Joanna James
Natural sun-bleached beaches and marvellous coral atolls are just a few of the attractions Maldives is famous for. It is also a destination for practising eco-tourism and savouring an ancient culture.
This is one of the most iconic attractions in the Maldives. The National Museum is located in Sultan Park within an ancient palace. There are plenty of artefacts on display to satisfy all culture buffs. Enjoy displays of vintage manuscripts, ornaments and costumes worn by royalty as well as a good collection of old arms. The place is the best destination for delving into the island nation's rich history that includes the introduction of Islam to the country while offering an insight to previous religions practised there. The museum is located at Chandhanee Magu.
Now if the thought of an artificial beach in an island nation poses a conundrum for you, it must be said that the capital island Male, is so densely urbanised that there are no more natural beaches to bask on. In consideration of the huge population in Male, the Artificial Beach was introduced and it is no less a beach than the sun bleached oases the archipelago is famous for. This beach features a sandy embankment for you to stroll along as well as clusters of swaying palm trees and plenty of locals out to enjoy the tropical ambience.
Diving is definitely one of the most popular things to do in the Maldives. The destination ranks as one of the world's best dive sites; Manta Point takes top place as a location to watch a large number of Manta Rays being cleaned by Wrasses. There you can watch the giant fish swim to the reef for feeding; a feat any seasoned or amateur diver will enjoy. Do add diving at Manta Point to your list of things to do in Maldives. There are of course many excellent dive resorts around the islands; for instance, you can enjoy wreck and cave diving just 15 minutes from places like Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives or relish the marvellous marine life at famous Banana Reef from one of the north Male resorts; the choices are varied and endless.
Hukuru Miskiiy or Old Friday Mosque is the oldest in the country. Located in the Kaafu Atoll this mosque was built by a sultan of the same name. The Old Friday Mosque is lovingly cherished for its pink coral walls, exquisite wood-carved panels and historical graveyard where many kings, queens and dignitaries lay buried. The mosque does not face Mecca in the traditional way; as such a stripped carpet directs devotees as to which side to face when offering up prayers. A must visit place for loads of history, culture and traditions.
Continuing your tour of Maldivian culture and history you should visit this place which was once the house of Sultan Mohammed Thankurufaan. Located in Utheema the house pays homage to one of the Maldives most revered heroes; for Sultan Thankurufaan is respected and loved for his brave efforts and battles in defence of the tropical archipelago's freedom.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
