Maldives Moves Up 2 Spaces on UN Human Development Index
Maldives Advances on UN Human Development Index
The Maldives has been promoted 2 spots on the UN’s Human Development Index, which ranks countries on their life expectancy, country wealth and education.
Maldives Ranked # 95 on UN Human Development Index
Out of the 182 countries included in the UN Human Development Index, the Maldives is ranked number 95, just behind Samoa and just ahead of Jordan.
Increased Opportunity in the Maldives
In the last 10 months in the Maldives, people have been forced to migrate less, since there has been less repression regarding people’s personal beliefs, so Maldivians are now staying in the Maldives as opposed to moving to other countries.
Maldives Population Density
Despite moving up the UN Human Development Index, changes in the Maldives have not all been positive. Maldivians continue to move to the capital island of Male in search of better education, so the population density in the Maldives has increased from 458 people per hectare in 1997 to 540 in 2006 and one-third of the country’s 385,000 population lives on the 2 square mile island of Male, in increasingly cramped living conditions.
Huvafen Fushi, one of the Maldives’ finest island resorts, has launched a new package that will make their guests appreciate the Maldivian culture even more: a ride in their exclusively designed Dhonis! For those who are unfamiliar with the term, a Dhoni is one of the oldest sea vessels in the Maldives. It is a multi-purpose sail boat with lateen sails and it resembles a Dhow, a traditional Arabian sailing vessel. The Huvafen Fushi resort guarantees a one-of-a-kind travel experience!
Huvafen Fushi Dhoni Service
Guests who are staying in one of Huvafen Fushi’s beach-front bungalows will now be given an option to reserve their own Dhoni which offers a 24-hour service. The boat can be booked for one or all of the nights during their stay and it costs an additional $1,821 per night, a very reasonable price. Each 65-feet Dhoni has a friendly crew and private chef on board, ready to give all the guests the experience of a lifetime. The Huvafen Fushi crew is highly skilled in what they do and will make sure that everything is provided, includes a full meal and comfortable bedrooms. The guests will enjoy mouth-watering grilled seafood on a deserted island or an unforgettable cocktail cruise under the stars.
Huvafen Fushi Dhoni Amenities
The interiors of the Huvafen Fushi Dhonis are designed to match the style and quality of the Huvafen Fushi resort. The vessels are handcrafted and equipped with all kinds of luxury amenities, all presented in a distinctly Maldivian style. Each Dhoni has a bedroom with king-sized bed and Frette Linen, as well as a DVD player, Flat-screen television, iPod and a Bose surround sound system. It also has a kitchen with all the necessary utensils and a well-stocked Smeg fridge, a spacious bathroom designed by Philippe Starck and a living room area. What more can you ask for?
More about the Huvafen Fushi Resort
Huvafen Fushi Resort and Spa
Huvafen Fushi Maldives is an island resort located in the North Male Atoll. It offers 43 natural, yet modern bungalows and is home to the world’s first underwater spa! So, if you’re looking for a unique Maldivian adventure filled with local culture and nature, the Huvafen Fushi is the perfect spot for you. The resort’s beauty is incomparable and as soon as you set foot on the island, an amazing sense of calm and tranquillity will be like nothing you have ever felt before.
For more information about Huvafen Fushi Resort and their new Dhoni service, visit the hotel’s website. If you have stayed at Huvafen Fushi, please tell other Maldives travellers about it at Maldives Reviews.
Posted by admin | Posted in Maldives News | Posted on 12-08-2009
0
Climate Change in the Maldives
Climate Change has recently become an increasingly significant issue among both the people of Maldives and the international community concerned with the fact that the Maldives will be one of the first nations severely affected by the phenomenon. These concerns led to climate change being addressed recently in a meeting held between the leader of Maldives, President Mohamed Nasheed, and the Indian Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Climate Change, Mr. Shyam Saran.
Maldivian White Sand Beach
How is Climate Change affecting the Maldives
The Maldives, an island country made up of atolls comprising a total of 1,192 islands, is known for being the lowest country in the world, where the highest land is only 2.3 m (7½ ft) above sea level, and the national average is just 1.5 m above sea level. Over the last century, global sea levels have risen about 20 centimetres (8 in) because of climate change and further rises of the ocean are predicted, which could seriously threaten the existence of Maldives. In November 2008, President Mohamed Nasheed expressed his concerns about global warming and the possibility of many of the islands being inundated with water from rising sea levels.
India also affected by Climate Change
Noting not only that the fate of both the Maldives and India are linked to climate change, but also that any drastic change threatens the survival of millions of people living in the coastal areas of said countries, both President Nasheed and Special Envoy Mr. Shyam Saran agreed that both Maldives and India could work together in combating climate change.
Climate Change Policies
Presenting several of the Indian government’s policies on environment and climate change, the President was encouraged by their efforts and further stressed the importance of cooperation and support between both countries in working against the threats of climate change. President Nasheed also praised the Indian government’s policies to support new technological advancements in the field of renewable energy, believing that India and Indian companies could be a leader in the field of renewable energy and environment-friendly technologies.
Adaptation was also a topic dwelled upon by the President and the Special envoy, and they discussed that the aim adaptation should be to find ways of achieving better standards of living through sustainable development. Praising the Maldives and its policies on adaptation, both parties found that both countries possessed similar policies on the subject.
As a final note, Special Envoy Saran added that India was prepared to share its new environmentally-friendly and renewable energy technologies with the Maldives. The meeting was indeed a fruitful one, and it concluded with discussions of how to further strengthen the relations between the Maldives and India, and agreeing on a policy of helping each other in the fight against climate change.
A New Transport network for South Central Province
The Maldives government has signed an agreement with Maldives Dhoni Services regarding the opening of a transport network in the South Central Province of the country, the first step in the government’s project to provide a nationwide transport network. It includes colonized islands Thaa and Laamu Atoll and seven industrial islands.
Transport Network Ceremony
The Maldivestransport network agreement was signed by the Minister of Housing, Transport and Environment Mr. Mohamed Aslam on behalf of the Maldivian government while the Managing Director of Dhoni Services Ms. Fathimath Aleesha Ali signed on behalf of the company. During the ceremony President Mohamed Nashed explained the purpose of the agreement, saying that the transport network was established in order to free the people from the confines of their islands and gain access to necessary services that are closer to home. He also said that it is part of the government’s commitment in delivering on its pledges. Transportation is definitely important for a country’s development because without it, trade cannot flourish and progress becomes impossible. Mr. Aslam also spoke and said that many parties expressed interest in developing the network and each one was given the details of the project but that only five submitted proposals. Acting Policy Secretary at the President’s Office, State Minister Mr. Aslam Mohamed Shakir was the one who gave the presentation on how the transport network will be operated.
“In case you don’t know, a Transport Network is a network of roads, streets, power lines or any structure which permits vehicular movement,” he explained.
Traditional Dhoni Boat in the Maldives
The Future of the Transport Network
With all that being said, there can be no doubt that the agreement will help the South Central Province improve even more! A transport network is something that a country composed of islands really needs. As President Nashed said in his speech, the transport network will help the people communicate with nearby islands and have access to goods and other necessities. It will also make travelling easier, not just for the citizens but also for the tourists, compared to riding boats but most importantly it is a part of progress. Drastic change needs to happen in order to move forward.
In the words of George Bernard Shaw, “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” It seems like President Nashed kept this quote in mind!
The 50-year agreement was signed Thursday August 6, 2009 at President Nashed’s office. The new age of the South Central Province has already begun!
A new mid-range hotel is soon to open its doors to t0urists seeking peace and relaxation in the Maldives. Situated in Male, the capital of the Maldives, the InterContinental Hotels Group is set to open its 117-room Holiday Inn Male on September 1, 2009.
Holiday Inn Male
Holiday Inn Male Location
Located near the harbor front, with shops and markets within a short walking distance, guests of the new Holdiay Inn Male will find various historical places of interest like the Presidential Palace, the Old Friday Mosque, and the Sultan Park to be very accessible.
Holiday Inn Male Facilities
Meetings and conferences in the Maldives will never be the same again thanks to the luxurious accommodations, food and beverage outlets, recreation and communication facilities at the hotel, which is just a short, five-minute speedboat ride from the international airport!
Holiday Inn Male Accommodations
The rooms at the Holiday Inn Male offer luxury fit for a king. They feature either king beds or two twin beds with all the conveniences and comforts you would expect from one of the world’s leading hotel chains. Need to reconnect with the world during your vacation? Broadband internet, LCD TVs, and other amenities and facilities await your disposal!
Holiday Inn Male Guestroom
Local Amenities
The Holiday Inn Male is located at the corner of Ameer Ahmed Magu, so you never need to worry about fine dining or entertainment, as there are various eateries such as the Lobby Café, an all-day dining restaurant,a rooftop restaurant that offers European/Japanese fusion cuisine and a 24-hour in-room dining all for your gourmet pleasure!
Holiday Inn Male Entertainment
Guests will never be at a loss for entertainment, because the Holiday Inn Male boasts of a variety of fun activities such as big game fishing, snorkeling, island excursions and picnics, Male city tour, photo flights, resort day visits, submarine trips, and a host of other great activities to enjoy! The Holiday Inn Male also has a rooftop swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center and a coconut spa where you can feel your stress melt away!
Holiday Inn Male Business Amenities
For business-minded people who want to hold a conference in the Maldives, the Holiday Inn Male also has four versatile meeting rooms, one of which is the Grand Ballroom which offers 255 square meters of space, all equipped with the latest technology! Conduct your business in style!
A truly great place for business or pleasure, the Holiday Inn Male has everything you need, whether you’re looking for a calm and tranquil atmosphere for your holiday, or on a necessary business trip, the Maldives is a unique destination, and the Holiday Inn Male is a great place to call your home away from home.
For more information about the Holiday Inn Male, and to make reservations, visit the hotel’s website. Once you have visited the hotel, why not write a review on www.MaldivesReviews.com
The Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa in the Maldives takes the idea of a luxurious holiday to a whole new level.
Anantara Maldives Over Water Villa
With 70 beach villas and 40 over water villas dotted around the private, Dhigufinolhu Island in the Maldives, The Anantara Dhigu Resort is an enchanting holiday destination, reached by a 35-minute speedboat ride from the Male International Airport.
Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa has everything you could need to make your next holiday to the Maldives one of the most special holidays of your lifetime, perfect for a honeymoon or even a renewal of vows. For the truly lucky ones among us, Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa could become a regular holiday spot as you will undoubtedly want to return, year after year.
Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa Villas
There are several different kinds of villas to choose from at Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa, depending on your needs, wants and of course, your budget. No matter what decision you make, chances of disappointment are slim to none. All of the villas at Anantara are equisitely decorated, combining Western comforts with Asian style and design. All of the beach villas are beachfront and have their very own stretch of beach, or a private pool. Again, the choice is yours to make. Inside the villas, guests enjoy the modern conveniences of flat screen televisions and coffee machine, not to mention the 24-hour room service. If you can’t relax here, where can you?
Anantara Dhigu Activities
For those of us who seek a little more adventure on their holidays, Anantara does not disappoint. The hotel offers a complete range of aquatic activitites, from scuba diving and snorkeling to Kayaking and Windsurfing. Most anything to do with water, you will find it here at Anantara. There is also a complete spa, fitness center and childcare centre, as well as a range of daytrips and excursions like the Male Shopping trip.
Anantara Dhigu Dining
Dining at Anantara is another of the great pleasures that await you in this island paradise. The resort offers eight restaurants, including an open-air waterside cafe, the Fusion Grill bringing spices from around the world together with locally-caught fresh seafood, an intimate Italian bistro ideal for romantic dinners, the poolside bar complete with swim-up section where you can quench your thirst as you bask in the sunshine and the resort also offers special candelit dinners on the beach where you will be treated to some of the finest food in the world as you gaze at the stars. A truly magical selection of restaurants are here at AnantaraDhigu Resort in the Maldives.
Maldives Liveaboards or Live Aboards, as they are sometimes known, are medium sized power boats that cruise around the Maldives, embarking on a series of water sports, principally scuba diving. The Liveaboards have a number of rooms or cabins and provide all-inclusive accommodation to guests on board. Most Maldives Liveaboards offer one- or two-week trips.
Maldives Liveaboard Season
The Maldives Liveaboard season is technically a year-round season. While there are climatic changes in the Maldives, the islands’ proximity to the equator means that water and air temperatures are always warm and scuba diving is always possible. However, depending on the time of year, the Liveaboards tend to visit different dive sites in different areas of the archipelago.
You will hear two seasons mentioned when looking into liveaboard holidays in the Maldives: the Northeast Monsoon and Southwest Monsoon Seasons. The NE Monsoon runs from December to April and the SW Monsoon from May to November. The NE Monsoon is the dryer of the two seasons. However, all marine life can be found throughout both seasons, just in different parts of the Maldives.
Maldives Liveaboard Activities
Traditionally, Maldives Liveaboard holidays are scuba diving holidays. However, other activities can be enjoyed aboard the liveaboards, including snorkeling, water skiing and banana boating. Guests aboard liveaboards also partake in dry-land activities including cultural visits to traditional Maldives villages, picnics on desert islands and shopping trips in Male. Now that surfing and fishing are become more popular in the Maldives, there are also liveaboards that offer surfing and fishing holidays.
Maldives Liveaboard Facilities
Maldives liveaboards range in comfort level from quite basic to absolutely luxurious, depending on the travelers’ budgets. There are some boats that offer in-room Jacuzzis and on-board spas, while others offer simple en-suite bathrooms. All the liveaboards offer three meals a day and a couple of snacks and have full bars, although drinks prices are not usually included in the price of the accommodation. They also have all the diving equipment, including first aid supplies and divers’ oxygen. Most liveaboards travel with another, smaller boat called a Dhoni, from which all the dives are taken and where all the diving equipment is stowed.
Maldives Liveaboard Prices
The price of a liveaboard holiday in the Maldives varies tremendously. Trips last 7 or 14 nights and depending on the boat and the season, the trip costs from around USD$1,000 to USD$1,800 per person per week, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy supplements apply. On top of this, you need to pay for your flights to the Maldives. While this may seem like an expensive trip, it is one of the most economical ways to see the Maldives. Many resorts in the archipelago charge upward of USD$500 per night and that doesn’t include the scuba diving or any activities, so a liveaboard holiday is really good value!
For more information about Maldives Liveaboards, or to book your Maldives Liveaboard Holiday, visit www.MaldivesDiveTravel.com.
The Maldives is home to some of the planet’s most spectacular marine life that ranges from whales and dolphins to the smallest coral-dwelling invertebrate and everything in between. This incredible aquatic diversity makes the Maldives one of the world’s premier scuba diving destinations and now, the Republic of the Maldives is also becoming an important place on the world fishing map.
Sports Fishing in the Maldives
When sports fishing in the Maldives, you can experience the ways the locals fish, with a traditional line and weights, or you can use the modern equipment you are probably already used to. Fishing Tour Operators are increasing in the Maldives as people begin to consider the Maldives as a fishing destination. There are even several fishing liveaboards (like the scuba diving liveaboards) that you can spend a whole week on, trawling around the archipelago in search of the best sportsfishing.
Maldives Fish Species
If you are lucky enough to go fishing in the Maldives, you will be fishing for Sailfish, Tuna, Swordfish, Marlin, Wahoo and Barracuda, among other fish species.
Spear fishing in the Maldives
Spear fishing is banned in the Maldives as the waters here are protected by the Maldivian Government. Interestingly enough, the first scuba divers to come to the Maldives were from Italy and their main reason for coming to the Maldives was to hunt. They flocked to these densely populated waters with their spear guns and began to hunt the larger marine animals in the waters, namely the sharks, rays and large pelagic species. Later on, when the Maldives became popular with German tourists, they brought it to the Maldivian Government’s attention that this barbaric sport could indeed cause fish populations to dwindle and also discourage other tourists from visiting the Maldives due to these barbaric fishing activities. So, 1998 the ban on spear fishing in the Maldives came into force.
The Maldives Fishing Industry
Sardines at Male Fish Market
Fishing is one of the most important industries in the Maldives, along with tourism. A large percentage of Maldivian people make their living from fishing in the Maldivian waters. Fish is also the main source of protein for the islanders, so demand for the Maldives’ fish is generated both locally and abroad. Fish exports from the Maldives are consistently growing, with the most commonly exported fish species being several varieties of Tuna, Snapper, Mahi Mahi and Sailfish. There is even a tuna cannery on the island of Felivaru, which provides a lot of jobs to the locals.
The Maldivians who fish independently bring their catch in every day to the fish market at Male where they sell it to all the hotels and resorts from around the archipelago. A typical day’s catch can be from about 300 – 100 pounds of fish, although as time goes by, the catches are getting smaller. All fish in the Maldives must be caught by line and pole; net fishing is prohibited as a way of protecting these amazing waters. All species counts are greatly decreased from what they were years ago, particularly sharks and lobsters – despite being protected by law. Female lobsters are not to be fished, but it still happens.
With a rapidly-growing population in the Maldives and a booming tourism industry, the demand for fish in the Maldives is increasing rapidly, as the supply is decreasing – even more rapidly.
As the cost of getting married increases along with the pressure to throw an incredible wedding that will cost tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds, more and more people are looking into the idea of getting married abroad. It can be a daunting prospect, with so many things to organise, but most people who have taken the plunge and had their wedding on foreign soil actually say that it is easier than getting married at home.
Why have your wedding in the Maldives
The Maldives is the ultimate beach destination. Just a quick look on the internet or in glossy travel brochures will let you know that these are some of the best beaches in the world. As well as the best beaches, the Maldives has many of the world’s finest beach resorts, many of which are not just located on the best beaches in the world, but are also very skilled at planning wedding.
How much will a Maldives wedding cost?
Of course, how much you spend on a wedding depends on many things. How many people will you invite? What level of service do you want? How many nights will you be spending in the Maldives and will you pay for all your guests accommodation? As a rule of thumb, people who opt for a foreign wedding tend to foot the bill for all their guests. At the same time, weddings abroad tend to be much smaller affairs, with just 10-30 of your closest friends and family as the guests instead of the hundreds of people we usually invite to our wedding when staying at home. Costs you need to take into account would be flights to and from Male, the Maldives’ international airport, hotel accommodation which can range from US$300 to US$1500 per room per night.
Maldives Wedding Packages
Maldives Bride
You will find that many of the resorts in the Maldives offer special wedding packages, including things like spa treatments, honeymoon suite upgrades, welcome parties for you and your guests. There are even tour operators in the UK that organise holidays with the wedding package included. You should be aware, however, that the ceremony offered at all hotels in the Maldives is not legally binding since it is a Muslim country.
Maldives Wedding Ceremonies
The Maldives is a Muslim country, so the wedding ceremonies performed at the hotels and resorts in the Maldives is not legally binding. However, you can have an authentic Maldivian wedding ceremony if you so choose, although remember that this would be a Muslim ceremony, so this might be against your religious views. A real Maldives wedding must be held in a mosque and presided over by the Atoll Chiefs. There is a lot of tradition surrounding the ceremony which you have to abide by, including a white dress for the bride and a black and white suit for the groom.
After your wedding in the Maldives
The really great thing about getting married in the Maldives is that you don’t have to worry about organising a honeymoon. Simply extend your holiday a little futher after the wedding and then you are already on honeymoon, with as many or as few of your friends as you like!
Here you will find everything you need to know about holidays, travel and activities in the Maldives.
Whether you are interested in scuba diving, liveaboard safari trips, lounging around on the best beaches in the world, eating amazing fresh seafood or taking advantage of offshore business benefits in the Maldives, you will find the information right here!
