1. The Maldives is made up of 1,200 islands
More like 1,190 islands to be more exact enough for anyone’s Maldives travel adventure. The number of islands is hard to keep track of because many islands are formed and submerged from year to year due to the ocean’s patterns and climate change. Also, many islands may be formed for the creation of airports and resorts.
200 islands are resorts! Although that is a LOT of resorts its means the rest of the 1,00 islands are local and mostly inhabited.
2. The Maldives lost nearly 60% of coral reefs in the 2016 El Niño event
Crazy! When I first came here I expected to see every reef to be full of colors and life, unfortunately, that is not the reality. From tourists stepping on the reefs, harmful chemicals released into the ocean from sunscreen to runoff, damage from anchors, unsustainable fishing, and of course climate change, are all examples of why I did not see this. There are still many areas that are as full of life as seen in the movies but not as common as you think.
3. One of the only places in the world where you can spot a whale shark year round!
It is the number one thing on my bucket list! To see a whale shark would be so amazing and special for a marine life freak like me. There have been numerous sightings in Baa Atoll due to the high number of marine protected areas in this atoll. They are also usually spotted in more southern atolls.
4. Manta rays???
The Maldives also contains the largest population of reef manta rays in the world! Crazy! So, you have a pretty high chance of seeing these elegant creatures during your Maldives travel experience. They are constantly moving from atoll to atoll due because they follow the plankton patterns throughout the year.
5. The Maldives is an Islamic culture
The official religion of the Maldives is Islamic. It is also one of the only countries to have a 100% Islamic community. If you get a chance to visit a local island, do it! It is a great way to experience its beautiful culture. Everyone is very kind and loves taking selfies with you.
6. Attitudes towards Females are quite different than in westernized culture
All females are covered from head to their feet since the community is 100% Muslim. As a tourist on a local island, you do not need to cover your head but it is highly encouraged to cover your shoulders and knees to respect their culture. Females are also not allowed to smoke in public and public displays of affection are not permitted.
7. Alcohol is illegal in the Maldives
This is important if you are traveling with a special bottle of liquor in your bag because they will confiscate it at the airport. Resorts are the only ones allowed to import alcohol, so don’t worry too much! This is in addition to any pork products or religious items that are more than for personal use.
8. Dhivehi is the national language
Mmainly influenced by Arabic the national laungaue It is an Indo-Ayran language. I personally, love to listen to dialogue in Dhivehi and have begun learning. My learning includes a very small word bank that includes stingray, sea turtle, thank you, and …. Well, I will work on it 🙂
Check out these post for your Maldives travel experience!
Pin it for later!
Edit like Me!
Check out preset packs below to edit like me!
