In the Indian ca. They form the territory of the state of Maldives ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary
In the Indian Ocean. They form the territory of the state of Maldives. * * * MALDIVES MALDIVES, in the Indian ca. They form the territory of the state of Maldives ... encyclopedic Dictionary
Coordinates: 3°47′00″ s. sh. 72°58′00″ E / 3.783333° N sh. 72.966667° E etc. ... Wikipedia
In the Indian Ocean, to southwest from the island of Sri Lanka. 26 atolls and St. 1190 small islands bordered by reefs, including 200 inhabited. Pl. 298 km². Numerous beaches. The climate is monsoon. Average monthly temperatures 24–30 °C. Precipitation approx. 2500 mm per year.… … Geographic Encyclopedia
An archipelago of coral islands in the Indian Ocean, southwest of the Hindustan Peninsula. On M. o. located in the state of Maldives. Port of Male… Great Soviet Encyclopedia
- (Maldive Islands), Republic of Maldives state in the islands of the Maldives arch. in the Indian Ocean b. Brit, colony. The first post office opened in 1906 and Ceylon stamps overprinted "Maldives" were put into circulation. After 3 years of release ... Big philatelic dictionary
IX.12. Maldives- ⇑ IX. SOUTH ASIA … Rulers of the World
This article lacks links to sources of information. Information must be verifiable, otherwise it may be questioned and removed. You can ... Wikipedia
English Mascarene Islands Mascareignes port. Ilhas Mascarenhas ... Wikipedia
Water area ... Wikipedia
Books
- Maldives. Guidebook, Skorobogatko K., editor-in-chief .. "And what is paradise? Yes, yes, dear fellow citizens, we appeal to you, who have gone crazy from the number of problems, lack of time, endless telephone ringing, crazy weather and an anthill ...
- Maldives. Coral marvel in the Indian Ocean, Santa Vikramag. White sand, bright green palm trees and a turquoise sea - this is how we pictured coral islands in childhood. The huts stand on stilts right in the sea, colorful fish poke into the palm of your hand ... However ...
— Island state in southern Asia, in the northern part of the Indian Ocean. There are more than 2000 small islands. Maritime borders lie in the Indian Ocean.
The name of the country comes from the Sanskrit dwipa - "island".
Official name: Republic of Maldives
Capital: Male
The area of the land: 298 sq. km
Total population: 395 thousand people
Administrative division: The country is divided into 20 island groups.
Form of government: Republic.
Head of State: President elected for a term of 5 years.
Composition of the population: 99% are Maldivians (ethnogenesis is not completely clear), as well as Arabs and people from the African continent.
Official language: Maldivian (dhivehi). English language widespread in the capital Male and resorts.
Religion: Almost the entire population professes Sunni Islam.
Internet domain: .mv
Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz
Phone country code: +960
Climate
Tropical marine. Temperature all year round on average, it does not fall below +25 C even at night. average temperature is about +28 C all year round (daytime maximum - about +32 C, nighttime minimum - +25 C). Precipitation is about 2500 mm. per year, and most often in the form of short rains in the evening and at night. The water temperature is also constant - about + 24-27 C all year round.
Best weather observed during the "iruvai" period (from November-December to March-April, the season of the northeast monsoon), when the sea is calm, and the weather is sunny and dry. From May to October, during the "hulhangu" season (April to October), the weather is less predictable - the southwest monsoon can bring intermittent rains, high humidity and rough seas (however, this period is the least hot). Storms and waves are most likely in June and December.
Geography
The island state of the Maldives is located 700 km. southwest of Sri Lanka, in the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean. Two almost parallel chains of islands, bordered by coral reefs, and lying at a relatively short distance from each other, stretch for 820 km. from North to South. In total, there are 1196 islands, forming 26 atolls, of which only 199 are inhabited and about 100 are open to the public. total area country about 90 thousand square meters. km., land - only 298 sq. km.
Flora and fauna
Vegetable world
Forests cover no more than 3% of the area of the islands. Coconut palms grow on many islands, which do not suffer from soil salinization, banana groves and a dense shrub cover, mangroves in some places, and banyan, pandanus and various thorny plants are found in the depths of the islands.
Coastal waters abound with fish. Sea turtles are found, which for a long time were intensively exterminated by the population. Their meat and fat were used for food, and their shells were used for various handicrafts. Currently, turtles are on the verge of extinction and are protected by law. Since 1996, the Million Trees environmental protection program has been in operation. Within its framework, nurseries have been created in which seedlings are grown for further planting on the islands of the archipelago.
The traditional activities of the Maldivians are the collection of kauri shells and the cultivation of coconut palm, which gives copra, vegetable oil and palm leaves. Crops such as rice, taro, millet, corn, sweet potato, and cassava are also cultivated. Of the industries, fish processing is developed.
sights
The Maldives is widely known for its resort atolls, each of which is its own unique world, surrounded by the purest coral beaches and indescribably blue sea. This is a "place at the end of the world", where there is no noise of cities and annoying signs of civilization, where there is only exotic nature and endless expanses of the ocean.
Numerous underwater Coral reefs and caves stretch throughout the Maldives archipelago, lush tropical vegetation emphasizes the pristine and unique beauty islands, and ancient culture local residents creates a unique entourage for a secluded holiday.
Banks and currency
Maldivian rupees (rufiyaas). One rupee is equal to 100 lari. There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 rupees. As well as coins of 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 lari. US dollars and major credit cards, so it is not necessary to exchange dollars for local currency upon arrival.
In Male, banks and exchange offices are concentrated on Marine Drive. They are open from 8.00 to 13.30, from Sunday to Thursday (as in many other Muslim countries, Friday and Saturday are days off in the Maldives). Upon departure, the remaining rupees are allowed to be exchanged back into dollars. Currency exchange can be carried out not only in a bank, but also in a number of large stores, where a special sign hangs next to the signs of international tourist cards.
Useful information for tourists
It is forbidden to drink alcohol in public places (outside resort area). It is recommended to drink bottled water and soft drinks. Although local water is cleaned quite thoroughly (often it is desalinated sea water), it quickly becomes unusable due to high temperatures.
Traditional Islamic norms of behavior are strong in the country, but without the slightest sign of fanaticism. The restrictions are the same as in Oman. Photography is prohibited in mosques. Mosque guards usually insist on accompanying a tourist, expecting to take a fee, but in fact the mosque can be explored on your own. Nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago, with the exception of Kuramati Island. You can bargain in the markets and in private shops, but the size of the "discount" is usually small.
Spearfishing and unauthorized fishing are prohibited (all types of sea fishing are freely organized in hotels), it is strictly forbidden to raise corals (both living and dead), shells and other marine life from the bottom of the sea. Large fines are levied for violations. The country has one of the largest markets in the region selling shells, corals and various exotic marine animals, so you can always buy these souvenirs without violating local laws.
Tipping is not officially accepted, but unofficially, if the service really deserves it, it is customary to leave a small amount to the personally serving worker (10 dollars a week for a hotel worker or 5% for a waiter). Some resorts include a service charge on the bill (usually 10%), in which case tipping is not necessary. In the case of renting a boat or boat, the amount should be discussed in advance.
The Maldives is a scattering of picturesque atolls in warm waters Indian Ocean. Everything here is conducive to bliss: kilometers of secluded beaches, high-class hotels and very beautiful nature. All about the Maldives: diving and surfing, photos, prices, weather and tours.
- Tours for May to the Maldives
- Hot tours to the Maldives
The Maldives, the famous "residents" of the equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean, are rightfully considered one of the best exotic destinations. There are 1190 islands (or rather, atolls) and all of them are like a selection: with blue lagoons, sandy beaches and unique vegetation. There is everything for rest: peace and quiet, beautiful nature, rich underwater world. And also something without which any advantages of any resort immediately fade in the eyes of modern spoiled "tourists" - good hotels and a high level of service.
Prices, I must say, in the Maldives are also quite “at the level”: vacations here can be afforded mainly by travelers whose income level is defined by marketers as “above average”. Having paid a tidy sum for the trip, the following categories of vacationers will be 100% satisfied with their vacation. Maniac divers who dive three times a day. This most trouble-free subspecies of tourists can even live in a barn: they will still be delighted, diving like ducklings from morning to night. Happy married (or out of it) couples who need no one but each other. They can pick up a hotel with the appropriate environment - there are plenty of those on the islands. And, of course, seekers of an absolutely relaxed holiday in the entourage of a tropical paradise.
Time difference with Moscow
2 hours
- with Kaliningrad
- with Samara
- with Yekaterinburg
- with Omsk
- with Krasnoyarsk
- with Irkutsk
- with Yakutsk
- with Vladivostok
- with Severo-Kurilsk
- with Kamchatka
History and legend
According to legend, once life in the Maldives was not at all as cloudless as glossy catalogs inspire us. The sea genie Rannamaari, to the misfortune of the local residents, settled in their territorial waters, demanded regular human sacrifices every full moon, and only in the form of virgins from the island of Male. The poor fellow was taken to a certain temple, and the next morning they were found dead.
But not everything is Shrove Tuesday for the cat: once a traveler from the distant Maghreb, Abdul-Barakat ul-Barbari, arrived on the atoll. The stranger took pity on the girls (whom his compatriots apparently did not care about) and on the full moon he himself sat down in the temple in the place of the sacrifice. All night he read the Koran, and in the morning it turned out that the genie had fled, unable to withstand the power of the holy book. So the women were saved, and the Maldivians converted to Islam to celebrate - so now there are mosques everywhere, a ban on the import of alcohol and no topless (presumably, they are afraid that the genie would not return). However, this did not affect the amazing nature of the archipelago - and hence its attractiveness for tourists.
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Climate
The climate of the Maldives is warm and humid. Air temperature during the day is about +30 °C, at night +26 °C, water +26 °C. Due to its proximity to the equator, seasonal changes associated with the monsoons are almost imperceptible. During the southwest monsoon (May to October) it rains more often and the weather is more windy. The northeast monsoon season (November to February) is considered less humid.
Visa and customs
Police: 119, fire department: 118, ambulance: 102.
Beaches in the Maldives
In the Maldives, all roads lead to the beach: fine white sand, perfectly blue waves, tall palm trees - everywhere you look, pictures from advertising posters come to life everywhere. The coast is almost everywhere wide, spacious, equipped with amenities and umbrellas that save from the scorching sun. Most of the beaches belong to hotels, and the areas accountable to the modest "three rubles" are not much inferior in terms of grooming and comfort to the fashionable five-star zones.
On the Maldivian beaches it is strictly forbidden to sunbathe topless and drink alcohol.
The list of the most famous beaches of the archipelago includes Naladu and Banyan Tree on Male Atoll, San and Nika on Ari Atoll. Turtles nest on the banks of the Laviani, and dolphins splash around the coast of Maafushi. A wealthy public relaxes on the islands of Hadahaa (Gaafu Alif Atoll), Kunfunadu (Baa Atoll) and Veligandu (Ari Atoll). There is an equipped beach even in the capital: of course, it is not as spectacular as the recreation areas on luxury resorts but quite suitable for surfing and sunbathing. And the most vivid impressions will be given by night swimming on the “luminous” beach: underwater microorganisms and luminescent algae on the coast of Vaadu (South Male) shimmer in the dark with blue lights, creating the effect of a starry sky descending to earth.
Diving in the Maldives
The Maldives... how much this word has merged for the diver's heart: comfortable water temperature (+27 °C at a depth of up to 40 m), excellent visibility up to 30 m and, of course, professional dive centers. The disadvantages of the direction include strong currents outside the reefs. best season for scuba diving in the archipelago - the period from January to April, when the weather is sunny and the water is clear. Giraavaru Island Resort, on the North Atoll, has over 20 sites known to divers from all over the world.
For beginners, diving on reefs is ideal: on their inner slopes or inside the atoll. Advanced divers will be interested in the outer surface of the reef (there are amazing ocean fish living in caves with ledges and terraces), but do not forget about strong currents and breaking waves. The underwater coral slides are very interesting - their tops are at a depth of 5 to 25 m, and the base is up to 40 m.
In addition, there are several interesting wrecks in the Maldives, for example, the Victoria cargo ship with the remains of goods brought to the islands or the Chaika steamer, which sank at the end of the 19th century - its hull is completely split in two. Some popular sites: national reserve Embudu with amazingly diverse underwater world, Feliwaru and Halaveli wrecks (here you can see giant rays), Maaya Reef, a cozy channel between the reefs of Fushi, teeming with many inhabitants, Rakido secluded dive site, Guraidhoo Marine Protected Area, Miyaru "shark" site .
Read more about local diving in the article by our permanent expert charming Veronica Birman "Diving without lyrics - 13. The soul of the Maldives".
Surfing
Board riding on the waves is a relatively recent entertainment in the Maldives: only in the late 80s. the first surfers came here. Today, the islands are considered one of the most popular surf spots in the world: it is never crowded (the number of people going out to sea is regulated by a special service), and the waves are just a feast for the eyes: high, stable, and ideally shaped. Lohifushi Island regularly hosts the prestigious O'Neill Deep Blue Open international tournament.
There are 7 popular surf spots in the Maldives, including Sultans, Pasta Point (with the exclusive right to “hire” waves by the Atoll Adventures club) and the so-called “Police Island”. The most wonderful surfing is from June to September, the height of local waves is from 1 to 2.5 m.
Surfing can also be practiced in the capital Male: there is a sandy bottom, and there is no risk of cutting yourself on corals at low tide. True, the landscapes are not as picturesque as in the atoll resorts.
Wedding in the Maldives
A wedding in the Maldives is already a classic, a legend, a standard: there is hardly a more beautiful place to unite two loving hearts. No boring photos from the registry office, no vulgar contests and unfamiliar second cousins on the guest list: only the splash of the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean, the rustle of palm leaves overhead, soft sand under bare feet and flower garlands around the neck.
The combination of bonds of Hymen in the Maldives is purely symbolic: the atmosphere of a tropical fairy tale is more important than a stamp in a passport.
Wedding ceremonies are held in most hotels according to a script worked out to the smallest detail: the newlyweds are preening in the spa, driven on "doni" or horse-drawn carriages to an impromptu altar, showered with flower petals and rice, and touched by the manager's speech. Continuation - a romantic picnic or a cruise on a yacht and the first wedding night in a secluded bungalow with the obligatory champagne for breakfast. More intricate options are underwater weddings (even in a white dress, even in a wetsuit) led by dive instructors and ceremonies aboard seaplanes swaying on the waves. Newly made spouses are awarded certificates, a standard set of services costs from 12,500 MVR, a diving wedding - from 16,500 MVR.
- Which of the atolls of the Maldives to choose for honeymoon
- Maldives or Seychelles: what to choose for a wedding ceremony
Shopping in the Maldives
Lacquered black boxes with yellow, green and red flowers, mats made from local natural palm fiber, miniature traditional fishing boats, scary shark jaws, tender coconut oil, multi-colored shells, sarongs, crafts made of wood and coconut “monkeys” are brought from the Maldives.
Fans of exotic outfits will be interested in national dresses with embroidery around the neck. Fans of large-sized souvenirs should pay attention to traditional drums, including a rather big “bodu-beru”: it is 100% authentic and will give you many unforgettable minutes in the process of being transported to your homeland. From edible souvenirs, it is worth buying such an amazing thing as coconut sausage.
The best choice of souvenirs is in Male, where there are many shops and shops. By the way, you can also profitably buy high-quality foreign-made diving equipment there.
Prices for souvenirs in the Maldives bite, and bargaining is not accepted.
Maldives in the rays of the setting sun
Cuisine and restaurants of the Maldives
The cuisine of the Maldives has borrowed a lot from Indian and Sri Lankan gastronomy: spicy curry sauces, an abundance of spices, the use of a lot of fruits in cooking, and an almost complete disregard for vegetables and herbs. Everything here revolves around two products: fish (especially tuna) and rice, served in different variations with all sorts of gravies and sauces. Among the ways of cooking marine life: grilling, in oil or breading, smoking, drying and boiling. Snack options: the same fish, only in the form of a filling for a variety of pies, butter balls and a fair size kulebyak. Often they are fried to impossibility. Any meal is completed with unleavened bread "roshi" or crispy flatbread "papadu".
It is also worth trying rice dishes with the addition of fish curry and coconut milk. On the fish market In Male or in all kinds of supermarkets, you can buy canned fish (tuna is a favorite among the local public and visitors), dried and dried fish. The traditional drink is “raa” made from palm milk, the local population almost does not drink alcohol (mainly due to religious prohibitions).
Almost all fruits in the Maldives, except for bananas and coconuts, are imported.
It is better to try local gastronomic masterpieces in "tee-shops" - small budget cafes scattered along city streets. Most of the food is concentrated in Male, on the resort islands, 1-2 restaurants are most often open, where they offer a variety of dishes of the Maldivian, European and international cuisines. In the capital, breakfast costs 60-95 MVR, lunch - 105-160 MVR, dinner with wine - 500-800 MVR per person (alcohol is not served everywhere), prices are higher at the "resorts". The bill includes state tax and service charge (10%).
The best photos of the Maldives
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Entertainment and attractions
All the main beauties of the Maldives are located below sea level; there are no special sights on land. There is an unremarkable capital Male (excursion from 40 USD), many uninhabited islands similar to each other, where they like to have picnics (from 35 USD), as well as a kind of "action" - a fishing excursion. Perhaps the only notable surface excursion is the Photo Flight, a seaplane flight over the islands. It costs a lot: for 15-20 minutes in the air you will have to pay about 150-250 USD. Other popular excursions are a yacht cruise (from 80-90 USD) or a submarine dive (from 45-50 USD).
Do you know how an atoll differs from "just an island"? Just in case, we give a certificate: the atoll is coral island in the form of a continuous or discontinuous ring surrounding the lagoon. If you look from under the water, the atoll is likely to be long extinct volcano, on the slopes of which a coral reef once began to grow - yes, it grew so much that it gradually appeared on the surface. But the top of the volcano, on the contrary, over the long centuries collapsed and sank under water. You know the rest: people came from somewhere to the formed ring, built hotels with restaurants and spas, and opened diving centers.
If the soul still requires cultural program, we recommend to visit National Museum on the territory of the picturesque Sultan Park, the Islamic Center under the golden dome and the Presidential Palace in Male. The country's oldest Old Friday Mosque with a unique minaret (1656) and the tomb of Mohammed Takurufanu, legends of national resistance, are also located here. There are ruins of a Buddhist temple from 90 BC on Ari Atoll. e., on the island of Matirah (Haa Alif atoll) - a mausoleum with a sacred tomb, a place of pilgrimage for Muslims.
Holidays and events
The main holidays in the Maldives are patriotic and religious in nature. The most magnificent celebrations take place on Independence Day, July 26: the islanders have fun in honor of the long-awaited exit from the protectorate of Britain and the declaration of sovereignty. On the first day of the month of Rabi al-awwal, the Day of the Nation is celebrated in honor of the liberation from the Portuguese invaders by the troops of Mohammed Takurufanu. On the 12th day of the same month, the birth of the Prophet Muhammad is celebrated.
The end of the holy Ramadan marks Eid al-Fitr: three days of plentiful meals, visits and other amusements. After 70 days, Eid al-Adha arrives with traditional worship and sacrifices. November 3 - Victory Day in honor of the coup d'état prevented in 1988. In the first month of the Muslim calendar, Muharram, religious celebrations are held to celebrate the Islamic New Year.
December 10 is one of the most colorful local holidays: Fisherman's Day with folk festivals and noisy fairs. Adored by foreign tourists New Year(January 1) and Christmas (December 25) arrange bright celebrations in hotels and on city streets: the degree of fun depends only on the thickness of the wallet.
The coast of the Indian Ocean with picturesquely sprawling atolls - Maldives. beautiful nature, high class hotels, beaches that cannot be seen. Maldives is the best exotic vacation for tourists who want to swim in the Indian Ocean. Lagoons with atolls shimmering blue, golden sandy beach, exotic, beautiful flora and fauna, and most importantly, high-class hotels with excellent service.
Not everyone can afford to go to the Maldives, as the prices here are not small. Tickets are not cheap. But having paid such a small amount of money, tourists are usually completely satisfied.
Maldives- this is a paradise for maniac divers who do not get out of the water for days on end. They do not care where and how to live, just to dive. It is also a great place for honeymoon trip
. Memories will remain for the rest of your life. This is a place for those who want to completely relax and forget that there is another life somewhere.
with problems and troubles.
General information about the country
Location
The Maldives, located south of the Indian subcontinent, is a magnificent chain of islands in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, consisting of 26 atolls. The Maldives was once a British colony. Gained independence in 1965.
State capital
Male city
Form of government
The country is ruled by the President. The highest legislative body is the Mejlis.
Religion
Currency
National currency - rufiyaa
Population
In 2017 in the Maldives lives 436 330 people, which ranks 175th in the world. The Maldives has a high population density of 1,102 people per square kilometer, making it the 11th most populous country on earth.
Country phone code
Climate, when is the best time to go
The Maldives has a monsoon subequatorial climate. The temperature fluctuates from + 24 to + 30 degrees all year round. The rainy season starts from June and ends in August.
The best time of the year to visit the Maldives is during the dry season which runs from January to April
Visa and customs regulations
Citizens of the Russian Federation and the CIS are exempted from receiving visas. You just need to apply for a medical insurance policy.
Currency import and export without restrictions. The import of alcoholic beverages into the country is prohibited. This also applies to goods purchased at airport shops.
There are some restrictions forimport products: salami sausage and pork. If the value of the goods is over $200, it must be declared. You can not carry items for underwater fishing. Can't export individuals underwater world country. The ban has been lifted only from souvenirs sold legally.
There is no "Tax free" system in the Maldives
How to get to the islands
The Maldives has one airport at its disposal. It is located at a distance of 2 km. from Male on the island of Hulvle.
From Moscow to the Maldives there are flights from airports : Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, Domodedovo. There are direct flights and with transfers. Ticket prices one way: from 240 to 525 US dollars. Travel time without transfers is 8 hours 45 minutes.
With transfers until 13:00. When departing from the islands, a fee of 25 USD must be paid. Only children under 2 years of age are exempted from the fee.
From Maldives Airport to Male there are ferries, the ticket will cost 15 MVR. For 20 MVR you can on the boate reach other Maldives. They fly to very remote islands on seaplanes. Usually all Maldivian tour operators have their representatives at the airport. They meet and send tourists.
Resorts of the Maldives
Capital of the Maldives Male covers an area of 5.8 sq. km. It can be considered one of the smallest capitals in the world. Located on the island of the same name, it accommodates a third of the population of the entire country. Arriving travelers are amazed at the views of skyscrapers and highways. The main embankment is also the central street of the capital. Here government buildings, banks and offices various firms. The city is divided by a square with moorings. On the one hand, this is the presidential pier. On the other hand, ferries leave for the airport. But around reigns a real paradise from exotic islands for which tourists travel. All other islands are for rent.
Islands, their features and why they are remarkable
Most best entertainment on the islands - diving. The beauty of the seabed and clear water attracts a huge number of fans of this sport. The main territories of the islands have not yet been developed. Only 28 of them have been turned into expensive resorts.
- Ari Atoll
Tourists are treated very carefully here. There is plenty to do: windsurfing, snorkeling, jet skiing, canoeing, catamarans, diving, scootering and diving.
- Vaavu
A huge number of small islands, but only 5 of them are available for tourism. The population is 2000 people. Archipelago - untouched nature and amazing underwater world. Here you can watch stingrays, see reef sharks, hammerhead fish and many other representatives of the underwater world. All these pristine charms attract a large influx of tourists.
- Laviani
Amazingly beautiful atoll. Beautiful place for scuba diving. The ledges of reefs from the water are overgrown with coral formations. Ocean water abounds with tropical fish. You can see moray eels and large sharks. These are 63 small islands. Its length is 30 km. There are 2 hotels, a small hotel and a luxury hut. Wealthy tourists like to spend their holidays here.
- Miimu
Miimu - size in length - 47 km. Fantastically beautiful and almost uninhabited. The surface of the ocean is a silvery ocean surface, the islands are green, amazing customs, very tasty food. Miimu is shaped like a shark's jaws when they are open. It has a huge number of places where no human foot has yet set foot. It naturally attracts lovers active tourism. Despite some wildness of nature, it is fully equipped to receive tourists. It has everything, including a diving center.
- Siinu atoll
Siinu Atoll is almost the equator. Includes a large number of coral islands. Six islands are inhabited. They are connected to the ocean by straits. Once there was a naval base here.
- Gan Island
Gan Island is famous for its airport, which operates daily flights to the capital.
- Hitadu Island
Hitadhoo Island, which is the second largest city, has a highway. For the island - this is an unprecedented rarity.
- matirah
Matirah (Matheerah) - a skeleton with an ancient mausoleum, which houses a sacred tomb. Sufi Muslim pilgrims come here. "Noble" - that's what they call him in the Maldives.
- Oh well
The hotels located here can be reached by seaplane. It will take about 45 minutes. Here pure water, amazing flora and fauna. Many reef rocks, it is better to dive with an instructor.
- Male
Locations of 3 top class hotels. The island is not big, there are not very many places to visit with excursions. This is understandable, since they come here on vacation. But, there is something that needs to be looked at.
Mosque "Good Friday" is the main attraction. The mosque with a golden dome is visible when the plane is landing. Orthodox Christians are allowed to enter. Women need special clothing. If you go up to the second floor you need to take off your shoes. Historical National Museum located in beautiful building. The exhibits in the museum are personal belongings of the sultans, outfits, jewelry, coral sculptures, and weapons.
Monument with a closed code to the victims of the tsunami. Erected in memory of the victims of the prices in 2004. It is a spiral wrapped around the stele. It is very reminiscent of DNA molecules, which are characterized as something eternal and living. So the sculptor wanted to show that people remember the dead and they are always alive in their hearts. They mourn for them. Friday Old Mosque erected on the remains of the foundation of the temple of the pagans. Its architectural design is an interweaving of Hinduism and Islamism. At the entrance, a minaret resembling a lighthouse in shape. The sultans and their entourage are buried nearby. Everyone is allowed in, but not during prayer. The blocks of the mosque are made up of corals, which are ideally
fitted to each other. No type of mortar was used during construction. This is not fake surprise!
Timu Palace. The place where the country's first sultan was born. In 1986 it was restored and opened to the public. It is a place of pilgrimage for local nationalists.
National cuisine of the Maldives
Tourists coming to the Maldives eat fish with rice and sauce. Rarely dare to try the traditional Maldivian cuisine. Such an experience can be an excursion to the capital of the country, where you can try national dishes of local cuisine in restaurants.
Fish is the main dish in the Maldives. This is not surprising when you consider that the entire island is an ocean.
Most of all, the islanders love tuna. This is their main dish. It can be fresh, boiled, dried, cured, smoked or canned. There is no gas in the houses here. Cooked on wood-fired stoves. To prevent smoke from entering the house, the kitchen is separate from the main living space.
It is hardly worth listing the names of local dishes. You still don't remember them. Let's focus on the main products from which these dishes are prepared. These are coconut, onion, chili, lime juice, maize, salt, flour. Various types of cakes and fillings are very popular here. The products listed above are placed inside, the dough is pinched and baked, as we bake pies in a frying pan.
They love tuna broth here. Tourists are happy to eat it as a first course. The islanders use this broth when stewing rice, to which they add coconut milk, lime, chili and onion. There is also concentrated tuna paste in the diet of local residents here. It is used to prepare dishes from already cooked rice. This dish is called here - rihaakuru. You can buy it ready-made in the store and try it on bread. That is, make yourself a sandwich.
There is a dish here, which is prepared from dried fish and curry sauce. It's terribly sharp. Rice is also a staple food. Breadfruit is also used. Breadfruit is cut, fried and considered a snack. Taro and sweet potato are local vegetables. They are also widely used in the local diet. Chicken - this should already be some kind of big celebration: a wedding, a religious holiday.
Eating in the Maldives is traditional - thinly sliced nuts, betel leaves, pasta are served. All this you just need to chew. The locals believe that this chewing aids in digestion. This is such a tricky meal. For us, this is just the perfect diet.
Who wants to lose weight, get ready for the Maldives. Such a diet, plus swimming, lying in the sun, trips around the country, diving with a mask and kilograms, as it happened.
Local drinking water is not suitable for drinking by our standards, so buy purified drinking water.
Some drinks in the Maldives are locally prepared. Coca-Cola is produced here by refining sea water on special equipment. They also produce their own mineral water. If you want something stronger, then you can only afford it in the bars in the resorts. Alcohol is not sold in stores. You will also be pleased with the food to which we are all accustomed.
Based on the foregoing, the Maldives can be safely attributed to heavenly place for recreation, it is inapplicable that any person who loves beach holiday and privacy with nature.
brief information
The Maldives is probably the most remote corner of Asia, but despite this, every year hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world fly there to enjoy their holidays in this exotic paradise world. Be prepared that in the Maldives you will be met by the warm Indian Ocean with clear water (in which you will see amazingly beautiful corals), as well as snow-white sandy beaches surrounded by groves of coconut palms and fruit trees.
Geography of the Maldives
The island state of the Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, about 700 km southwest of Sri Lanka and 400 km from India. The Maldives covers the territory of 26 atolls. The total area of this country, including all the islands (and there are more than a hundred of them) is 298 km2.
On the Maldives no mountains. In general, the most high point The Maldives does not exceed 2.4 meters. Also, there are no rivers and lakes in the Maldives.
Capital
The capital of the Maldives is Male, which is now home to more than 100 thousand people. Male was built in the Middle Ages as the residence of the Maldivian sultan.
Official language of the Maldives
The official language in the Maldives is Dhivehi, belonging to the Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family.
Religion
The majority of the population of the Maldives are Sunni Muslims.
State structure of the Maldives
According to the current Constitution, the Maldives is a parliamentary republic. Its head is the President, who has been elected for 5 years since 2008. The President appoints the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet of Ministers.
The parliament in the Maldives is unicameral - the People's Majlis. Deputies of the Mejlis are also elected for a 5-year term (their number may vary).
Climate and weather
The climate in the Maldives is subequatorial monsoonal. There are two periods of monsoons - northeast monsoons (dry season) from November to March and southwest monsoons (rain) from June to August. In other words, the dry season in the Maldives lasts from November to April (March and April are the hottest months of the year), and wet season runs from May to early November.
The air temperature in the Maldives ranges from +23C to +33C, and tends closer to +30C.
Air temperature in the Maldives (average):
January - +27C
- February - +28C
- March - +29C
- April - +29C
- May - +28C
- June - +28C
- July - +28C
- August - +28C
- September - +27C
- October - +27С
- November - +27C
- December - +27C
Ocean
The shores of the Maldives are washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean. The sea temperature near the Maldives ranges from +24C to +33C, so you can swim there all year round.
History of the Maldives
The Maldives was formed 65 million years ago as a result of the eruption of underwater volcanoes. The first people in the Maldives appeared 4 thousand years ago (they were sailors sailing along Indian Ocean). The Maldives was settled by people from Sri Lanka and India, and later by Arabs.
From about the middle of the 12th century, Islam began to spread in the Maldives.
Since the middle of the 16th century, Europeans (Portuguese, Dutch and British) have made numerous attempts to colonize the Maldives. In the end, in 1887, the Maldives came under the protectorate of Great Britain.
It wasn't until 1965 that the Maldives gained independence.
culture
On the culture of the inhabitants of the Maldives big influence rendered by Indian culture as well as Islam. Since Islam is the main religion in the Maldives, it is clear that locals celebrate all Muslim holidays (Eid al-Adha and Kuda Eid).
In addition, there are national holidays in the Maldives - Independence Day (July 26) and Republic Day.
Kitchen
The cuisine of the Maldives was formed under the influence of Indian and Arabic culinary traditions. The main food items are fish (mainly tuna), rice, seafood, vegetables, and of course spices (due to the proximity of Sri Lanka and India). In addition, Maldivian cuisine cannot be imagined without coconut.
Coconut is the main ingredient in most local desserts. The people of Maldives often make various sweet puddings.
The main soft drinks are tea with added milk and sugar, as well as coffee, palm juice and sweetened milk.
From fermented palm milk, the inhabitants of the Maldives make a low-alcohol drink.
If you do not like Maldivian cuisine, then any restaurant local hotel will offer a variety of international dishes.
Attractions Maldives
The Maldives is a small island nation located on 26 atolls. The largest of them is Male, whose population exceeds 100 thousand people. It is clear that there are very few attractions in the Maldives. However, in this country there are places that you should still visit.
To imagine the history of the Maldives, we recommend that tourists visit the National Museum of Male. It contains artifacts that reflect all eras of the history of the Maldives. This museum is part of Royal Palace built in the 17th century.
Pay attention to the Hukuru Misky Mosque in Male. It was built in 1656. The interior of the mosque is famous for its wood carvings. One of its panels was carved in the 13th century to commemorate the introduction of Islam into the country.
Cities and resorts
Most Big city in the Maldives, its capital, Male, is now home to more than 100,000 people.
The Republic of Maldives is located on 26 small atolls. As a rule, one hotel is located on each atoll. Please note that some of the hotels specialize in spa services, combining Asian and European spa programs.
The white sandy beaches in the Maldives are considered some of the best in the world. The Maddives are literally "immersed" in corals. Therefore, tourists in those places where coral reefs come close to the shore are advised to swim in special sandals.
You should know that you can be topless on the beaches of the Maldives only on one island - Kuramathi. Drinking alcohol on the beaches is also prohibited.
Legislation Republic of Maldives prohibits the collection of corals and any marine life.
Maybe, best beach The Maldives is located on the South Ari Atoll. We are talking about Nalaguraidhoo beach. In addition, pay attention to the beaches on the islands of Banyan Tree Island, Nika and Cocoa Island.
The Maldives are considered great place for diving. This is quite expected, given the presence in this region of a huge amount of corals and amazingly beautiful underwater world.
Souvenirs/Shopping
After a holiday in the Maldives, tourists usually bring home handicrafts, bright local fabrics, rugs with original patterns, black coral jewelry, and stamps. Make sure that the souvenirs you buy are really made in the Maldives, and not in Thailand and Indonesia.
Office Hours
Weekends in the Maldives are Friday and Saturday.
