Discover
Maldives
The Maldives is a nation of islands in the Indian Ocean, that spans across the equator. While the country covers an area of approximately 90,000 square kilometers, only 298 square kilometers of that is dry land.
Islands
1192
Inhibited
Islands
200
Atolls
26
Population
400K+
Language
Dhivehi
Religion
Islam
Climate
Tropical
Week Days
Sun - Thur
Drives on
Left
Shopping
Depending on where you choose to live in Greater Male' area (Male', Hulhumale or Villingili), shopping for groceries is relatively easy as there are retail outlets of bigger chains within a close proximity and small grocery shops around every corner. Most shops are open from morning 8 am to 10 pm at night with shops closed for every prayer break. There are few shops open 24 hours as well.
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Online shopping has expanded in the Greater Male' area due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, where most of the major grocery chains in Maldives now have websites where goods can be purchased with delivery options available.
living
Living in the Greater Male' area is fairly easy where all essential services you need on a daily basis are usually within a close proximity. There are lots of dining options available with few open 24 hours. All utilities and general services can be paid online.
Generally everyone speaks or atleast understands English. Going to the beach and swimming is possible throughout the year and there is always a beach in close proximity no matter where you live. People are generally law abiding and respectful. It is a common occurrence for people to be generally aware of one another due to the small population.
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Accommodation
Living space in Malé is quite limited as it is one the most densely populated cities in the world. Apartments with more than two bedrooms are rare to find. However, the company will provide one bedroom apartment with basic furniture, and for teachers moving with their family a two bedroom apartment.
Currency
The Maldivian official currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) (1$=MVR15.42). The dollar exchange rate is fixed in Maldives. If you choose to work at FISM, you salary will be paid half in MVR and half in USD.
commuting
FISM is situated in Male'. Hulhumale is connected to Male' via a bridge that connects through the main International Airport of Maldives. You can travel by bus, taxi or ferry to reach Male'. You can also choose to drive on your own via motorbike or car. It roughly takes 10-15 minutes to reach Male via the bridge and 20 minutes via ferry. From Villingili, you can take a 7 minute ferry ride to reach Male.
Healthcare
There are 2 government hospitals and 2 private hospitals in the Greater Male' area, with many smaller private clinics and pharmacies. Staff of FISM has medical insurance which covers the majority of services provided by any of these hospitals and clinics.
Where is the school located?
FISM is located in Male'. The Greater Male' area consists of two other islands, Villingili and Hulhumale' considered as district of Male' area. Accommodation can be chosen from any of these 3 areas.
Male'
Pros
Same island as the school, possible to get an apartment within proximity to the school
All resources such as schools, hospitals, shopping, restaurants, banks etc are available within close proximity
Cons
Not much greenery
Overcrowded roads
Heavy traffic on most roads during most of the day
