Listly by Trish Kelson
Shopping is an unavoidable part of a vacation be it shopping for souvenirs, clothes or quick snacks. Here are a few of the best-known areas for shopping in Maldives.
The Majeedhee Magu is located on the main road of Male and is a complex that is formed of many stalls and shops that sell their goods. These goods range from the smallest of commodities to the latest gadgets to even locally crafted items. Whether you are on the lookout for apparel, perfumes, cosmetics, jewelry, handbags, watches or electronics and beyond, the Majeedhee Magu is rumoured to have pretty much anything that you would want to buy. Another significance is that all the shops remain open until 11 in the night save for prayer times throughout the day when they will all be closed during each prayer time for about 15 minutes. The central location of the shopping grounds means that there are sufficient transport methods to access the venue. There is also a range of lodging options around that even include several 5-star hotels in Maldives.
The capital city of Maldives is Male and like any other capital city, Male too is filled with many activities to take part in and many options of eateries and shopping areas. The market is known for selling miniatures of boats that make for excellent souvenirs. They are also well known for selling mats, brooms and slippers which are made out of palm or coconut leaves or a combination of both. Trying their fresh coconut milk is a must for anybody who pays a visit to this market. You could also choose what you would like to purchase from a wide range of merchandise that includes wooden flower vases and decorations that are made skillfully out of seashells and lacquer ware. It is also a good idea to always have the local currency to hand as most of the locals are not familiar with exchange rates of foreign currencies.
If you feel that you do not want to leave the comfort of your resort but still want to get some shopping done, Maldives has a solution to that too in the form of their infamous Mobile Markets. These markets are unique to Maldives and interestingly, they happen around resorts quite often. If you are staying at one of the key resorts in Maldives such as Naladhu Maldives among many others, you just might be able to experience the flavor and individuality of this one-of-a-kind fair. The Mobile market usually visits various resort premises during specific days of the week or during the weekends. The prices offered are quite reasonable and the selection is varied ranging from souvenirs to clothing items and accessories which will give you the chance to do a bit of budget-friendly shopping from the comfort of your resort while experiencing the colour, vibrancy, character and diversity of the popular Mobile Market.
This is the best place to shop for souvenirs and gifts to present to your loved ones back home. Chandanee Magu is another colourful and bustling area that is lined with many gift shops and stalls that sell local handicraft which includes mats, miniature boats and even t-shirts. "Thudu Kuna" is considered a must buy at Chandanee Magu which has made the market even more popular. A Thudu Kuna is very popular Maldivian style mat and souvenir Dhoni miniatures which are filled with intricate details and carries the essence of this island culture.