MaldivesTravel hints

The Maldives have a hot tropical climate. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to October and the northeast from November to April. Generally the southwest brings more wind and rain in June and July. The temperature rarely falls below 26°C (79°F).

Limited Mobile phone coverage in Male and most resorts

When entering from Europe, no vaccinations are required. In general, the country is free of malaria. Diphtheria, polio, hepatitis A and B vaccinations are recommended. You should take out travel insurance.
There are two hospitals on Malé, the Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital and the ADK private hospital. First-aid facilities are available on all resort islands. A decompression chamber is accessible in Malé in case of diving emergencies. Medical treatment in the Maldives can be very expensive and comprehensive health insurance is recommended.

Read more:
www.worldtravelguide.net/country/160/health/Indian-Subcontinent/Maldives.html#ixzz0uUJvdvPm

Tap water is not drinking water. You should only be drinking bottled mineral water, filtered or boiled water. Caution is advised with ice cubes, as they might consist mostly of frozen tap water. Tap water can be used for brushing teeth.

Dhivehi is the official language of the country. The language has its roots in Sanskrit, the ancient language of India. 'Elu', an ancient form of Singhalese, was originally spoken by the people of this country in ancient times.
The language however underwent extensive transformation and took the form of the present day Dhivehi. Dhivehi also has a strong Arabic influence. Dhivehi is written from left to right. The people over here follow the Thaana Script, which was invented in the 16th century. The script bears resemblance with the Urdu script.
English is spoken in most tourist areas and well understood.

The currency of the country is Rufiyaa and Laaree. Most hotels and resorts accept payments by cash, traveller’s cheque and credit cards.
Commonly accepted credit cards include American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners Club and Euro Card.

Electricity in Maldives is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you travel to Maldives with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. It is recommended to bring international adapters. Some liveaboards offer 110V outlets. Please inquire with us for details.

Please remember to bring your certification card with you. All certified divers must present their certification cards in order to dive.

Dive operations in the Maldives offer the possibility to hire dive equipment at extra cost. Please email us for advice. Tanks, weights and air fills are included in all cruise packages.

Please note that many Maldives dive operators have DIN tank fittings. If you have INT fittings on your regulator, make sure you bring an adaptor.

All dive operators promoted by Diversion Dive Travel adhere to very high standards for safety and equipment. A current Diver Evacuation & Accident cover is recommended for all diving arrangements.
For a nominal yearly membership fee, the DIVERS ALERT NETWORK (DAN) provides year-round diver evacuation and accident cover. For more details on membership and insurance options, please contact your regional DAN office according to your area of residence:

North America: www.diversalertnetwork.org
Europe: www.daneurope.org
South-East Asia/Australia/Pacific: www.danasiapacific.org

In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled travel arrangements, Diversion Dive Travel strongly recommends that suitable travel insurance is purchased at the time of booking.
A comprehensive Travel Insurance policy covers any losses suffered as a result of cancellation due to medical circumstances, related medical expenses incurred whilst abroad and cover against loss or damage to baggage and personal items.
Travel Insurance for Australian Residents:
www.diversiondivetravel.com.au/travelinsurance.html