Though border restrictions and quarantine measures are currently preventing people from visiting many of the world’s most popular travel destinations, a country famous for its natural beauty is now welcoming all guests – the Maldives.
As of July 15th, this island nation will be reopened to international tourism, with very few conditions.
International travelers, including US citizens, are not required to go through mandatory quarantine upon arrival at Velana International Airport in the capital, Male.
They also do not need to provide corona-negative-report.
There are also no new visa requirements or additional fees to pay.
In the beginning, international visitors are only allowed on the holiday islands and have to book their entire stay in a registered establishment.
Exceptions are made only for transit agreements in accordance with the guidelines of the Maldivian government.
“What is important to take into consideration is that it depends not only on the Maldives, but also on lifting of travel restrictions in different countries. It is not just desire but ability,” says Sonu Shivdasani, CEO and founder of Soneva, which has two Maldives resorts — Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani.
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Moreover, while global aviation facing a major downturn, the Maldives also welcoming commercial flights.
These include Emirates Airlines, which offers connections through Dubai from major global cities like London, Chicago, Toronto and Sydney. Fellow UAE carrier Etihad will resume flights from Abu Dhbai to the Maldives from July 16. Turkish Airlines is tentatively starting flights from July 17.
But also keep in mind, just because the Maldives isn’t asking visitors to submit Covid-19-negative report, some airlines are, so be sure to check ahead of time.
However, of the 156 resorts on Maldives Tourism’s list of reopening dates, 43 will be open July 15. (Several on that list remained open throughout the pandemic, serving guests who choose to stay there, or those who came in later via private plane or yacht.)
After that, more will reopen in August, with 50 or so more planning to follow suit in September and October.
To ensure travelers’ health and safety, the Maldives government is issuing “Safe Tourism Licenses” to accredit tourist facilities that abide by legislation and specific safety requirements like having a certified medic on call and holding an “adequate stock” of personal protection equipment.
Some resorts are establishing extra measures to protect guests and staff.
The Maldives has recorded nearly 2,000 confirmed cases and five deaths from Covid-19 so far.
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