Joanna James
The Maldives is on every sun-worshipper's list of top holiday destinations. The islands are popular amongst honeymooners and families out for loads of fun. But before you head out to the tropics, here is a list of things you need to know about visiting the Maldives.
The Maldives is an archipelago located on the Indian Ocean. The string of over 1000 islands spread in a line is clustered into 26 atolls. Of these many islands, less than 200 are occupied and most others are owned by private island resorts. These luxury resorts are the archipelago's greatest lure. Maldives luxury villas are highly sought out by tourists seeking to relish a slice of paradise, in their own little bubble. And the popular beach resorts like Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences are happy to help by offering a safe and isolated haven, post-COVID-19, for some holiday fun in the sun.
While plenty of fun and sunny surf action is available in the Maldives, you must keep in mind that the archipelago is a 100% Muslim nation. Therefore, it is illegal to take alcohol or pork products into the country. You will also not be able to purchase alcohol outside of your Maldives private resort. Drunk and disorderly behaviour in public will not be tolerated.
As a nation following strict Islamic guidelines, the people of the Maldives are extremely conservative. And while you can dress as you please on your private island resort in the Maldives, you must respect local laws when you're out and about. Bikinis can only be worn at designated public beaches. (You can, of course, wear them at your resort) No form of nudity is allowed. Women must cover their heads when visiting the mosques. And when exploring the public islands, make sure to wear clothes that cover your midriff and knees.
As each atoll is made up of a cluster of islands, you can easily go island hopping during your stay in the Maldives. Island hopping tours cover both uninhabited and local islands. Quite interestingly, these tours are perfect for picnics on lone sand bars, swimming in serene coves, and exploring the interiors of uninhabited islands. You will then visit a local island to see how the islanders live. Although new COVID-19 protocols may introduce some changes to the last factor, you can still experience an enjoyable day savouring idyllic island vibes.
Snorkelling is one of the easiest sports to enjoy in the Maldives. All you need are a snorkel, a mask, and fins. Swim out to the nearest reef from your resort's beach and start exploring the marine life hidden amidst the bountiful corals there.
The Maldives is home to some of the world's best dive spots. And you must, if possible, experience the thrill of exploring the world beneath the waves of the Indian Ocean. Even novice divers are motivated to take up a tour because most Maldives resorts offer dive schools where guests can easily earn their PADI dive certificates.
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.
