Joanna James
The Maldives is often advertised as for couples and it is easy to fall into the misconception that the islands are only suitable as a travel destination for couples or a family. This cannot be further from the truth as a solo traveller can enjoy the islands without any qualms.
Once you dive beneath the waves you are alone anyway, so snorkelling and diving both are quite possible without the need for company. You can snorkel along the reef, watching the lush marine life swimming about you, it is bound to be a magical experience. When you go diving, however, for the sake of safety be sure that you go with someone else, whether it is a guide or a diving group, both won't be hard to find.
There are just perfect waves in the Maldives for during the summer months of June to August which are great for both beginner surfers and professional surfers. Be sure to do some research on where you can find the best swells and what sort of measures are available in case you get in an accident. There are also surf camps if you don't like going out to surf alone, where you can socialise with other tourists and form some new friendships while you are there. The best thing is that if you are tired of their company you can always find your way back to solitude.
The Maldives are known best for their first-class spa treatments. Many Maldives island resorts have packages that are aimed at making sure you get a full-body therapy and treatment like the famous coconut milk bath and scrub which exfoliates and softens the skin. Resorts such as Grand Park Kodhipparu, have their state-of-the-art spas where you can get a personalised treatment package that is tailor-made to suit your skin following an assessment. It is the ultimate lap of luxury.
There will come a day or two when you don't want to do anything and the resorts are a great place to just relax in the privacy of your villa in the water or your private pool and watch the marine life in the clear water around you. Tiny blacktip sharks are virulent in the shallow waters. There are also dolphins and manta rays that you can simply watch from the comfort of your hotel room. If you want to see a whale or two then you can charter a boat and head out to sea where you will be able to see them up close.
If you feel the need for human interaction, you can go out into the inhabited islands and get to know how the locals live their lives. Be mindful and respectful and they will be more than happy to show you around. The more you interact with the locals of your travel destination, the more you will learn about the country and by extension, yourself.
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