When travellers consider the Maldives, it is images of white, sandy beaches flanked by crystal blue waters and a vibrant world beneath the ocean that dominate the island’s image. But surfing, sailing and lazing around on the beach isn’t all there is to do in this mecca of leisure and entertainment that is the Maldives; the country’s shopping opportunities are also attracting avid shoppers from across the globe to the sun-kissed shores of its capital Male.
If one wants to get a taste of local culture and immerse oneself in the market atmosphere of a typical Male thoroughfare, look no further than the local market located near the Male Fish Market. Stocked to the brim full of stalls displaying and selling everything under the sun, locally produced wares and food items from the country’s picturesque atolls take centre stage here. Hot picks include delectable sweetmeats, breadfruit chips, yams, pickles and even vibrant varieties of home-grown vegetables. Juicy fruits and ripening bananas can also be seen dangling from stall fronts on coir ropes while those with a hankering for seafood can head down to the adjacent Male Fish Market for the best catches of the day.
Another popular shopping district in Male is of course bustling Majeedhee Magu which is located on the main roadway in Male. Renowned as the best place on the island for some serious retail therapy the Majeedhee Magu shopping hub houses innumerable stores selling top of the line clothing items, cosmetics and exquisitely designed jewellery. Funky handbags, aromatic perfumes and timepieces are also available here while a wide range of electronic and home ware gadgets are also found. Open till 11pm each day this shopper’s delight is a frequented spot for retail hungry tourists, expats and locals.
A shopping tour of Male will also be incomplete without purchasing a quirky souvenir or two to take back home and nowhere are souvenirs more stunning and accessible than in Chaandanee Magu. Dubbed the best place in the island for the finest souvenirs, the streets of Chaandanee Magu are packed with an explosion of souvenir stores selling gift items, curios and unique Maldivian handicrafts. Must-buys include the “thudu kuna” which is a beautiful Maldivian mat made of 100% natural fibres while the miniaturized wooden dhonis are equally sought after items. Other souvenir items include wooden carvings, napkin rings and handmade photo albums as well as a scintillating collection of teas that are also frequently purchased by seasoned visitors.
When it comes to breathtaking Maldives island resorts, there’s no rest quite like the sun-kissed Velassaru Maldives. Lined with stylish villas and idyllic water bungalows as far as the eye can see Maldives luxury hotels don’t get any better than this.
