When the Maldives decided to reopen its border on July 15, 2020, after a long break, the island nation became a popular vacation spot for Bollywood celebs as well as travel aficionados from around the world.
The country, which is made up of 1,196 islands, just 200 of which are inhabited, has a distinct terrain, pristine white beaches, turquoise ocean, exotic resorts, and plenty of adventure activities. The Maldives now presents the ideal destination for a travel-deprived soul, thanks to the air travel bubble agreement.
The pandemic’s impact on the Maldives’ tourism industry
The Maldives’ rich tourism economy was hurt badly during the lockdown because it is a tourism-dependent archipelago.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, only 4,40,197 tourists visited the gorgeous region between January 1 and November 16, 2020, down from roughly 1.7 million in 2019. The number of tourists expected in 2020 is estimated to be around 2 million.
The country promised advantages such as on-arrival visas, easy access to coasts, and a no-quarantine policy for tourists in order to revitalize the declining tourism sector.
The islands’ strict adherence to World Health Organization (WHO) norms, with some extra safeguards, also attracts tourists from all over the world and makes them feel comfortable.
There are now in place guidelines and processes.
Prior to admission, all visitors must have a negative nucleic acid test (PCR test) report for COVID-19. According to Thomas Cook, the PCR test must be taken no more than 72 hours before the intended departure time. Infants are exempt from this requirement.
This health declaration must be completed and submitted electronically using Maldives Immigration’s online site.
Anyone who tests positive upon entering the Maldives must follow the Health Protection Agency’s (HPA) guidelines. They will be barred from inter-island travel.
What is the best way to get there?
The Maldives Holidays feature a tropical monsoon climate with year-round warm weather due to its proximity to the equator. Throughout the year, temperatures average between 26°C and 29°C, with the warmest months being March and April.
The best time to visit the gorgeous island country is between November and March, as it is a winter destination.
The Maldives has excellent international connections. IndiGo, GoAir, and SpiceJet are the airlines that travel often from India to the United States, according to Honey Singh, Head Sales, and Operations, Flip Trip Holidays.
Round-trip tickets for a pair should cost roughly INR 27,000-37,000 ($366- $502), down from INR 40,000 ($543) previously.
Depending on the distance between your target island and Male’s city, you’ll travel by speedboat, seaplane, or domestic airplane. It is best to arrive at Male before nightfall, as the runway is not well-lit at night and hence seaplanes are not available.
Actions to take
The Maldives’ beauty extends not only above but also below the surface of the water, which is why the country has been ranked fourth on Lonely Planet’s list of places that will improve the global tourist scene in 2021.
Parasailing, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kite surfing are just a few of the water sports available in the country.
