LEAGUE GOTHIC VIETNAM TRAVEL

DESTINATION

TRAVELERS GUIDE

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HISTORY A fiercely proud, isolated and independent island chain, the Maldives history has been shaped by the desires of would-be conquerors who failed time and time again thanks to the steadfast, patriotic locals that call the Maldives home. Little is known of the Maldives prior to its conversion to Islam in 1153, though many believe that the area was a major trading port for several ancient civilizations, including: the Egyptians, Mesopotamians and the Romans. In 1153, a North African Arab known as Abu Al Barakat is believed to have converted the population to Islam by driving away the sea jinni Rannamaari by reading from the Quran, a an Islamic holy book. This impressed the King of Maldives so much so that he ordered the country as a whole convert, leading to a series of six subsequent sultanic dynasties.

In the early 16th Century, the Portuguese, by then an already established presence on the island, invaded the Maldives as they wanted a greater share of the lucrative Indian Ocean trade routes, resulting in a 15 year period of Portuguese occupation. The Portuguese are said to have been extremely cruel leaders, eventually declaring that all citizens must convert to Christianity or face the penalty of death. A series of guerrilla attacks led by Maldivian nationals resulted in the eventual death of all Portuguese on the island. This revolution is celebrated annually as National Day, taking place on the first day of the third month of the lunar year. Following this period of occupation was the Utheemu Dynasty, which ruled for 120 years and is widely credited with establishing a new judicial system and defense force alongside a wide range of popular reforms.

POPULATIONThe population of the Maldives is roughly 393,000, of which more than 250,000 are Indo-Aryan.

CLIMATEThe Maldives has a warm and tropical climate all year round. In contrast with many regions, the Maldives has only two distinct seasons, a dry and wet season. Despite having a dedicated wet season, it is uncommon to experience anything other than the picturesque expanse of blue sky accompanied by 80 degree weather. Dry season: January MarchWet Season: May November

TIMEMVT (Maldives Time) observed at UTC/GMT + 5 hours all year round.

VISASA passport valid at the time of entry to the Maldives is required. A free 30 day tourist visa will be issued upon providing proof of a return departure flight ticket.

LANGUAGEThe national language of the Maldives is Dhivehi Bas, literally meaning Maldivian Language, which throughout history has been heavily influenced by the Arabic language. Crude inscriptions on coral stones from the 7th or 8th century have been found to be the earliest written examples of Dhivehi Bas, though a continuous written history of the language dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries. English has been recognized as the islands second main language, used primarily in commerce and government proceedings, and is spoken widely by the locals.

Common Phrases in Dhivehi BasHello Assalaamu AlaikumGood morning Bajaveri hendhuneHow are you? Haalu Kihineh?What is your name? Kon nameh tha kiyanee?My name is ___ Aharenge namakee ______Yes AanNo NoonSorry Ma-aafu kureyPlease Adhes KohfaThank you ShukuriyaaHave a nice day Baajjaveri dhuvaheyHow do I get to ___? Kihene aharen ____ ah dhanee?Goodbye DhaneeDo you speak English? Ingireysin vaahaka dhakkan- ingeytha?

CURRENCY The monetary unit of Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).

CREDIT CARDSThe majority of shops, resorts and hotels accept all major credit cards. Most items are priced in USD and the most frequently accepted foreign currency is the US dollar.

TIPPING Airport porter/hotel bellboy: $1.00 - $ 2.00 US per bag. Your tour guide: $10.00 - $ 12.00 US per person per day. Driver/assistants: $ 6.00 - $ 7.00 US per person per day.

Average Temperature & Rainfall All in Fahrenheit/inchesJanuary- Min Temp: 77 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 3.5 February: Min Temp: 79 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 2.7 March: Min Temp: 81 Max Temp: 86 Avg Rainfall: 3.2 April: Min Temp: 81 Max Temp: 88 Avg Rainfall: 5.1 May: Min Temp: 79 Max Temp: 86 Avg Rainfall: 8.3 June: Min Temp: 79 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 7.2 July Min Temp: 79 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 6.3 August: Min Temp: 79 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 7.2 September: Min Temp: 77 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 8.4 October: Min Temp: 77 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 9.0 November: Min Temp: 75 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 7.6 December: Min Temp: 77 Max Temp: 84 Avg Rainfall: 7.8

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES & RAINFALL

Hi (F) Lo (F) Avg. Rainfall Jan 84 77 3.5 in

Feb 84 79 2.7 inMar 86 81 3.2 inApr 88 81 5.1 inMay 86 79 8.3 inJun 84 79 7.2 inJul 84 79 6.3 inAug 84 79 7.2 inSep 84 77 8.4 inOct 84 77 9.0 inNov 84 75 7.6 inDec 84 77 7.8 in

WHAT TO PACK High temperatures and the ever-present sun means that lightweight, loose-fitting clothing are ideal. Flip flops and sandals are recommended for those looking to take advantage of Maldives pristine beaches. Sunscreen, insect repellent and wide-brimmed hats are advised to prevent any discomfort during prolonged exposure to the sun. Pack a lightweight cardigan or shawl to cover up during visits to local areas; Maldives is a muslim country and, as such, dress outside of the hotel/resort is relatively conservative. Bring smart casual attire for a night out on the town or if you wish to enjoy a formal meal at the end of the day.