Maldives Currency:

The official currency in Maldives is Maldivian rufiyaa. One rufiyaa is equal to 100 laaris. Banknotes are issued in denominations of MVR500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5, while coins come in MVR1 and 2, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaris.

Credit Cards:

In Maldives Credit cards are widely accepted as a form of payment. All the major credit cards are widely used in hotels, restaurants, tourist shops. Even foreign currency like Euros and Sterling are accepted in Maldives.

Maldives Currency Exchange:

Travelers don’t need to worry about the currency they are carrying with them. In Maldives currency exchange is a quick and a hassle-free process. Cash and cheques can be exchanged in hotels and hotels at best rates.

Maldives Tourist Information Offices:

The Maldives Tourism Promotion Board is the body that caters to the needs of tourists. Its main office is located in the island capital of Malé.

Address: 3rd Floor H. Aage, 12, Boduthakurufaanu Magu

Malé, Republic of Maldives

Visa and Passports:

Tourists with a valid passport valid for at least six months are granted a stay of up to 30 days in Maldives.

Maldives Language:

The official language spoken in Maldives is Dhivehi. Even English is widely spoken. French, German, Italian and Japanese travelers can easily find efficient guide in the tourist area.

Maldives Customs and Traditions:

Maldives people are warm and loving. A handshake is the most common form of greeting when meeting a local. It is accompanied by the Arabic expression ‘Assalaam Alaikum’.

Maldives have a strict approach towards the tourists who try to harm the natural environment of the country. No one is permitted to take coral, tortoise shell or other marine species out of the country.

Tourists are not allowed to bring alcoholic drink into the country or even purchase it prior to the arrival.

These handy Maldives travel tips will help you plan an unforgettable Maldives vacation.

These are all great questions to ask before you go on your Italy vacation and each one has an answer that will be addressed here. First of all it is important to know that Italy uses the European Euro. There is no “Italian currency.” One dollar ($1) is equivalent to approximately 0.70 euros. The currency conversion rate can fluctuate daily so it is best that you check for a more accurate figure before you leave for your vacation to Italy. You can find the most current exchange rate at The Universal Currency Converter website which is www.xe.com/ucc/

How can you get Euros once you arrive in Italy for your vacation? There will be an exchange office at the airport when you arrive. This is usually most accurate if you are arriving in a main city. Exchange offices may also be available at railway stations in the main cities. You can always also get Euros at any ATM or bank. This leads in to the next question about the availability of ATMs. There are ATMs all over Italy mainly in big cities but also in some smaller towns. But you need to know that in Italy ATMs are called “bancomats.” During your Italy vacation you will find that these bancomats work just like they do in the US and you will get the chance to select your language of preference from the screen when you begin. You can use your credit or debit card to get money (euros only) out of the bancomat as long as there is a Cirrus or BankMate symbol on that machine and your card.

You could always find out from your Credit Card Company or bank if their cards can be used worldwide before you leave for your vacation to Italy. Most businesses accept major credit cards in Italy and you should always look for the credit card signage stickers on doors of shops just like there are in the US. Travelers’ checks are also widely accepted in the major cities.

If you need a larger sum of cash than the bancomat will provide during your Italy vacation you will find that there are banks all over Italy especially at the main tourist attractions. Most Italian banks close for about an hour and a half for a lunch break during the week and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and National Holidays.

People taking an Italy vacation will be glad to find out that non-resident visitors may claim a refund for the tax they pay on many of their purchases. You can go to www.globalrefund.com to pursue a refund.