When can you drink in the Maldives?

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited for Maldivian citizens on local islands, including the capital city of Male. If you are a tourist visiting a local island, you should be aware that it is illegal to bring alcohol with you.



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Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands. Do not take any alcohol away from a resort. The export of tortoise shell and coral is forbidden. Mariners in possession of firearms must surrender them to the local authorities.

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For straight and LGBTQ couples alike, public displays of affection on non-resort islands such as Malé City are considered extremely offensive and may result in punitive action. This includes behavior like hand holding and kissing.

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It is an offence to import the following items into Maldives: explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including 'idols for worship' and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands.

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The law prohibits smoking in most workplaces and public places. The law permits smoking in designated smoking areas in non-air-conditioned teashops, restaurants, cafés and other food and beverage outlets. The law prohibits smoking in public transport vehicles or vessels and public transport facilities.

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Alcohol in the Maldives is expensive, this is because it is imported from outside the country with high levels of taxes. If you really want a cocktail then pay attention to when happy hour is as you can often enjoy drinks for half the price or on 2 for 1 offers.

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The local islands are subject to local sharia law so there is no alcohol available (although some islands get round this by having boats moored nearby, which serve alcohol), the beaches won't be pristine like the resort islands, and you must also abide by local law regarding dress, meaning thighs and shoulders must be ...

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What is the Maldives Dress code? As stated above, the Maldives is a conservative country with traditional Muslim values. This means that, as with many other Muslim countries, wearing revealing clothing is not acceptable. In the Maldives, it is appropriate for men to wear shorts (knee length) and t-shirts.

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Consequently, as you can imagine, most Maldives resorts offer alcohol with a steep markup. However, for those on an all-inclusive package, alcohol is automatically included during your stay.

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Public display of affection (PDA) is not illegal but is frowned upon in the Maldives. Especially in local places with fewer tourists; it's ideal to always maintain a decent distance between one another. Due to the Maldives being a Muslim country, acting intimately in public places may make the locals uncomfortable.

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The nightlife in Maldives is pretty exciting. From visiting some really exciting clubs and bars to taking a stroll by the beach there are various activities that you can indulge in.

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The currency used throughout the Maldives is Maldivian rufiyaa however the Euro and the US dollar are also widely accepted. All major credit cards can be used at resorts, restaurants, and shops in Male and several other islands. Withdrawing money from ATMs is not usually possible.

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Yes, unmarried couples are allowed in the Maldives. If you're a tourist visiting the archipelago with your partner, there won't be an issue. Maldives is a famous honeymoon destination amongst travellers, but that doesn't mean you have to be legally wedded to share a room or enjoy a vacation in the country.

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Swimming in the Maldives waters is generally considered to be safe. You can usually walk on the seabed for about 20 metres – where most islands have shallow waters around them. Apart from extreme water excursions, you can always go for a casual swim in the warm water that will relax your body immediately.

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Tipping in the Maldives is not compulsory, a 10% service charge is added to everything, however, tipping staff members who receive low salaries in the Maldives is a wonderful gesture.

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WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Maldives is mostly a safe country for women. However, if you are a woman and plan on going there alone, make sure you don't wear anything of value when leaving your resort. Apply all precaution measures you would in your own country.

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The temperature doesn't drop very much at night so take your lightest weight clothes in natural, breathable fabrics such as silk, linen or cotton. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they are just too uncomfortable in the heat.

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