The Maldives, located in the heart of the Indian Ocean and home to over 1,000 coral islands, is a tropical paradise that promises the holiday of one’s dreams. To experience the diverse attractions and activities this island nation has to offer, travellers are encouraged to island hop during their trips. Whether a visitor is staying at a luxury resort or a local guesthouse, here are some essential things to know before departure.
Be Familiar with the Local Restrictions and Prohibited Items
The Maldives is a devout Muslim country with strict regulations. Hence, visitors are not allowed to bring alcohol, pork products, pornographic materials, and religious idols, among other things. Travellers are also expected to dress modestly, covering their knees and shoulders, and women may only wear bathing suits on designated ‘bikini beaches’.
Understand the Concept of ‘Island Time’
Luxury resorts in the Maldives operate by their own rules, which often include their own time zone. Known as ‘island time’, this time can be up to two hours ahead of the country’s official time. Island resorts, such as Coco Bodu Hithi, will request guests to set their clocks accordingly in order to maximise daylight hours for activities.
Be Mindful of the Cash Requirements
In the Maldives, travellers should not rely on credit cards alone, as many local businesses and markets still prefer cash payments. While ATMs are readily available at international airports, access to them can be limited or unpredictable when heading to a Maldives luxury resort or local islands. To avoid any inconvenience, visitors should withdraw sufficient funds before travelling to the islands.
Take Note of the Local Tipping Etiquette
At most resort restaurants, tipping is not mandatory, as a 10% service charge is already included in the bill. However, guests are welcome to leave a tip for the servers if they wish. It is also customary to tip housekeeping staff and butler service providers.
