Things you should know About Your Trip to the Maldives

What Should You Pack Before You Go

Most resorts are quite casual, so light clothing should be adequate at most times. You may also want to take a thin rain jacket in the event of the occasional quick storm. You’ll need appropriate beach wear, and if you are staying at a resort possibly some suitable clothing to be used as evening wear.

Clothes aside, here are some additional things that you may want to take with you to the Maldives:

• Sunscreen or suntan cream
• Hats
• Mosquito repellent
• Rucksack for day trips
• First aid kit
• Diving certificates if you intend to dive
• Sunglasses
• Water socks for reef walkers
• Money belt for excursions
• Photographic equipment – camera & camcorder
• Electricity adaptor
• Cigarettes up to two cartons if you wish
• Film, up to 10 rolls

Don’t worry if you forget any of the items. Most of them are available in the resort gift shop.

Communication

Up-to-date technology and international satellite links allow Maldives to have a sophisticated communications system. IDD facilities are available on all resorts and card phones are available on all inhabited islands. Dhiraagu, the Maldives Telecommunications Company also provides mobile telephones for daily rental. It is also the Internet service provider for the islands.

Electricity

Voltage in Maldives is 110 or 220 volts, depending on your location. An adapter is recommended for using appliances you bring with you. Most major hotels provide hair dryers and other amenities.

Money Matters In The Maldives

Usually, when at a resort any additional expenses that you incur, such as drinks, excursions, etc., will be charged to your account and you’ll pay for them just prior to your departure. Resorts generally accept the standard credit cards and travelers’ checks.

The Maldivian currency is the Rufiyaa and Laaree. The exchange rate for US Dollar at the time of writing is MRf.11.82 (Rufiyaa) for the dollar. One Rufiyaa is equivalent to 100 laarees. Rufiyaa bank notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500. Coins are in the denominations of MRf.2.00, MRf.1.00, 50 laarees, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaree. The US Dollar is the most commonly used foreign currency. Payments in the resorts and hotels can be made in most hard currency in cash, travelers’ checks or credit cards. Commonly used credit cards are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners Club, JCB and Euro Card.

In Male, foreign currency is generally accepted although you may be able to exchange for Rufiyas at your resort.

Tipping In The Maldives

Tipping is not very common in Maldives. It is prohibited at the airport and discouraged at hotels and restaurants, as most have already added a 10% service charge to the bill. Taxis drivers do not get tipped.

It’s customary to tip the staff in your resort who may have served you during your stay. They aren’t highly paid so tips help to sustain and improve their way of life. You may consider tipping the waiters, bar staff and the room boy who cleans your villa.