Joanna James
An archipelagic nation of 1,200 islands in close proximity — what more could one ask for to make an excellent island-hopping destination? Hop aboard a boat and set sail into the wide-open seas on an island-hopping adventure to explore some of the best deserted islands the Maldives has to offer.
The picturesque North Male and South Male Atolls combine to form the vast Male Atoll — an undoubtedly unmissable destination for all travellers to the island country, especially for the capital city, Male’s location within the eponymous atoll. North Male Atoll, in particular, is popular among avid divers for its shipwreck dive sites and colourful coral reefs teeming with manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and other fascinating marine life. While South Male Atoll might not be as big and developed as its neighbour in the north, it is loved for its tranquillity and delightfully laid-back ambience.
Maalhosmadulu, Fasdūtherē and Goifulhafehendhu Atolls comprise the beautiful Baa Atoll, renowned for its wonderfully preserved UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Hanifaru Bay is the undisputed star attraction that every traveller to the atoll looks forward to, as the protected marine zone is a hotspot for attracting manta rays and whale sharks almost all year round. The serene bay is also home to the world’s largest natural manta ray feeding station — making for the witnessing of fascinating creatures like nowhere else in the world.
Ari Atoll basks in the glory of being the largest natural atoll in the archipelagic nation of Maldives. With two scenic atolls, Northern Ari Atoll and Southern Ari Atoll, combined to form the sprawling Ari Atoll, it is also one of the nation’s best destinations for beautiful Maldives sightseeing. After a day of revelling in the glories of the picturesque tropical islands, retreat to one of the atoll’s finest hotels the likes of The Residence Maldives Dhigurah, and call it a day.
For those mellow souls in search of a dose of serenity, away from the vibrance characteristic of the tropical islands, Lhaviyani Atoll certainly won’t disappoint. Tranquillity abounds in the laid-back atoll, where its authenticity is still intact and the untouched natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Divers to the atoll are in for an experience of their lifetime, as some of the Maldives’ most renowned dive sites, including the likes of Kuredu Express, call Lhaviyani Atoll home.
If there was one thing the tropical island nation had absolutely no shortage of, it was stretches and stretches of picture-postcard beaches. While pristine sands and alluring waters are ubiquitous in the Maldives, Raa Atoll has arguably the most beautiful beaches in the whole of the archipelagic country. Beach bums and sun lovers are invited to wallow in the paradisiacal seaside scene, losing themselves in the abounding idyll and bliss.
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.
