Women in the Maldives.
Courtesy of Dr. Gannett Hallar (Storm Peak Laboratory , DRI)
The purpose of the presentation was to provide some additional information on the culture and norms in the Republic of the Maldives.
This is because the Maldives is a Moslem country. Dr. Hallar
volunteered to come before the group and describe her experiences in
the Maldives and discuss considerations that all women traveling to
this Moslem country should consider as they prepare for and travel to
the Maldives. Most of these considerations also apply to
travelers that transit through the Middle East on their way to the
Indian Ocean.
A list of general considerations is provided below:
- Males and Females are treated differently in Moslem countries
- Be aware of your surroundings--If it does not ‘feel right’ pay attention--
- Try to avoid walking alone in
city or rural environments. It is best if you can find a male to
accompany you
Conservative dress is the norm
in the Maldives. It is best not to wear revealing and close
fitting clothing
- The dress code is different and less conservative on the Equator Village Resort property (Addu Atoll). However if to leave the property, make sure you are dressed accordingly
There are some other suggested precautions and preparations for traveling to the Maldives. They include:
- Do not wear/bring religious symbols (crosses, statues, etc.) or
documents (e.g. Bible) into a Moslem country.
Do not bring alcohol and DVDs (especially movies) into the Maldives
- There are very limited
drugstore-type supplies in the Maldives. Bring supplies needed
for the full stay including all prescription and non-prescription
medications, other personal supplies including sunscreen and mosquito
repellent
- If you plan to go jogging outside the Equator Village; best to check on proper attire suggestions.
There is one important consideration if you are traveling through a
Moslem country (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar etc.) and have some
layover time. Follow the same rules as above. If it doesn't "feel
right" don't do it. A specific recommendation is when taking a
taxi in these countries such as to/from the hotel and
airport. Always request a taxi from a taxi stand (and
specifically request a "female taxi") unless you are accompanied by a
male.
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