Maldivian location. Holidays in the Maldives

Where, in what country are these amazingly beautiful islands, the Maldives? How to find them on the world map, what country do they belong to? On what ocean are the islands located? Maldives, giving unforgettable moments of paradise - these and other questions arise in many people who are planning their vacation.

This is where the beaches, enchanting landscapes and eternal summer are located. White, soft sand and tall palm trees, gentle surf - all this will make your vacation complete, your impressions bright and positive.

For vacationers, there is everything they need - magnificent nature, secluded bays where you can spend evenings, warm weather And bright sun over your head. The picturesque picture is complemented by bright coral shallows and lagoons with clear, clean water.

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Geographical location

Situated on a picturesque site. On the world map, look for the Indian Ocean, and among its waters there are islands stretching thousands of kilometers north of the equator.

They occupy the territory between the continents of Asia and Africa, 700 km southwest of Sri Lanka and the Hindustan Peninsula. The exact coordinates are 3°28′36″ N. w. and 72°50′12″ E. etc., so it’s not difficult to find them with a regular paper map. The width of the archipelago is more than 120 km.

Includes:

• 19 coral reefs;
• 88 resort islands;
• 1000 small islands (most of them are not inhabited by people).

You can visit “wild” places on your own using a boat. The most famous atolls among tourists are:

• Kaafu, or, as it is also called, North Male, includes 27 resorts and 8 islands specializing in fishing;
• South Male, consisting of 19 islands with excellent conditions. Only three of them are inhabited;
• Vaavu;
• Meemu;
• Seenu;
• Faafu.

This is interesting: The Maldives are considered the lowest in the world. At the highest point of the state, which is Addu Atoll, a person will be only 2.4 meters above sea level. Scientists predict that within the next 50 years there may be a flood that will destroy most of the land.

Everywhere travelers will find magnificent nature with picturesque views.

Brief information about the country

It would be useful for any educated person to know that:

• this modern state is a presidential republic in form of government;
• The area is 298 km2;
• The capital is Male. The city's area is small, only 5.8 km2, but the total population exceeds 133,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated not only in the country, but also in the world. The total population is 338.5 thousand;
• The official language is Maldivian;
• The main type of transport is boats, both sailing and motor. You can also see seaplanes and boats. Taxis and regular buses are developed only in the capital and on the island. Hulhumale. Local transport - dhoni - a small boat equipped with a diesel engine;
• The main religion is Islam (Sunni);
• The currency is called the rupee;
• The time difference with Moscow is +2 hours;
• Visas are not required for a tourist trip, but if the purpose of the visit is business or private, then execution of the document is mandatory for everyone, as well as an invitation. The visa is valid for 90 days;
• It is prohibited to import into the territory of the state:
• Weapons (including explosives);
• Narcotic drugs;
• Magazines and items for specific purposes (category 18+);
• Animals;
• Alcohol;
• Devices for spearfishing;
• Things and objects of an anti-Islamic nature (including pork and products containing it);
• Even the military uniform and paraphernalia.

You can't take it home:

• Black corals and jewelry made from them;
• Turtle shells;
• Local currency (remaining cash must be exchanged);
• Items found at the bottom of the ocean/sea.

It is important to know: Israeli citizens are prohibited from entering here.

Permitted for export from the territory are:

• Souvenir products;
• Postcards with views and landscapes;
• Coconut oil;
• Interior items.

Climate

The best season is considered to be from November to April. It is at this time that the weather is dry and sunny, and the likelihood of rain is minimal.

Weather and climate in general are fundamental factors in determining where to go on holiday. Travelers can expect eternal summer, as the air temperature here is always above +20 degrees at night and about +30 during the day.

Air humidity is on average 81%. The main amount of precipitation falls between May and January. Hurricanes and storms are rare, but heavy rains come from the Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal.

In general, the climate of the resort state is hot and tropical. Separately, I would like to note that a trip here is not recommended for people with high pressure, since high temperatures are a constant phenomenon.

Popular resorts

A map of the Maldives with all resorts will be offered to guests in any tourist center. Tour operators also have detailed maps with hotels. The following resorts are widely known among travelers around the world:

• Male, the capital, is ready to offer various excursion programs and entertainment. There are numerous markets, a mosque, a museum and a presidential palace;
• Faafu is a resort ideal for gourmets, offering a variety of restaurants and spa centers;
• Dhaalu is a resort area that offers everything for extreme sports. It is chosen by divers and scuba divers;
• Ari - created for nature lovers. You can enjoy a variety of flora and fauna, and the famous turtle bays are located here. Entertainment - water skiing, sea fishing.

Note: Despite the diversity of the animal world, there are no dangerous predators or poisonous snakes in the Maldives. In the immediate vicinity you can see dolphins, white sharks or foxes. Bats appear in the evening.

An interesting feature is the absolute absence of dogs.

The best beaches

Beaches are the main attraction of the state. Travelers come precisely to enjoy the sand and warm waves. That is why it is very important to know the main ones:

• O. Fulhadhu - the settlement of residents occupies a small territory, everything else is a paradise for tourists;
• Finolhu Kanifushi is a beach located on Baa Atoll;

Keep in mind: a special feature is the presence of a sand spit, which allows you to walk to several small islands in the ocean. There is a picturesque lagoon and palm trees.

• Amilla Fushi has sloping beaches of varied beauty. Here you can find expensive and modern ones, as well as classic ones with dense vegetation. Feature: coral bottom;
• Dhigurah - designed for those who love solitude and the beauty of nature. The feature is an excellent opportunity to observe whale sharks. Swimming in a bikini is allowed.

Each resort land has its own hotel. Also, some resorts cannot bring children under 12 years of age.

Glowing beach Mudhdhoo Island

A real landmark and natural wonder worth seeing with your own eyes is the glowing beach located on Baa Atoll - Mudhdhoo Island.

In the evening and at night, hundreds of neon lights flash along the shore, creating a picturesque picture.

Advice: the glow effect is most noticeable from June to February, so you need to choose this particular time period to observe it.

The secret of the phenomenon lies in the fact that bioluminescent phytoplankton lives here, capable of glowing during the surf. By visiting this place, you can admire the beauty of nature for a long period, as the lights glow throughout the dark.

What to do for vacationers

You need to know that there are some restrictions for guests and residents - you can’t drink alcoholic drinks or sunbathe topless and even in a bikini (except for specially designated areas).

Despite all this, the holiday will not be overshadowed. Tourists are offered a variety of water attractions and water sports, including parasailing, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Catamaran rides are perfect for a romantic pastime, and sailing is ideal for extreme sports enthusiasts. Swimming and fishing (the fish must be released into the ocean) are activities that are in demand among most tourists. There are special excursions that allow you to observe the life of marine life up close. There are special entertainment programs for children.

Map in Russian

In order to make it convenient for tourists to navigate among the various atolls and vacation spots, a map of the islands with symbols in Russian has been created.

Here are the most popular destinations and tourist routes, which should be chosen for a good rest. The largest areas intended for recreation are indicated, where there is everything that a tourist might need during a trip. Also available general form archipelago in the area.

Using this simple but detailed map, you can comfortably navigate the Maldives without knowing in English or local dialects. “Uninhabited” territories are not indicated on the map.

How to get there

The most convenient way to get to your chosen resort is by plane. There are direct flights from Moscow - their duration is from 10 hours. There are also charters in major cities. There are flights from Kyiv or Astana that include transfers or refueling to or.

There are also flights with refueling in Sri Lanka or. Flights to the Maldives operate from the city of Trivandrum, so it is convenient to get to the holiday destination for those who decide to combine a trip with a visit to India. Ticket prices range from $500 to $1,000 on average.

Take note: In order to fly from the capital of the Maldives, you will need to pay an exit fee, which is 10–15 dollars; in most cases, it is not included in the price of tickets.

For those flying from the Far East, there are flights with transfers in Seoul, Tianjin or. There are no direct flights from Belarus - you must fly through Moscow.

Exotic flora and fauna

The nature of the archipelago is unusual and amazing. The national symbol and plant that is found throughout the state is the coconut palm.

You can also see bamboo and eucalyptus brought here. Among the crops that can be classified as exotic are bananas, papaya, mangoes, pineapples and sweet potatoes.

The flora is also represented by flowers - roses, plumerias, hibiscus, orchids. You can also see the Alexandrian laurel.

Animals that will seem amazing to tourists:

• • The bats;
  • Flying foxes;
  • Geckos;

• Seagulls;
• Herons;
• Brahmin's blinders;
• Wolftooth brownie.

Marine inhabitants are presented in a wide variety:

• Sea stars;
• Echinoderms;
• Dolphins;
• Whale sharks;
• Stingrays;
• Variety of fish species.

Interesting fact: Citrus fruits do not grow on the territory - they disappeared after the fungus epidemic.

There are also turtles. The main attraction is the coral reefs.

Local kitchen

Peculiarity national cuisine– an abundance of dishes based on fish and seafood. It was formed under the influence of Indian and Arab culinary traditions. Recipes with tuna are presented in every restaurant or cafe.

Rice is also served as a side dish with all dishes. Popular Maldivian drink - green tea. National snacks - hedikaa - are baked goods with various fillings.

Desserts – various fresh fruits, juices, nuts and dishes with these ingredients. One of the popular desserts among tourists is fresh coconut, as well as coconut milk and Raa palm juice.

What you need to know before purchasing a tour

Before you buy a tour to the Maldives, you should consider that:

• Will need to be vaccinated against hepatitis A, influenza, yellow fever and other tropical diseases;
• January - last month, in which there will be no precipitation (until April);
• The water on the coasts is clear and clean;
• Flights without refueling last no less than 10 hours, with transfers – no less than 12 hours.

When leaving the country, you will need to declare items whose value exceeds $200.

Advice: medications You can import them, but it is better to get a prescription for them, translate it into English, notarize it and, if necessary, see a doctor at the resort.

Useful tips for travelers to the Maldives

The following recommendations will help when planning your trip:

• In order to save on flights and vacations, you should take advantage of the package of communication services offered by guest houses;
• At the local airport you cannot call from the counter, so you should find out all the information in advance;
• There is a ferry service between the islands, so you can visit several places during your vacation;
• It is best to go on excursions in a large group - it’s cheaper;
• Snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge in guest houses;
• It is customary to bargain in the country's markets;
• Rupees cannot be taken out of the country, so cash should not be exchanged for them.

Maldives – heavenly place for relax. Here you can have a great time with the whole family, as tourists have everything they need for comfort. Accommodation can be arranged in hotels, bungalows or guest houses with local residents.

There is a lot of entertainment, but the main part is water, there are also karaoke and discos. Vacations are not budget-friendly - this should be taken into account when choosing tours and places to spend your holidays, but there will be enough impressions and emotions for for a long time after completing the trip.

For more information about holidays in the Maldives, see the tips in the following video:

The Republic of Maldives is an island state in Indian Ocean .

Archipelago Maldives located at the junction of the Arabian and Laccadive Seas, five hundred kilometers southwest of the southern tip of the Hindustan Peninsula. A detailed map of the Maldives shows that the country occupies 27 atoll formations, consisting of 1,192 individual coral islets.

The Maldives can't boast large sizes. The largest is Gan Island, but its area is less than 10 km2. Most of the islands of the archipelago do not exceed several hundred square meters.

Maldives on the world map: geography, nature and climate

If you look at the Maldives on a world map, you will notice that southern part countries are crossed by the equator line. Although the length of the archipelago is about 750 km from north to south and 130 km from west to east, the total area of ​​its islands is only 298 km 2. The atolls of the Maldives can cover hundreds of km2, but are ring-shaped. And most of the large islands are located on the outer sides of the atoll rings.

The coastline of the Maldives is 644 km. Due to its remoteness from the coasts of the continent, the country has neither land nor sea neighbors.

Geographical position

The Maldives are the peaks of the underwater Chagos-Laccadive Ridge, which stretches for almost 2,500 km. However, the Maldives is not represented by volcanic rocks. All the islands of the archipelago consist of sand and coral formations. Therefore, the Maldives is considered the lowest located state on the planet.

The most high point The country is located on the island of Gan and is only 2.4 meters above sea level. Most of the archipelago is uninhabited. Only about 200 islands are inhabited. Due to the large extent of the Maldives, there are several large straits separating groups of atolls. On the map of the Maldives in Russian you can find the largest of them - the Equatorial Strait. Its width is about 95 km and its depth exceeds 2500 m.

Animal and plant life

Due to the small size of the islands and the dense population of the largest of them, the terrestrial flora and fauna of the archipelago is not rich. Several varieties of palm trees and rare mangrove forests are all that the Maldives can boast of. Animal world The islands are also not very diverse - Achatina, hermit crabs, gray herons and flying foxes. But the underwater world of the country is incomparably richer.

Hundreds of giant living coral ecosystems contain about 200 species of corals, more than 1,000 species of fish, 250 varieties of crustaceans and up to five thousand species of mollusks and echinoderms. The local fauna also boasts two dozen species of various whales and dolphins. The straits between the atolls are abundantly populated with plankton.

Climate

The subequatorial climate of the Maldives is formed by the seasonal northeast monsoons. The average temperature throughout the year is approximately the same - from 23-30°C. Although there are no clearly defined seasons in the country, spring is somewhat hotter and drier. With the arrival of the monsoons, the temperature and humidity rise slightly. The average rainfall is about 2000 mm per year.

Map of the Maldives with cities. Administrative division of the country

The Maldives is divided into 21 administrative unit. Together they form 8 regions, formed according to the principle of geographical proximity. The country's population is about 405,000 people. A map of the Maldives with cities in Russian demonstrates that, despite its small area, this makes the Maldives one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The average population density here is 1135 people per km 2.

Male- capital and The largest city countries. Located in the central part of the Maldives. Almost a quarter of the archipelago's population lives here. It is included in the list of the most densely populated cities in the world and occupies the entire territory of the island of the same name, the area of ​​which does not exceed 6 km 2.

Kuramati Island located 50 km west of the capital. Despite its small size, the island is the most popular tourist center in the country.

Eidhafushi- one of the largest inhabited islands of the Maldives. Located in the northern part of the archipelago, 100 km northwest of Male. Remarkable absolute height 0 meters above sea level.

The Republic of Maldives is located in equatorial waters south of India. The state is a chain of atolls that consist of 1,192 islands of coral origin. The capital of the state is Male, the only city in the entire archipelago.

The Maldives were inhabited more than 2 thousand years ago. Twice the Portuguese and the Dutch tried to establish power over the islands, but the local population did not allow this to be done. In 1887, a British protectorate was established over the Maldives. The Maldives was under British rule for more than half a century and finally gained independence in 1965. In 1968, a referendum was held in the country, as a result of which the state became a republic.

Climate and weather

The climate in the Maldives is equatorial, with a predominance monsoon winds. The northeast monsoon from November to April creates favorable conditions for relax. Due to the proximity of the equator, the air temperature is approximately the same throughout the year and does not fall below +25 °C. In April, the southwest monsoon brings wet weather to the islands. air masses. During this period, the Maldives experiences a slight drop in temperature, precipitation and storms.

Nature

The flora in the Maldives is typical tropical vegetation. There are mangroves and fruit trees here. The abundance of vegetation depends on the soil. On some small islands covered with sand, only shrubs and grasses are found. Large islands are rich in vegetation. There is also a real jungle here with tropical plants, mangroves, different kinds exotic flowers. But there is one plant in the Maldives that grows everywhere, regardless of the type of soil - the coconut palm.

The fauna of the Maldives is not very diverse. Some species of reptiles live here: snakes, which are not dangerous to humans, lizards. Mosquitoes are found only on the wild islands of the archipelago. Among the insects in the Maldives, butterflies and rhinoceros beetles also live.

The underwater world of the Maldives is much more interesting. On the ocean floor you can find different types of corals and marine life, ranging from sea ​​urchins and ending with whale sharks.

Attractions

There are not many historical or cultural attractions in the Maldives. The most interesting places located in Male. Here you can visit Sultan Park. Until 1968, the Sultan's palace was located here. Subsequently, the palace was destroyed, and the gardens surrounding the palace were turned into a park.

The Islamic Center is also of interest. This is a large mosque next to the pier. Its interior is decorated with symbols of Arabic calligraphy and wood carvings. It is better to visit the mosque accompanied by one of the local residents: after all, this is a religious building in which special rules of behavior must be observed.

Another attraction of the Maldives is the National Museum, which displays items of clothing and jewelry of the sultans. Also here are the manuscript of the Koran and pre-Islamic statues that were found during archaeological excavations.

Nutrition

The local cuisine is based on Indian and Arabic traditions. Many dishes consist of ingredients such as rice, seafood and spices. The most common sauce is coconut curry; it is added to almost all dishes. There are a variety of fish dishes, for the preparation of which there are hundreds of recipes. Fish is even added to pies. The main side dish is rice, which is cooked with coconut milk, vegetables and even some fruits, such as papaya, bananas, mangoes, and pumpkin. The meat they eat is mostly chicken, but extremely rarely. Coconut is most often served for dessert. Baked goods, fruit salads. The drinks here are mainly tea, coffee and various juices.

Accommodation

There are practically no high-rise buildings in the Maldives, with the exception of buildings in Male. Hotels are represented by all kinds of villas, bungalows, chalets, and cottages. All of them are one- and two-story, located separately from each other and have an entrance from the street. In the main building of hotel complexes, as a rule, there is a reception, bar and restaurant. The tourist houses themselves are located either in the depths of the island, or on the shore, or right on the water. In the latter case, the houses are connected to the land by a wooden bridge, and in some cases the rooms can only be reached by boat. Whatever type of accommodation you choose, they are all different high level service.

Entertainment and relaxation

Mostly people go to the Maldives for beach holiday. However, there are many options here. active rest. For example, lovers of diving and snorkeling can have a great time on the islands. Divers from all over the world come to the Maldives, because the reefs near the islands are home to an incredible variety of marine life of unimaginable colors and shapes. But not only fish and corals attract diving enthusiasts. In the waters surrounding the atolls, there are many sunken ships that are also of interest to divers.

Due to the fact that the Maldives is a Muslim state, many holidays here are of a religious nature. In addition, in the Muslim calendar, almost all holidays “move”, i.e. fall on different dates from year to year. Unchangeable are New Year(January 1), Independence Day (July 26-27), Catholic Christmas(December 25).

Purchases

Most of the stores are located in Male and specialize in souvenir products. Usually these are products made from coral, shells, and wood. Straw mats are especially popular. Local artisans make and sell beautiful jewelry from corals - bracelets, earrings, necklaces. You can also purchase high-quality diving equipment in the Maldives.

Closed days in the Maldives are Friday and Saturday, respectively, shops are open from Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 to 21:00 or from 9:00 to 22:00. During prayers, which are performed 5 times a day, shops are closed, but if you are there at this time, leave shopping room not necessary.

Transport

The international airport is located in Male. In general, air transport is widespread on the islands, which is due to the peculiar geography of the archipelago. Air transport is represented by seaplanes and helicopters. In addition, transportation is carried out on sailing, motor boats and cutters. There is basically no public transport in the Maldives. Although there are taxis in Male. Its peculiarity is that if the car stops for more than a minute, then the trip is considered over and must be paid. On the islands it is possible to rent a boat or speedboat. This will cost an average of $140.

Connection

Mobile communications in the Maldives are well developed. You can use your operator for calls if you activate roaming, but it is cheaper to purchase a SIM card from a local mobile operator. The cost per minute of connection is on average $0.5. The Maldives is divided into several telephone zones, and the cost of calls from one zone to another is higher than within one zone.

Safety

After the country allowed political parties, rallies and demonstrations often began to take place on the streets of Male. It is not safe for tourists, although street crimes are extremely rare in the Maldives. To increase security, the law obliges all hotels to provide guests with a safe for storing documents, money and jewelry. If you discover that you have something missing, you should inform the manager, who must record your request in writing. The manager will then conduct his own investigation and, if necessary, contact the police.

When traveling to the Maldives, you must be vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and yellow fever. In addition, it is necessary to take out medical insurance, because any treatment in the country is paid.

Business climate

If you wish, you can open your own small business in the Maldives. The most popular destinations are hotel and catering business. You can also organize a diving center or yacht club. However, the country's government is reluctant to hand over business to foreigners, preferring to do it on its own. This is due to the fact that when the Maldives was first discovered as a new tourist destination, attempts by foreigners to set up tourism businesses here usually ended in failure.

The tax system in the Maldives is considered one of the simplest in the world. There is no VAT or income tax here.

Real estate

Due to the very small area of ​​the state, real estate prices in the Maldives are very high. In addition, there is a moratorium on the purchase of real estate by foreigners. Instead, the state proposes to take out real estate for a long-term lease. The minimum term of such an agreement is 35 years, the maximum is 50 years. Mostly villas are rented; it is extremely difficult to rent an apartment on the islands. If you manage to find a suitable apartment, then you will have to pay at least $300,000 for it. Most of the villas for rent are luxury housing. The cost of such housing starts from $350,0000.

Since the Maldives is a Muslim state, this imposes some obligations on tourists. You should not appear in public places in revealing outfits. Topless swimming on the wrecks is strictly prohibited and will result in a fine. Drinking alcoholic beverages is prohibited in public places. The state has a ban on catching and exporting corals unless they were purchased in a souvenir shop. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip, the amount of which is 10% of the order value.

Visa information

Citizens Russian Federation no visa required. The Russian consulate closest to the Maldives is located on the island of Sri Lanka.

The Republic of Maldives is the smallest Asian country in the world. It is a collection of islands lost in the middle of the endless Indian Ocean. Every year, areas of land are increasingly immersed in water and, according to researchers, they will soon face serious flooding.

Because of this, the water level in the ocean is constantly rising, which could soon lead the Maldives to disaster. If you want to visit this truly paradise, where time seems to have stopped, hurry up! Its pristine beauty will not leave anyone indifferent - snow-white sandy beaches, blue lagoons, evergreen tropical trees will forever remain in the soul of any traveler.

Where is the Maldives on the map? Geographical location of the state

The Maldives is quite difficult to find on the world map. This small country is located in the Indian Ocean, south of the Hindustan Peninsula and southwest of the island of Ceylon. Its closest neighbors are India (595 km), Sri Lanka (670 km) and the Chagos Archipelago (500 km). You can see the Maldives on the map below.

The Republic of Maldives is a coral archipelago, the length of which from west to east is 130 km, and from north to south - 823 km. It consists of 1,196 small islands believed to be of volcanic origin. They form a double chain of 26 atolls - large coral land areas that look like a broken ring. The largest and most significant are the Southern (Nord Niland) and Aria Atoll. The distance between groups varies from 25 to 80 km.

The total area of ​​land and reefs in the Maldives is 298 square meters. km., and the total territory together with the water area is 900,000 sq. km. Of the more than 1,100 islands, only 202 are inhabited, and more than 70 of them are first-class tourist resorts.

Historical reference

Very little information has been preserved about the early history of the Maldives. The culture of the Maldives is believed to have appeared earlier than the 5th century BC. Fragments of pottery found during excavations suggested that Redin settlements were founded on the islands as early as 2000 BC. In 500 BC. on southern islands Buddhists arrived from Fr. Ceylon. This fact is confirmed by an ancient Buddhist manuscript and the head of a Buddha statue dating back to the 11th century. The first Chinese sailors reached the Maldives in 412. Since 1153 - since the adoption of Islam - all major historical events recorded in the history of the Sultanate.

According to numerous testimonies from sailors, the islands were ruled by female sultanas for a long time. Europeans up to the 15th century. They knew nothing about the country and did not mark the Maldives on the world map until Vasco da Gama crossed the Indian Ocean. In 1507, Lourenzo de Almeida sailed to the islands, and in 1529, the Parmentier brothers. From 1558 the Portuguese dominated the islands until guerrilla warfare began and they were destroyed. Further, until 1760, the Maldives were under the protection of the French, and from the mid-17th century. - the Dutch, and then the British. In mid-1965, after massive popular uprisings, the Maldives gained independence from Great Britain. In 1968 it was adopted new constitution, and the country acquired official name- "Republic of Maldives".

State flag

A modern version of the main state symbol The country was adopted in July 1965. The flag of the Maldives is a red cloth with a green rectangle and a white crescent. It has a special symbolic meaning. The color red represents the courage of the heroes who, without hesitation, defended and will defend their country, sacrificing themselves and shedding blood. The green rectangle symbolizes the nature of the Maldives - coconut palms, which are the source of life for the indigenous population. The white crescent symbolizes the religiosity of the Maldivians and reflects their commitment to Islam.

Economy of the Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is now a democratic developing state, with a president at its head.

The country's economy is based on three pillars: tourism, shipping and fishing. Thanks to the mild climate, rich underwater world and the amazingly beautiful coral reefs attract crowds of tourists. In the open sea, it is carried out in lagoons and not far from the coast, turtles are caught, corals, shells and natural pearls are mined.

Official banknotes. Currency exchange

The currency of the Maldives is the Rufiyaa. It consists of one hundred laari. One US dollar is approximately equal to a dozen rufiyaa. There are banknotes in circulation throughout the country of different denominations, including 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 rufiyaa, as well as coins - 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 lari.

You can exchange currency at any bank, airport or exchange offices at the official rate. On islands remote from the capital, exchange will be difficult and at a rather unfavorable rate. Most payments require small bills, so stock up on them in sufficient quantities. Many high-end resorts accept US dollars and euros as well as credit cards.

Demography

The population living in the archipelago is approximately 400 thousand people. Almost all of them are descendants of immigrants from the Middle East, South, South-East Asia. The official language is called "Dhivehi", it is a kind of mixture of Arabic, English and Sinhala. The local writing system is based on the Arabic-Persian script. The indigenous population of the islands professes Islam (Sunnism). It was brought by the Arabs and spread from the 12th century. And in 1968, Islam was declared the state religion.

Capital of the Republic of Maldives

Currently, it is the capital of the Republic of Maldives. Male is a small city located on the adjacent islands of Vilingile and Male. Its area is only 5.8 square meters. km. The population of Male is approximately 105 thousand people. Get to administrative, political and cultural center The Maldives can be reached by air or sea, by boat, seaplane taxi or speedboat between the islands.

You can explore all the sights of Male by walking around it. When visiting the city, it is advisable to wear things that cover your body well from the neck to the knees. Almost all the souvenir shops are located at the northern end of Chaandani Magu. Here you can buy Maldivian mats made of palm fiber, decorative fishing boats, canned fish and amazingly delicious seafood. In general, Male is not rich in attractions, although an inquisitive tourist will enjoy the shady Jumuri Maidan park, National Museum in Sultans Park, the Islamic Center with the Good Friday Mosque and the Medu Ziyarat Chapel.

Climate in the Maldives

The archipelago is dominated by tropical monsoon climate. All year round the air temperature is quite high, has a small amplitude and varies between 26°C - 32°C. At night it does not drop below 25°C. In winter - from November to March - northeastern, warm monsoons predominate. In summer - from June to August - south-westerly, more humid winds prevail. It often rains lightly on the islands at this time. The water temperature varies between 24°C - 27°C. During the dry season from November to early April, the Maldives attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. Mild, warm climate, comfortable sea temperature, lack of rain and strong winds makes the islands so attractive to travelers.

It is interesting that a sufficient number of tourists visit the Maldives even during the “wet” season. Despite high humidity, a large number of precipitation and raging winds, the influx of vacationers does not subside. The fact is that from mid-April to early November, the cost of air tickets, accommodation and food is significantly reduced, which attracts travelers who want to save money.

Flora and fauna

Famous all over the world for their amazing diversity marine fauna and flora of the Maldives island. The sea is full of amazing corals. Schools of various exotic fish, turtles, jellyfish, clams, sea ​​stars and hedgehogs, moray eels, stingrays, attract diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Predators also live in the waters of the Maldives - sharks with black fins and sharks with white fins; huge ocean inhabitants also swim here - the hammerhead shark and whale sharks. But you don’t have to be afraid of them, since they are non-aggressive and practically harmless to divers. To prevent accidents, as well as to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the Maldives, there are strict restrictions on scuba diving. Including, it is forbidden to dive to a depth of more than 30 m, it is forbidden to spend more than 60 minutes under water, each diver must have a dive computer with him, etc. Land fauna and flora are not very diverse.

Breadfruit, coconut, and banana are common on many islands of the Maldives. The atolls - Dhaalu (Dhaalu) and Fafu - stand out for their lush vegetation. Exotic flowers grow here: water lily hernandia, catappa herminalia, etc., there are impenetrable mangroves with huge ferns. There are no large animals in the Maldives, but you can meet bat or the Indian flying fox. The islands are also inhabited by terns, parrots, sea gulls, and cormorants.

How to get to the archipelago?

The vast majority of tourists reach the Maldives by plane. The archipelago has Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. It is located on Hulule Island, 2 km away. from the capital. The airport receives flights from various cities, including Moscow, Vienna, Qatar, Kuala Lumpur, etc.

On the official website of the airport you can find all the necessary information, including viewing flight arrival times, choosing a suitable transfer and even planning a trip. There is an ATM, a bank, and a luggage storage facility on the airport premises. You can have a snack or drink coffee in any of the cafes you like. To the left of the exit from the airport building there is a pier. Ferries depart from here every 10-15 minutes to the capital of the country. The fare varies between 1-2 USD, depending on the time of day.

Great resorts. Maldives - a paradise for tourists

Vacationers are transported to the surrounding atolls on small, nimble seaplanes or boats. North and South Male, Ari, Baa, Miimu, Lhaviani, Haa Alifu, Faafu, Dhaalu atolls are the most beautiful resorts in the country, and each of them has its own zest.

There are more than 120 hotels in the Maldives, which can simultaneously serve about 50 thousand tourists. Basically all hotels have 4 or 5 stars; it is extremely rare to find a hotel with a worse level of service. Also in the Maldives you can stay in a magnificent bungalow and enjoy privacy.

Recreation and entertainment

The beaches of the archipelago are clean, with pleasant white sand. The water is amazingly warm and calm. The Maldives offers a respectable holiday, the absence of hustle and bustle and communication with unique nature. For lovers of active recreation there is a developed infrastructure sports entertainment. At the resorts you can go yachting, canoeing, skiing, surfing and, of course, diving. Drinking alcohol, collecting and damaging corals, and spearfishing are prohibited on the beaches of the atolls.

It is worth noting that the consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited not only on the beaches, but also in any public places outside the resort area. Topless or nude swimming is also not permitted. In addition, littering is prohibited on the islands. Any violation of the order will result in a serious fine.

Customs in the Maldives

All travelers should familiarize themselves in advance with the list of goods that are allowed to be imported and exported from the country. All luggage must be inspected by customs officers. It is allowed to import cigarettes (200 pcs.), perfume (125 ml), and personal consumption goods into the territory of the Maldives. It is not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages, pork, sausage, drugs and pornography. For attempting to violate the law, a fine of 500 USD is imposed. Any tourist should remember that the export of products made from turtle shells, pearl oyster shells, black and red corals is strictly prohibited. Items found at sea cannot be taken out of the country either. Be careful and enjoy your holiday!

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Where are the Maldives on the world map and the Indian Ocean

We often hear that the most best vacation- a vacation on the islands. And you know, anyone who has vacationed on the islands will definitely confirm this. It’s beautiful there, gorgeous beaches, far from the “mainland”, no noise, fresh air... there are a lot of advantages and advantages, but there are few islands. One of the most beloved and visited are the Maldives. On the world map you need to look for them in the Indian Ocean, south of India. The capital of the atolls is Male, and the population does not exceed half a million inhabitants.

Geography: where are the Maldives?

As we have already written, the Maldives are located in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka is approximately 700 kilometers away. About the same distance to the coast of India.
The Republic of Maldives is a chain of 26 atolls, and they in turn consist of 1192 coral islands. Surprisingly, the Maldives is the lowest located state! The highest point is located at an altitude of approximately 2.4 meters above sea level. That is, in fact, any medium wave can easily flood the entire state.
The capital of the islands is Male. This is generally the only city on the islands. Most of the inhabitants of the archipelago live here.

As we said, the closest neighbors are Sri Lanka and India. And then there is only a huge endless ocean! The coast of Africa is almost five thousand kilometers, and Australia is even more, about seven thousand kilometers.

Climate and weather

Thanks to his geographical location, it's hot in the Maldives all year round. The air temperature ranges from +24 to +30 degrees depending on the month. The most low temperature recorded in winter, when at night the air can cool down to +17, and the most heat happens in May, and it is equal to +32 degrees.
The dry season lasts from November to March, and the rainy season runs from June to August.

Undersea world

The underwater world off the coast of the Maldives is very diverse. Of course, this is the Indian Ocean!
Coral reefs are home to more than 1,100 species of fish. There are five species of sea turtles, 21 species of whales and dolphins and many, many other marine inhabitants.
No wonder this place is so loved by diving enthusiasts. Any diving off the coast of the Maldives is always a beautiful adventure and incredible views. A lot of interesting and scientific videos are filmed here. Expeditions take place here all the time. If you are coming here on vacation, then at least once, it is worth diving under the water with scuba diving.

A third of the islands' entire economy comes from tourism, which accounts for 28% of the state's total GDP
- the state sells its products for 125 million dollars, and buys other products for 1.2 billion dollars
- Most of the export is fish. This product accounts for about 70% of all sales
- any island in the Maldives can be crossed on foot in two hours
- many of the islands of the archipelago are uninhabited