Maldives

The Maldives, located south-west of Sri-Lanka, are a series of coral atolls distributed longitudinally near the equator for a length of 450 miles. Small beautiful islands emerge from the reef, covered with lush vegetation and bordered by a fine white sand and crystal waters of the lagoons. In the warm, clear waters of the Maldives it is possible to see manta rays, whale sharks, valleys and gardens of luscious corals, enormous tuna, eagle rays, thousands of different species of fish around the reefs, and countless species of invertebrates. The Maldives are a true adventure in paradise.

Bandos Island Resort

A short speed boat trip from Male brings you to this gorgeous resort located at North Male Atoll. The resort occupies a whole island, with facilities including gym, tennis court, squash court, spa, aerobic classes, swimming pool, fishing, sailing snorkelling, windsurfing and scuba diving. Air-conditioned accommodation is available in six categories ranging from Standard Rooms to the deluxe Water Villa.

There are three restaurants, three bars, a full spa facility and a dive centre. Be sure to bring the kids, as there is a free Kids Club between 9am and 5pm daily.

 

Coco Palm Resort Dhuni Kolhu

Located 30 minutes scenic seaplane flight from Male, the Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Resort is somewhere you might dream of being stranded. Beach and Deluxe Villas are dotted around the island in the tropical vegetation, with open-air bathrooms and a terrace. Out over the water you will find the Lagoon Villas, perfect for the ultimate luxury.

The whole island is fringed with pure white sand and a sparkling turquoise lagoon. Three restaurants and two bars serve delicious cuisine worthy of this five-star resort. When you’re not diving you can go snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing, relax with a book in the tropical sun, or have a luxurious spa treatment.

 

Makunudu Island Resort

Makunudu Island is situated in North Male’ Atoll. A 55 minute speed boat ride from male’ International Airport will bring you to this island where palm trees sway in the warm tropical breeze anf the sandy white beaches dazzle your eyes in the sun. the Resort has 36 Deluxe Bungalows set in lush tropical gardens and situated right on the sea front. they are constructed and furnished in a traditional style to reflect the local character and vibrance of the island environment and have a private sitting area and an open air private garden bathroom with shower.

 

 

Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa

Set amongst the perfect islands and blue ocean of South Ari Atoll, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa delivers a unique 5 star resort experience and offers the ultimate in barefoot luxury along with a range of exciting activities that will appeal to both couples & families. Featuring 112 suites & villas, the resort offers diving enthusiasists outstanding diving opportunities including an excellent house reef complete with a dedicated sunken ship wreck and is within easy reach of the top dive spots in the Maldives. The resort offers all guests a premium all-inclusive vacation experience along with a perfect white sand beach and the  crystal clear water of the Indian Ocean.

 

 General Information 

Entry Requirements: Australian passport holders will require a passport which is valid for at least six months beyond intended stay. A visa is not required for Australian passport holders staying under 30 days. For more information and for holders of other passports, please refer to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website for the latest travel advice.

Money: The Rufiyaa (MVR) is the unit of currency. One Australian Dollar buys approximately 15 MVR. However, the USD is the most commonly accepted currency.

Language: The local language is Dhivehi. English is spoken at all resorts and tourist areas.

Electricity: 220-240V and uses three plug types: British, European and Indian. A multi-adaptor is recommended.

Time Zone: GMT+5 (5 hours behind Sydney)

Clothing: Light, casual clothing is all that is recommended for this hot, tropical climate. Women are expected to dress modestly in public areas.

Climate: The Maldives have a tropical climate with warm temperatures year round , averaging 29ºC daily. 

Water Temperature: 27-30ºC.

Departure Tax: An Airport Development Charge (ADC) of $25 USD will be collected at check-in on departure from Male. This is payable by cash or credit card and applies to all passengers except infants.

Tipping: A 10% service charge is normally added, however while this would usually mean further tipping is not required, in the Maldives the people personally serving you will still expect something.

Region Map

 

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