A typical first trip here runs about $1,550 to $2,100 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Mas huni, shredded tuna with coconut and onion; the traditional breakfast
- Garudhiya, clear tuna broth with rice, lime, and chili
- Fresh seafood is excellent: yellowfin tuna, snapper, lobster
- Roshi, thin unleavened flatbread eaten with curries and fish dishes
- Resort dining is world-class; overwater dining experiences are unforgettable
- Ramadan, deeply observed; eating in public during daylight is discouraged
- Eid celebrations, the whole country celebrates with prayers and feasting
- Bodu Beru, traditional drum performance unique to the Maldives
- Independence Day (July 26) and Republic Day (November 11)
- Coral reef protection, the Maldives leads global ocean conservation efforts
Dhivehi is the national language. English is widely spoken in resorts and Malé.
The Maldives is 100% Muslim, be aware of religious customs. Most visitors stay in resort islands where Western customs are more accepted.
- On local islands: dress modestly, no alcohol, respect Muslim customs
- On resort islands: typical beach resort rules apply
- Never touch or stand on coral reefs, they are living habitats
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated by resort staff
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Updates for Maldives will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.