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Maldives Holidays
MALDIVES
Nation
of island A string of pearls scattered over the deep blue Indian ocean - The
first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll-formations confirms two unique
aspects of the republic of Maldives: not only does it consist of the most beautiful
tropical island, but 99%of its 90.000 km2 is covered by the sea. 1190 island
are spread over 26 atolls, ring like coral formations enclosing a lagoon, which
gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like appearance. They stretch for about
820 km from north to south, 130 km at the widest point and does not exceed a
length of 4.5 miles or an altitude of 6 feet above sea level. No more than 201
islands are inhabited; the rest includes over 98 tourist resort and uninhabited
island, some of which are used for fish drying purpose or other agricultural
activities.
The capital Male', the base for the Government, Trade, Commerce, Business, Health
and Education, is located in the center of the atoll chain, a small island buzzing
with the sounds and activities of about 80.000 people (one third of the population).
Time moves slowly in the Maldives, rushing to get anywhere is almost an alien
concept. You do everything according to your wishes and in your own time. The
rhythm of the waves gently rushing to the shore, the soft swishing of the palm
fronds as they brush one another in the gentle sea breeze. Savour the sounds
you hear breaking the profound quite and serenity that has embraced the Maldives
for eons. This is the place you have been looking for. Sheer pleasure awaits
you at our shores.
QUICK FACTS ON THE MALDIVES
Location: South west of Sri Lanka and India
Population: 270,101(approx)
Climate: Warm all year round (23-32 Degrees Celsius)
Total no. of islands: 1190
No. of inhabited islands:201
Number of tourist resorts in operation: Over 98
Language: Dhivehi- English is widely used in business
Religion: 100%Islam
Government: Republic
Head of State: His Excellency President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa(US$ 1.00= MRF 12.72)* at the time of publishing
Mode of Entry: By air (male' International Airport)
Visa: 30 days visa for all visitors on arrival free of charge
Currency Accepted: US Dollars, most European currencies.
Credit Cards:VISA ,Master Card , American Express an other major credit
cards.
RESORT ISLANDS
Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa |
South Ari Atoll |
Kuredu Island Resort |
Lhaviyani Atoll |
Komanandoo Island Resort |
Lhaviyani Atoll |
Lily Beach Resort |
South Ari Atoll |
Meeru Island Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Mirihi Island Resort |
South Ari Atoll |
Vakarufalhi Island Resort |
South Ari Atoll |
Velavaru Island Resort |
Dhaalu Atoll |
Veligandu Island Resort |
North Ari Atoll |
Bandos Island Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru |
North Male'Atoll |
Coco Palm Resort & Spa |
Baa Atoll |
Dhoni Mighill |
South Ari Atoll |
Ellaidhoo Tourist Resort |
North Ari Atoll |
Four Seasons Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Fullmoon Beach Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Helengeli Tourist Village |
North Male'Atoll |
Huvafen Fushi |
North Male'Atoll |
Kandooma Tourist Resort |
South Male' Atoll |
Kurumba Village |
North Male'Atoll |
Lagunu Beach Resort |
South Male' Atoll |
Lohifushi Island Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Olhuveli Beach Resort |
South Male' Atoll |
One & Only Kauhuraa |
Lhaviyani Atoll |
Paradise Island Resort |
North Male'Atoll |
Sun Island Resort |
South Ari Atoll |
Sonevafushi Resort & Spa |
Baa Atoll |
Sonevagili Resort & Spa |
North Male'Atoll |
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa |
South Male' Atoll |
DIRECT FLIGHTS
Country of Origin |
Name of Airlines |
Russia |
Aeroflot (SU) |
Seychelles |
Air Seychelles (HM) |
Austria |
Austrian Airlines (OS) |
Germany |
Luft Transport Union International Airways (LTU) |
United Arab Emirates |
Emirates (UK) |
Italy |
Air Europe (EP) |
Italy |
Eurofly (EFZ/GJ) |
Italy |
Lauda Air (LDI) |
India |
Indian Airlines (MH) |
Singapore |
Singapore Airlines (SQ) |
Sri Lanka |
Srilankan Airlines (UL) |
Qatar |
Qatar Airways (QR) |
Transfers to your Resort
Tourists
arriving in the Maldives are transferred to the resort of their choice from
Male' International Airport by either speedboat, seaplane or by traditional
Maldivian 'dhoni' which have been mechanized to serve as passenger transport.
Resorts outside Male' Atoll usually offer speedboat transfers in big boats
that travel at 20-25 knots. These resorts are also served by seaplane.The
Maldives boasts the biggest water -aerodrome and the largest fleet of seaplanes
in the world. For many visitors, this first side on a seaplane is a noval
experience. The DeHavilland Twin Otter carries about 18 passengers and 3crew.
Resorts close to the airport and in Male; Atoll operate both speedboats and
dhoni transfers.
All transfers are safe and comfortable.
EXCURSIONS
Most holidaymakers visiting the Maldives see little of life in the Maldives,
as resort are exclusive and are on island by themselves. Excursions offer
you the possibility of venturing out for a change of scenery. You may visit
resorts close by or catch a glimpse of the daily life of Maldivian in one
of the fishing village, For those who wish to test their skills at fishing,
a variety of fishing expeditions can be organized. Some excursions are unique;
a day and night alone on a private island, or a two-day cruise for two on
the luxury live-aboard are just a few of the possibilities at some of the
resorts. Taking part in a photo flight is one way of creating indelible memories
and getting some incredible shots of the reefs and island of the Maldives.
FISHERMAN'S VILLAGE
A fun filled immensely rewarding experience that will give you an insight
into the local way of living on the islands. Resorts arrange half-day excursion,
which normally include a visit to a local fisherman village and a Resort island,
usually quite different from the one you are staying. Smiling children welcome
you on the island as you step on to the jetty though shy at first, they will
soon warm up to even take you around sightseeing! Full Day excursion would
in addition, include a stop at a deserted island where a barbecued or packed
lunch will be ready for you in minutes. It is recommended to dress modestly
and to take some spare cash for shopping.
VISIT TO THE CAPITAL MALE
Most of the resorts offer this popular excursion, which usually takes half
a day. Guests leave the resort soon after breakfast or lunch and will be taken
by dhoni or speedboat to the smallest capital city in the world! Male, the
capital of Maldives is a small yet vibrant town that is green, clean and breathing-life.
The town is the most populous and houses more than a quarter of the total
population of the country. Furthermore, the town is unusually clubbed up with
high rise skyscrapers and modern feats of technology. Besides being one of
the most dense in terms of vehicle population, it is also a shopper's paradise,
with all conveniences being available within easy reach. If you are in Male
and want to explore the most favorite places, here is some handy guidance
that might just be useful:
The Fish Market
The main commercial area of Male' is located on the northern waterfront of
Male'. In this area are the Male' Fish Market and the Local Market selling
a range of local produce. While some 'dhonis' from all corners of the country
unload dried fish, fresh fruits and vegetables from the atolls others are
seen loading everything from foodstuffs to construction materials. The pace
increases in the mid-afternoon as fishing 'dhonis' start returning with their
day's catch. The catch, mainly tuna are carried across the road into the open-sided
market and laid out on the tiled floors. As fast as the fish are brought in
they are bought and taken away by men from all walks of life. The market is
kept scrupulously clean, washed down each day and disinfected.
Huskuru Miskiiy
Built in the 17th century, the Huskuru Miskiiy or Friday Mosque served the
population of Male' as their main mosque for almost four centuries, until
the Islamic Centre and Grand Friday Mosque took over the function in 1984.
Built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656, the mosque is a masterpiece of
coral curving and traditional workmanship - probably the best display of coral
curving anywhere in the world. The walls of the mosque are hewn together with
blocks of filigree-curved coral blocks. Heavy wooden doors slide open to the
inner sanctums with lamp hangings of wood and panels intricately curved with
Arabic writings. The area surrounding the mosque is a cemetery with a legion
of intricately curved coral headstones. The Munnaaru or minaret in front of
the mosque, used to call the faithful to prayer was built in 1675 by the same
Sultan.
History reveals that the mosque was built by Sultan Ibrahim Sikander in 1656,
who also built the frontal minaret.
The Islamic Centre
The Islamic Centre is the most vivid architectural landmark of Male'. A spectacular
golden dome in all its majesty dominates the skyline, which is seen while
approaching Male', from any direction. The building symbolizes the importance
of Islamic religion, which had ruled all aspects of life in the country for
centuries. Completed in 1984, the Centre consists of a mosque big enough for
5000 people, an Islamic library, conference hall, classrooms and offices.
Mulee Aage
Right in front of the Hukuru Miskiiy is Mulee-aage, a palace built in 1906
by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III, replacing a house dating back to the mid-17th
century. The palace with its wrought iron gates and fretwork friezes on its
roof edges and well-kept garden was intended for his son, but the Sultan was
deposed. During World War II vegetables were grown in its garden to help relieve
food shortages. It became the President's Official Residence when Maldives
became a republic in 1953 and remained so until 1994, when the new Presidential
Palace was built. At present Mulee-aage houses the President's Office.
The Local Market
The Local Market, just a block away from the Male' Fish Market on the northern
waterfront, is divided into small stalls. Here the pace is slower and the
atmosphere peaceful, compared to the hectic activity in the rest of this neighborhood.
Each stall is filled with a variety of local produce mainly from the atolls.
Here you will find different kinds of local vegetables, fruits and yams, packets
of sweetmeat, nuts and breadfruit chips, bottles of home made sweets and pickles
and bunches of bananas hanging on coir ropes from ceiling beams. Another building
just next door sells smoked and dried fish.
The National Museum
The National Museum is housed in the only remaining building of the former
Sultan's Palace, which is now the Sultan's Park. It is an Edwardian colonial-style
building of three stories, fairly low key from the outside compared to the
amazing collection inside. The articles on display range from thrones and
palanquins used by former sultans to the first printing press used in the
country, the rifle used by Mohamed Thakurufaanu in his fight against the Portuguese
in the 16th century, ceremonial robes, headgear and umbrellas used by Sultans
to statues and other figures dating from 11th century, excavated from former
temples. A variety of artifacts from times past would give an idea of the
unique and rich culture and history of this island nation. A visit to the
museum gives an instant insight to the wealth of history most visitors never
suspect existed. No longer will you think of the Maldives solely in terms
of a tourist destination. The museum is open daily except Friday and public
holidays from 9.00 to 11.40 and 3.00 to 5.40. Shopping for souvenirs is a
very exciting and unique experience, and you can try your luck in bargaining.
Little trinkets and authentic local handicraft is available from any of the
numerous shop and boutiques. Don't forget your camera and please dress modestly.
Aerial excursions
Some selected resorts arrange aerial excursions for photo flights on request
of the guest. They usually take 1.5 minutes on twin -otter seaplane flights;
a very exhilarating experience seeing the picturesque Maldives spread out
below in all its glory. Don't forget your camera and several rolls of film.
However the seaplane will usually pick up groups of passengers from the resort
directly.
VIRGIN ISLAND
With so many deserted islands lying around, why not have the Robinson Crusoe
experience?
With a packed food basket and other provisions, the couple embarks on the
voyage of a lifetime - the ultimate virgin island experience. Relax and just
enjoy life at paradise. When you get tired of each other, explore the environment
around you , the finest, whitest beach, do a bit of snorkeling or if you are
daring enough, climb onto a palm tree and pluck a coconut for your beloved.
There will be no other human contact made until the crew comes to pickup the
smiling and very contented couple. Available only at selected resorts.
FISHING
In a country that is more sea than land, fishing is one of the most popular
sports, apart from being the main occupation of Maldives. The country's tuna
fleet of local-dhonis and trawlers make a spectacular sight as they set out
to sea from virtually every island and return home at sunset. Visitors to
the Maldives, however, have a choice of recreation fishing trips that are
offered by the resorts. The favorite fishing expeditions for tourist are night
fishing, big-game fishing and trolling.
NIGHT FISHING
Fish is caught by hook with bait by dropping the line in the reefs and shallows
close to the resort. Night fishing is done from the deck of the traditional
Maldivian boats, the dhoni. Resorts organize these trips towards late afternoon
when the boat, or boats in case the group is bigger, set out from the resort.
The boat drops anchor in points of the reef or shallows where fishing is good.
These locations vary with the tide, the moon and the currents. For many tourists
a night fishing trip is a first-time experience. The crew and guides on board
are always willing to assist and offer guideance. Most resorts also arrange
beach barbecues after the excursion.
BIG GAME FISHING
This is for serious fisherman after the bigger fish; marlin, Wahoo, sailfish,
barracuda, Dorado and giant tuna. The big game fishing boats are outfitted
with fighting chairs and strong roads. This excursion of about 4 to 6 hours
is for single fisherman with crew or for small group. Resorts that offer big-game
fishing include a packed lunch, as boats have to venture into open sea. Over
the years, this sport has developed into its present form, of standard equipment
and vessel as in other parts of the world. The traditional method of big-game
fishing is closer to trolling.
TROLLING
This is a traditional Maldivian occupation where game fish are caught by drawing
a line with hooked bait behind the boat. Trolling used to be done by sailboat
but these have been replaced by motorized-boats, which ply inside the atolls,
mostly close to the reefs. The boat crew knows where fish are likely to bite,
depending on the wind and tide. Trolling is leisurely but be careful that
the nylon lines do not cut your fingers when the fish bites.
SCUBA DIVING
DIVER'S PARADISE
The best dive sites in the world! There are more fish in the Maldivian seas
than there are people on the island. There is more co lour in the underwater
coral gardens that can be matched by the most wonderful hands caped gardens
anywhere in the world. There is more excitement to be had diving these waters
than in a challenging water in the most complex terrains of the earth. Anyone
who has ever dived in the Maldives will never disagree to any of these "bold"
statements for it's the simple, unaffected truth. There is the kind of beauty
in the depths of the Maldivian waters which is truly unrivalled by anything
else. Divers who have been to the Maldives come back again and again- they
are lured back by the psychedelic reefs, the exotic marine life that they
encounter at close quarters every time they dive in the Maldives.
SEE THE FRAGILITY OF THE BEAUTY
It took millions of years for the Maldives to form destruction can take only
a fraction of that time. The delicate reefs which make up the Maldives are
fragile, to say the least. A careless brush of your hand can destroy the beauty
of what you can touch in a millisecond. The beauty of underwater Maldives
will overwhelm you. If you take care , the same feeling can been experienced
all over again by thousand more, for millions of more years to come.
DIVING HOLIDAY
The Maldives is now established as one of the most exciting Diving Destination
in the world. In a country that is 99% sea, there is more to discover underwater
than on land. Diving in the Maldives is safe and enjoyable as professional
dive schools and dive bases operate on all resort island. Internationally
qualified instructors conduct courses for all levels of divers - from novice
to expert. Introductory courses introduce the new enthusiasts to this exciting
sport. Most resorts have clear blue lagoons and a house reef that make intro
dives easy. Boat trips are arranged by Dive schools to the popular dive-sites
on the shallows, reefs, caves and channels.
RECOMMENED ISLANDS FOR DIVING
Bandos Island Resort
Ellaidhoo Tourist Resort
Kandooma Tourist Resort
Kuredu Island Resort
Lily Beach Resort
Lohifushi Island Resort
Meeru Island Resort
Vakarufalhi Island Resort
Velavaru Island Resort
Veligandu Island Resort
RELAX HOLIDAY
Tranquility, Peace and harmony; the Maldives is the ultimate destination for
those seeking total relaxation, Where the unhurried pace of life blends into
the natural surrounding dominated by the blue sky, the calm sea and cool breeze.
Everywhere is the sound of nature, the rusting of the palm fronds, and the
sound of waves lapping the shore. Resorts in the Maldives are built to provide
privacy and personal space. This is the perfect getaway for those who need
a break from the hurry, worry and bustle and demands of life in a crowded
world.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR RELAXATING
Coco palm Resort & Spa
Dhoni Mighili
Four Seasons
Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa
Huvafen Fushi
Komandoo Island Resort
Kuredu Island Resort
Lily Beach Resort
Meeru Island Resort
Mirihi Island Resort
One & only Kanuhuraa
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Vakarufalhi Island Resort
Velavaru Island Resort
Veligandu Island Resort
HONEYMOON SPECIAL
Dazzling beaches, crystal clear waters, romantic sunset, and luxurious accommodation.
What else do you need for those special moments of your lives when nothing
else matters but the time you share with one another? Maldives offers you
all this and more as the ideal honeymoon destination. Our carefully selected
island, miles from civilization will defiantly make those precious days last
forever and ever.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR HONEYMOONERS
Dhoni Mighili
Four Seasons
Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa
Huvafen Fushi
Komandoo Island Resort
Mirihi Island Resort
One & only Kanuhuraa
Taj Exotica
Vakarufalhi Island Resort
Velavaru Island Resort
Veligandu Island Resort
FAMILY HOLIDAY
If you are looking for a fun-filled, sun-drenched holiday with plenty of sand
and the surf, our selected islands will not disappoint you. The islands offer
a number of activities for the whole family to get involved in and share.
Some of the islands also offer a professional child minding service, you need
sometime for yourselves and want to lave your presious one in capable hands.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR FAMILIES
Bandos Island Resort
Fullmoon Beach Resort
Kurumba Village
Laguna Beach Resort
Meeru Island Resort
Paradise Island Resort
Sun Island Resort
SPA HOLIDAYS
The latest addition to the Maldivian holiday experience of total relaxation
is the spa. Wellness centers and spas in the Maldivian resorts include traditional
healing arts to the exotic practice of the orient and the better-known therapies
from Europe. Ayurvedic healing, Thai massage, acupressure, reflex massage,
yoga, meditation, shiatsu massage and Maldivian natural therapies, these are
all on offer. The spas are staffed by experienced therapiests and fitness
professionals from around the world, while many Maldivian are learning these
ancient arts and practices. Soothing, relaxing, energizing and rejuvenating,
these healing techniques blend in well with the tranquil beauty of the Maldives
and the gentle pace of life in these islands.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR SPA HOLIAYS!
Banyan tree Maldives Vabbinfaru
Coco palm Resort & Spa
Dhoni Mighill
Four Seasons
Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa
Huvafen Fushi
Kurumba Village
One & Only Kanuhuraa
Sonevagili Resort & Spa
Taj Exotica
SURFING HOLIDAYS
Surfing is mainly concentrated in Male' Atoll in the area between Kuda Villingili
to the north and Hulhule; the airport islands. Sufers usually spend their
holiday on a safsri boat traveling between points or choose a resort close
to the main surf points. The most popular breaks are "Jailbreak"
near Himmafushi, "Honkys" and "Sultans"near Thamburudhoo,
"Colas" near Thuludhoo, "Chickens" near Kuda Villingili
and "Airpot" near Hulhule' (airport). The best surfing is from April
through October. The Maldives is fast becoming a popular surfing destination.
In the outer atolls, Hadhumathi and Huvadhu also offer excellent surfing.
Best surf in Hadhumathi is from March/April and from August to November. Huvadhu's
surf season is from January to March and from November to October.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR SURFING HOLIDAYS
Lohifushi Island Resort
FISHING HOLIDAY
As fishing is the main occupation of the Maldivian people, the country's resort
islands and tour-operators find it easy to offer some of the best fishing
trips and excursion for visitors. From night-fishing; an after-sunset trip
by boat to an adjacent reef or shallow when lines with bait and sinker can
produce many varieties of reef-fish and the occasional small shark to trolling
and big-game boats complete with fighting chair or traditional Maldivian dhonis.
If one is adventurous enough, a day on a Maldivian fishing boat can also be
arranged. This will be a day- long trip and the visitors may be well advised
that these fishermen do it for a living, not sport! As with all Beachcomber
Tours holidays, the visitor has ample choice in fishing, too.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR FISHING HOLIDAYS!
Bandos Island Resort
Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa
Kuredu Island Resort
Meeru Island Resort
Sonevagili Resort & Spa
Sun Island Resort
Velavaru Island Resort
MEETINGS & INCENTIVES
The tranquil, scenic beauty of the Maldives provides the ideal backdrop against
which seminars; board meetings, conventions and exhibitions can be organized.
Meetings planners and organizers will find the Maldives a mix of courteous,
efficient service in the atmosphere that lends luxury and comfort to participants
in business events. The resorts that cater to the meeting market provide all
amenities and equipment necessary for successful meetings. Incentive groups
also find the Maldives a heaven away from the stress and demands of the hectic
pace of work and living on this turbulent world.
RECOMMENDED ISLANDS FOR MEETINGS & INCENTIVES!
Bandos Island Resort
Kurumba Village
Paradise Island Resort
Sun Island Resort
CRUISING
Beyond the tourism zones where the resort islands are located, the Maldives
and its 1190 islands, its people, culture and history is largely unexplored.
The government has recently opened up the country for cruising, which may
include diving safaris. Most visitors to this archipelago, however, are content
to cruise from one exquisitely beautiful island to another. They may also
visit an inhabited island to witness life on the idyllic island villages where
main activity is fidshing. Cruising the Maldives is tremendously exciting
with your days filled with stops at desert islands, snorkeling on colorful
reefs and lazing away on the pristine white beaches.
RECOMMENDED CRUISE BOATS
Dream Voyager
Hamathi
Four Seasons Explorer
Nooraanee Queen
Hotels for accommodation in Male
Male is a small town where a number of decent hotels have sprung up in the
recent past catering to the growing demand of the business community. There
are hotels of varying budgets, ranging from budget class to 3 star. These
are usually for the travelers who arrive in Male to conduct business deals
with the local populace or for transit clients, who have to either take a
morning sea plane to a distant resort or catch a flight out of Maldives at
an odd hour of the night.
Following are some of the hotels in Male ::
ATHAMA PALACE |
EXTRA HEAVEN |
BURUNEEGE RESIDENCE |
CITY PALACE HOTEL |
CHAMPA MOON |
FARIVA STAY |
MAADHUNI INN |
MAAFURU GUEST HOUSE |
MARBLE TOURIST LODGE |
ROYAL INN |
VILLINGILI VIEW INN |
KAM HOTEL** |
KAI LODGE** |
|
|
CENTRAL HOTEL** |
MOOKAI HOTEL** |
NASANDHURA PALACE HOTEL** |
RELAX INN** |
|
|
Visa Information
Free 30 days Visa upon arrival for all visitors
Visitors entering the Republic of Maldives should fulfill the following requirement
for the grant of an entry permit into the country.
" Possession of a valid international travel document issued by the Government
of a Sovereign State (eg. Passport)
" Possession of a valid return air ticket to a destination where the
passenger has permission to enter, together with necessary visas for the onward
journey to the next destination. " Possession of a minimum of US$30.00
per person per day or confirmed hotel reservation for the intended period
of stay in the Maldives. Following are exempted from this requirement.
" Diplomats
" UN Personnel
" Approved persons for employment
" Technical and other experts attached to the Government
" Visitors with confirmed bookings in registered tourist resort/hotels
etc.
" Visitors sponsored by Maldivians
- No prior visa is required to enter the Republic of Maldives. Entry permit
will be granted to visitors on arrival at designated ports of entry, based
on the immigration requirements.
An entry permit does not allow a visitor to take up employment, set up
any business or exercise any profession whether paid or unpaid except with
the consent and in conformity with the pertinent laws and regulations of the
Maldives. However, a visitor or foreign delegation visiting the Maldives to
conclude business agreements, contracts or to negotiate business transactions
with their counterparts do not require work permits if the stay does not exceed
the duration granted on arrival.
- An expatriate must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources
Employment and Labour, prior to arrival in Maldives to engage in employment.
Note : Visitors who stay beyond the period for which they have been approved
may be deported.
" The Government of Maldives refuses admission and transit to holder
of Merchant Seaman books.
- Disembarkation and Embarkation card shall be filled by every passenger and
submitted to the Immigration Officer on entry.
- Important for Indian passport holders
It is mandatory for every traveler holding an Indian passport to get an emigration
clearance prior to boarding a flight bound for
Maldives Holidays Reservation Form