Useful Tips for First Time Travellers to The Maldives

The Maldives is a Muslim majority country. Therefore, there are strict rules to follow outside of the resort islands. When you're not at your resort, be sure to follow these guidelines:
Don't bring alcohol into the country, or consume it on a local, inhabited island. You also won't be able to drink it at the airport, except at the Hulhule Island Hotel, situated on the airport island.
Dress appropriately. Other than on resort islands, you should dress modestly when in public, especially in the capital, Malé. Don't wear shorts above your knees, and for women, it's advisable to bring a scarf or wear long-sleeve tops.

Most travellers spend their whole vacation on their island resort. While that's perfectly acceptable, you can have a more rewarding experience when you visit a local island and experience Maldivian culture. At our Club Med Maldives Kani Resortand Finolhu Villas, we can arrange tours of Malé and also authentic local fishing trips where you can learn more about the local way of life and be inspired by how the locals live.

The Maldives has a lot to offer, and you shouldn't pinch pennies when you're here as that'll ruin your holiday. Instead, do your research, plan for possible tours, activities, and shopping, and prepare a suitable budget. Some top things to do in the Maldives are snorkelling, going on a sunset cruise, and touring the city of Malé. You’ll be guaranteed to have the top experiences that’ll keep you thriving when you make the most of what these islands have to offer.

Be sure to pack lightweight outfits that'll keep you comfortable in the tropical Maldivian weather. If you plan to do a lot of swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving, it's worth packing some of your own equipment with you. For trips to the local inhabited islands, make sure to pack modest clothes like a pair of jeans or long skirts that cover your legs.

While the Maldives has a dry and wet season, with the dry season running from November to April, it's best to be mindful of the weather before you leave your accommodation for any activity. Even in the dry months, it can rain, though rarely and usually not for long. If you're here during the wetter months, showers come more frequently but also tend to not last long.

Whether you stay at a locally owned resort or a private island resort such as Club Med, you'll be doing a lot of swimming and maybe some snorkelling. So bring a good underwater camera to capture the colourful marine life of the Maldives. At our resorts, we provide GoPro cameras that'll allow you to record amazing footage during your stay that’ll remind you of the inspiring experiences you had forever.