THE MALDIVES LUXURY HOLIDAYS

The Maldives is an independent Republic located in the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean. The archipelago of 190 islands lies about 500km from the southern tips of both Sri Lanka and India, and 700km north of the Seychelles. These beautiful islands are made of pure white coral sand and are grouped into natural atolls that are protected from rough seas by surrounding coral reefs. They boast rich cultural traditions, a history of kings and queens, pageants, feasts and festivals, their own language and script.

They are low lying, the highest point on any given island being no more than a metre and a half above sea level. Coconut palms, lush tropical plants, and an abundance of spectacular marine life make the Maldives an idyllic holiday destination. The Maldives have some of the world's whitest sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise lagoons surrounding the islands. Its spectacular underwater gardens, marine flora and fauna will amaze you. The variety of natural scenery in the Maldive Islands is unmatched anywhere in the world. Vacationers come here to relax in this quiet and friendly atmosphere free from hustles and bustles of the city life. Male is the capital of Maldives. It is the centre of commercial activities in the country. Local and imported goods are available in the market. Most of the goods are imported. Important shops are in the main business area, which is just a walking distance from the jetty where tourists usually arrive.

Getting around
Male International airport is built on the nearby island just 10 minutes by water taxi from Male, the capital and close to many resorts. A wide range of vessels offer exciting trips through the atolls to famous dive sites, resorts, fishing villages and desert islands.

Climate
It is warm and humid, with two pronounced monsoon season. Daily temperature varies little. The average annual temperature is 28c. with a maximum 32c. The relative humidity differs from 73c to 85c.

People
The origin of Maldivian race is mixed, but is predominantly Aryan and Dravidian. The society is very cohesive, with one language, (Dhivehi), one culture and one religion. Courtesy is there way of life. English is spoken at all tourist centres.

Health
Visitors to Maldives from Yellow Fever-infected areas should have a valid certificate against Yellow fever. Immunisation against Cholera is not required. Some health authorities advise visitors to take preventive medication against malaria, but the incidence of malaria is extremely rare.

Visas
If they meet the entrance requirements, visitors get a 30-day visa on arrival.

Currency
The Maldivian Rufiyaa (abbreviated as Rf. or MRf.) is made up of 100 larees. Major credit cards are accepted by most resorts.

Time
Maldives is 5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT

Home > Luxury Holidays > Indian Ocean > The Maldives

	BANYAN TREE VABBINFARU
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Occupying the entire island of Vabbinfaru, the jewel of the North Male Atoll, Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru... Click for more information

	BAROS
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean A lush green interior of flowers and foliage is hemmed with a ribbon of dazzling white sand, and sits... Click for more information

	COCOA ISLAND
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Escape from the noise and hectic pace of modern living at the tranquil Cocoa Island resort. Renowned... Click for more information

	CONRAD MALDIVES
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean This is a stunning, romantic island resort offering sophisticated barefoot luxury, surrounded by glorious... Click for more information

	DHONI MIGHILI
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Not only is this ravishing little speck of paradise the only island in the Maldives that can be privately... Click for more information

	HUVAFEN FUSHI
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Located within its own beautiful lagoon in the North Male Atoll, the five star luxury Huvafen Fushi is... Click for more information

	ISLAND HIDEAWAY AT DHONAKULHI
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Island Hideaway at Dhonakulhi Spa Resort & Marina is a luxury resort hotel on Dhonakulhi Island, set... Click for more information

	ONE AND ONLY KANUHURA
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean One&Only Kanuhura is a five-star island hideaway, a unique resort, where service is understood and luxury... Click for more information

	ONE AND ONLY REETHI RAH
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean One & Only Reethi Rah is an elegant resort with unparalleled sophistication. The luxury villas are discreetly... Click for more information

	SONEVA FUSHI
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean Just sixty-five residences on an island surrounded by a coral lagoon. A community offering 'Intelligent... Click for more information

	SONEVA GILI
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean The forty-four stilted accommodations continue the Soneva philosophy of 'Intelligent Luxury'. They are... Click for more information

	TAJ EXOTICA MALDIVES
	The Maldives / Indian Ocean The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa brings to you a luxury rarely found in today's world: being one with nature.... Click for more information