Joanna James
While Male, for most visitors to the island nation seems nothing more than an over urbanized spot that is usually only used as a quick transit point to other island resorts in the archipelago, the capital certainly offers some interesting things to do.
The bustling fish market is the beating heart of the Maldives economy. The island nation's thriving fishing industry existed way before the advent of modern-day tourism, so do consider paying a visit to the market located just opposite the harbour. Here all kinds of fish are weighted and sold daily. After taking in the fish market consider making your way to the fruit market where you can buy some delicious and refreshing tropical fruits such as a cooling watermelon, bananas, sweet mangos, guava and plenty of coconuts!
Among the list of Maldive's best places to visit, especially in its bustling capital, the beautiful Friday mosque, the national museums and the colourful presidential residence, the Muleeaage figure quite prominently. Consider hiring an official guide recommended by your hotel to ensure a well-rounded trip.
The local cuisine is diverse, delicious and quite spicy. Thanks to the easy access to the abundant seafood supply, most dishes are fish-based, along with generous helpings of coconuts and starch. Male has a strong café culture, which means there are plenty of cafes and restaurants you can make your way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a selection of local snacks. If you are keen on sampling the street food culture of Maldives consider walking to the south of the island, where there are numerous mobile food stands where you can try out delicacies such as mas kasha, which is a mixture of mango, coconut and dried fish. Round off the snack with a fresh Kurumba juice.
The Whale Submarine currently operating in the Maldives is the world's largest deep diving passenger submarine. The vessel can comfortably seat 50 passengers and is certified to dive down to 150 meters. This is a great way for non-divers to take in the mysterious underwater depths of the Indian Ocean without getting wet! Hotels such as The Residence Maldives will be happy to arrange for a ride upon the request of their guests.
Stretching along the winding eastern side of Male, Henveiru is among the more scenic beaches the island has to offer. The capital is busy, with incessant foot and road traffic, so retreating to Henveiru is a lovely place to enjoy the cooling ocean breeze and the open expanses, especially during a hot afternoon. If you feel like getting a bite to eat, you will find there the surrounding neighbourhood is home to numerous cafes and restaurants. If you feel bored, simply lazing around the beach, why not join a game of volleyball or football with the friendly and welcoming locals?
The Whale Submarine currently operating in the Maldives is the world's largest deep diving passenger submarine. The vessel can comfortably seat 50 passengers and is certified to dive down to 150 meters. This is a great way for non-diver to take in the mysterious underwater depths of the Indian Ocean without getting wet! Hotels such as The Residence Maldives will be happy to arrange for a ride upon the request of their guests.
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