Joanna James
With around 1,100 islands to explore, 200 of which are inhabited, those heading to the sunny, tropical islands of the Maldives are in for a world of adventure and relaxation.
A favourite amongst many who try it, this adventurous thrilling water sport is only for the brave, and for those who have a PADI diving certificate of course! Some of the best Maldives resorts have an onsite diving school where you can get certified and learn the ins and outs of diving. Once you're all set and ready to go explore the wonders of the sea, pack up a bag of confidence and head out into the open waters! Be prepared to see whale sharks, turtles, stingrays and manta rays, white tip and black tip reef sharks, and schools of colourful fish. Always remember that you're in the wild and approaching any animal or obstructing its path is strictly prohibited. Avoid picking or touching anything you see underwater, unless it's on your body.
If you're not interested or unable to get a PADI license to go scuba diving, you should try snorkelling. Rent snorkelling gear from your hotel or bring your own and spend the rest of the day pretending to be a mermaid. You'll meet tons of colourful fish and other marine creatures. Remember it is important to just observe them and not interfere, touch or harm them in any way. Always ensure you don't touch any coral with your hands or your flippers as this will permanently damage the reef. Snorkelling is a great activity for the whole family, and if you're staying in an overwater villa similar to the one at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, with direct access to the sea, you can spend your entire vacation from morning until night, just snorkelling!
Step out of the restaurant and take advantage of the numerous options for dining venues when you're in the Maldives. Depending on your hotel, you can dine under a canopy of stars on the beach, or in their garden. Some hotels even go the extra mile of organizing a private island dining experience for its guests, where they whisk you away to a small sandbank where you're surrounded by the alluring sea on all sides and have only your partner for the company. It's a romantic setting for a proposal or honeymoon.
Dedicate at least half a day for a city tour, where you can experience the other side of the sunny island life you would expect to see in Maldives and head to the city of Male. Check out the local fish market or buy some souvenirs from the numerous souvenir stores around the area. Do keep in mind that the Maldives is predominantly a Muslim society, therefore, dress appropriately, covering your shoulders and knees.
Almost every resort on the islands of Maldives has a dedicated centre to ensure their guests are completely relaxed and pampered. Ideally, aim to book a spa day on your last day on the tropical island, as it'll help with sunburn from lying on the beach or sore muscles from snorkelling way too much.
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.
