrain from buying items made from corals and turtle shells; both are highly exploited materials and damaging to the environment and are illegal trades.
Epidemics are common in Male and other inhabited islands. If travelling to such areas, take adequate precautions – apply repellents and wear long-sleeved clothing.
Be careful of drinking water outside of resorts. Carry along a supply of bottled water when travelling away from your resort or ensure the water is boiled adequately.
With a humid and tropical climate, high temperatures are the norm in the Maldives. Pack sunglasses, wide-brim hats, and sunscreen. Top up with lots of water when spending time outdoors.
Certain chemicals in conventional sunscreens are highly damaging to coral life and cause them to get brittle over time, leading to their destruction.
As the Maldives is an Islamic nation, abstain from bringing items like alcohol, non-Islamic religious materials, non-prescription drugs, and pork products; all are illegal and will be confiscated.
This applies at the airport, and in Male, as well as on all non-private islands. After you reach your resort, this won't be an issue.
Refrain from PDA in the airport, Male and when visiting other islands, so don't hold hands, hug or kiss in public.
Perhaps the best thing you can do for yourself is to look at all the all-inclusive options available, chances are you will save big time on food, as all resort activities in the Maldives will be included in the price!
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.
