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2Tourism in Maldives: What can I improve?

- visa policy and requirements, how to get there

- currency, how to change

- religion and education

- climate

History
Tourism began in the Maldives in 1972. A United Nations mission on development which visited the Maldives Islands in the 1960s did not recommend tourism, claiming that the islands were not suitable. Ever since the launch of the first resort in Maldives in 1972, however, tourism in Maldives has flourished. The arrival of the first tourist group is estimated to have occurred in February 1972. Tourism in Maldives started with just two resorts with a capacity of about 280 beds. Kurumba Island Resort is the first resort which was opened in Maldives, followed by Bandos Island Resort. At present, there are over 105 resorts located in the different atolls constituting the Republic of Maldives. Over the past few decades, the number of tourists in Maldives has risen continuously. In 2009, local island guesthouses started popping up in the Maldives. This was thanks to a change in regulations that began to officially allow tourists to stay among the local population, rather than just on privately owned resort islands. In 2015, a total of 1.2 million tourists visited the Maldives, and another 1.5 million visited in 2016.

Current work is being undertaken to dramatically boost tourism numbers by constructing another 120 properties, which will include foreign developers such as the Four Seasons. It is estimated that another 100 new islands with 100 to 200 rooms each will be needed to reach a capacity capable of receiving 7.5 million visitors by 2018.

Climate
Tropical climate dominates in the Maldives. It is hot the entire year. It is influenced by south-west and northeast monsoons. The southwest one makes it more windy which can limit tourists from diving, as the sea gets less calm. The northeast brings showers. The driest periods run from January to April. However, the temperatures are stable. The highest it usually gets is 30 °C (86 °F) and the lowest is around 25 °C (77 °F). The Maldives are really humid and the humidity level is estimated to be around 80%.

As it is usual for tropics, sunshine can be followed by rains. Rains are usually short and intense downpour. The rainy period runs from May to December, and the heaviest rains are in June and July. January, February, and March are known for the least amount of rain.

The sunniest months are February and March. These two months are the best for tourists to visit the Maldives. However, even in the rainiest months, the weather remains sunny and warm.

The sea remains warm all year round. The average temperature is 29 °C (84 °F) It can be influenced by tropical cyclones but they usually don't survive.

Land
Maldives is a chain of flat coral atolls consisting of coral reefs and sand bars. There are approximately 1,200 islands. The islands are spread over 34,749 square miles. The highest point is on Willingili island (7,87 feet), and the lowest - Indian ocean (0 feet). The largest island of the Maldives' chain the island Gan, which belongs to Laamu Atoll or Hahdhummathi Maldives.

Coastline: 400.16 miles, 644 km.

Land area: Land divisions: There are 19 atolls within the Maldives, including: Alifu, Baa, Dhaalu, Faafu, Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Gnaviyani, Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Kaafu, Laamu, Lhaviyani, Meemu, Noonu, Raa, Seenu, Shaviyani, Thaa and Vaavu; and the administrative division of Maale.
 * Land - 115 m² (298 km²)
 * Water - 0 m²
 * Total - 115 m² (298 km²)

Population
The current population of the Maldives is 441,669 people based on the latest the United Nations estimates. (March 6th, 2018) There is a high population density, as 1,102 live in one square kilometer. The Maldives are ranked the 175th in the world for population, and 11th for the most densely populated country. This is the smallest Asian country.

The largest city of the Maldives is Male with approximately 63,000 people. It followed by Addu City with 32,000 people and Fuvahmulah with 12,000 people. Ethnic groups consist of: South Indians, Sinhalese, Arabs. Nationality is Maldivian.

Age structure
0-14 years: 21.4% (male 42,871/female 41,162)

15-24 years: 20.21% (male 45,547/female 33,804)

25-54 years: 48.1% (male 106,701/female 82,187)

55-64 years: 5.85% (male 11,312/female 11,667)

65 years and over: 4.45% (male 8,042/female 9,416) (2017 est.)

Government
The Maldives is a presidential republic, with the capital in Male. Therefore, the president is the Head of Government. The Maldives won their independence from the United Kingdom on 26th of July, 1965, and it is now a National holiday. After the referendum, the first constitution was ratified in 1968. It made the Maldives a presidential replica with executive, legislative and judicial branches of the government. The latest change in amendments was made in 2008. The new constitution adopted an idea of multi-party presidential election. Abdulla Yameen is a current president of the Republic of Maldives, and is in office since 2013.

Executive branch
The president is the chief of state and a head of government. Vice president Mohamed Jameel was removed from the office in 2015. The cabinet is appointed by the president and approved by Parliament. The president is elected by a absolute majority vote for five-year term, and is eligible for a second term.

Legislative branch
The Parliament (also called People's Majils) is unicameral, with 85 seats which are elected by simple majority vote for a five-year term.

Judicial branch
Supreme court is the highest court, consisting of the chief justice and four more judges. The Supreme Court judges are appointed by the President with a council of a Judicial Service Commission. Judicial Service Commission is separated and consists of ten members which are selected by high government and people. Appointed judges should be confirmed by voting member of the People's Majils, the Parliament. They serve until 70 years, which is a mandatory retirement.

Economy
The republic's economy is ranked 39th out of 43 Asian countries, its overall score is below average. However, the Maldives' economy has been benefiting from the tourism-related industries and fisheries sectors. The economy highly relies on the flow of tourists. The economic growth slowed down in 2015 because less tourists from China and Russia have visited the republic. In 2015, the president allowed the foreign ownership of the Maldives' land. The republic is also facing the problem of high taxes, low employment opportunities, corruption, and a drug problem.

Agriculture: coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes; fish

Industries: tourism, fish processing, shipping, boat building, coconut processing, woven mats, rope, handicrafts, coral and sand mining.

Language and Religion
The Maldives' official language is Dvihevi, which originated from Intro-Indian group of languages. It is also used in Sri Lanka. Arabic language has been a big influence on Dvihevi, Dvihevi is written in Arabic script. The Maldivian script, called "thaana", was created during the 16th century, as well as Arabic script, it is written from right to left. There are 24 letters in thaana alphabet. In early 1960s, English has become a medium of education. Now, English is widely spoken and used in business, communication, tourism sectors, and government.

The islands accepted Sunni Islam in 1113, and most of their holidays follow Muslim Calendar. Kids are taught Arabic language and Arabic traditions since the early age. Islam is also taught in schools and it s a part of obligatory curriculum. Islam's holy book is called Qur'an, which is believed to be a word of God spoken by Muhammad. "Muslims follow five pillars of their faith: testimony, prayer, alms-giving, fasting, and pilgrimage. These pillars, and other tenants of their faith, can give great structure to their lives as some foods, like pork, are forbidden and every Muslim is expected to pray five times a day."

People are restricted from practicing other religions rather than Islam. They can only do it in private. Religious restrictions are not enforced for tourists. The authorities restrict the freedom of religions, and people are restricted from worshipping or teaching other religions.

Food and Diet
As a country with Islam as official religion, Maldivian do not eat pork. The Maldives are also located in a crossroad in the Indian Ocean, therefore, their cuisine was influenced by travelers and other cultures. Seafood is the biggest food industry of the Maldives, and their main dishes contain fish. However, a lot of travelers brought more vegetables to country, like sweet potatoes. Fruits are also widely used. All new discoveries have become a part of ordinary diet. Generally, Maldives' cuisine consists of Arabic, Indian, Thai, and Sri Lanka tastes.

Customs and Traditions
Legal age for marriage is eighteen, however, most women get married by the age of fifteen. Marriage is only allowed between Muslims. and as a part of Islamic culture, men are allowed to have up to four wives as long as he helps them financially. Polygamy is not common, though. Sex is a big offense. The Maldives have one of the highest divorce rates. Extended facilities usually don't live together.

Maldivians have built a huge respect to elders and those who are educated. They are strongly loyal.

Meat other than pork is eat only on special occasions. Alcohol is not permitted with the exception for tourists resorts. Raa, which is a local beverage, is made of the crown of coconut palm.

People status is delivered mainly from wealth, although connections are also important.

Only 36% of women is employed, and they are usually only employed either by government or in domestic duties within the family. The sectors they usually work are education, health, welfare, services, tourism, communication, and transport.

Tipping is officially discouraged.

Holidays
January 1st - New Year's Day

May 1st - Labour Day

May 16th - First of Ramazan

July 26th - Independence Day

September 11th - Islamic New Year

November 3rd - Victory Day, the defeat of Sri Lankan mercenaries

November 11th - Republic Day, the foundation of the republic

November 20th - Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

December 9th - The Day Maldives Embraced Islam

Visa/Entry Requirements
No visa is required for tourists to visit the Maldives. A thirty day free visa is issued upon the arrival for all Nationalities. Employment, starting any business, or any professional activities are prohibited under this category. To enter the Maldives, tourists should meet following requirements: Some of the requirements may be waived for the following travelers:
 * a valid international travel document issued by a sovereign state's government
 * a valid return ticket and any necessary visas to the place of destination
 * a minimum of 30.00$ per person per day or a confirmed hotel reservation for the intended period of stay.
 * Diplomats
 * UN personnel
 * Persons already approved for employment in the country
 * Technical and other experts attached to the Maldives Government
 * Personnel with confirmed bookings in a registered tourist accommodation in the country
 * Personnel sponsored by Maldivians.

Currency
The national currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) and Laari (L) (1 Rufiyaa – 100 Laaris). The US Dollar is a legal tender. Tourists cannot purchase Maldivian Rufiyaa beforehand. The bills of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 Rufiyaa are available.
 * 1 US Dollar = 15.6649 MVR
 * 1 Euro = 19.3297 MVR
 * 1 GBP = 22.0021 MVR
 * 1 Canada Dollar = 11.9783 MVR
 * 1 Maldivian Rufiyaa = 6.85 Japanese Yens

Key Tourism Niche Markets
Local food industry can enrich tourist experience. They should focus more on food marketing in order to make their products look more attractive than products of their competitors. There can be more economical beneficial if Maldives can create a stronger link between tourism and food industry.

The Maldives' government is also trying to establish more air services. Recently, two new low-cost Jazeera Airways flights from Kuwait to Male were launched. In order to attract even more tourists, government should invest more money in updating the Male International Airport and also expanding it, as new airlines are willing to work with the Maldives.

Visiting islands is also a year-round destination. Even in low season, it is really nice and attractive for tourists, especially from China and Russia. Russians are trying to escape from harsher weather conditions, and they usually prefer private jets. To increase the rate fo their satisfaction, Maldives provide more jets and speedboats to deliver tourists from Male to other destinations. They have the biggest amount of seaplanes operation, with over than 40 of them in work.

Level of Tourism Development
Tourism in the Maldives has started in 1972 with only three hotels, now - there are more than 100 operational resorts. The unique condition of Maldives is that one island is one resort, meaning that one hotel occupies the whole island. By doing so, resorts provide more privacy and more luxury for their visitors. The Maldives are also trying to stay eco-friendly and use more of solar energy rather than diesel. Today, more than 500,000 tourists visit each year. The Maldives provide state-of-the-art facilities and services, entertainment and high-tech telecommunication services, they also provide numerous resorts, hotels, guest houses, and liveboards.

Overview of a typical tropical resort
A tourist resort in the Maldives typically consists of an exclusive hotel on its own island, with its population entirely made up of tourists and work force, with no local people or houses.

Those islands developed for tourism are typically 800 by 200 metres in size, and are composed of sand and coral to a maximum height of about 2 metres above the sea. In addition to its beach encircling the island, each island has its own "house reef" which serves as a coral garden and natural aquarium for scuba divers and snorkelers. The shallow water enclosed by the house reef also serves as a large natural swimming pool and protects swimmers from the ocean waves and strong tidal currents outside the house reef.

The buildings on a typical resort include rooms and suites reserved for use by its guests, restaurants, coffee shops, shops, lounges, bars, discos and diving schools. A portion of the island also contains staff lodgings and support services such as catering, power generators, laundry, and a sewage plant. On-island shops offer a wide range of products, such as souvenirs and artifacts. Most resorts offer a wide variety of activities such as aerobics, volleyball and table tennis.

Tourism workers and employers
Workers in the tourism industry are represented by the Tourism Employees Association of Maldives (TEAM). TEAM argues the 25,000 workers employed in the industry face poor conditions and have very low wages (between US$80 to US$235 monthly) given the cost of living. The employers' organisation is known as Maldives Association of Tourism Industry.

Arrivals by country
Most visitors arriving to the Maldives on short term basis, were from the following countries of nationality:

Transportation Options
The Maldives have four international airport, with the most used one - Velana International Airport, also known as Male International Airport. There are also eight domestic airports.

If tourists decide to travel to their resort right after landing at Male, there are three options for transportation: Exploring the Maldives' atolls are more comfortable by taking speedboats. If tourists want to explore Male, the city can be easily explored by walking. Taking a bus is the cheapest option but taxis are also available.
 * First one, is a seaplane. This is the most expensive option.
 * Second option is to get on a speedboat which is less expensive.
 * Last, taking a supply boat can be the cheapest. This is the slowest transportation option.

Attractions


The Maldives' nature has been attracting tourists from all over the world. Atolls and villas built on them have become a part of people's idea of heaven. Diving is huge, so most of the activities include swimming. You can go dolphin spotting, whale shark watching, diving, and exploring underwater world. Spa is another popular way to spend a vacation.

As an Islamic country, the Maldives have a lot of beautiful Mosques spread all over their island. Male Grande Mosque and Hulhumale Mosque are the most famous ones.



Weather Concerns
The Maldives' economy is greatly influenced by any climate changes. Tourism sector can be damaged by the increased likelihood of violent storms, damage to coral reefs, and beach erosion, which are now more likely to happen because of the rising seas.

As a consequence of climate change, Maldives is now facing the problem of rising seas and coral reefs bleaching. According to the World Bank, with "future sea levels projected to increase in the range of 10 to 100 centimeters by the year 2100, the entire country could be submerged." New government has made a decision to fight the rising seas problem with geoengineering projects instead of trying to move the population. The idea is to rent out other islands and even build new islands, so the population of those islands who are more in trouble could be relocated. One of those built islands is Hulhumale.

It has been also pointed out that some islands can grow naturally.

World Bank states that, "Rising sea temperatures also threaten the coral reefs and cause bleaching and death, with the most severe damage in areas that are stressed by pollutants, or damaged by physical disturbance. Vulnerability to climate change hazards has been magnified by damage to coral reefs which has in turn impaired their protective function, thus a negative cycle of impact."

Ecotourism in Maldives
There is some promotion of ecotourism in the Maldives, with resorts emphasizing recycling of heat that is wasted in producing electricity and stricter policies of waste disposal. Furthermore, the government aims to conserve the natural beauty of the islands before they made into resorts by enforcing laws such as prohibition of catching turtles and reduction in the damage caused to the coral reefs.

Nevertheless, the Maldives have frequently come under criticism for their lack of protection of the local shark populations, which have sharply decreased after being hunted extensively for decades. In some areas, sharks have entirely disappeared. Sharks are hunted primarily for their fins. Shark fins are exported from the Maldives to other countries in Asia, where they are regarded as a delicacy. The fins are amputated from the live animals, which are then thrown back alive into the sea.

Although this practice is prohibited by law in the Maldives, these laws are not respected or enforced by the local authorities.

In 2001, a local environmental organization called Seamarc/Marine savers (known onsite as Reefscapers), set up an ambitious program of reimplantation of coral in damaged areas, on the basis of resort sponsorship. Many thousands of tourist-sponsored "coral frames" have been successfully transplanted in many resort reefs like Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru, and are under close survey by marine scientists; they are a refuge for thousands of tropical species, and help to preserve and recover these fragile ecosystems.

“There are big challenges that come with the advantages of the islands’ tourist assets, however,” said Richard Damania, World Bank Lead Environmental Economist. “The country’s coral reefs, which protect it from storm surges and serve as the main attraction for the tourism-driven economy, are in danger of being damaged or destroyed by poorly handled waste disposal methods.”

Natural beauty of the Maldives
The Maldives are known for their natural beauty including the blue ocean and white beaches, accompanied by clean air. The climate of the Maldives is ideal for visitors to get engaged in water sports such as swimming, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, water-skiing. windsurfing and kite boarding.

The natural beauty of the Maldives attracts tourists all over the world and every year. Its tourism industry is today the Maldives' largest revenue generator.

Due to their extraordinary underwater scenery and clean water, the Maldives is ranked among the best recreational diving destinations of the world, with over 60 local dive sites across the islands. It was also reported to be the world's most desired honeymoon destination, according to a global survey by Agoda.com.

Safety Concerns
The level of crime in the Maldives is low, but some personal belongings left on the beaches or in the hotels can be stolen. Knife crime in populated areas, like the capital Male, has increased. Tourists should also follow local advice on if there is any danger with swimming. Some piracy and armed robbery attacks have also occurred in the area of Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa. A threat of terrorism is possible, the targets can include: government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports, public places, etc.

On February 5, 2018, the government has declared a state of emergency due to the increased protests and aggressive clashes with the police in Malé. Those demonstrations are advised to be avoided.

Socio-Cultural Concerns
Historically, the society was knit and and disciplined. The unity of religion and language contributed to that. Most concerns within the population was connected to the governmental issues, such as an unsteady relationship between the republic and the United Kingdom.

"The government has focused its spending on social services and preventive health services. There is no organized social welfare system. Assistance is traditionally provided through the extended family. Employees are entitled to medical and maternity leave."

Emergency contacts

 * Police: 119
 * Ambulance: 102
 * Fire Department: 118

Tourism on a budget
Until recently, tourism was restricted to resorts built on uninhabited islands where all services are offered on the island, with no contact with the general local population. Guests rarely move away from the resorts, which are managed mostly by foreign multinationals. Thus the resorts make only a small contribution to the local economy. Recently, tourist facilities on islands inhabited by locals have been legalized; this creates new jobs and allows more people to enjoy the gains from tourism.

One example of an inhabited island where "guest houses" are growing is Huraa, situated in Kaafu Atoll, one of the nearest locations to Malè's International Airport (only 20 km), where tourists can stay in a local guest house among island inhabitants.

What to pack
All year round clothing will be the most beneficial while visiting the Maldives. Cotton will prevent someone from getting too hot. Light sweatshirts will be useful during the rainy periods. For the breeze, tourists should pack scarfs, for the excessive sunshine, tourists should bring hats and sunglasses. For divers, pack some underwater shoes.

When to go
As it has been discusses later, January to mid-April are the driest periods and they bring the most sunshine. The tropical climate can produce some short showers any time of the year. Summer is known for the most rains. However, summer tourists can still choose the southernmost islands in oder to avoid the rainy period.