The Maldives is the very picture of luxury, tropical serenity and romance. Whether you’re a sun-seeker or an adventure junkie, the mysterious Maldives has something to offer everyone. So, if you’re planning your vacation to this tropical paradise, here are some things you would need to consider.
Culture, social conventions and languages
Usually, the indigenous people of the country have very limited interactions with tourists except for the population who are working in the hospitality industry. Although dressing casually is permitted while you’re in public, you need to make sure that you wear modest clothing as the customs here are very rigid. Bikinis and swimwear are strictly prohibited on any inhabited island; you can only wear them on your private resort islands.
Where to stay
There’s a vast array of resorts and hotels with varying degrees of luxury and comfort. Typically, you’ll find villas with thatched roofing, private sun decks and other ensuite facilities. You can choose a resort such as the Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives which is a very popular, luxury surf resort in Maldives. If you prefer to go diving, it is advised that you do some research before booking and select a resort that offers diving excursions or resorts located near dive sites.
Things to see and do
The Maldivian reefs are famous for being some of the most diverse and colourful natural reefs in the world. Both divers and non-divers will certainly find the extraordinary marine life here mesmerising. A unique way to experience this if you’re not too keen on diving is taking a whale submarine tour; it is a comfortably seated submarine that takes you deep into the ocean for a ride with manta rays, reef sharks and other colourful fish.
Shopping in Maldives
Most local boutiques and stores boast a remarkable collection of Maldivian handcrafts. The lacquered wooden boxes are the most famous of them all. It is because the process of making these include carving and sculpting pieces of wood from endemic trees to form these colourful ornaments. You can also taste some exotic Asian fruits and vegetables and even take pickled varieties for friends back home.