The Maldives
 The Republic of the Maldives is composed from an archipelago of thousands of islands, which extend for 823 km in length and 130 km in width in the marvelous Indian Ocean. The neighbors are Sri Lanka northeast and India to the north .
The Maldives are formed from 1190 coral islands, around 200 of which are inhabited . Every island is surrounded by a barrier that contains a turquoise shallow lagoon. Around 90 of these islands are resorts that welcome tourists during the whole year.
Below you will find further useful information on the country.
Useful
information |
Capital |
a 10 minute boat
ride from the International airport |
Population |
Estimated
population: 209.000 inhabitants (56.000 of which are supposed to live
in the capital of Male) |
Language |
Dhivehi. English
is widely used as second language |
Currency |
1 USD = 12.85 MRF.
(Maldivian Ruffia) |
Time |
GMT +5 (+4 hours
in comparison to Italy; +3 during summertime)
Note:
Some islands add an hour (therefore GMT + 6) |
Climate |
Tropical climate, the temperature ranges from 25 to 29 degrees Celsius. Being situated on the equator, the climate of the Maldives is warm and humid. The weather is influenced by 2 monsoons. The monsoons are weak and never violent as in the nearby countries. From May to October the Southwest monsoon that brings some rain and wind dominates; from November to April instead the Northeastern monsoon is drier and brings more moderate winds. |
Tourism |
Rapidly expanding tourism industry is the greatest source of foreign income |
Flights |
Many international air carriers have regular flights to Male from the
capital cities of the world. |
Entry
requirements |
A valid passport is required. All visitors to the country are given a 90 day stay upon arrival to Male airport - Maldives International Airport is about 10 minutes by boat from the capital Male. |
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