We strongly recommend you keep yourself informed and updated about current conditions at your holiday destinations. Register your trip at: www.smartraveller.gov.au or by calling DFAT on: (02) 6261 3305.

VISA AND PASSPORTS

A 30 day tourist visa is granted on arrival for most nationals, including citizens of Australia, NZ, UK and the USA. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity as most countries will not let you
in if you have any less.

BAGGAGE

For most international airlines, a limit of 20kgs for economy and 30kgs for business class is allowed, as well as an in-flight cabin bag, normally not more than 5kgs. Low cost carriers may be less, so please always check direct with your airline or your consultant if you are unsure. With Singapore Airlines, 1 surfboard bag may be included in your free baggage allowance, but excess baggage of surfboards up to 15kgs will be charged at AUD$30 per kg ex Australia. Airlines only accept excess baggage according to space availability, so if you think you will be over your limit, check in early!

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE

New Liquid, Aerosol and Gel restrictions apply to your carry-on luggage on all flights. Each container of liquids, aerosols or gels in your carry-on baggage must be 100ml or less. They must all be sealed in a transparent, one-liter plastic bag. You are only allowed one bag. Any resealable bag of one litre capacity or less is allowed. You may still carry through the screening point prescription medicines. Baby products and non-prescription medicines that you need for the flight are also allowed, but proof of need may be required. Purchases of Tax and Duty free goods bought after security screening at the airport can be taken on flights as carry-on.

IMPORTANT RESTRICTIONS

No alcohol, pornography (which may cover a wide range of publications), pork, drugs, dogs, firearms, spear guns or “idols of worship” may be brought into the country. All baggage is X-rayed. The Maldives is a strict Muslim country and drinking is only allowed in resorts or on boats. This is the only place you can buy alcohol.

HEALTH

The Maldives is generally a healthy destination with no malaria and little risk of tropical diseases. Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are advised, specially if time is spent away from a resort island. Over-exposure to the sun and infection from coral cuts are the two main hazards for surfers. Booties and helmets are recommended. In an emergency an injured surfer may require a speedboat or seaplane to get to Male, the only place with modern medical facilities. For very serious injuries, evacuation to Colombo or Singapore may be necessary. It is essential to have adequate travel insurance to cover these possibilities.

POLICE

If any possessions are stolen, report the incident to the local police and obtain a report for insurance purposes.

TRAVELLER HEALTH DECLARATION

In accordance to health requirements all travellers travelling to and from Maldives are required to submit a self-declarative health declaration within 48 hours prior their departure to Maldives. Make your application here.

The airport you fly into is Velana International Airport in Male (MLE) in the Maldives.

If you are travelling from Australia, we recommend flying with Singapore Airlines who have flights daily from all major cities in Australia, with a short transit in Singapore before arriving into Male (MLE). 

Being an Australian Wholesale Agent for Singapore Airlines, we can guarantee the best prices on most flights from Australia. Please contact us directly if you would like a flight quote.

If you are located outside of Australia, you are welcome to book your own flights to Male (MLE).

Once you arrive into Velana International Airport in Male (MLE), you will be met on arrival at the airport by a representative from the resort.

You will then be transported by a speed boat to the resort, which is approximately a 45 minute boat ride from the airport.

WHAT IS THE ELECTRICITY AND COMMUNICATIONS LIKE IN THE MALDIVES?

Power is 220–240 volt at most resorts & boats. Electric sockets are UK type. Most places supply adapters, but we recommend you always take at least one of your own. Round-pin plugs are used, although square-pin plugs are now becoming more common. If you need to be contactable while you’re away, then make sure you get international roaming setup with your service provider before you go. Coverage is excellent throughout the islands and handsets can also be hired by the day. Sim Cards are bought at the Airport. The country code for the Maldives is: +960

WHAT IS THE TIMEZONE?

GMT + 5 Hours
AEST – 5 Hours

WHAT IS THE LOCAL CURRENCY USED?

The currency of the Maldives is Rufiyaa, however as a visitor, USD are the currency of choice. Local ATMs only provide local currency, so are not much use to you. Everywhere in the Maldives you can pay with USD. Once you are in Maldives, you cannot exchange foreign currency for USD – so bring USD with you. All major credit cards are accepted at most resorts so you can pay your bill on checkout without a problem. Boats will also run a tab for drinks while on board and you can pay at the end. Most boats don’t have card facilities – they accept USD cash only.

WHAT IS THE CLIMATE LIKE?

The Maldives have a hot tropical climate. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to October and the northeast from November to April. Generally the south west brings more wind and rain in June and July. The temperature Rarely falls below 25°C.

DRESS AND ETIQUETTE?

In Male and on other inhabited islands, men should always wear a shirt and women should wear skirts or shorts that cover the thighs, and avoid wearing low-cut tops.

DO I LEAVE A TIP?

It is customary to tip in the Maldives as the wages are not high and staff don’t get a lot of money to support their families. The Perfect Wave recommends that if you are happy with the service you received and had a great experience, you should leave a small tip.