The Maldives islands are a true testament to tropical beauty, with each of the thousand-plus landmasses that create this island-bound nation being breath-taking examples of geographical beauty, with powdery beaches, turquoise waters and lush pockets of jungle. The average Maldives beach resort is part of a unique concept where they command an entire island, with examples such as the Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, These beautiful islands also feature a rich and colourful heritage.
The Maldives islands were always historically significant as a central maritime trade hub, but before these times, the islands were occupied an ancient race of people that worshipped the Sun and the ocean. The first kingdom was established here by an Indian prince who was exiled from his homeland after displeasing his father. It was this Prince that founded the nation’s first kingdom, the Solar Dynasty.
Although the Maldives were at first primarily a Buddhist nation, they eventually switched to becoming a pre-dominantly Muslim one. According to Maldivian legend, the Buddhist kingdom at one point was under the threat of a sea-dwelling Demon who required a regular human sacrifice. The demon was eventually driven away by a visiting Muslim traveller, and following this event the king at the time ordered everyone to convert into Islam.
The former President of the Maldives, Mohammed Nasheed, received international acclaim for his efforts at combating climate change and initiating carbon-neutrality. Upon realising that his precious nation is slowly being consumed by the ocean due to rising sea-levels, he held a cabinet meeting underwater to discuss these imminent threats.
Since the Maldives is a devoutly religious nation, they are also very prone to superstition. In one instance a coconut that was found in a polling station was believed to be a hex placed to rig the election. The coconut was subsequently investigated by the police who enlisted the services of a ‘white magician’ to make sure that it was harmless.
The Maldives islands are definitely a most intriguing place, and an essential travel destination.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
