It is believed that the word ‘Maldives’ has its origins in the ancient Sanskrit word ‘malodheep’ which means ‘garland’. Another school of thought suggests it came from the words ‘mal dvipa’ which mean ‘a thousand islands’. Either ways, this stunning archipelago of 1190 islands is truly a visual feast. Whether it’s the pure white sand, brilliant turquoise lagoons or gently swaying palms – this tropical paradise is sure to enthral your senses.
It is also a major scuba diving destination, with enthusiasts coming from all over the world to experience the breathtaking coral reefs and a variety of marine flora and fauna.

History and cultural influences:
The Maldives has been inhabited for at least 2500 years - Maldivian cowry shells have been found among the ruins of the Indus Valley civilization – the oldest civilisation on earth. Buddhism arrived around 300 B.C., when the Indian Moria Emperor Ashoka (238 B.C. to 265 B.C.) despatched his scholars to spread the religion to these islands. In fact, ruins of Buddhist monastic buildings still exist in various parts of the Maldives.

The foundation of Islam was laid in the Maldives when King Sri Tribhuvana Aadheeththya Mahaaradhun (1153 A.D) accepted Islam under the influence of Maulaana Abul-Barakaathi Yoosuf-ul-Barbaree from Morocco. As of that historic 2nd day of the month of Jumaadhal Aakhir in the year 548 A.H., the King assumed the Islamic name of Muh’ammadh ibn Abdullah. He was also called Darumavantha Rasgefanu by his subjects.

The Maldives has, over the years, come under the rule of several foreign invaders – including the Portuguese and the Malabars of India. It finally became a British protectorate on the 16th of December 1887. And gained independence on the 26th of July 1965.

Local Attractions
Malé
The capital city of the Maldives - Malé (pronounced 'Mar-lay'), is just about 2 kilometres long and 1 kilometre wide. Located on North Malé Atoll, it is clean and tidy, with mosques, markets, a maze of small streets and a certain charm all its own.
As Malé is situated at a convenient distance of about 8 kilometres from the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, the resort’s speedboats are available around-the-clock to take you there. A few attractions you mustn’t miss out on:
National Museum: See relics from the erstwhile Sultans’ era.
Sultan Park: Just a few steps away from the museum.

Centre of Islamic Studies and Grand Friday Mosque An imposing white structure with a golden dome, this dominates the city’s skyline.
Hukuru Miski: The oldest among the city’s numerous mosques, it is famed for its intricate stone carvings which go as far back as the 13th century.
Singapore Bazaar: If you’re looking for quality local handicrafts, an assortment of Maldivian and imported tourist knick-knacks, this is the place to go to.

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Travel Information:
Visa and Passport Information:
Visas are required for most nationalities, but are free and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. Visitors must however, possess a passport for the duration of their stay.

Time:
GMT/UTC plus five hours
Visitors are advised to carry light clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sun block. In the rainy season, a waterproof jacket is recommended.

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Getting Around:
Air Maldives, the national airline, has regular flights to the 4 airstrips in the outer atolls. The main form of local transport is the dhoni, a traditional all-purpose vessel usually powered by a diesel engine. Larger boats called vedis are used for longer trips to outer atolls. Most islands are so small that transport is not a problem at all. There are, however, taxis, motorcycles and bicycles in the capital, Male.

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Useful phrases in Dhivehi :
Dhivehi, the language of the Maldives has its own script ‘Thaana’. It was introduced by the great Maldivian hero Thakurufaanu after he defeated the Portuguese in the 16th century.

Some common phrases that may be of use:

List of Holidays: Most of the Maldivian holidays are based on the Islamic calendar – since this is based on lunar cycles, the dates change yearly.

Ramadan (Rorda mas): This month of fasting starts on a new moon and continues for 28 days. This year, it starts on 6 November.

Kuda Id (Id-ul_Fitr): Occurs at the end of Ramadan with the sighting of the new moon. December 5.

National Day: The day when Mohammed Thakurufaan and his men overthrew the Portuguese on Malé in 1578. Celebrated on the first day of the third month of the lunar calendar.

Martyrs Day: Commemorates the death of Sultan Ali VI at the hands of the Portuguese in 1558.

Victory Day: Celebrates the victory over Sri Lankan mercenaries who tried to overthrow the Maldivian government in 1988. November 3.

Republic Day: Commemorates the second (current) republic, founded in 1968. Celebrated in Malé with lots of pomp, brass bands and parades. November 11.

Independence Day: The day the British protectorate ended. July 26.

Fisheries Day: This day recognises the importance of the fishing industry in the Maldivian society and economy. December 10.

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