Juliana Roberts
With a growing number of tourists, Maldives is now undergoing a major facelift. Visit this small island every year, and you will see something different each time.
If you need an authentic version of the daily Maldivian life, then you should visit nowhere other than the fish market. Reach here in the afternoon, and you will see a bevy of activities. Fishermen have just arrived to convert their fish into money.
At the fish market, you can find almost any kind of fish and seafood. And the most surprising thing here is that even if you dare to photograph the busy environment, no one will actually mind about it.
Hukuru Miskiiy could be considered a mini Mecca. Located in Male, the capital of Maldives, Hukuru Miskiiy is also known as the Old Friday Mosque. Well, it is not that attractive when you see it from outside. But everything will change when you enter. Inside you will be greeted by a mesmerizing show of Maldivians' indigenous skills. You can enter the premises free if you are a Muslim. Otherwise, you need prior approval to enter.
Male has established itself as a smallest capital in the world. Literally speaking, all what you have to cover is only a square mile. But that little square mile is packed with all kinds of entertainment and sightseeing spots. You will come across a number of mosques, when you walk subways. But be precautious before you enter a mosque. You need to check whether the mosque will allow guests.
Despite the meaning of its name, Maldives Victory is a ship that faced tragic wreckage in 1981. If you are into diving, Maldives Victory could be an entertaining spot. The giant ship takes a long rest under the Hulhule House Reef. The site is such a place to visit at any time of the year. And one word of caution: the currents could be dangerous at times. So better make it here with the proper equipment. Any of the island resorts in Maldives such as Maalifushi by COMO, Maldives will provide you information on where to get proper equipment.
The museum was set up with the apparent intention of preserving the Maldivian heritage. That said, if you are a history aficionado, the museum will offer more than enough. The building could be located in Sultan Park. It was a gift from the Chinese to the Maldivian government opened in 2010. You will also find quite a lot of damaged historical items at the museum which include a six-faced coral statue and an 18-inch high bust of the Buddha. Just remember that the museum is closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Maldives is hardly a holiday destination, if you don't swim. The archipelago is blessed with immense oceans and swimming is the best outdoor activity you can do here. But swimming comes at a price. You need to stay at a resort or a villa, and opt for swimming as a complementary benefit.
