Himmafushi, Maldives π²π»
#1781
4.30852, 73.571415
Nomad Score:
57%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Himmafushi is a local island in the Maldives, known for its vibrant community and proximity to famous resorts. |
π₯ Population | Approx. 1,200 |
π» Internet Speed | Average download speed is around 15 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 15.4 MVR (Maldivian Rufiyaa). Currency exchange is available at local shops. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable. It's recommended to buy bottled water. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type G sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Ooredoo and Dhiraagu are the main mobile providers, offering prepaid SIM cards. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, with cash being favored. |
π Accommodation | Various guesthouses and homestays such as Kani Village are available for short stays. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | No, cash is preferred over cards, especially in local shops. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb options are available, with prices starting around $60 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Himmafushi has several guesthouses offering beds for about $25-30 per night. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | No dedicated coworking spaces, but some cafes and guesthouses allow remote work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Lagoon Cafe offers good Wi-Fi and a quiet atmosphere. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local expat meetups occur at various guesthouses, mainly informal gatherings. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Regular social gatherings in guesthouses like Surf Connect. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | There are no ride-sharing apps, but local taxis and boat taxis are available. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycles are available for rent for about $5 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Cocoa Island Beach is a popular nearby beach, accessible by a short boat ride. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Maldivian Airlines operates flights within the Maldives. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Emirates and Qatar Airways have routes to MalΓ©. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Local transportation is mainly via boats; no major highways. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | MalΓ© is the primary transit hub connected by boat. |
π Public Transport Passes | No public transport passes are available, but boats are frequent. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Inter-island transport is primarily by speedboat or ferry. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Thulusdhoo Health Centre is the nearest healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Little Paradise Yoga offers classes on the island. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness options are limited; some guesthouses have basic workout areas. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundries are available, with costs around $5-10 for full service. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No specific apps; local restaurants offer dine-in and takeout. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Mas Huni, a traditional Maldivian breakfast dish made from tuna. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local restaurants offer vegetarian options, including rice and vegetable curries. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Desserts are limited; try fresh fruits or locally made snacks at cafes. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local shops are available for groceries, especially on the main street. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; recommend local shopping for essentials. |
π Grocery Delivery | No specific grocery delivery services; shop locally. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife options; local cafes and guesthouses host occasional events. |
π» Local Brewery | No local breweries available; imported beers are found in some restaurants. |
π· Wine Bars | No dedicated wine bars; options may exist in resort areas. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street food is minimal; try local snacks from small shops. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Most local restaurants offer Maldivian cuisine; few have international options. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Himmafushi has a local mosque and traditional Maldivian houses. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Limited; most cultural experiences are found on nearby islands. |
π° Historical Sites | Few historical sites; focus on local culture and lifestyle instead. |
π Religious Sites | Masjid Al-Nabi is a notable mosque on the island. |
π Annual Events | Local festivals based on Islamic calendar; ask locals for timing. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Himmafushi is a small community; interact with locals for cultural immersion. |
π Theater Venues | No formal theaters; cultural shows may occur during local events. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Small markets are held where local produce and crafts can be found. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local music is often played at social gatherings and cultural events. |
π¨ Street Art | Limited street art; focus on natural beauty and local craftsmanship. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Small cooking classes may be available in guesthouses. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | No dedicated art galleries; local art can be seen in homes and public spaces. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The modest structures and traditional homes reflect local culture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Rich traditions can be explored through local interactions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit nearby islands and lagoons, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | No national parks; however, the Maldives is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paths; walking around the island is common and safe. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Sunsets from the beach provide stunning views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Various habitats around the island attract different bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Bonfires are not permitted on public beaches; inquire locally for options. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Limited services; you may need to travel to MalΓ© for shipping. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Few local repair services available; check with guesthouses for help. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Some guesthouses have recreational areas with table tennis. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Limited options; interaction with locals is the best way to learn. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Limited reading spots; quiet corners in guesthouses are available. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community engagement through local events is common. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | No dedicated gaming lounges available. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos; entertainment is mainly focused on water activities. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² for beachfront properties. |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² for inland properties. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $950 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $57,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $112,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,100 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $88,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 15% on profits. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% for foreign investors. |
π¦ Tax System | No personal income tax for residents. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Not applicable; income tax is generally not levied. |
π§Ύ VAT | 6% on goods and services. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Non-existent. |
π Property Tax | Not applicable for small property owners. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 7.5% on property sales. |