Tourism unaffected by recent political unrest in Maldives

On Tuesday 7th February 2012, the first democratically elected president of The Republic of the Maldives stood down from his post after heavy pressure from those opposed to some of his recent decisions.  The Vice President has now stepped up to the top job and the government is again functioning normally.

Strong protests and some rioting occurred in the streets of the Capital Male on Tuesday and some video footage is doing the rounds on social networks and media, showing protesters clashing with the police.  Violence in this normally very peaceful Nation is extremely rare and very much frowned upon with strong penalties.  On Tuesday some violence did occur however this quickly subsided and Male is getting back to normal life. 

Male’, the Nations capital isn’t a major tourist attraction and many visitors to the Maldives don’t visit the captial.  At present DFAT is recommending tourists avoid visiting Male’ however tourists are definitely not at risk flying into the Maldives* and travelling to the resorts and surf regions of the Maldives.  * NB: Male’ airport is a separate island away from the capital.

World Surfaris have been assured by our boat owners and also resort management in the Maldives that tourists will NOT be affected by the events of this week.

Below is an email from the owners of Hudhuranfushi Resort.

From: Marketing

Sent: Wednesday, 8 February 2012 11:00 PM
To: Shaun Levings
Subject: Male’ incident

Dear Shaun,

We refer to the incidents that unfolded yesterday in the Maldives and the resignation of the President.

We wish to assure you that the situation in the Maldives is back to normal and all public activities have commenced as usual.

Law maintaining agencies have assured law and order in the Male’ capital and we are confident that there is no reason to worry travelling to Maldives on holiday.

We take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support in the past and assure our utmost attention to all your clients for a safe and happy holiday.

Yours sincerely,

Aitken Spence Hotel Managements (Pvt) Ltd.