Joanna James
The Maldives is one of the best-loved destinations in the world, however, there is more to it than spotless beaches and star-class accommodation. There are other attractions that you should consider when travelling to one of the most luxurious destinations in the world.
The Utheemu Gandavaru is a historical attraction where Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam lived on the Haa Alif Atoll in northern Maldives. With a famous reputation in the country, the Sultan founded the Maldivian National Army and fought against colonial influence. Living in an ornate wooden-based home with distinctive architecture. It is one of the best places in the Maldives' for anyone who wants to dig deep into the country's past.
Male is the capital and the most densely populated island in the archipelago. It features places like Huruku Miskiiy, the National Museum, the Grand Mosque, and its artificial beach, all worthy attractions. There is also Newport, a popular area with visitors to the island.
If you're interested in some exchange of currency and retail therapy, make your way over to Mejeedhee Magu, a street filled with Maldivian street foods, sweets, clothes, and handicrafts. It is now near the Main Road, with its corner shops opening up until the deep of night, 11 pm. You can find plenty of things to do and see there, and it's one of the best ways to sample Maldivian street food!
Just around 27 km from Malé is Maafushi Island, an amazing place ideal for tourists on a budget. One can find some great hotels and guesthouses for visitors who are on a limited budget. The island is connected by ferry via Malé or Maldives International Airport. It's an amazing little island to discover, with enough restaurants and shops for a spot of shopping.
Go on a dolphin-watching trip, it is one of the best things to do in the Maldives. You will get to witness friendly dolphins and witness whales along the way. All of this will be on board a comfortable catamaran at a safe distance from the animals. The best months are from January to April. The morning sail is from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. while the afternoon trip sails again from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A luxury resort in the Maldives, such as the likes of The Nautilus Maldives is a great option to consider.
The Baa Atoll Biosphere is the seventh biggest coral reef on the planet with over 250 species of corals thriving here and at least four times as much of types of fish. The reef is visited by threatened marine life like nurse sharks, hawksbills and green turtles. Its flourishing mangrove overgrowth houses habitats for non-marine animals like fruit bats, lizards and herons, and you can reach it via seaplane ride from the Velana International Airport.
Also located in the Baa atoll, the place that contains 'Vandumaafaru’ is a significant feeding ground for mantas and whale sharks. Snorkelling is allowed, but scuba diving remains out of bounds. The ideal months to witness mantas are from May to November. Whale sharks will be visible all year round, and it is among the most regulated snorkelling locations on the planet, with just 80 snorkelers permitted at any time. Tickets have to be bought from resorts linked to the Manta Trust before you go there.
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.
