The time has come for our next adventure!  We are headed to the Maldives.  This trip is like no other; it is our longest flight, a dream vacation, but also during a  world wide pandemic. We will try to take you through the good and the bad of traveling during this time.  Another note for this trip, we used A LOT of points to make this trip extra special.  We have been saving them especially for this trip.  What we experienced was extravagant, but please do not let that keep you from exploring  the Maldives.  There are many ways to travel that allow you to experience this beautiful destination on a budget.

Preparing to Travel 

Traveling internationally has always required preparation: what money do I need, do we have the right adapters, what are the cultural norms we should abide by, but now we also add what are the COVID restrictions for your own country, your transport country, and your final location.  Many travelers do not adequately prepare for international travel, and it shows.  It is important to understand where you are traveling and to respect the people and cultures you will experience.  For the Maldives, here is your go to checklist to get you started.

COVID (As of March 2021, this could change at any time)

  • You must wear your mask at all times, every airline was very strict and expects compliance
  • The Maldives currently requires a lab PCR test completed 96 hours prior to your first departure city
  • The Maldives has a required online health assessment, that is only good for 24 hours.  You must fill out the assessment before you leave and then again before you enter the country.  You will also need to complete it when leaving the Maldives
  • You must present a paper copy of your PCR test, online assessment QR code, and hotel reservations when checking in at the airport
  • If your layover is in Doha, the restrictions are VERY strict, you will not be able to leave the airport, even if you have an extensive layover
  • The United States requires a lab PCR test to enter the country.  Most, but not all, resorts offer a PCR test.  You need to check with your resort before booking.  If they do not offer one, you will need an overnight in Male to have one completed.
  • Travel insurance is a must.  Dave and I do not usually buy separate insurance because our credit card has wonderful coverage, but this trip we bought additional coverage.  You could potentially be stuck in the Maldives for 2 weeks, this would be very expensive without insurance.
  • Our top tips for insurance
    • Make sure the insurance covers due to COVID/pandemic, a number of insurance carriers are no longer carrying if you are impacted by COVID
    • Insurance can get very expensive if you want it to cover the whole cost of your trip.  If you only select coverage that covers illness and returning home, the cost is relatively low, usually less than $200

Money

  • The Maldives uses US Dollars in almost all locations.  There will be no reason to convert your dollars.
  • Most resorts will include a 10% service charge, this is meant to cover tipping.  You should check with your resort prior to travel to determine how much cash you may need.
  • While tipping will most likely not be required, it is still appreciated.  We always plan for additional tipping for luggage porters, butlers, your favorite bartender, and housekeeping.
  • Most locations accept NFC.  You should always use NFC (Apple Pay/Google Pay) when it is available. This is the safest form of payment.  No one should ever take your card.  In Doha and Maldives, they use the portable credit card machines as a standard.

Airports and Traveling

Traveling to the Maldives is no easy feat.  You need to be prepared for the long haul.

  • Make sure to bring extra battery backups to charge everything.
  • You will need D and G outlet converters.  Make sure you have at least one of each.
  • Blood clots are a real thing.  Take a baby aspirin every 24 hours and wear compression socks (you will thank me later).
  • Do not pack any medication in checked baggage and bring everything you think you will need.  Doha did have a pharmacy, but you may have a hard time finding ibuprofen or antacid when you need it most
  • Pack a small hygiene kit, toothbrush, deodorant, body wipes, etc., getting refreshed goes a long way on long flights
  • Bring a change of clothes.  The Maldives is on the equator, you do NOT want to be in winter clothes when you step off the plane in Male
  • Check in to a lounge and enjoy the benefits. You will have access to free food, alcohol, showers restrooms, and quiet spaces.
    • If you are in business or first class lounges this will be included.  Most platinum travel cards now include the Priority Pass, that will let you have access.  Your last resort, pay for the time.
  • There is a Hyatt in the Doha airport.  It is about $150.  If your layover is 8 hours or more, you will be so glad you spent the money.

Culture and Travel Etiquette

Understanding the culture of your final destination, and the stops along the way is very important.  Respecting where you are going is part of being a good international citizen.  There is also travel etiquette that you should follow no matter where your travels take you.

  • Learn to speak in a lower voice.  Americans are LOUD.  You probably don’t realize this at home, but abroad we stick out, and not in a nice way.  Talk in quieter tones, lean into your travel partners, don’t shout across a room.
  • Step out of the way.  Don’t block traffic while you try to find that confirmation number or check the map again.
  • Turn off the sound on your phone and use earphones.
  • The Maldives and Qatar are Muslim countries.
    • You may be confronted with norms that make you uncomfortable. It is important to remember that you must respect their culture while you are there, this is especially true for women.  Overall the airports are fairly progressive, since they are use to international travelers, but you should always be prepared.
      • Women should cover their shoulders and knees at all times.
      • In the airport and at the resorts you do not have to cover your head, but bring a hijab and learn to wear it correctly. You might find yourself in a situation that makes wearing it necessary.
      • Men will be addressed first or be the only one addressed.  Your partner may need to order for you in restaurants or speak for you in certain situations

Now that we are prepared, it is time to explore our amazing destination.  Maldives here we come!