Travel to Maldives to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Image  Maldives

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Maldives?

  • Close to greater India you will find the small, delicate and special Maldives. The area of 1,200 (‼) islands is hugely vulnerable to the effects of climate change, as most of the islands are less than 1.5 m above sea level. Want to go there? Then visit before it's too late. 
  • The Maldives is known as a luxury destination, with many expensive resorts and even private islands - these are the resort islands. So these are particularly suitable for the traveler who wants a beach vacation and has a sizable budget. For backpackers, the local islands, such as Maafushi and Thulusdhoo, are more interesting because here you can find cheaper accommodation and dining options. It is also more sustainable travel because the money goes directly to the people instead of international resorts and here you can enjoy the local experience and get to know the Maldivian culture better. 
  • Activity spotting: island hopping to discover different parts of the country, beautiful diving and snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, dolphin cruises, tasting local delicacies, enjoying the beach, visiting local markets. 
  • Animal spotting: think sea life especially. Whale sharks, manta rays, coral reefs with lots of tropical fish, dolphins, sharks, fruit bats, sea eagles.

Studying in Maldives?

  • There are limited opportunities to study in the Maldives, the universities are quite young and you will find mostly undergraduate programs. Popular fields of study, due to the country's location, are marine biology, tourism, environmental science and education. So if you are interested in these, studying in the Maldives is a unique opportunity. 
  • Study city: Male. 
  • Language: English, it is accessible so!

Internship in Maldives?

  • Because of the economy and location, internships in tourism (all kinds of aspects, from cuisine to HR) and marine research/nature conservation are particularly popular. Medical internships are also possible. 
  • Competencies: hospitality, service, ecological monitoring, data analysis, customer orientation, promotional skills, intercultural communication, logistics and planning.

Doing volunteer work in Maldives?

  • In terms of internships, you can particularly go into marine conservation, such as protection of whale sharks or sea turtles and coral reef restoration. 

Work in Maldives?

  • The greatest chance of getting a job is in the tourism/hospitality industry in one of the large resorts. Think kitchen staff, engineers, housekeeping, diving or surf instructor, HR, or working in a Spa. There are also jobs in marine conservation, often in partnership with resorts. 
  • Usually you work 6 days a week and have one day off per week. Often with a diverse team from different countries, which makes for a dynamic, multicultural work environment.

Working as a digital nomad in Maldives?

  • The Maldives is a paradise challenge for digital nomads. Life is beautiful, but expensive and the Internet is not that good. You do find a large expat community, but you can whistle for parties with alcohol, as alcohol is prohibited.  

Living in Maldives?

  • The Maldives is known as a beautiful archipelago. As a paradise for the rich in the world. As the picture on postcards. But don't be mistaken, this does not say everything about the Maldives. The Maldives is also a strict Muslim country, and if you are not in one of the golden cages, you are probably in an extremely densely populated island. Living there is not the same as vacationing there! 
  • The people are incredibly friendly and helpful, life is generally relaxed and stress-free, and there is a large expat community that organizes many activities. You can also learn a lot about the culture and Muslim community and enjoy the marine life. 
  • But... it can be quite bureaucratic, life is expensive and there are strict rules on the local islands (such as no wearing bikinis, no alcohol). 
  • Health insurance: medical facilities are limited. The only good hospitals can be found in Male and Hulhumale. If you need specific, extensive care then you often have to go to India or Sri Lanka. Make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.

 

Maldives Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Maldives Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Maldives on WorldSupporter

Maldives: Updates & Travel
How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives?

What is the quality of healthcare in the Maldives?

  • The Maldives has a challenging healthcare system. Try getting good healthcare on all sorts of small islands that are also plagued by bad weather.
  • Fortunately, the government has worked hard on this in recent years, resulting in a very good infrastructure where every resident has quick access to a good healthcare facility. Primary medical care is available on every island and there is a secondary health centre on every atoll or archipelago.
  • The island has a system of public and private institutions.
  • There are two major hospitals in the Maldives: the ADK Private Hospital and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital. These hospitals have modern equipment, but outside of Male this is very limited and medical evacuation is necessary in serious cases.
  • Resort islands often have their own medical professionals on site in case something happens to the guests. There are also sometimes smaller clinics on the island. However, for serious problems, medical evacuation is often necessary - for example to India or Sri Lanka.
  • Pharmacies can be found on the larger islands such as Male. In general, the medicines are in stock there.
  • There is no emergency medical number in the Maldives. At sea, the coast guard can be called on 191. It may be wise to save the emergency number of a private healthcare institution nearby for emergencies.

How does the public healthcare system work in the Maldives?

  • The public healthcare system consists of five levels of healthcare, divided into regions. This system does not have to be followed, one can use any level of healthcare.
  • Unfortunately, the Maldives suffers from a shortage of healthcare personnel and medical equipment.
  • All residents of the Maldives, including legally employed expats, are entitled to thousands of USD in medical care, paid by the government. For expats, the employer must pay a fee to obtain this coverage.
  • This coverage includes emergency hospitalisation and treatment, emergency evacuation, outpatient care, prescribed medication, diagnostics and, in the case of a high earner, treatment abroad.
  • Unfortunately, there are often long waiting times for public healthcare. This also applies to the best public hospital Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital.

How does the private healthcare system work in the Maldives?

  • The private healthcare sector in the Maldives is quite large and has grown in recent years. There are more than 50 medical facilities and several hospitals.
  • Foreigners often prefer private healthcare because of the better equipment, shorter waiting times and better trained doctors.
  • Private clinics not only offer Western care, but also traditional and alternative forms of healthcare.
  • Private healthcare costs can be quite high.
  • Although the public system offers healthcare coverage for working expats, it is still recommended to take out private health insurance because medical evacuation is necessary in serious cases. This means that the costs can suddenly be very high if something happens to you.

How is the general practitioner arranged in the Maldives?

  • The closest thing to a general practitioner is a primary doctor in a health clinic. These can be found in both public and private institutions.
  • General doctors are also often found at the resorts (islands).

How is the dentist arranged in the Maldives?

  • Dentists in the Maldives must register with the Maldives Medical and Dental Council (MMDC). Registered dental practices can be found on their website.
  • There are both public and private dental care facilities. Most foreigners living in the Maldives choose private dentists because of the faster and more personal care. It is always useful to ask other expats about their experiences with a good dentist!
  • The costs are generally a lot lower than in other countries.

How is pregnancy care arranged in the Maldives?

  • The country has seen a huge reduction in maternal mortality over the last 25 years. The number of mothers who die during childbirth has fallen by 90% over this period. This is due to better access to general healthcare, prenatal care and better doctors. The government also has programs that specifically focus on women's reproductive health. There is good maternity care available in the Maldives, both before, during and after birth. If you are insured under the national system, the government will most likely cover most of the costs.
  • The best gynaecologists can be found in the two major hospitals in Male: the ADK Private Hospital and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital.
  • Be aware of the Zika virus when you are pregnant in the Maldives. This is a risk here.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in the Maldives?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in the Maldives?

  • In general, the Maldives are very safe. There is little crime, especially on the resort islands, and the country is quite politically stable in the tourist areas.
  • In Malé, political demonstrations can occur that can become violent. Better to avoid them!
  • Strict Islamic law can also cause problems for foreigners, especially if you are more in the local communities.
  • Beware of currents and harsh conditions on remote islands if you go without a guide.
  • On islands where the locals live, it is important not to drink alcohol in public or exhibit immoral behavior. This is illegal!
  • The rainy season (May-November) can bring heavy storms.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in the Maldives?

  • Due to the tropical climate, there are several mosquito-borne diseases in the country, such as dengue fever and Chikungunya. Take good precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes. To prevent bacterial infections, it is wise to only drink bottled water and to wash or cook fruit and vegetables thoroughly.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in the Maldives?

  • If you live and work on a resort island, you will not need a car. Most islands are too small for roads. Bicycles and golf carts are often the main means of transport here.
  • Outside of Malé and Hulhumalé, there are no highways and very few cars.
  • Ferries are important for transport between islands. This is the cheapest option. Speedboats are faster, but more expensive.
  • Domestic flights are common for islands that are far away.
  • In the Maldives, you also have seaplanes, yes really! But only for the rich among us.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in the Maldives?

  • Is the trip to the Maldives and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for the Maldives if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Although it is usually not necessary for a visa application and you can get health insurance locally, it is still recommended for expats and emigrants to also take out their own international insurance. A good one covers the costs of private care, but more importantly, the costs of medical repatriation and evacuation, which is certainly necessary in the Maldives in serious cases. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Maldives: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

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Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances in Maledives

How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in the Maldives?

What is the quality of healthcare in the Maldives?

  • The Maldives has a challenging healthcare system. Try getting good healthcare on all sorts of small islands that are also plagued by bad weather.
  • Fortunately, the government has worked hard on this in recent years, resulting in a very good infrastructure where every resident has quick access to a good healthcare facility. Primary medical care is available on every island and there is a secondary health centre on every atoll or archipelago.
  • The island has a system of public and private institutions.
  • There are two major hospitals in the Maldives: the ADK Private Hospital and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital. These hospitals have modern equipment, but outside of Male this is very limited and medical evacuation is necessary in serious cases.
  • Resort islands often have their own medical professionals on site in case something happens to the guests. There are also sometimes smaller clinics on the island. However, for serious problems, medical evacuation is often necessary - for example to India or Sri Lanka.
  • Pharmacies can be found on the larger islands such as Male. In general, the medicines are in stock there.
  • There is no emergency medical number in the Maldives. At sea, the coast guard can be called on 191. It may be wise to save the emergency number of a private healthcare institution nearby for emergencies.

How does the public healthcare system work in the Maldives?

  • The public healthcare system consists of five levels of healthcare, divided into regions. This system does not have to be followed, one can use any level of healthcare.
  • Unfortunately, the Maldives suffers from a shortage of healthcare personnel and medical equipment.
  • All residents of the Maldives, including legally employed expats, are entitled to thousands of USD in medical care, paid by the government. For expats, the employer must pay a fee to obtain this coverage.
  • This coverage includes emergency hospitalisation and treatment, emergency evacuation, outpatient care, prescribed medication, diagnostics and, in the case of a high earner, treatment abroad.
  • Unfortunately, there are often long waiting times for public healthcare. This also applies to the best public hospital Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital.

How does the private healthcare system work in the Maldives?

  • The private healthcare sector in the Maldives is quite large and has grown in recent years. There are more than 50 medical facilities and several hospitals.
  • Foreigners often prefer private healthcare because of the better equipment, shorter waiting times and better trained doctors.
  • Private clinics not only offer Western care, but also traditional and alternative forms of healthcare.
  • Private healthcare costs can be quite high.
  • Although the public system offers healthcare coverage for working expats, it is still recommended to take out private health insurance because medical evacuation is necessary in serious cases. This means that the costs can suddenly be very high if something happens to you.

How is the general practitioner arranged in the Maldives?

  • The closest thing to a general practitioner is a primary doctor in a health clinic. These can be found in both public and private institutions.
  • General doctors are also often found at the resorts (islands).

How is the dentist arranged in the Maldives?

  • Dentists in the Maldives must register with the Maldives Medical and Dental Council (MMDC). Registered dental practices can be found on their website.
  • There are both public and private dental care facilities. Most foreigners living in the Maldives choose private dentists because of the faster and more personal care. It is always useful to ask other expats about their experiences with a good dentist!
  • The costs are generally a lot lower than in other countries.

How is pregnancy care arranged in the Maldives?

  • The country has seen a huge reduction in maternal mortality over the last 25 years. The number of mothers who die during childbirth has fallen by 90% over this period. This is due to better access to general healthcare, prenatal care and better doctors. The government also has programs that specifically focus on women's reproductive health. There is good maternity care available in the Maldives, both before, during and after birth. If you are insured under the national system, the government will most likely cover most of the costs.
  • The best gynaecologists can be found in the two major hospitals in Male: the ADK Private Hospital and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital.
  • Be aware of the Zika virus when you are pregnant in the Maldives. This is a risk here.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in the Maldives?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in the Maldives?

  • In general, the Maldives are very safe. There is little crime, especially on the resort islands, and the country is quite politically stable in the tourist areas.
  • In Malé, political demonstrations can occur that can become violent. Better to avoid them!
  • Strict Islamic law can also cause problems for foreigners, especially if you are more in the local communities.
  • Beware of currents and harsh conditions on remote islands if you go without a guide.
  • On islands where the locals live, it is important not to drink alcohol in public or exhibit immoral behavior. This is illegal!
  • The rainy season (May-November) can bring heavy storms.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in the Maldives?

  • Due to the tropical climate, there are several mosquito-borne diseases in the country, such as dengue fever and Chikungunya. Take good precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes. To prevent bacterial infections, it is wise to only drink bottled water and to wash or cook fruit and vegetables thoroughly.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in the Maldives?

  • If you live and work on a resort island, you will not need a car. Most islands are too small for roads. Bicycles and golf carts are often the main means of transport here.
  • Outside of Malé and Hulhumalé, there are no highways and very few cars.
  • Ferries are important for transport between islands. This is the cheapest option. Speedboats are faster, but more expensive.
  • Domestic flights are common for islands that are far away.
  • In the Maldives, you also have seaplanes, yes really! But only for the rich among us.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in the Maldives?

  • Is the trip to the Maldives and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for the Maldives if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Although it is usually not necessary for a visa application and you can get health insurance locally, it is still recommended for expats and emigrants to also take out their own international insurance. A good one covers the costs of private care, but more importantly, the costs of medical repatriation and evacuation, which is certainly necessary in the Maldives in serious cases. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Organizations: for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting
      Organizations: for agriculture, grape picking, farming and vineyards
      Organizations: for animal protection, animal care and working with wildlife abroad
      Organizations: for au pairs, youth work and child care abroad
      Organizations: for bush camping and working at a campsite abroad
      Organizations: for catering, hospitality and entertainment abroad
      Organizations: for civil society and social work abroad
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      Organizations: for customer services abroad and help desks
      Organizations: for diving, snorkeling and water sports abroad
      Organizations: for education and schools abroad
      Organizations: for expatriate insurances, travel insurances, and emergency call centers
      Organizations: for gap year activities abroad and sabbaticals
      Organizations: for internship placement abroad
      Organizations: for insurances and finance abroad
      Organizations: for IT, engineering and construction
      Organizations: for language travel and language teaching abroad
      Organizations: for marketing, communication and PR
      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
      Organizations: for moving, international relocation and transport abroad
      Organizations: for nature conservation, environmental protection and working in nature abroad
      Organizations: for nonprofit projects, development work and international cooperation
      Organizations: for online work as digital nomad, freelancer, or independent entrepreneur from abroad
      Organizations: for outdoor activities and sports
      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad
      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad
      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad
      Organizations: for real estate, brokerage abroad and property rental abroad
      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad
      Organizations: for student support and student associations
      Organizations: for tour guidance and adventure tours abroad
      Organizations: for tourism and organized travel and leisure work abroad
      Organizations: for voluntary work mediation and project placement abroad
      Organizations: for yacht and shipping crew and working on a cruise ship abroad

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