Maldive Language
Dhivehi is the language spoken in all parts of the Maldives. English is
widely spoken by Maldivians and visitors can easily make themselves understood
getting around the capital island. In the resorts, a variety of languages
are spoken by the staff including English, German, French, Italian and
Japanese.
Maldive Health
Health care facilities are improving almost on a daily basis. The Indhira
Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’ is the biggest hospital
in the country providing sophisticated medical care. ADK Hospital is the
biggest private health care facility and follows high medical standards.
Some resorts have in-house doctors. A decompression chamber is within
easy reach of most resorts in case of a diving emergency.
Maldives Business Hours
All government offices function from Sunday to Thursday 7.30 - 14.30
and in private sector from 9.00 to 5.00, although most offices in the
private sector open for a half day on Saturday. Weekend falls on Friday
and Saturday.
Maldive Currency
Rufiyaa and Laareem is the maldivean currency One Rufiyaa is equivalent
to 100 laarees. Rufiyaa bank notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20,
50, 100 and 500. Coins are in the denominations of MRf.2.00, MRf.1.00,
50 laarees, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaree. The US Dollar is the most commonly
used foreign currency. Payments in the resorts and hotels can be made
in most hard currency in cash, travellers’ cheques or credit cards.
Commonly used credit cards are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners
Club, JCB and Euro Card.
Electricity
The
electric system is 230-240 Volts -AC