Are you heading off on holiday to the Maldives from Hong Kong soon? We’ve covered all the basics and things to know before you leave!
The basics
Population: 518,000
Capital: Malé
Religion: Sunni Islam
Emergency number: 102
Trivia
- The Maldives is the lowest country in the world, averaging 1.5 metres above sea level. The highest point stands at 2.3 metres.
- It’s the smallest nation in Asia.
- In 2009, Maldives held an underwater cabinet meeting to raise awareness on climate change.
Key dates
- Ramadan (dates vary from year to year).
- 26 July: Independence Day. Commemorating independence from the British protectorate in 1965.
- 11 November: Republic Day. A day that wishes peace and prosperity for its islands’ inhabitants; expect parades with an Arabian influence.
Hot spots
The Maldives is less about choosing a destination and more about choosing a luxury resort! You can either fly into Malé and then take a ferry to a resort located closer to the capital, or get a connecting sea-plane flight to a more far-flung atoll. The latter will often require an overnight stay in Malé, whose Maldivian street culture, mosques
and markets are interesting to see.
Staying safe and healthy
Medical facilities are limited to two hospitals on the capital island. Treatment can be expensive so travel insurance is a must. Check tourism.gov.mv for advice.
Cultural things
Before you go, read …
Dhon Hiyala and Ali Fulhu by Abdullah Sadiq – a Maldivian Romeo and Juliet.
Before you go, watch …
The Island President – the story of the ousted President Nasheed and his fight for democracy and against climate change.
They said it
“A country of seafarers, able-bodied sailors, [who] start their life with the first rays of daylight.” – Ali Shareef, “Maldives – A Seafaring Country”
Important questions
Do I need a visa? A 30-day free visa is issued on arrival for all nationalities.
What time is it in the Maldives? The Maldives is 5 hours ahead of GMT (some islands are 6 hours ahead) and 3 hours behind Hong Kong.
What’s the money situation? The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR). Generally, you will not need rufiyaa as everything will be billed to your room at resorts and hotels. Most local shops accept US dollars.
When’s the best time to visit? Maldives has a tropical climate and can be visited at any time, although it does have two seasons: dry (December to April) and wet (May to November).
What’s the lingo? Dhivehi and English. Here are some phrases of Dhivehi to get you started:
Hello: Assalaa mu alaikum
What is your name? Kon nameh kiyanee?
My name is __: Aharenge namakee __
How much? Agu kihaavareh?
Thank you: Shukuriyaa
Last but not least
Is there anything I should know about meeting the locals? Maldivians greet each other with a smile or the raising of eyebrows.
What’s a must-try dish? Garudhiya, a light fish soup served with steamed rice, lemon and chillies, and mas huni, shredded smoked fish with grated coconuts and onions.
What should I buy as a souvenir? Underwater photos make for a good memory of the country’s amazing snorkelling and diving. Avoid coral products.
For more dreamy destinations head over to our Travel page and start planning your next trip!
