Joanna James
As one of Asia's finest beach holiday hotspots, the Maldives truly packs in a punch in terms of touristic value. Here are ten compelling reasons why the country should be at the top of the list in your 2021 vacation destination options.
Home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, there's no better reason to holiday in the Maldives than to admire and enjoy the beauty of its coastlines. Made up of more than a thousand islands, the large number of white, sandy beaches occupying the archipelago sets it apart from other beach capitals in the world.
The Maldives is one of the few tourist hubs where one can swim with sharks or come face to face with the fascinating creatures that occupy the seas. Those who would rather not risk being in close proximity to a predatory creature such as a shark can always sign up for a snorkelling expedition to marvel at the schools of fish one comes across in the country's underwater gardens.
Whether one is based at OZEN Reserve Bolifushi or any other luxury resort in Maldives, one is never too far from a resplendent spa. As one of the region's leading destinations for spa retreats, those who are based in the Maldives can truly indulge their senses and get pampered to their heart's content thanks to these healing centres.
As a fantastic mix of Indian, Sri Lankan and Arabic influences, Maldivian cuisine is one of the most underrated attributes of the island nation. From popular street food the likes of Mas Huni to comfort dishes the likes of Garudhiya and banana flower salad, a trip to the Maldives offers visitors the chance to dig into these local delicacies.
Vadhoo Island is synonymous with the "glowing" beach of the Maldives and the chance to gaze upon this captivating beach lit up by a thousand bioluminescent planktons is well worth the trip to the Maldives.
Home to HP Reef, Banana Reef and Manta Point, the Maldives is ranked among the world's finest destinations for scuba diving. Apart from the inherent marine life heritage of the isles, the sea beds of the Maldives are also littered with shipwrecks making the country a prime location for wreck dives as well.
From The Grand Friday Mosque to the National Museum and the countless presidential palaces, the Maldives' cultural heritage is best explored during a trip to the capital Male.
Where but in the Maldives can one call an entire island one's base for the duration of a holiday?
Whether it's surfing, parasailing or water skiing, the Maldives offers excellent wind and water conditions for engaging in every water-bound activity ever invented.
Sunset cruises and dolphin or whale watching cruises are not the only sailing experiences on offer in the country as catamaran tours and other romantic excursions on yachts and Dhonis are also available.
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.
