Joanna James
It's pretty much impossible to picture the Maldives without thinking of its pristine white beaches, the overwater bungalows, and the general paradisiacal ambience that has secured its status as a dream destination all over the world. Here are five experiences you simply must have in this country!
If you absolutely adore the night sky, particularly those cloudless nights that reveal the sparkling curtains of stars, then you should pay a visit to the glistening beaches of Mudhdhoo in the Baa Atoll. It's where the entire beach sparkles with luminous blue flickers, making it a sight to behold. At first, this incredible phenomenon of nature was thought to be the result of phytoplankton; however, these starry beaches in the Maldives are caused by ostracods, who are tiny crustaceans that are also known as "blue tears". This phenomenon is mostly observed from September to November.
The calm and gentle surfs of the Maldives just perfect for a relaxing session of stand-up paddleboarding – a trip to the Maldives wouldn't really be complete if you don't venture on this extraordinary adventure, away from the cosy comforts of your accommodation such as Grand Park Kodhipparu. Since there are surrounding reefs, the lagoons surrounding Maldives villas aren't affected by wobbly surfs, creating a surface that is free of ripples. Work on your balancing skills and you will be rowing along with turtles, colourful schools of reef fish, and even baby reef sharks in no time.
The Maldives boasts of a multitude of marine life species that add so much colour to its breathtaking underwater world. Among these species are the stingrays, and sightings of these amazing creatures are a common sighting around many resorts. Although you wouldn't want to get too close to these creatures, you'd be able to catch a casual feeding session in the shallow waters. Although stingrays aren't aggressive, and some might even linger around for you to pet them, you should be careful of its sharp and painful stinger.
If you're looking for an out-of-this-world experience in the Maldives, then don your diving gear and get ready for an immersive experience – one where you will be diving with giant manta rays! There are special instructions that you should follow during this adventure so that you'd not accidentally scare the mantas away. You should always dive several feet away from where the manta is and approach them from the sides. Never think of chasing manta rays – it's not like you can beat these gentlest of the giants in the sea anyway!
How joyful would it be to cruise towards the horizon with dolphins leaping out of the water from wherever you look! You wouldn't be able to keep the smile out of your face at the enthusiasm of these friendly mammals. This is exactly the memory you can cherish in the days that would follow, once you return home.
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 pas...
