Maldives Travelling Tips
Things to know before going to Maldives
11/25/2024
Maldives Travelling Tips
Language | Time Zone | Climate
The local Language of Maldives is Dhivehi, most of the young people speak very good English, so do not worry about communicating in Maldives!!!
Time Zone in Maldive is GMT+5 , Temperature is 26-35 °C , Water Temperature is 28-32°C
Currency | Exchange Rate | Taxes
Maldives has its local currency, Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) and US Dollars (USD) is widely used around the country. Local Currency will be more convenient and better-valued in local islands. Meanwhile, resorts and safari boats mostly take US Dollars (USD) or credit cards.
Bank Exchange Rate 1USD:15 .42 MVR ( Please do not use an unauthorised exchange centre to avoid fake notes)
By the regulations, there is a 10% service charge and 16% tourism goods and services tax (TGST) on all products and services. Additionally, a green tax of USD6 per person per night will be applied on guesthouses and USD12 per person per night will be applied on resorts and safari boats.
*The seventh amendment to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act will increase the tourism goods and services tax (TGST) from 16% to 17%, effective July 1, 2025.
Local Culture & Tipping
Maldives is a 100% Muslim Country, therefore Islamic law applies within the country:
Dressing regulations on local Islands: tourists must wear shirts with sleeves and shorts covering the knees, and wearing bikinis in public areas is strictly prohibited. Bikini outfits are only allowed on Bikini Beach.
Prohibited Item in Maldives: Pork or any product contains pork, alcohol, drugs and e-cigarettes.
Considering the basic salary of staff is not high, there is a tipping culture in Maldives, especially in diving, watersports and resorts (Butlers, activities, bell boys, restaurants etc). Therefore, if you are happy with the services provided by the team, it would be kind of you to tip them by showing appreciation.
(Not mandatory, you may tip only if you are satisfied)
Things to bring along with you
- Sockets in Maldives are mainly 240V, type C or G. There will be USB and USB-C plugs in resorts that are recently opened. Recommend bringing an adaptor if you are travelling to the local islands.
- Recommend to bring your own toothbrush to minimise waste and protect a stunning environment. Some Local Islands' Hotels might not provide toothbrushes.
- Sunscreen: please use environmentally friendly sunscreen (E.g. coconut oil) and use rash guards ( UV proof long sleeve swim suit) and hats as substitutes for sunscreen.
- Mosquito spray: Most places do pest control regularly, however, sometimes the amount of mosquitos near greeneries will be enough to ruin your mood. So bring mosquito spray or scream if you have sweet blood !!
- Patience: Maldives is a world-class destination with a chill pace, be patient and slow yourself down to enjoy the max of the paradise!!
