Joanna James
The Maldives is not merely a paradise for beach lovers to enjoy the ultimate tropical escape. It's also a holiday shopper's haven. And if you are into collecting souvenirs, do hit the listed venues.
If you are a collector of souvenirs and love taking back mementoes of places you visit, this local market will yield many treasures. This is one of the most popular street markets in the nation and is always abuzz with lots of excitement and local flavour. Located on the north front, this market easy to reach from nearby resorts like Velassaru Maldives and you will find the place is full of locals and curious tourists rummaging through the various stalls for souvenirs, local handicrafts and gift items. The market is open from 8 am to 11 pm and is popular for picking up, bottled local pickles, packaged sweets, miniature souvenir boats, home décor fashioned from seashells, fresh coconut milk and palm sweepers.
This huge street bazaar is located in the busy city centre of Male. If you are staying at a luxury hotel, Maldives is famous for, and have not had the resolve to leave your comfy confines, this market is ideal for a last day outing to pick up souvenirs, gift items and local handicrafts. Just about anything and everything is sold here, from electronics to garments and accessories to bottled food. Remember, to bargain, you are expected to do so, which is why the initial asking price is always higher than what the vendor expects. Once done with shopping, hit the dining zone of Majedhee Magu, where a delicious variety of Maldivian fare will treat your taste-buds. The market is open from 9 am to 11 pm. Specialities at this market include jewellery, dried fish chips, cosmetics and canned smoked fish.
Le Cute is a chic duty free cosmetics boutique. This classy cosmetics shop is one of the most popular in the Maldives. Some of the best products ranging from perfumes and cosmetics to toiletries and health supplements and herbal care are on offer at this classy store. Located on Majedhee Magu Road, this shop is open from 9.30 am to 11 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm. On Fridays, the store is open from 8 pm to 11 pm.
STO offers a comprehensive shopping experience in the Maldives. Explore the first floor for a range of household items while the second and third floors offer one a wide selection of souvenirs. Regarded a superstore, STO is popular amongst locals and tourists. The mall is open from 8.30 am to 10 pm and is located on Orchid Magu Road.
This is a chic, classy little boutique which offers a range of top quality artistic products fashioned by the top artisans of Maldives. If you are a collector of high-end quality products, then do check out this boutique's selection of handmade jewellery, macramé works, silk scarves, hand designed shoulder bags and more. The shop is open from 10 am to 6 pm and on Fridays from 4 pm to 6 pm.
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.
