Joanna James
Holidaying in the Maldives can be perfectly relaxing and lying down by the beach on a deckchair if you are only spending a week in paradise. If not, then there's so much to do and see in the Maldives you'll run out of time. Here are the top five excursions you should experience.
While you don't need to have a PADI qualification to go diving, it is always advisable to have one. The best thing about diving in the Maldives is that the waters are a protected biosphere reserve and thus filled to the brim in multi-coloured fish and other creatures such as manta rays and five out of the seven species of turtles in the world. The experience of diving with manta rays is such a magical feeling as the gigantic creatures glide soundlessly by you.
Another important event on the Maldives things to do list is going on an island-hopping session. It is okay to stay within the confines of your beautiful resort but going out into the inhabited islands will bring you in contact with Maldivian locals. Interacting with them and learning about their lives and cultures will give you a deeper and more intimate understanding of the islands and what life is like for people who live there day in and day out. Maldivians are lovely people who are always welcoming and accommodating. But always keep in mind that you must afford them the same respect they afford you by dressing decently and not partaking in things forbidden by their Islamic standards.
The waves around resort islands the likes of Reethi Faru Resort are perfect for surfing. There are some areas where the waves are just perfect for professional surfers and the swells can get quite large. Do some research beforehand or ask your resort about surfing spots depending on your level of expertise. You can always join in for a couple of surf lessons at the resort if you want.
If you aren't interested in heading out to deep water to commune with nature you can always grab a snorkel and go into the shallows. Exploring the corals by snorkeling can be quite an experience in the Maldives thanks to the reefs teeming with sea creatures.
You can also get up close and personal with the magical creatures of the sea without getting wet. A sunset boat tour would be great especially during the whale migrating season. You can also see dolphins who aren't shy in the least and will come up to your boat. It is absolutely breath-taking seeing these creatures up close and understanding the wonder of nature. Plan ahead if you want to go out dolphin or whale spotting and speak to your resort about getting you a place in a tour, if possible. It is a great experience for the whole family.
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.
