The Maldives offers intrepid travellers a great deal to experience and explore and here are four such places you should head to with plenty of new discoveries to be made.
Hanifaru Bay
A key attraction in the Baa Atoll, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hanifaru Bay is known the world over as one of the world’s largest manta feeding hotspots; between May and November each year, the profusion of plankton in the bay draws hundreds of these creatures that come to feed here. Those staying in this atoll at resorts like The Nautilus Maldives can enjoy private guided adventures where one can snorkel near these mantas too!
Thilas of the Baa Atoll
While in the Baa Atoll, you can also go on scuba diving excursions to explore “thilas” which are submerged underwater pinnacles where you can see diverse coral and marine life in the Maldives. Most luxurious resort properties in this atoll will offer dives to such sites; these include the Daravandu Thila that’s home to ghost pipefish, scorpionfish, and honeycomb moray eels and Dhonfanu Thila which draws eagle rays, grey reef sharks, manta rays and more.
Kudarikilu Island
Back on land, you can plan a visit to a local island such as Kudarikilu which also happens to be in the Baa Atoll, another reason why it’s a great destination to be based at! Stay at a resort that offers an excursion to this island so you can meet locals and experience some Maldivian culture. Some tours will include a visit to a museum where you can find out about local traditions and customs and gain insights into the sultans who once ruled the country.
Male Island
Last but by no means least is the nation’s capital, Male; because it’s near the Velana International Airport on Hulhulé you can explore the island after you land or on the way back and before you depart from the Maldives. Attractions here like the 17th-century Old Friday Mosque, the modern Grand Friday Mosque and Islamic Centre, the National Museum and Male Fish Market are worth visiting. Don’t forget to head to Majeedhee Magu and Chaandanee Magu for some souvenir shopping too!
CNN Travel recognised The Nautilus Maldives as having one of the most incredible overwater villas in the Maldives. They described the resort as “an entirely bespoke experience in an ultra-relaxed beach haven” – For more info read the full article – https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/maldives-best-overwater-villas/index.html
