MALDIVE DIVING HOLIDAYS

The Maldives compromise of 7000 low-lying coral islands in a 1200-mile chain Southeast of India. About 200 of the islands are inhabited (although visitors have very little interaction with the 175,000 predominantly-Muslim residents), and several are devoted entirely to small resorts that offer average to excellent tropical reef diving with big fish action if the resort has a knowledgeable staff that knows where and when to find it. However, the Maldives are best dived from live-aboards to get to the pristine dive sites in the more remote locations.

The Maldives themselves fit the archetypal image of tropical desert islands, white sandy beaches backed by abundant palm and breadfruit trees, azure blue skies and lagoons filled with the crystal clear waters that this part of the Indian Ocean is famed for. Above and below the water the Maldives are truly a tropical paradise that few places on earth can match and one which has fascinated both divers and snorkellers since the islands were discovery as a diving destination. On the remote dive sites this diversity of life is further aided by the currents that can at certain times and places be quite strong and as such require divers to be qualified to at least the advanced level.

GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION.

On arrival: 30-day holiday visas are granted free of charge on arrival. If you are bringing a great deal of photographic or diving equipment with you, it is advisable to bring a list with details such as serial numbers in order to avoid delay at customs.

Weather: The climate of Maldives is warm year round, determined by the monsoons. However, being on the equator, the monsoons are mild and not as defined as in neighbouring countries. Of the two monsoons, the Southwest monsoon from May to October brings some rain and wind. The Northeast monsoon, from November to April, is the dry season with very little wind. The temperature varies little with an annual average daily maximum of 32 degrees Celsius and the minimum at 26 degrees Celsius. The water temp. is between 28 - 30 C, a 3mm wet suit is usually ideal!

Customs: Alcohol, pork, images or worship and pornography are prohibited. Alcohol is available at resorts and on safari boats.

Currency: The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa(RF). US dollars, travellers cheques and credit cards are accepted in most tourist places. Generally at your resort your signature will cover your daily expenses with the bill settle at reception on check out.

Health: Tetanus and Polio is recommended, please check with your doctor for the latest advice. Some island have there own hospitals or medical centers. There is a recompression chamber on Bandos Island for emergencies.