Listly by Joanna James
The spectacular beaches and the villas in sprawling across the shallow water are generally what people think about the Maldives but there are also many sites to see and things to do.
This beautiful piece of architecture is built from coral stone and decorated with intricate design and scripture from the Quran. This is the oldest mosque in the country and dates back to 1656.
The building that houses the Museum is not at all pleasing to look at however the collection it holds inside is definitely worth a look. The museum is a great place to understand the quite unique history of these tiny isolated islands.
Dhigurah is a clean and calm island of only 600 inhabitants. The island has 10 guesthouses, souvenir shops and a bikini beach. The sand beach around the island is gorgeous and it's a super place to go island-hopping or even base your trip from unless you want to stay at a famous beach resort, Maldives has many to offer such as Cinnamon Dhonaveli, Maldives.
This museum was at one time home to nobility, a small palace of sorts where the national hero Mohammed Thakurufaanu was raised. He and his brothers managed to overthrow Portuguese rule over the islands in 1573.
Newport is a café' with a sleek and minimal design; it stands in contrast with the other restaurants that line Male's busy seafront. The menus are amazing and range from falafels, tuna cubes to burgers and as quite good coffee.
Salathai is definitely the best restaurant on the island. It designed in a smart and beautiful manner and is busy nearly every night of the week. The Menu comprises mostly of Thai food and has an amazing range of soups, noodles and curries.
One of the more industrious islands that belong to the Maldives; Thulusdhoo is famous for the big drums called Bodu Beru they make. The island has been opened up for tourism of late and a few guesthouses can be found on the island.
This impressive piece of engineering connects Male' and Hulhule' but unlike many other causeways that connect islands across the Maldives, the supports for this bridge are all planted in the seabed.
Himmafushi is famous for its main street; the best place to buy inexpensive souvenirs such as manta rays carved out of rosewood. You can also visit the sleepy little village nearby and the old cemetery with its coral headstones.
This amazing eatery is located on the way from the airport to Hithadhoo. Order some tuna curry and parathas and maybe some tuna skewers.
It may not be the best place for the faint-hearted but it is definitely a sight to see. The fresh catch of the morning is brought here and you will probably see a lot of fish being gutted. Giant Tunas and octopuses are usually among the catch. You can buy yourself some very fresh fish and get it prepared for you as well if you're lucky.