Listly by Joanna James
Tipped to be one of the world's best beach holiday hubs, the Maldives caters to a diverse range of visitors. Here's how the archipelago is the perfect destination for different travellers.
As an activity that all holidaymakers can enjoy in the house reef surrounding their resort base, snorkelling remains the best way to see the underwater landscapes of the Maldives. The sheer number of fish species occupying the waters off the shores of the islands means travellers need not venture far or be able to swim to enjoy a submerged adventure in paradise.
Home to some of the world's most coveted scuba diving hotspots; a Maldives getaway is the perfect opportunity for marine life enthusiasts to uncover the pristine coral gardens and shipwrecks littering the Maldivian sea bed. From HP Reef, Banana Reef to Manta Point and countless other dive sites around the archipelago, visitors can find a venue suited for their skill level and diving preferences.
Culture buffs based in the Maldives should make the time to spend at least a day in the nation's capital, exploring its many iconic landmarks and sacred spaces. From former presidential palaces and public spaces, the likes of Republic Square to religious epicentres the lies of the Islamic Centre and the Grand Friday Mosque, the attractions are truly endless.
Honeymooners based at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu or any similar Maldives resorts for Honeymoon couples can also sign up for a sunset cruise. Setting off during the afternoon hours, the cruise allows couples to witness the sunset from a unique location in the water instead of the shore.
Adventure tourists will relish the chance to go on a sailing tour around the Maldives as the geography was tailor made for yachting and sailing activities.
With more than a thousand islands to its name, the Maldives is one of the few destinations in the world where island hopping is a possibility. Visit one virgin island after another in this one of a kind cruise that also incorporates other activities such as snorkelling and diving.
Foodies holidaying the Maldives will find that Male is a one stop haven for the country's best culinary experiences. With a special penchant towards seafood fare and seaside cafes, Male's dining scene is the envy of Asia with hot pick restaurants and stylish cafes lining the streets of the capital.
Conservationist vacationers and beach lovers who wish to give back to the environment will find coral planting initiatives in the Maldives are a great way to contribute to the paradise isles. Helping preserve the coral gardens and the reefs which sustain countless marine species, the side effects of coral bleaching are minimized by coral planting activities.
Angling fans can look forward to not only day time fishing trips in the Maldives but also night fishing.
With some of the region's top spas located within the confines of the archipelago, a Maldivian getaway is a perfect opportunity to indulge in a spa day.