Air Transport : International flights are operated by China (Canton and Shanghai), India (Bangalore and Trivandrum), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Oman (Muscat), Qatar (Doha), Singapore, Sri Lanka (Colombo), Thailand (Bangkok), the U.A.E. (Dubai), and a number of European countries to and from Malé International Airport (Tel: 3322073). Maldivian operates international flights to India (Trivandrum) besides domestic flights to Gan, Hanimaadhoo, Kaadhedhdhoo, and Kadhdhoo, Inter-island services are operated by Trans Maldivian Airways and Maldivian Air Taxi, the latter having the largest air fleet. Sight-seeing trips, flights to uninhabited islands, photoshooting trips, executive charters, and medevac operations are also carried out by them.

Water Transport : Local boats, or dhoanis (average speed 7 knots), are the most common means of water transport. One can make use of the regular ferry service (Rf 10 per person / Rf 20 per person between midnight and 6am) between Malé and the International Airport. Modern speedboats are also available for hire. Safari vessels are an ideal way to explore atolls.

Road Transpor t: Travel on most islands takes no more than half-an-hour on foot. Bicycles, scooters, mopeds, and motor- bikes are popular modes of transport. Taxis in Malé are unmetered, charging Rf20 per stop, with an extra Rf5 for luggage carried. Taxis can be hailed on the road or called through taxi services (3325656, 3323132, 3321414, etc.). Taxis are also available on Gan.