5 Maldives travel tips

Making plans for your holiday in the Maldives and looking for tips for a worthwhile Maldives travel itinerary? Look no further. Here are five things to keep in mind while travelling to the Maldives.

1. THE ISLANDS ARE FAR APART

The Maldives consists of over 1,200 islands scattered in the Indian Ocean for 822 kilometres from north to south. Some 150 are resort islands exclusive to registered guests; some are another domestic or seaplane flight away from the Male International Airport, some are easy to reach by a brisk speed boat ride. Baros Maldives is only 25 minutes by speed boat from the airport and is a privately owned boutique island resort with 75 beachside and over-water villas. Guests bound for Baros are met by a resort representative on arrival at the international airport and escorted to a waiting speedboat. So within an hour of touch down, you can be relaxing in your luxury villa on Baros Maldives and soon enjoy your first Maldivian sunset.

2. DO NOT BRING ALCOHOL

Visitors are not allowed to bring alcohol, even if purchased duty free. Bottles will be confiscated by customs. But don’t worry! Most resorts have bars and a wide variety of liqueurs, beers and wine from all over the world. At Baros Maldives not only are there are three bars and restaurants, every villa also has a well-stocked mini-bar and a wine chiller with sommelier-selected wines. You can also share your preferred wine or beer selection pre-arrival and the team will make sure your favourites are on stock for your arrival if available.

3. TRAVEL LIGHT

You’ll only need beach wear and smart casual outfits so travel light. However, pack any prescription medicines you have to take and sun block, as the islands are near the Equator and the sun can burn sensitive skins. At Baros Maldives there is a small boutique with some emergency items. There is also plenty of reading material and movies available, snorkelling and diving equipment can be hired from the Baros Marine Centre.

4. CASH AND CREDIT CARDS

You won’t need cash at a resort like Baros Maldives as everything can be charged to your credit card. Most common credit cards are accepted, but be sure to inform your card issuer before you travel that you plan to use your card in the Maldives. The local currency in the Maldives is called Rufiyaa and is mostly used on local islands and the US Dollar is commonly accepted in all resorts as well as the airport in Male.

5. BOOK RESORT ROOM RESERVATIONS IN ADVANCE

You don’t need to apply for a tourist visa in the Maldives, but you may need to prove to the immigration officer at the airport on arrival that you have a confirmed booking at a resort so make your holiday reservation before you travel to Maldives. To stay at Baros, you can do this easily on-line at www.baros.com. Make sure your passport is valid for at least another six month once you enter the country.