Maldives Currency:

The official currency in Maldives is Maldivian rufiyaa. One rufiyaa is equal to 100 laaris. Banknotes are issued in denominations of MVR500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5, while coins come in MVR1 and 2, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaris.

Credit Cards:

In Maldives Credit cards are widely accepted as a form of payment. All the major credit cards are widely used in hotels, restaurants, tourist shops. Even foreign currency like Euros and Sterling are accepted in Maldives.

Maldives Currency Exchange:

Travelers don’t need to worry about the currency they are carrying with them. In Maldives currency exchange is a quick and a hassle-free process. Cash and cheques can be exchanged in hotels and hotels at best rates.

Maldives Tourist Information Offices:

The Maldives Tourism Promotion Board is the body that caters to the needs of tourists. Its main office is located in the island capital of Malé.

Address: 3rd Floor H. Aage, 12, Boduthakurufaanu Magu

Malé, Republic of Maldives

Visa and Passports:

Tourists with a valid passport valid for at least six months are granted a stay of up to 30 days in Maldives.

Maldives Language:

The official language spoken in Maldives is Dhivehi. Even English is widely spoken. French, German, Italian and Japanese travelers can easily find efficient guide in the tourist area.

Maldives Customs and Traditions:

Maldives people are warm and loving. A handshake is the most common form of greeting when meeting a local. It is accompanied by the Arabic expression ‘Assalaam Alaikum’.

Maldives have a strict approach towards the tourists who try to harm the natural environment of the country. No one is permitted to take coral, tortoise shell or other marine species out of the country.

Tourists are not allowed to bring alcoholic drink into the country or even purchase it prior to the arrival.

Read more

Travel during these troubled economic times might come with its unique challenges. For some travel to visit close family is a must despite the economic situation. A new born baby, a sick family member, an special family occasion, these are events which cannot be missed, come what may. However, even when travel is not mandatory, the current economic scenario presents many good opportunities to travel.

Airlines are slashing their fares, hotels have also reduced their rates, and package tours and cruises are significantly cheaper now. Ironically, this might be a very good time to travel overseas, see new places and visit friends and family in different parts of the world.

Here are some tips to make your travel memorable for all the correct reasons. Although it is not possible to anticipate every contingency, the following steps will ensure a happy holiday.

1. Become familiar with the local language and cultural mores:

As you start your overseas journey, it helps to read about and understand as much as possible about the destination. While it is hard to overnight learn a new language, it definitely helps to learn a few important phrases. The local people will appreciate your efforts in trying to speak their language. Also, it do try to learn about the history of the region, the local customs and traditions, your travel experience will be richer as you will better appreciate the place and the people.

2. Choosing and staying in hotels:

Be prudent while selecting the hotel to stay. While it is exciting to go off the beaten track, unless you are comfortable with the security of the place, stay in hotels with many tourists and in safer areas of any city. Upscale hotels usually have better security. Staying on lower level floors is safer in the event of fires. Use the main entrance if returning to your hotel late at night. Be observant before entering parking lots. Do not open your room door without verifying the identity of the person. Do not invite strangers to your room and keep your room door locked at all times. Make yourself familiar with the location of fire escapes, stairways, exits and alarms. Inform the authorities immediately on seeing any suspicious activity or object.

3. Local travel issues:

Try to get a mobile phone which works in your destination. It helps when you arrive in a new destination to organize your travel from the airport prior to arrival. Do not use vehicles without proper licensing or one which does not pick you up from the designated area. If you are renting a car, get maps in advance and have written directions to your destination. If you need to stop for directions, go to brightly lit public areas. Keep the contact numbers of your destination and any contact people with you. Be familiar with the local driving rules. Ensure that the car is locked while driving. Do not pic Read more

I am traveling to Spain this summer. I sort of know the language, but I would like to know customs and traditions.