Maldives, with its stunning underwater beauty and pristine white-sand beaches, is a dream destination for many travelers. This article will provide a complete guide for those planning a trip to the Maldives, including important information about visas, local culture, etiquette to observe, and practical tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Discover everything you need to know for an unforgettable vacation in this tropical paradise.

A vacation is something we all look forward to as a way to unwind and gain new experiences. Especially when you're traveling to a country you've never been to before. The Maldives, a group of islands located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka, is a popular tourist destination, especially for honeymoons and diving. With approximately 1,200 small islands, the Maldives is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and beautiful coral reefs.

As a predominantly Muslim country, the Maldives has a unique culture and specific rules for tourists. Malé is the capital city and the political and economic center of the country.

Indonesian citizens who want to vacation in the Maldives do not need to apply for a visa before their trip. The Maldives offers a 30-day visa on arrival for Indonesian tourists. To obtain this visa, you only need to present a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Upon arrival in the Maldives, you will be required to fill out an arrival form. You will also need to show proof of accommodation during your stay in the Maldives, such as a hotel reservation, and proof of funds to support your stay.

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you need to apply for a visa extension at the Maldives Immigration Department. Be sure to prepare documents such as a passport, proof of accommodation, and fill out the visa extension application form. This extension process usually takes a few days and involves a certain fee.

When entering the Maldives, it is important for you to comply with customs regulations. There are several items that are prohibited from being brought into the country, such as alcohol, materials related to religions other than Islam, and pornographic materials. In addition, firearms, narcotics, and hazardous chemicals are strictly prohibited. If you are carrying high-value items such as expensive cameras or electronic equipment, be sure to declare them at customs. You may also be required to pay taxes or import duties if these items will be left in the Maldives. For currency, there is no limit to the amount of cash you can bring in or out of the Maldives. However, if you are carrying more than $10,000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies, you must report it to customs authorities.

Upon arrival at Malé International Airport, you will go through several stages of the process. The first process is a health check. After that, you will go through immigration. Make sure you have filled out the arrival form and have all the required documents ready, including proof of accommodation and a return ticket. After completing immigration, you will proceed to customs. Here, you need to declare any items that fall into the category of items that must be reported. After passing all these checks, you are free to go to the pick-up area or transportation. When leaving the Maldives, the process is almost the same. You only need to show your passport and departure ticket at immigration. Make sure you do not carry any prohibited items or exceed the limit of items that are allowed to be taken out.

The Maldives consists of many islands, so the main transportation options are boats and small planes (seaplanes). From the international airport in Malé, you can use a speedboat or seaplane to reach your resort or destination island. Be sure to book this transportation well in advance, especially if you are vacationing at a resort that is far from Malé.

When visiting a country with a different culture, such as the Maldives, it is important to understand and respect local customs and laws. The Maldives, where the majority of the population practices Islam, has rules and traditions that travelers should be mindful of. By being aware of the following information, you will find it easier to adapt to local customs, making your vacation more comfortable.

In Maldives, people highly value cultural and religious norms. When visiting islands inhabited by locals, you are expected to dress modestly. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees, especially when outside resorts or tourist areas. In resorts, the dress code is usually more relaxed, and swimwear is allowed on private beaches. However, remember that in public areas like restaurants or lobbies, you should still dress appropriately.

Regarding behavior, make sure to act respectfully and avoid any actions that may be considered inappropriate, such as showing affection in public (public display of affection), especially in public spaces. Additionally, tipping is not a common practice in the Maldives, but in resorts, tipping staff who provide good service are usually welcomed and appreciated.

Maldives has strict rules regarding alcohol and drugs. Alcohol is only allowed in resorts and licensed bars, so you cannot buy or consume it outside these areas, especially on islands inhabited by locals. Consuming alcohol in unauthorized places can result in fines or even imprisonment.

The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and carries severe legal consequences. Drug-related offenses can lead to long prison sentences. Furthermore, inappropriate behavior in public, such as shouting or acting aggressively, can also lead to issues with the authorities.

As a predominantly Muslim country, religion plays a significant role in daily life in Maldives. When visiting a mosque or place of worship, make sure to dress modestly, covering your body, and remove your shoes before entering. Additionally, during the month of Ramadan, Maldivians observe fasting, and in some local islands, restaurants may not be open during the day. It is respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.

When interacting with locals, it is important to be polite and respectful of their beliefs. Avoid discussions or actions that could be perceived as disrespectful towards religion to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey.

The main language spoken in Maldives is Dhivehi. However, many locals, especially those working in the tourism industry, speak English. To create a good impression, it’s a good idea to learn a few simple phrases in Dhivehi, such as “Shukuriyaa” (thank you) or “Kihineh?” (how are you?). Locals will appreciate your effort to communicate in their language, even if only with a few basic phrases.

By understanding the laws and local culture of the Maldives, you can be better prepared and more comfortable during your trip. Respect local customs, adhere to the laws in place, and always maintain good behavior when interacting with locals. Doing so will ensure that your vacation in the Maldives is a smooth, enjoyable, and trouble-free experience.

The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka. Comprising around 1,200 small islands, the Maldives covers an area of approximately 298 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in the world. With a population of around 500,000 people, the Maldives is renowned as a breathtaking tourist destination, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters that attract travelers from all over the world, including Indonesia.

In general, the Maldives is a safe travel destination for Indonesian tourists. Crime rates are relatively low, especially in resorts and main tourist areas. However, you should still remain vigilant and take care of your valuables, particularly when in public places like local markets or on public transportation.

Although crime risks in the Maldives are low, one of the main challenges to be aware of is natural disasters. The Maldives is located in a region vulnerable to rising sea levels and tropical storms, especially during the rainy season (approximately May to November). It is advisable to monitor weather forecasts and avoid visiting during extreme weather conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable vacation.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant vacation in the Maldives. A well-planned trip will ensure an unforgettable experience without any major issues during your holiday.

The Maldives has a fairly good healthcare system, particularly in the main tourist areas. However, the quality of healthcare services may vary between islands. If you encounter a serious health issue, it is recommended to seek medical assistance in the capital city, Malé. Here are some healthcare facilities you can use while on vacation in the Maldives:

Hospitals

The Maldives has several general and specialized hospitals in Malé. These hospitals are generally equipped with basic facilities such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and laboratories.

1. General Hospitals in Malé:

Type: General Hospital

Description: IGMH is the largest and most prominent hospital in Malé. It provides healthcare services for various conditions, including emergency care, inpatient services, and specializations such as surgery, pediatrics, and maternal and child health services.

Address: Laccadive Sea, Malé, Maldives

Type: General Hospital

Description: ADK Hospital is the largest private hospital in Malé, offering a full range of healthcare services, including specialist consultations, surgeries, and outpatient care. This hospital is equipped with modern facilities and professional medical staff.

Address: Sosun Magu, Malé, Maldives

2. Specialized Hospitals in Malé:

Type: Specialized Hospital

Description: This hospital focuses on high-specialty services, including orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, cardiology, oncology, and women's health services. Tree Top Hospital is known for its modern medical facilities and experienced specialists.

Address: Hulhumalé, Maldives (near Malé)

Type: Specialized Dental Clinic

Description: This clinic provides specialized dental and oral health services, ranging from routine check-ups and cleanings to more complex dental treatments such as braces and root canal therapy.

Address: Malé, Maldives

These hospitals can provide medical services needed by tourists and locals in the Maldives. In case of emergencies, it is recommended that travelers have travel insurance that covers international medical services.

Clinics

In tourist islands, you can find health clinics that provide basic services such as minor treatments, check-ups, and medication distribution.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies in the Maldives sell common over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs.

Before departing for the Maldives, make sure you have received the necessary vaccinations. Although there are no mandatory vaccinations for entering the country, some recommended vaccines include:

Additionally, ensure you undergo a general health check-up before your trip to confirm you are fit to travel.

By being aware of these healthcare facilities and taking proper precautions, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for any medical needs that may arise during your trip to the Maldives.

Health Tips While in the Maldives:

Here are the emergency numbers you can contact in case of an emergency in the Maldives:

By following these tips and preparing well, you can enjoy your vacation in the Maldives safely and peacefully.

When deciding to vacation in a country, it is highly recommended to be well informed about the weather or climate that might occur in the destination. It’s also important to know the potential natural disasters that could happen in that country.

The Maldives has a tropical climate, characterized by hot and humid weather throughout the year. However, there are two main seasons in the country:

Temperature and Humidity

The average temperature in the Maldives ranges from 25°C to 30°C year-round. Humidity is high throughout the year, especially during the rainy season.

Although the Maldives rarely experiences major natural disasters, there are some risks to be aware of. Knowing the potential risks allows travelers to be more prepared for any possible emergencies. Below are some natural disasters that could occur in the Maldives:

Preparedness Tips for Natural Disasters:

The Maldivian government has taken steps to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. They have implemented early warning systems for tsunamis and cyclones, as well as enhanced evacuation and disaster relief efforts. Therefore, it is important for you to remain alert and up-to-date with the news and events happening in the destination country.

Tips for Travelers During a Natural Disaster:

By understanding the weather conditions and potential natural disasters in the Maldives, you can plan your trip more effectively and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety during your vacation.