Andrew Pereira
Heading to Maldives on holiday means you will be relaxing within a tropical paradise. The archipelago is well known for island hopping, diving, water sports, scuba tours and soaking up the sun.
Definitely one of the best places around the globe for diving, the Maldives offers excellent locations. The first and still the most famous dive spot to be publicised in the Maldives is Banana Reef; located on the North Male Atoll. It is ideal for amateur divers as well, so you can dive in and enjoy the wonders below the waves. The water around the archipelago is teeming with all manner of marine life and coral formations; making any dive tour a real treat. If you have never dived before consider heading over to the dive centre of the luxury Maldives resort you are staying at. These offer excellent trainers and PADI certificates to potential divers as young as 10 years. These resorts also organise excellent dive tours to some of the best locations; and is the wisest choice if it's your first time in the country.
The luxury beach hotels that occupy just about every private island in the Maldives are home to excellent spas. These holistic centres offer a variety of treatments for rejuvenating mind body and soul. You will love the serene ambiance and expansive ocean views from the elegant spas as expert therapist work on pampering your body. Sitting on a stretch of white sand beach is the Velassaru Maldives.
Located opposite the Male Waterfront the Male Fish Market is the best place to visit in order to savour some local character. The friendly vendors will be happy to talk to you while the myriad display of fish is quite fascinating.
You can take along your own equipment or rent out from your Maldives beach hotel or nearest sports club. Anyone who can swim can enjoy the joys of snorkelling. The waters around the country are well known for excellent visibility sometimes up to depths of 50 metres. You can head out to the nearest coral bed right from the beach your hotel is located at; or join a snorkelling tour. These tours will take you to the best spots around the archipelago where picnicking on sand bars, exploring uninhabited islands and swimming in glistening bays is on the cards.
Take on an island hopping tour and discover the charms and allures of the Maldives. The tourists will head over to Virgin Islands resplendent with lush vegetation and isolated beaches. Head over to the local islands where the villagers sell perfectly turned out handicrafts. Enjoy a friendly chat and maybe watch a fresh catch being brought in from the ocean. On the way home you just might be greeted by some friendly dolphins.
Male is excellent for satisfying the holiday shopaholic in you. The capital is home to both local and international retail stores. Branded goods as well as exotic souvenirs are on offer. While you're at it consider browsing the many eateries in Male where local dishes promise to be quite a treat.
