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| Hulule
International Airport |
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Maldives' gateway to
the world, Hulule Airport, is an island which from the air,
looks more like an aircraft carrier. A short boat journey from Male',
the former airstrip has evolved into a modern and busy international
airport. Helicopters and seaplanes transport passengers to outlying
resorts and also operate sightseeing flights. Internal flights to
northern and southern atolls are also available from Hulule.
While there is room for improvement of basic services, Hulule rates
pretty well compared with the region's other airports, particularly
after the recent construction of new terminal facilities. After
processing through cramped immigration and customs areas, the first
glimpse of white coral sand and the sea beyond is an extremely welcome
sight.
Immediately upon leaving the terminal, the various representatives
of resorts and travel agents wait with signs to greet and transport
their various groups. Travel representatives also wait on the lookout
for the very few who arrive without accommodation bookings.
There is an airport restaurant offering simple meals and
refreshments. Money changing facilities are also available.
Ferry service to the resorts is
not regular scheduled, therefore, each resort makes its own arrangements.
A ferry service runs to and from Male', with frequencies depending
on demand. The fare varies, starting from a few Rufiyaa for sharing
a dhoni to several dollars for a speed boat.
Departure
formalities are much more relaxed. Several duty free shops
also offer a wide variety of items.
Airline Counters are only open during flight times, and the airport
can seem deserted only minutes after departure of the flight.
Airport Hotels
The closest airport hotel is Paradise
Island Resort Maldives, situated approximately 2.6 miles from
the airport. Other hotels located near the airport in Male include
the Kurumba
Village Maldives, Fun
Island Maldives, and Laguna
Beach Resort Maldives. Discounted reservations can be made through
DirectRooms.com |
| Useful travel links |
| IATA |
international
air transport association |
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