While there are plenty of luxury indulgences in the Maldives, it also offers local experiences like those mentioned below that are well worth experiencing.
Bodu Beru Drumming
Influenced by African culture, bodu beru drumming is a fascinating element of the local culture and is fun to watch and listen to as well! In the Maldives, family resorts can be found that feature such traditional drumming for guests to enjoy be it at an enthralling sundown ceremony or even at a magical beach wedding.
Local Cuisine
Sampling traditional local dishes is ideal for foodies in search of new culinary adventures. Properties like Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort even offer cooking classes for hands-on guidance to make some of them too! Highlights include tuna curry (kanneli mas riha), ripe mango curry (anbu riha) and vermicelli pudding (sevunaru kiru).
Traditional Fishing
Fishing is a traditional livelihood in this Indian Ocean nation and you can look to try a time-honoured technique used by local fishermen. Best enjoyed on a Maldivian boat called a dhoni, bottom-line fishing gives you a chance to catch the likes of squirrelfish, snappers and jacks as well as take in some stunning sunset vistas.
Local Island Visits
A great way to experience culture in Maldives is to explore local islands; do note that due to pandemic-related restrictions this may not always be available. When you can visit, you will get a chance to observe locals engaged in traditional livelihoods, sample local dishes, interact with friendly islanders and enjoy a laidback pace of life.