Maldives Travel Guide

The Maldives is a country consisting of over 1200 islands located in the Indian Ocean, only 281 of which are inhabited. While 195 islands are considered to be areas where locals live, 86 islands host tourists all year round. These “hotel islands” are the main routes preferred by visitors looking for a quiet and peaceful holiday surrounded by nature.

Historically a Buddhist way of life, the Maldives are 98% Muslim today. Since the monarchy was abolished in 1968, the country has been governed by a republic and presidential system. The boom in tourism in the 1970s has made it one of the Maldives' most important sources of income. Located south of India, the country covers a total area of ​​only 300 square kilometers. Famous for its white sand beaches, the Maldives earn their living largely through fishing.

Maldives Culture

Although the Maldives has similarities with other countries in South Asia in terms of entertainment and production activities, the country places great importance on gender equality and women's education. The Maldives, which has a population accustomed to island life, reflects this lifestyle in their clothing choices; cotton and comfortable clothing is generally preferred.

The official language of the Maldives, Dhivehi, has roots in Sanskrit and was enriched by the influence of Arabic after the acceptance of Islam, creating a mosaic in the structure of the language. When English was accepted as the language of secondary education in the 1960s, the number of people speaking a foreign language in the Maldives increased rapidly.

With 98% of the local population being Muslim, the influence of Islamic culture is quite evident in daily life. Except in tourist areas, alcohol and pork consumption are prohibited in the capital Male and other cities. Despite being a tropical country, the people of the Maldives prefer a calm and peaceful lifestyle.

Maldives Economy

The basis of the Maldives' economic structure is tourism and fishing. This tropical paradise, which is preferred by many tourists from around the world, largely relies on tourism revenues for the country's economic development. The traditional fishing boat called Dhoni, which was introduced in 1974, was an important step in the modernization of fishing. Fishing is the main source of income for the Maldivian people, as well as contributing to the development of other sectors such as transportation and shipping. The Maldives administration is making various investments for the further development of fishing.

The Maldives' popularity as a holiday destination has also encouraged the production of local home-based products. Traditional crafts such as woodworking, wicker weaving and rope making have become widespread, while sectors such as clothing production, marine engine repair and printing have also begun to develop rapidly. These developments have helped the Maldives diversify its economy.

When to Go to Maldives?

The Maldives has a tropical climate that offers warm weather all year round, with temperatures reaching around 30 degrees Celsius even in the winter months. However, the peak tourist season is between April and May. During this time, the island receives less rain and the weather is generally more pleasant. Between May and November, the amount of rain increases and the air becomes more humid. You can travel to the Maldives at any time of year, but it is best to go in the spring to avoid the harsh effects of the sun and sudden rainfall.

How to Get to Maldives?

İstanbulDirect flights from to the Maldives are operated by a single airline five days a week, although connecting flights via Doha or Dubai are also a common option for those who prefer to travel with different airlines.

Maldives Nightlife

Nightlife in the Maldives is quite calm and peaceful, contrary to what most people expect. Locals, including Male, do not like the intense and fast-paced nightlife. However, the nightlife in the hotels where tourists stay is different. These hotels have live music, parties, competitions, DJ performances and entertainment areas where alcohol is allowed. Night activities in hotels usually start in the evening and continue until the morning, so different entertainment options are offered for each guest.

What to Buy from Maldives?

The Maldives, despite being a country consisting of 1200 coral islands, does not have large shopping malls. However, the locals, who are used to tourists, offer many handmade souvenirs. The people, who are especially talented in making handicrafts and masks, sell these products in small shops and on the streets. Popular souvenirs in the Maldives include hand-painted t-shirts, jewelry and accessories made from seashells and corals.

Most of the larger resorts in the Maldives have jewellery shops. The capital city of Male is the best place to shop, with shops offering a wide range of products from technology to accessories, clothing to food. Fresh fish and seafood are also readily available in almost every part of the Maldives.

Maldives Festivals and Fairs

Festivals in the Maldives are often events that families work together to prepare for. The decorations, clothing, and food for the festival are seen as an opportunity to encourage family members to come together and show solidarity. Most festivals are held in the capital city of Male, so as not to disrupt the peaceful vacation of tourists and to provide a place for locals to come together.

Male hosts the annual Ramadan Festival during Eid al-Fitr and the Kuda Eid Festival is held to celebrate the end of Eid al-Fitr. During these festivals, locals organize entertainment with traditional games and local cuisine. In addition, Independence Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various parts of the country on July 26 each year.

Holidays / Important Days

The fact that the majority of the Maldives are Muslim is one of the main factors that determine the country's public holidays and important days. Here is the list of public holidays and important days of the Maldives:

These holidays reflect important religious and national days for the local population.

Things To Consider

Here are some important points to consider before holidaying in the Maldives:

1. No Bugs and Malaria Problems: Despite offering a holiday surrounded by nature, the Maldives does not have any insect or malaria problems. Since organic pesticides are regularly applied in the country, such health problems are prevented.
2. Electrical Infrastructure: The Maldives has a 230-volt, 50Hz electrical infrastructure, which means that technological devices brought from Turkey can be used easily.
3. Be Careful Against the Sun: The sun can be quite scorching during the summer months. It is recommended that you carry sunscreen products and protective clothing, especially for sun-sensitive skin.
4. Precious Items: Although the crime rate is low in the Maldives, it is recommended to keep valuables in hotel safes.
5. Alcohol Consumption and Dress Code: Alcohol consumption is prohibited in the capital Male, as the majority of the population is Muslim. Visitors to Male are expected to wear more modest clothing.
6. Terms of Service of Hotels: While some hotels in the Maldives operate on an all-inclusive basis, some hotels offer additional services for an extra fee. It is useful to get information about your hotel's terms of service before your trip. Wi-Fi and other additional services can often be charged.

Transportation

Flights to the Maldives usually arrive in the capital Male. After landing in Male, seaplanes or boats are used to travel to the island where accommodation will be held. These means of transportation can be used to reach the island in a short time.

Most boats and seaplanes from Male to the resort islands usually make their last departure of the day around 17:30. Therefore, passengers whose flight lands in Male at a later time may not be able to reach their hotel on the same day. In such a case, it may be worth planning to stay overnight in Male or on the airport island.

How to Get a Maldives Visa?

Maldives offers up to 30 days to all visitors visa free offers entry opportunities. Visitors can enter the country by simply presenting their passport, regardless of the country they come from. However, those planning to stay longer than 30 days must obtain a visa or exit and re-enter the country at least once.

The Maldives is a destination that every traveler dreams of with its white beaches, turquoise seas and holiday opportunities surrounded by nature. The Maldives Travel Guide has been prepared with all its details to offer its visitors an unforgettable holiday experience. While enjoying your time in the Maldives, do not forget to discover the culture, natural beauties and various activities of the islands. For more information and to plan your holiday in the best way Places to Visit in Maldives You can check out our article titled!