Volunteer’s Guide
The Maldives is a double-chain of coral atolls made up of 2041 distinct coral reefs forming 25 natural atolls, and is located in a north to south direction on the Laccadives-Chagos submarine ridge in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives stretches along 860 km and is 80-120km wide.
The country itself consists of 1192 small islands, 200 of which are currently inhabited. This leaves plenty of uninhabited islands to visit! By land area, the Maldives is the sixth smallest sovereign state in the world, with an estimated 235 km2 of land divided over 1190 islands. This figure includes 11-13 km2 of beach and 9-11 km2 of reclaimed land. Land area is about 1% of the total reef area. The capital of Male, is an urban metropolis crammed onto a relatively small island. Do not fear, however, as the island on which Island Volunteer operates is the complete opposite of this…
The island of Hoadedhdhoo is located in the Huvadhoo Atoll of the Maldives. This atoll, which is the third most southern in the Maldives, is the largest natural atoll in the world and is located just above the equator. Hoadedhdhoo lies on the western edge of the atoll, around 8 miles north of the equator. The island is home to around 1200 people (2006 National Census), who spend the majority of their time fishing, playing football or the traditional Maldivian sport of ‘Bashi’, and relaxing!
The inhabitants of Hoadedhdhoo are extremely friendly and provide a warm welcome to all visitors. They are grateful for the work which volunteers do and have no trepidation in including them in their daily activities. Volunteers can get an authentic feel for Maldives life here, and it is certainly not an opportunity to pass up!
Weather
Sunshine and cloudless days with a pleasant breeze blowing off the ocean is the defining weather forecast for the Maldives. The two distinct seasons in the Maldives are the wet and dry monsoon seasons, which make planning what to bring and when to do activities a relatively easy task. The temperature rarely wavers from around 30°C all year round, so expect to be constantly in shorts and flip-flops at all times! This does, however, make packing sun-cream an absolute necessity. Even when rainfall mars the perfect weather, the temperature is still high enough to wander round in shorts. And taking a stroll in a tropical downpour is a must-do, particularly for visitors from colder climes.
Island Life
The island of Hoandedhdhoo is located in the Huvadhoo Atoll of the Maldives. This atoll is one of the largest natural atolls in the world and is located just above the equator. Hoandedhdhoo lies on the western edge of the atoll, around 8 miles north of the equator. The island is home to around 1200 people (2006 National Census), who spend the majority of their time fishing, playing football or the traditional Maldivian sport called ‘Bashi’ and relaxing!
The inhabitants of Hoandedhdhoo are extremely friendly and provide a warm welcome to all visitors. They are grateful for the work that volunteers provide and have no trepidation in including them in their daily activities. Volunteers can get an authentic feel for the Maldivian life here and it is certainly not an opportunity to pass up!
Airport transfer
Airport transfers are included in the cost of the program. At Male international airport you will either be taken to the domestic flight terminal or if necessary, to stay overnight in Male, taxi fare to and from the hotel will be paid for. However, if you require an overnight stay in Male you must stay on your own in a hotel which we can help arrange upon request, but you will be charged extra for your stay. You will be taken by speedboat from the local airport to the island and from the island to the airport on departure.
Orientation
On your second day you will receive an orientation and island tour to introduce you to the local team and island life. It will cover topics such as information on the island, local food, religion and general information about your stay with us. Any questions can be answered before the program begins to ensure you have a full understanding of what you will be doing in your time here.
Accommodation
Campus accommodation based on rooms of three to six-person occupancy. Volunteers need to share a room (same sex only) and the rooms are air conditioned and big enough to accommodate three or six volunteers if necessary. All rooms have a shared en suite with hot water available, and rooms are cleaned.
Local transportation
To reach many of the activity sites you will walk as everything on the island is within walking distance. Locals prefer to use mopeds and motorbikes to get around the island; however during your stay here that won’t be necessary. If we take a trip to another island then we will go by boat, depending on how long the journey is, we will take a smaller boat (shorter journeys) or the speedboat (longer journeys).
Meals
Breakfast will be provided every day in a local café. Lunch and dinner will also be provided at the local café as per itinerary and menu agreed. Average meal cost is US$ 6. If you wish to order food that exceeds US$ 7 then you will be required to pay the extra amount yourself.
Popular dishes include:
- Chicken kottu roshi
- Curry and roshi
- Noodles (chicken, beef, tuna or vegetable)
- Fried rice (chicken, beef, tuna or vegetable)
During your free time
As it is a small island there are limited activities to do in your spare time, however, you can go to local café designated or take a walk to the beach and watch the breathtaking sunsets. You can also spend your spare time enjoying some of the many activities on the island. Locals are huge fans of football, volleyball and Bashi – a traditional Maldivian women’s sport. If you are a person who loves water activities, then you are in the right place. The ocean plays the role of a big playground.
We can go on a variety of exciting excursions around the Huvadhoo Atoll and always take into account what you as a volunteer would like to do with your time. Examples of some of the excursions include snorkelling trips, night fishing trips, BBQs and visits to uninhabited islands. There is an opportunity to take a day trip to a resort or go on an overnight stay at an uninhabited island; however these are optional excursions as they require an extra payment to cover transport and necessities. Volunteers may also get the chance to go on reef surveys of the neighboring islands with our marine team. During your free time on the island, we encourage volunteers to get in the sea as much as possible and take photos of the marine life and islands. We have a wonderful little community here and there is some fantastic sights and scenery to take in as you walk around our island.
Electricity sockets
The majority of the sockets on the island use the UK 3-pin system, so for visitors from other parts of the world, bringing a couple of adaptors with you will be a necessity. The power station on the island provides electricity around the clock, although there are occasional, brief blackouts.
Currency and Banking
Currency in the Maldives is Rufiyaa (MVR), with exchange rates running at around 1 GBP to 23,7 MVR, 1 EUR to 17,5 MVR and 1 USD to 15.4 MVR. Notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 denominations, and there are also coins for 1 and 2 rufiyaa.
USD can be exchanged with locals or members of Huvadhoo Aid at a decent exchange rate, or alternatively money can be taken out at the ATM on the near island of Thinadhoo. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted on Hoandedhdhoo or other local islands. However debit and credit cards such as master, visa and American Express are accepted at some shops.
Internet
There is WiFi available on campus and we will provide you with a local SIM card. On arrival you will receive 2GB of personal data usage for the WiFI, after this there is a supplementary cost of US$10 per 2GB. The SIM card we provide you with can be recharged to activate data packages for your personal use when volunteering on the island.
Communication
Local SIM Card
On arrival we will provide you with a local SIM card. However any top-up will be at your own cost and can be done in local shops or on an app on your phone. A member of the local team can help you if you are struggling with this.
We recommend using apps such as Facebook and WhatsApp to call home as they are much cheaper to use than directly phoning international numbers.
Time Zone
The time zone in the Maldives is 4 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Please be aware of this when arranging to call home.
Money
We recommend bringing a debit/credit and a spare one in case of emergencies. It is essential that you notify your bank(s) in advance of the dates you will be abroad, to ensure that you will have access to your accounts whilst you’re away.
There are no ATM’s near the volunteer house on Hoandedhdhoo, so you will need to withdraw the appropriate amount at Male airport.
If you do fall short of cash, then currency can be withdrawn at some shops on the island, however they are not always very reliable and can only accept Visa and Mastercard. There is the possibility of taking the ferry over to Thinadhoo (the capital of the atoll), however you would have to pay for this journey yourself.
In Thinadhoo there are ATM’s for you to take money out, but they do charge a small rate for each transaction. Therefore we recommend taking out larger sums of money than smaller ones to decrease your chance of needing to make another trip.
It is best to exchange money at the airport after your international flight as Hoandedhdhoo does not have a currency exchange bureau. You will not be able to withdraw or exchange currencies until you land in Male as the Maldives has a closed currency.
Spending
Any personal expenses such as tips, beverages, laundry and any other services that are not mentioned. Approx. personal costs per week are between USD 60 to USD 100.
Travel Currency Card
We recommend that volunteers organise a travel currency card before starting their program with us in the Maldives. There are many different options available including travel cards that do not charge for individual usage in standard transactions!
If you need further assistance on this you can contact a member of the local team and we will give you all the advice we can.
Health
It is important that you consult your doctor or travel clinic in the months leading up to your program to find out which vaccinations are needed for entry into your host country.
Unfortunately, as we are not medical experts we cannot give you advice about what vaccinations you should have or not have.
Religion
The Constitution of the Maldives designates Islam as the official state religion. Freedom of religion is restricted significantly. The law prohibits the practice by Maldivian citizens of any religion other than Islam. Non-Muslim foreigners are allowed to practice their religion only privately. Visitors must also refrain from encouraging local citizens to practice any religion other than Islam. Freedom of religion remains severely restricted
Dress Code
Volunteers will be adopting a similar dress code to that of the locals. Whilst out on the islands you need to be careful of what you wear. There are no restrictions on what men can wear when out and about but for women there is. No tight, revealing clothes can be worn by women, and knees, shoulder and chest must be covered at all times.
When in the garden or around campus you are able to wear shorts and vests etc, but it is disrespectful to leave the premises in such items.
When volunteers go on snorkelling excursions or trips to uninhabited islands, both men and women can wear what they choose without having to cover up knees, shoulders and chest.
If you have any questions or concerns about this before arrival, or you would like some advice on what you can wear then please get in touch with us!
Tattoo and Piercing
Due to the conservative nature of the management in the Maldives, volunteers with facial piercings (except ear) and tattoos must keep them covered whilst volunteering, or you will not be able to go to your placement. Please speak with the team about any religious tattoos on your arms and legs.
Accommodation Curfew
We operate a strict curfew for volunteers for your own safety and to discourage you from getting involved with the wrong crowd. There is a strict no alcohol policy in the volunteer house and volunteers may smoke only in the designated smoking area at the accommodation.
All volunteers must be back at the accommodation for 10pm. You are not permitted to stay outside the volunteer accommodation network during your volunteer period.
Dhivehi
The traditional language of the Maldives is Dhivehi. It is derived from several other Asian languages. However all Maldivians are taught English from a very young age, and therefore the majority of people you meet will be able to hold conversations with you in English. Still, don’t let this stop you from learning the local language a bid to broaden your horizons!
Here are some everyday useful phrases: Hello Assalamu Alaikum Thank you Shukuriyaa You are welcome Maruhabaa How are you Haalu Kihineh Good Baraabaru I am sorry Maaf Kurey
Public Etiquette
When women are walking around in public areas knees, shoulders and midriff should be covered. This is out of respect for the Islamic community. Acceptance of these beliefs will help you to adapt to the lifestyle practiced on the local islands.
Also when in public it is not acceptable for public displays of affection between members of the opposite sex, even between married couples. You may occasionally see two men holding hands but this is a gesture of friendship.
Dates and Cost
All year round for 3-12 months.
Participation fees will be affordable. Special rates can be offered for volunteers wishing to stay up to 6 months. These prices can be negotiated directly through with us.
What are you paying for?
- Full board (food and accommodation)
- Domestic travel
- Volunteer activities & program development
- At least 1 excursion per week consisting of picnics to uninhabited islands, snorkeling trips, fishing trips
- Group Leader and a local guide
- 2GB of WiFi will be provided, additional data requires a fee
- Airport Taxi
What are you not paying for?
- Visa & Expatriate Medical Insurance
- Flights: The nearest airport is Male International Airport (MLE) in Male. We assist you to find cheap flights to Maldives.
- Travel insurance: Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft – travel insurance for Maldives provides security and is a plus to have.
- Vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees: If you are intending to volunteer in Maldives you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Maldives.
- Any personal expenses such as tips, beverages, laundry and any other services that are not mentioned. Approx. personal costs per week are between USD 60 to USD 100.
Program Requirements
- 18 years of age at start date
- Need to be able to speak English (fluently)
- Criminal background check required (if coming for less than 30 days this is not required)
- You should also be physically fit, as volunteering overseas can be quite strenuous
- Able to swim confidently
- Required to help Monday through Sunday
FAQ’s
Application and Program Details
When should I apply?
You should apply for the program a year in advance to your desired start date.
Are there any necessary requirements to apply?
The program requires you to be 18 years of age and present a criminal background check. A CV is also required on application.
Can I volunteer as part of a group?
We encourage volunteers to book in groups to enjoy the experience.
What do I need to arrive? What will happen when I arrive?
You have to arrive at Male international airport on the given day, Saturday. Our program official will meet you at the airport and either take you to the domestic flight terminal or direct you to the taxi rank to take you to a hotel for overnight stay.
Once you arrive at the local airport (Kaadehdhoo) our volunteer coordinator and members of the local team will meet you and you will take a 15-minute boat ride to Hoandedhdhoo.
How do I get to the program location?
Once you arrive at the local airport (Kaadehdhoo) our volunteer coordinator and members of the local team will meet you and you will take a 15-minute boat ride to Hoandedhdhoo.
Do I receive a reference or certificate of after program completion?
You will receive a certificate to validate your time spent as a volunteer on this program.
Would I have free time during the program?
In the suggested itinerary above, there are allocated slots for free time where you can explore the island or choose to relax.
For how many hours will I volunteer every day?
You are expected to volunteer for approximately 6 hours a day, with breaks between activities.
Flights and Visa
Does Sun sHADe help with visa?
We will send relevant visa documents and they need to be filled in and sent back at least 2 weeks before arrival. Visa costs can be paid in cash once you arrive on Hoandedhdhoo.
What are the recommended airlines to get to the Maldives?
There are a range of airlines used to get to the Maldives depending on where in the world you are flying from. Common airlines are Emirates, Turkish airlines and Qatar.
Health and Safety
How safe is the Maldives, in particular Hoandedhdhoo?
The island is a very safe community full of friendly and welcoming inhabitants. Wherever you go you are sure to get a warm welcome so plenty of opportunity to make friends and learn more about the local life!
What vaccinations will I need?
If you are intending to volunteer in Maldives, you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Maldives. There are many vaccine checkers available on the internet before you speak to a professional.
Accommodation and Living
Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?
Accommodation is located on the Sun sHADe campus. There are a number of rooms all situated next to each other and can accommodate up to six people. All rooms have working air conditioning and have en suite bathrooms that are shared between the volunteers staying in that room.
Rooms are decided on a single sex basis.
There is a washing machine on campus but you will have to pay for your own washing detergent, this is approx. USD 3.
The program is full board and breakfast, lunch and dinner are taken at a local restaurant and includes a continental or traditional Maldivian meals with tea and coffee available.
What sort of clothes do I need?
Men are able to wear t shirts and shorts whilst on the inhabited islands, as long as it is not provocative.
Whereas rules for women are stricter, they require you to have your shoulders, knees and stomach covered at all times, and no low-cut tops are allowed. Again, no provocative clothing.
Will phone connections and internet be available?
SIM cards are provided by the organization. You will however have to pay for your own mobile data when using the SIM. WiFi is available on campus, you will be given 2GB complementary WiFi on your personal log in. However, there is a supplementary charge of $10 for 2GB of WiFi on your personal log in.
Can vegetarians be accommodated?
Vegetarians will have limited choices as majority of the Maldivian diet is made up of fish. However, there will be options available if you require them and we will accommodate the best we can.
Where can I change my money? Are there ATM’s?
Money can be exchanged at the airport on arrival in Male. We highly recommend changing your money here as it is difficult to do on the local islands. We also suggest keeping the receipt for this exchange as if you have money left over at the end you can change it back to your preferred currency.
There are ATM’s available on Thinadoo, there is a daily speedboat ferry from the connecting island Madaveli Saturday-Thursday. A trip can be arranged but at an extra cost to cover the fuel. Therefore, when you arrive at the airport, we recommend taking out more money than you budget for in case of emergencies.
Connect with Past Volunteers
How can I connect with past and current volunteers?
You can contact officials at Sun sHADe volunteers on their website and be put in contact will previous volunteers and the volunteer coordinator.