MALDIVES
Currently preparing to provide guidance

Various concerns about traveling to the Maldives.

Climate and best season

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

Average Temperature and Rainfall in Maldives (Malé)

Source: Weather Base (http://www.weatherbase.com/)

Cash, cards and currency exchange

・When exchanging currency, it's best to convert to US dollars in Japan first, then exchange to Rufiyaa locally. Among various currencies, the US dollar has the best exchange rate with Rufiyaa. Also, since US dollars circulate within the Maldives, consider the risk of re-exchange and limit the amount exchanged.
・Credit cards can generally be used in most stores, with Visa and Master being common, while JCB is often not accepted.
・Since cards may not be accepted in taxis, stalls, and markets, it's best to use a combination of cash and cards.

Tips

・There is a custom of giving tips.
・Even if 5-12% has already been added, you should give a tip as a token of appreciation when you receive good service.
・It is common to give tips to restaurant waiters and diving staff all at once on the last day.

Public Safety

・The Maldives is a relatively safe country.
・Be cautious of carrying large amounts of cash, wearing revealing clothing, or walking alone at night, as these actions may make you a target for crime. Also, thoroughly ignore persistent people who approach you and leave the area.

Clothing

・For travel attire, it is safe to consider summer clothing as the basic choice throughout the year.
・It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it's reassuring to have a light cardigan or long-sleeved shirt.
・The sunlight is very strong, so having a hat or sunglasses is also convenient.

Things you should bring with you

・Stomach medicine, cold medicine, mobile battery, tissues, wet tissues, insect repellent items, sun protection items, etc.

Visa availability and arrangements

・For tourism purposes, usually, a visa is not required for stays within 30 days. However, you must have a return airline ticket and a hotel reservation.
・If you stay beyond 30 days, you need to apply at the Maldives Immigration Office, and an extension of up to 90 days is possible.

Required vaccinations

・There are no mandatory requirements for travel.
・Hepatitis A vaccine, Hepatitis B vaccine, and Tetanus vaccine are not mandatory but are recommended.