Joanna James
Apart from Maldives' crystal waters and sun kissed beaches, it is also a shopper's paradise! Whether you are looking for specialist equipment or colourful souvenirs, you won't go home empty handed.
Chaandanee Magu is a popular street market on the main island which is home to many gift shops and is a great place to go if you are looking for souvenirs. The market is also known as Singapore Bazaar as most of its goods are reputed to be imported from Singapore, however, it does offer a variety of local products too. From locally manufactured clothing to handcrafted miniature boats; they have something for everyone. Perhaps one of their best selling items is a miniature of Maldive's iconic sailboats, known as dhonis. Another popular item is the eye catching traditional woven mat called the Thuda Kuna. Lovingly handmade by island women, a Thuda Kuna is a great way to take a piece of the island back with you.
This street market is often cited as the best place to gain insight into the daily lives of Maldivians as this market is extremely popular with the locals. The market is located in an upmarket part of Male and spans across the city. As to be expected, you can find anything and everything necessary for Maldivian life at this marketplace; ranging from electronics to Islamic clothing. This market is also the 'go to' place for foodies who want to take home a taste of the Maldives. Preserved fish, canned fish and dried fish chips are just some of the many varieties of fish related products available. It is also a great place for fashionistas to buy some unique handmade Maldives inspired jewellery which is guaranteed to make a statement back home!
Located in the middle of the city, the Agora Shopping Centre is a one stop shop for Maldivians and tourists alike. If you are staying at the best Maldives resort and want to spend as little time as possible wandering from shop to shop, the Agora Shopping Centre is your best bet. The shopping centre offers everything from local food to electronics.
If you are holidaying in Maldives, chances are that you enjoy snorkelling and diving. While any hotel such as Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon will supply the necessary equipment, avid enthusiasts may consider investing diving equipment. The Dive Shop and Water World are hailed as two of the best shops in Maldives for equipment as they carry premier brands.
The capital's indoor fruit and vegetable market is a busy and vibrant place to visit. Most of the sellers in the market are islanders from the outer atolls who have travelled to the main island to sell their wares. This is a foodie paradise as the market sells all of the Maldivians staples including succulent mangoes and even non-alcoholic coconut toddy. If you are lucky you may also stumble across one of the island's treats, coconut chocolate wrapped in palm leaves!
Whether you are a fan of shopping or just want to catch a glimpse of the daily lives of Maldivians, Maldives' markets and shopping centres should definitely be on your itinerary.
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