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Approx. 1'200 islands, of which a few are merely
large sandbanks, divided into 19 atolls form
the Republic of the Maldives. Of all these many
islands only 250 are inhabited, and the total
population just surpasses 200'000 people. The
capital Malé situated at the end of the
North Male Atoll has a population of about 35'000
people.
The tourists occupy their own resort islands,
separated from the local population. Personal
contacts with the Maldivians, who are rather
reserved, is quite difficult. Until today 70
Resort Islands for the tourists have been developed.
We have selected for you a number of resorts
which we would like to present to you.
The Maldives are not only a dream destination
for Scuba Diving, Snorkeling and Windsurfing.
Just to bathe in clear blue waters on a beach
with coarse coral white sand is a sensation.
- It is also the perfect retreat for those wishing
to get away from it all and enjoy a totally
relaxed and unsophisticated way of life and
just lazing under a palm tree.
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BEACH
& SEA |
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The house reefs around
the islands bring about a very calm sea
ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Due
to the corals, bathing shoes are recommended.
You do not have to be a diver to enjoy the
many wonders of the tropical sea, while
snorkelling you can also experience the
underwater world. |
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CLIMATE |
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Due
to its proximity to the equator the Maldives experience
an average humidity of about 80 percent during
the whole year and practically the same air (29°
C.) and water (28° C.) temperatures. The Southwest
monsoon from May to November brings relatively
wet air masses, where as the Northeast monsoon
from December till April bestows dry weather to
the Maldives. |
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CURRENCY |
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The
local currency is the Mal. Rufiyaa. As per law
the prices in all tourist resorts and hotels have
to be quoted in US dollars and paid by foreign
visitors in foreign currency. All major credit
cards are accepted at major hotels and resorts,
however most of the resorts will add a surcharge
up to 6 percent for payments with credit cards.
Exchange rate: 1 US $ = ca. 11 RF. |
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EMBARKATION
TAX |
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Upon departure
at the airport an embarkation tax of US $ 10.00
per person will be levied. |
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ENTERTAINMENT |
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For people
who are looking for entertainment and nightlife
the Maldives are not the ideal destination to spend
their holidays. In the evening after dinner one
spends an hour or so cosily at the resort bar or
sits on the beach under the sparkling stars. |
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EXCURSIONS |
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Excursions
are regularly organised to the neighbouring islands
and also to Male. Very popular is the night fishing
followed by a barbecue on the beach. |
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LANGUAGE |
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The local
language is called Dhivehi. On all the resort islands
English is spoken. |
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WHAT
TO WEAR |
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T-shirts,
light cotton dresses of the drip-try, wash-and-wear
variety, shorts, lightweight suits are the most
comfortable year round attire. In addition swimming
gear and a light pullover. Sun glasses and a wide
brimmed beach hat as well as enough sun cream
with a high protection factor should not be missing
in your luggage.
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