Republic of Maldives
(Maldives)


<p>It delivers on the promise of Eden - to those who can afford its charms.</p>
<p>Resorts in the Maldives woo tourists with promises of 'the last paradise on earth'. If your idea of paradise is a pristine, tranquil tropical island with swaying palm trees, pure white beaches and brilliant turquoise lagoons, then the Maldives won't disappoint.</p>
<p>This group of 1190 coral islands is also a major destination for scuba divers, who come for the fabulous reefs and the wealth of marine life; however, this is not a place for low budget backpackers or amateur anthropologists who want to travel independently and live as the locals do.</p>
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Getting There
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To Do & See
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At a Glance
Getting Around:
<p>Tourism is strictly regulated, and independent travel is discouraged because it is seen as disruptive to traditional island communities. Those wanting to see the Maldivian way of life can visit Mal&#233;, the intriguing capital city, and make daytime visits to island communities close to resort islands. It's not impossible to visit the outer islands, but it's difficult enough to deter all but the most dedicated and determined. An Inter Atoll Travel Permit is required to visit islands outside the tourist zone, and the Ministry of Atolls Administration will only issue them to those whose visit is sponsored by a resident of the island concerned. Even charities working in the country after the 2004 tsunami were unable to get around this rule.</p> <p>Air Maldives, the small national airline, has regular and very scenic flights to the four air strips in the outer atolls, while seaplane resort transfers are operated by Maldivian Air Taxi. Helicopters and seaplanes are used to transfer guests to some of the remoter resorts. The main form of local transport is the <i>dhoni</i>, a traditional all-purpose vessel now usually powered by a diesel engine. Larger boats called <i>vedis</i> are used for longer trips to outer atolls. Safari cruises in modified, live-aboard <i>dhonis</i> are increasingly popular, especially with dive groups who want to reach more remote sites. Most safari trips cruise around the tourist zone, but it is possible to arrange longer trips to the outer atolls - the operator will have to obtain the necessary permits. Most islands are so small that transport is not a problem, but there are taxis, motorcycles and bicycles in the capital.</p>
Weather:
<p>While it's always hot and humid, the southwest monsoon period from May to November see the most rain, storms and the least sun. The other monsoon period is perhaps more friendly: the northeast monsoon or <i>ruvai</i> lasts from December to March, which are quite dry and slightly cooler months. Daytime temperatures hit about 30&#176;C (86&#176;F) all year round and lows average in the low 20&#176;Cs (low 70&#176;Fs). Daytime sea breezes also help take the edge off but nights can be quite muggy.</p>
Dial in code(s):
Country code: 960
City code:960
Ethnic Groups:
<p>Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, African </p>