Guesthouses in Local Islands Re-Opened for Tourists Seeking A Serene Budget Vacation
The locals expressed mixed feelings when authorities confirmed that guesthouses in local islands woule be allowed to resume operations effective of 15th October, however the decision has been followed through as initially planned. Ministry of Tourism informs that twenty-two guesthouses has been granted permit to resume their operations at six astonishing islands being; Maafushi in Kaafu Atoll, Huraa in Kaafu Atoll, Thinadhoo in Vaavu Atoll, Mathiveri in Alif Alif Atoll. Fodhdhoo in Noonu Atoll and Gaadhiffushi in Thaa Atoll.
Guesthouses at local islands are well-liked by budget travelers as they are usually low-cost with amenities, facilities and services that are similar in its own way to what is offered by resorts consisting of watersports, diving centers, fishing trips and excursions to uninhabited islands or sandbanks apart from food and accommodation. The most amazing experience you can have at a local island which you absolutely cannot in a resort is having the golden opportunity to actually mingle with a typical Maldivian island community.
Whilst operations have resumed, there are safety measures implemented in these islands by Health Protection Agency (HPA) in order to minimize the chances of possible coronavirus transmission. In this regard, it is mandatory for locals and tourists wear face masks while in public in all six islands. They will also be subject to evidence a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken at least 96 hours prior to departure from first port of embarkation. They will also have to undergo the same test additionally at least 72 hours prior to departure from Maldives; which must be facilitated by the guesthouse whereas the tourist or the guesthouse will have to bear the expenses for it.
You may read the full guidelines by HPA here.