South Malé Atoll

Introduction to South Malé Atoll

Welcome to South Malé Atoll, a captivating gem nestled in the heart of the Maldives. Known locally as Kaafu Atoll (South), this stunning collection of islands offers a quintessential Maldivian experience, blending pristine natural beauty with vibrant local culture and world-class hospitality. Situated just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport (MLE), South Malé Atoll stands out as an incredibly accessible and diverse destination, making it a perennial favorite for travelers seeking everything from luxurious escapes to authentic budget-friendly adventures.

What truly sets South Malé Atoll apart is its remarkable versatility. It's a prime choice for those looking to combine the opulent comforts of a private island resort with the immersive charm of a local island guesthouse. This unique blend allows visitors to experience the full spectrum of Maldivian life, from serene overwater bungalows to bustling local markets. The atoll is celebrated for its incredible underwater world, boasting some of the best house reefs in the Maldives and renowned channel diving sites that teem with diverse marine life. Whether you're a seasoned diver, a snorkeling enthusiast, a couple seeking romance, or a family on an adventure, South Malé Atoll promises an unforgettable journey. Its strategic location and diverse offerings make it an ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of the Maldives.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Atoll Name: South Malé Atoll (Kaafu Atoll South)
• Location: South of Malé International Airport (MLE)
• Transfer Type: Speedboat
• Transfer Time: 30-60 minutes
• Resort Count: 18
• Key Features: Budget-friendly local islands, excellent house reefs, thrilling channel diving
• Best For: Budget travelers, channel diving enthusiasts, those seeking mixed resort/local island trips
• Unique Highlight: Maafushi is the most popular budget destination, perfect for combining resort and local island experiences.

Getting to South Malé Atoll

Reaching South Malé Atoll is straightforward and part of the excitement of your Maldivian adventure. Given its close proximity to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, speedboat transfers are the primary and most efficient mode of transport to the resorts and local islands within the atoll. Unlike some of the more remote atolls that require seaplane transfers, South Malé Atoll offers a quicker and often more economical journey.

Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, you'll be greeted by representatives from your chosen resort or guesthouse, who will guide you to your designated speedboat. The journey itself is a picturesque experience, offering your first glimpses of the dazzling turquoise waters and scattered emerald islands that define the Maldives. The transfer time typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific island destination within the atoll. This short travel time means you can be unwinding on your resort beach or exploring a local island just hours after landing.

Tips for Booking Transfers

• Pre-booking is Essential: Always arrange your speedboat transfer in advance, ideally directly through your resort or guesthouse. They will coordinate your arrival and departure times with your international flights.
• Check Included Transfers: Some luxury resort packages may include transfers, so always confirm this when booking.
• Local Island Transfers: For local islands like Maafushi, Gulhi, or Guraidhoo, public speedboats or scheduled ferry services are available, offering a more budget-friendly option. Your guesthouse can assist with booking these. Private speedboats can also be arranged but are significantly more expensive.
• Arrival Times: Most public speedboat services operate during daylight hours. If your international flight arrives late at night, you might need to stay overnight in Malé or Hulhumalé before catching a transfer the next morning.

Approximate Costs

Transfer costs can vary significantly:

• Resort Speedboats: Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 USD per person, round trip, for resort-operated speedboats. This is typically a mandatory charge added to your booking.
• Public Speedboats (to local islands): These are much more affordable, usually ranging from $25 to $50 USD per person, one way.
• Public Ferries (to local islands): The most budget-friendly option, but slower and less frequent, costing only a few dollars.

Where to Stay in South Malé Atoll

South Malé Atoll offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to every budget and travel style. From ultra-luxurious private island resorts to charming guesthouses on local islands, you'll find the perfect base for your Maldivian adventure. This atoll is particularly well-suited for travelers looking to experience both the pampered luxury of a resort and the authentic charm of local island life.

Luxury Resorts

For those seeking unparalleled luxury, privacy, and impeccable service, South Malé Atoll is home to some of the Maldives' most exquisite resorts. These establishments offer breathtaking overwater villas, private beaches, gourmet dining, and a host of exclusive activities.

• Taj Exotica Resort & Spa: Renowned for its elegant design and exceptional service, Taj Exotica offers stunning overwater and beachfront villas, many with private plunge pools. Its proximity to Malé makes it incredibly convenient, yet it feels worlds away with its serene lagoon and lush surroundings. Guests rave about the personalized attention and world-class dining. Check Prices for Taj Exotica→
• Naladhu Private Island Maldives: An exclusive sanctuary, Naladhu offers just 20 luxurious houses, each with its own private pool and dedicated butler service. It epitomizes bespoke luxury, providing an intimate and highly personalized experience. Guests can also enjoy dining and facilities at its sister properties, Anantara Dhigu and Veli. Check Prices for Naladhu Private Island→
• Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort: Perfect for families and couples, Anantara Dhigu boasts spacious overwater and beach villas, a kids' club, and a wide array of watersports. Its vibrant atmosphere and multiple dining options make it a popular choice. Guests can easily access the facilities of Anantara Veli (adults-only) and Naladhu. Check Prices for Anantara Dhigu→
• COMO Cocoa Island: Famous for its distinctive Dhoni-shaped overwater villas, COMO Cocoa Island offers a unique and serene escape. With a focus on wellness, it features a world-class COMO Shambhala Retreat, organic cuisine, and direct access to incredible house reefs. It's an ideal choice for a tranquil and rejuvenating holiday. Check Prices for COMO Cocoa Island→

Mid-Range Options

South Malé Atoll also features several excellent mid-range resorts that offer a fantastic balance of comfort, amenities, and value. These resorts are often popular with families and couples looking for a resort experience without the ultra-luxury price tag.

• Value Resorts: While specific names weren't provided in the atoll data, mid-range resorts in South Malé typically offer comfortable beach bungalows or garden villas, all-inclusive options, multiple dining venues, swimming pools, and a good selection of watersports and excursions. They provide a relaxed atmosphere and are often chosen for their family-friendly facilities or vibrant house reefs. Expect a comfortable stay with good service and a range of activities.
• Best for Families/Couples: Many mid-range resorts cater well to both families, with kids' clubs and dedicated activities, and couples, with romantic dining options and spa services. They often strike a good balance, offering a taste of the Maldivian resort dream at a more accessible price point.

Local Island Guesthouses

For budget travelers and those seeking an authentic cultural immersion, South Malé Atoll's local islands offer a fantastic alternative to resorts. Staying in a guesthouse allows you to experience daily Maldivian life, interact with locals, and enjoy the islands' natural beauty without the resort price tag. The atoll is celebrated for its budget-friendly local islands, making it a prime choice for accessible Maldives travel.

• Maafushi: The undisputed king of budget travel in the Maldives, Maafushi is the most popular budget destination. It boasts a wide selection of guesthouses, hotels, and local restaurants. Maafushi offers a "bikini beach" where tourists can swim and sunbathe, and it serves as a hub for various excursions like snorkeling trips, diving, and island hopping. It's vibrant, bustling, and a great place to meet other travelers.
• Gulhi: A smaller, quieter island than Maafushi, Gulhi offers a more laid-back and traditional Maldivian experience. It has a beautiful bikini beach and a charming harbor. Guesthouses here provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
• Guraidhoo: Known for its surfing spots and vibrant local community, Guraidhoo is another excellent option for a local island stay. It offers a mix of guesthouses and local shops, and its proximity to famous dive sites makes it popular among divers.
• Fulidhoo: While technically in Vaavu Atoll, Fulidhoo is often visited from South Malé Atoll due to its relative proximity and growing popularity for local island experiences. It's known for its pristine beaches, stingray encounters, and tranquil vibe.

What to Expect in Guesthouses: Guesthouses typically offer comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, often with private bathrooms. Many include breakfast, and some have small restaurants or offer meal plans. While they don't have the extensive facilities of resorts, they provide a genuine connection to the local culture and are excellent bases for exploring the atoll's natural beauty through organized excursions. It's the perfect for combining resort and local island experiences, allowing travelers to enjoy both worlds.

Diving and Snorkeling in South Malé Atoll

South Malé Atoll is a diver's paradise, boasting an incredible underwater landscape characterized by vibrant coral reefs, dramatic channels, and an abundance of marine life. Its reputation for great house reefs and thrilling channel diving attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. Snorkelers will also find plenty to marvel at just beneath the surface.

Famous Dive Sites

The atoll is home to several world-renowned dive sites, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience:

• Kandooma Thila: Often hailed as one of the best dive sites in the Maldives, Kandooma Thila is a vibrant reef teeming with life. Divers can expect strong currents, making it a drift dive, but these currents bring in large pelagics. You'll frequently encounter schools of grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and a kaleidoscope of reef fish. The coral formations are stunning.
• Guraidhoo Corner: A spectacular channel dive, Guraidhoo Corner is famous for its strong currents that act as a magnet for larger marine species. Divers can often spot grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, and sometimes even hammerheads in the deeper sections. The reef wall is covered in colorful soft corals.
• Cocoa Corner: Located near COMO Cocoa Island, this site is another fantastic channel dive. It's celebrated for its diverse topography, including overhangs and caves, and is a hotspot for grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of snappers and fusiliers. The currents here can also be challenging but rewarding.
• Embudu Canyon: This unique dive site is a deep channel or "canyon" where currents can be very strong. It's an excellent location for spotting large numbers of grey reef sharks patrolling the channel, as well as stingrays and various reef fish sheltering in the crevices.

Marine Life Highlights

The waters of South Malé Atoll are incredibly rich in biodiversity, offering encounters with a wide array of fascinating creatures:

• Grey reef sharks: A common sight at most channel dive sites, often seen patrolling in groups.
• Eagle rays: Graceful and majestic, these rays are frequently spotted gliding along reef edges and in channels.
• Whale sharks (seasonal): While more common in specific atolls like South Ari, whale sharks are occasionally sighted in South Malé Atoll, particularly between May and December, though encounters are less predictable.
• Octopus: Masters of camouflage, octopuses can be found hiding among the corals and rocks, a delight for keen-eyed divers and snorkelers.
• Other common sightings include various species of reef sharks, turtles, moray eels, barracudas, napoleon wrasse, and an explosion of colorful reef fish.

Best Season for Diving

The best time for diving in South Malé Atoll is generally during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, the weather is stable, with less rain, calmer seas, and excellent visibility (often exceeding 30 meters). The northeast monsoon brings warm, clear waters and is ideal for exploring the atoll's famous dive sites. While diving is possible year-round, the wet season (May to October) can bring stronger winds, rougher seas, and reduced visibility, though it can also be a good time for spotting manta rays and whale sharks due to increased plankton.

Certification Requirements

To participate in most guided dives, you will need to be a certified diver (PADI Open Water or equivalent). Resorts and local dive centers offer a full range of courses, from beginner Discover Scuba Diving experiences to advanced certifications. For challenging channel dives with strong currents, Advanced Open Water certification and experience in drift diving are highly recommended.

Top Things to Do

Beyond diving and snorkeling, South Malé Atoll offers a wealth of activities and experiences to enrich your Maldivian holiday. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there's something for everyone.

Key Activities

• Watersports Galore: Resorts and local islands offer a vast array of watersports. This includes kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, and parasailing. Many resorts provide complimentary non-motorized watersports.
• Sunset Cruises: A quintessential Maldivian experience, a sunset cruise offers breathtaking views as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Often accompanied by dolphin spotting, these cruises are perfect for romantic evenings or family outings.
• Fishing Trips: Try your hand at traditional Maldivian fishing, often done at sunset. You can learn local techniques like handline fishing and might catch snapper, grouper, or barracuda. Many trips offer to cook your catch for dinner.
• Spa and Wellness: Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at world-class spas available in most luxury resorts. From traditional Maldivian therapies to international massages, these spas offer a haven of tranquility. COMO Cocoa Island, for example, is renowned for its wellness focus.
• Beach Relaxation: Simply unwind on the pristine white-sand beaches, soak up the sun, and swim in the crystal-clear lagoons. The beauty of the Maldives is often best appreciated in quiet contemplation.

Unique Experiences

• Sandbank Excursions: Spend a few hours or even a full day on a deserted sandbank, surrounded by nothing but turquoise waters. Enjoy a private picnic, snorkel around the pristine shores, or simply bask in the solitude. These trips are easily arranged from both resorts and local islands.
• Dolphin Watching: The waters around South Malé Atoll are frequently visited by pods of spinner dolphins. Dedicated dolphin watching tours offer an incredible opportunity to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
• Local Island Hopping: Take a day trip from your resort to a local island like Maafushi or Gulhi, or explore different local islands if you're staying in a guesthouse. This allows you to witness local life, explore charming streets, and perhaps buy some authentic souvenirs. This is a highlight of the mixed resort/local island trips that South Malé Atoll is perfect for.

Excursions and Day Trips

• Malé City Tour: While not within South Malé Atoll, a visit to the capital city of Malé is a popular day trip. Explore the local fish market, the Grand Friday Mosque, and the bustling streets to get a taste of urban Maldivian life.
• Resort Day Passes: If you're staying on a local island, some luxury resorts offer day passes, allowing you to enjoy their facilities (pools, beaches, restaurants) for a fee. This is a great way to experience resort luxury on a budget.
• Night Snorkeling/Diving: Experience the magic of the underwater world after dark. Many creatures that hide during the day come alive at night, offering a completely different perspective of the reefs.

Local Islands and Culture

One of the most enriching aspects of a visit to South Malé Atoll is the opportunity to engage with the vibrant local culture and experience authentic Maldivian life. The atoll is celebrated for its budget-friendly local islands, which provide a stark and fascinating contrast to the secluded luxury resorts.

Island Visits: Maafushi, Gulhi, Guraidhoo, Fulidhoo

• Maafushi: As the most popular budget destination, Maafushi is a bustling hub where tourism and local life intertwine. Wander through its lively streets, browse souvenir shops, and dine at local restaurants serving fresh seafood and Maldivian specialties. Maafushi also offers a designated "bikini beach" where tourists can comfortably swim and sunbathe.
• Gulhi: A more tranquil alternative, Gulhi offers a glimpse into traditional island life. Stroll along its quiet paths, admire the colorful houses, and interact with friendly locals. Gulhi also has a beautiful bikini beach and a boat building yard where you can see traditional Maldivian 'Dhoni' boats being constructed.
• Guraidhoo: Known for its vibrant local community and proximity to excellent surf breaks and dive sites, Guraidhoo is a great choice for active travelers. Explore its local shops, enjoy a coffee at a local cafe, and witness the daily rhythms of island life.
• Fulidhoo: While technically in Vaavu Atoll, Fulidhoo is easily accessible from South Malé Atoll and is a fantastic example of a peaceful, pristine local island. It's famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for close encounters with stingrays and nurse sharks in the shallow lagoons.

Cultural Experiences

• Local Cuisine: Sample authentic Maldivian dishes such as Garudhiya (fish broth), Mas Huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut), and various curries. Don't miss out on fresh seafood, often grilled right on the beach.
• Handicrafts: Look for locally made souvenirs like lacquer work, wooden carvings, woven mats, and miniature Dhoni boats. These make meaningful mementos of your trip.
• Bodu Beru: If you have the chance, witness a Bodu Beru performance. This traditional Maldivian music and dance involves drumming, singing, and rhythmic clapping, often performed during festivals and celebrations.
• Mosque Visits: Respectfully observe local mosques. While generally not open to non-Muslims for entry, their architecture and significance to the community are noteworthy.

Dress Code and Customs

The Maldives is a Muslim nation, and while resorts have a relaxed dress code, it's important to be respectful of local customs when visiting inhabited islands. On local islands:

• Dress Modestly: Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid going shirtless. Swimwear is only appropriate on designated "bikini beaches."
• Public Displays of Affection: Keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is generally prohibited on local islands. While some guesthouses may offer non-alcoholic alternatives, you won't find bars serving alcohol. Resorts, however, serve alcohol freely.
• Ramadan: If visiting during the holy month of Ramadan, be mindful that locals will be fasting from dawn till dusk. Some local restaurants may have altered opening hours.

Best Time to Visit South Malé Atoll

Choosing the right time to visit South Malé Atoll can significantly impact your experience, especially concerning weather, crowds, and specific activities. The Maldives experiences two main seasons driven by monsoons.

Weather Patterns

• Dry Season (Northeast Monsoon): November to April
  • Characteristics: This is generally considered the peak tourist season. You can expect consistent sunshine, clear blue skies, calm seas, and low humidity. Rainfall is minimal, and visibility for diving and snorkeling is usually excellent.
  • Temperatures: Average daily temperatures hover around 28-30°C (82-86°F) year-round, with warm evenings.
• Wet Season (Southwest Monsoon): May to October
  • Characteristics: This season brings higher humidity, more frequent rainfall (often in short, heavy bursts), and sometimes stronger winds and rougher seas. However, there's still plenty of sunshine, and many days are perfectly clear.
  • Temperatures: Similar to the dry season, maintaining warm temperatures.

Peak vs. Shoulder Season

• Peak Season (December to March): This is the busiest and most expensive time to visit, especially around Christmas, New Year, and Easter. Resorts and guesthouses are often fully booked, and prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest. However, you are almost guaranteed perfect weather.
• Shoulder Season (April, May, October, November): These months offer a good balance. You'll find fewer crowds and potentially lower prices than the peak season, but still enjoy generally good weather. April and November, in particular, can be excellent times to visit, bridging the gap between the two monsoons.
• Low Season (June to September): This is the wettest period, but also the most budget-friendly. While there's a higher chance of rain, showers are often brief, and you can still enjoy plenty of sunshine. This period can also be good for spotting certain marine life due to increased plankton.

Best Months for Specific Activities

• Diving and Snorkeling: November to April offers the best visibility and calmest waters, ideal for exploring sites like Kandooma Thila and Guraidhoo Corner.
• Whale Shark Sightings (seasonal): While less common in South Malé Atoll compared to other atolls, the wet season (May to December) sometimes offers a higher chance of spotting whale sharks due to plankton blooms.
• Budget Travel: The low season (June to September) is generally the best time for budget travelers as guesthouse and flight prices tend to be lower.
• Avoiding Crowds: The shoulder months (April, May, October, November) are ideal for those who prefer fewer tourists while still enjoying good weather.

Practical Tips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to South Malé Atoll, here are some essential practical tips to keep in mind.

Money and Payments

• Currency: The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted at resorts and many guesthouses. Most resorts list prices in USD.
• Credit Cards: Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are accepted at all resorts and most guesthouses and larger shops on local islands. It's wise to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.
• Cash: It's advisable to carry some small denominations of USD or MVR for local shops, small purchases on local islands, and tipping. ATMs are available in Malé and on larger local islands like Maafushi, but can be limited elsewhere.
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Many resorts include a service charge, but for exceptional service, a small tip (USD 5-10 for porters, room attendants, or dive instructors) is customary.

What to Pack

• Lightweight Clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather. Cotton and linen are ideal.
• Swimwear: Plenty of swimwear for daily dips in the ocean or pool.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect your skin and the delicate coral reefs. Look for sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Essential for protection from the strong Maldivian sun.
• Insect Repellent: Especially for evenings on local islands or in lush resort gardens.
• First-Aid Kit: Include basic medications, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal prescriptions.
• Underwater Camera: To capture the incredible marine life.
• Adapter: The Maldives uses Type D and G electrical sockets (like India and UK).
• Reusable Water Bottle: Help reduce plastic waste. Many resorts offer filtered water stations.

Health and Safety

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
• Sun Protection: The sun is intense. Apply sunscreen frequently, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours.
• Marine Life: Observe marine life from a distance. Do not touch corals or marine animals. Be aware of potential hazards like jellyfish or stonefish.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
• Local Laws: Be aware of and respect local laws and customs, especially on inhabited islands (see "Local Islands and Culture" section).

Communication

• Wi-Fi: All resorts and most guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, often complimentary. Speeds can vary.
• Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo) at Malé Airport for affordable data and calls, especially if you plan to stay on local islands or need reliable connectivity.
• Language: The official language is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is South Malé Atoll good for a honeymoon?

Yes, South Malé Atoll is an excellent choice for a honeymoon. It offers a range of luxurious resorts like Taj Exotica and Naladhu that provide romantic settings, private villas, fine dining, and secluded experiences perfect for couples. The beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets add to the romantic ambiance.

Can you do day trips from South Malé Atoll to other atolls?

While technically possible, day trips to other distant atolls are less common due to transfer times and costs. Most excursions from South Malé Atoll focus on exploring its own dive sites, local islands, and nearby sandbanks. Longer trips would typically involve overnight stays. Maldives Travel Guide

What is the difference between South Malé Atoll resorts and local island guesthouses?

Resorts are typically on private islands, offering luxury amenities, alcohol, and privacy. Guesthouses are on inhabited local islands, providing a more authentic cultural experience, budget-friendly accommodation, and a chance to interact with locals. Alcohol is prohibited on local islands, and a modest dress code applies outside of designated bikini beaches.

Are there sharks in South Malé Atoll? Are they dangerous?

Yes, South Malé Atoll is famous for its abundance of sharks, particularly grey reef sharks, which are a highlight for divers at sites like Kandooma Thila and Guraidhoo Corner. These sharks are generally not dangerous to humans and are a crucial part of the healthy marine ecosystem. Follow dive guide instructions and maintain a respectful distance.

Is South Malé Atoll suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! South Malé Atoll is very family-friendly. Resorts like Anantara Dhigu offer kids' clubs, family-friendly accommodations, and a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. The calm lagoons are safe for swimming, and many excursions can be adapted for children.

How much does a trip to South Malé Atoll cost?

The cost varies greatly depending on your accommodation choice. A luxury resort stay can range from $500-$1500+ USD per night. A budget trip staying in guesthouses on local islands like Maafushi can be as low as $50-$150 USD per night, excluding flights and excursions. Transfers and activities are additional costs.

What is the local food like in South Malé Atoll?

Maldivian cuisine is heavily influenced by seafood, coconut, and spices. Expect delicious fresh fish, curries, and dishes like Mas Huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut for breakfast). Local island restaurants offer authentic and affordable options. Don't miss the fresh fruit juices!

What should I wear when visiting local islands?

When visiting local islands, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for local customs. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid going shirtless. Swimwear is only appropriate on designated "bikini beaches."

Can I combine a resort stay with a local island stay in South Malé Atoll?

Yes, South Malé Atoll is perfect for combining resort and local island experiences. Many travelers choose to spend a few nights at a luxury resort for pampering, followed by a stay on a local island like Maafushi to experience the local culture and budget-friendly activities. Transfers between resorts and local islands can be arranged.

Is South Malé Atoll good for surfing?

While not as famous as some other atolls for surfing, South Malé Atoll does offer some decent surf breaks, particularly around Guraidhoo. The surf season generally runs from April to October, with consistent swells during the southwest monsoon. Several guesthouses and resorts can arrange surf trips.