The Maldives (Malé - 115  sq.mi - 300000 hab.)

General Information

Area: 115 sq mi
Population: 300,000

Flight duration

The Maldives

Time difference

The Maldives

Airport information

The Maldives

The Malé International Airport lies on Hulule Island, 600 m away from the capital. You have only one option to reach the capital, by boat or ship. If the vessel is shared, the journey by Dhoni costs 60p. If not, expect to pay around £4.

Security

The Maldives

Theft is rare, but keep your valuables in a safe place at the hotel. Divers should beware of stonefish and moray eels. The venom in the dorsal spine of the stonefish is lethal and morays can cause dangerous bites when they feel attacked. Also, do not touch the coral to avoid stinging burns.

All of the editorial team’s advice

The Maldives

Instead of taking a seaplane to the atoll of your choice, go for a Dhoni cruise. These traditional boats can take up to 8 passengers on average and offer enough comfort for the duration of the cruise (1 to 2 weeks). If you do not have too much time, go for at least a 1-day cruise by dhoni. In this case, head straight to Dunikolhu, in the atoll of South Maalosmadulu (77 miles to the north-west of Malé) and discover the lagoon by traditional boat: here ;you will get a close look at dolphins, turtles and see frigate birds gather into swarms at sunset.

Telephone

The Maldives

To call the Maldives from the UK, dial 00 + 960 + the number of the person you are calling.
To call the UK from the Maldives: dial 00 + 44+ number, without the initial 0.