Joanna James
Looking forward to some much-awaited post-COVID-19 travel? The Maldives is great this time of the year! Here are some locations you can add to your list.
The capital of the Maldives is Male, and this is where you're likely going to land first. Before heading to your Maldives beach resorts the likes of Holiday Inn Kandooma Maldives, take some time to explore this interesting island, despite being small, packs a punch! The colourful buildings, enthralling history, rich culture and turquoise waters are reason enough to extend your stay in Male. Stroll through the lively, buzzing markets to observe local life and interesting aspects of Maldivian culture!
As much as you're looking forward to jumping into your bed at your resort, a stop at the National Museum is worth your while. Opened in 1952, the museum houses a multitude of artefacts and antiquities, from the Buddhist Era and Islamic Monarchs.
The stunning architecture speaks for itself. This beautiful mosque is of a kind and is supposedly the top religious place to visit in the Maldives and can hold up to 5000 worshippers at a given time. The mosque is held in very high regard by the locals in the Maldives, as it is a majority Muslim country. It's advised you avoid visiting between 9 am to 5 pm, as this is when prayers take place at the mosque. Do keep in mind to wear appropriate clothing when visiting the mosque, covering your shoulders and knees, for both men and women.
Hulhumale is the island right across from the capital, and this island is constantly growing. Although Hulhumale is home to thousands of locals, it's quite a charming place. Apart from Male, Hulhumale is another ideal location to head to if you're interested in the local life of Maldivians. You can even initiate conversations with the locals, as they are quite approachable.
While it is slightly ironic to visit an Artificial beach located within an archipelago, you need to visit with an open mind! A man-made beach known for its beauty attracts a substantial number of people, especially beach lovers. While the Maldives is not short of stunning beaches, the cafes, lounging areas and BBQ areas add a distinctive touch to the entire area. If you're visiting with family, the Artificial beach is perfect, due to the plethora of activities and entertainment available.
For those heading to the Maldives between June and October, an impressive sight to witness would be the glowing beach. Undoubtedly a sight to behold, this is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Maldives. This glowing phenomenon is due to the microscopic plankton in the waters emitting blue light, creating this exquisite effect. The best time to visit would be right after sunset, as the light is best seen at the night.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
