Joanna James
Regarded as one of Asia's premier beach holiday destinations, the Maldives offers travellers a host of engaging activities. Here are some of the best things to do during a holiday in the Maldives.
Tipped to be one of the world's leading scuba diving hotspots, no holiday in the paradise archipelago would be complete without venturing beneath the ocean's surface. Home to more coral species than any other destination on the planet, the sea beds of the Maldives provides a verdant breeding ground for a multitude of fish species. From barracudas, snappers, clown fish and lion fish to moray eels and manta rays, the sheer variety of marine life occupying the waters off the coast of the Maldives are incentive enough to sign up for a scuba diving tour. What's more, the abundance of diving schools in the country means that those who are new to the activity can learn the basics of diving and secure a PADI certification at the same time.
As an activity that's open to those who are unable to swim or dive, snorkelling offers holidaymakers the chance to experience the colourful fish species and coral heritage of the Maldives without stepping too far into the ocean. Organized by a number of local tour operators as well as resorts, snorkelling requires only fins and a snorkelling mask which are usually provided by tour organizers for a nominal fee.
Often considered one of the most romantic things to do during a Maldivian vacation, a sunset cruise allows travellers to witness the daily phenomenon from a truly unique vantage point. Setting out in the late afternoon, the sailing vessels meander at a leisurely pace while those on board enjoy snacks and glasses of champagne till the hour of sunset arrives heralded by the mesmerizing change of colour in the skies above the Indian Ocean.
Island hopping is not only one of the most enjoyable excursions in the Maldives but is also the sort of activity that is only possible in an island paradise such as this. Sailing from one pristine beach to another, visitors can explore the many uninhabited islands scattered across the country while discovering the unique geography of the archipelago. Honeymooners and families can also throw in their favourite water sports activities whether it's scuba diving, snorkelling or banana boating into the island hopping itinerary.
The joy of spotting spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins in the wild is an experience that is difficult to capture in words and this is what makes a dolphin watching safari a must for all first time visitors in the Maldives. Those who wish to sign up for this type of tour should time their holiday to coincide with the season in which whales and dolphins are known to occupy the coasts of the Maldives as it is not an excursion that's accessible all year round.
Home to an impressive collection of spa resorts, a spa day is a perfect way to unwind during a Maldivian getaway. Those based at Huvafen Fushi Maldives can also experience the only underwater spa in Maldives at the resort.
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.
