Joanna James
The Maldives is as breathtaking a destination that you will stumble upon as you traverse across the globe with the country known for its charming backdrops & leisure pursuits. Browse these insta-savvy stopovers before heading over.
Complete with earthy tones across its exterior and sleek interiors that will warmly welcome you the moment you step in, Newport Restaurant in the nation’s capital of Male ought to rank as one of the finest places for Instagram followers to be themselves. Aside from being one of the city’s most talked about restaurants that offers a tempting range of cuisine, Newport serves up more than its fair share of nooks and corners and given its leafy environs, travellers will find ample room to make memories of their time here.
Although some might be put off by the bustle and distinct smells stemming from the Fish Market in Male, the scenes of this popular meeting place where buyers and sellers routinely commune with much vigour and anticipation will easily come across as a worthy investment of your time and focus. Come into contact with the freshest catches of the day, get acquainted with friendly locals and be sure to cover as much you can before shifting your attention to nearby landmarks.
Hewn out of white marble is the largest mosque in the archipelago called the Grand Friday Mosque whose gleaming golden dome has been found dominating Male’s skyline. While it is best to call by this place of worship daily between 9 am and 5 pm and outside of the general prayer times, the Grand Friday Mosque stands testament to the celebrated heritage of the Maldivian islands of which Islam plays a prominent role. As a visitor, you will need to be decently attired minus any revealing clothing and once you are invited in, make the most of the opportunity to inspect the main prayer hall together with its carefully woven carpet and stunningly carved wooden doors and side panels.
Though you are not allowed to enter the grounds of what is now the official residence of the President of the Maldives; Muleeaage’s allure can still be caught sight of from just outside of its gates, should you be someone who is a whiz with cameras and finding the best angles. Noted for being one of the traditional buildings still remaining in the Maldives, Muleeaage was initially built for the sultan of the early 20th century before it was utilised as a refuge to house government offices for the better part of 40 years. However, do beeline towards the eastern portion of this attraction where the tomb of Abul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary can be found. Behind a blue and white gatehouse is the final resting place of the person believed to have introduced Islam to the island nation way back in 1153.
The protected area of Kandhooma Thila is one of the country’s best diving destinations, located a short distance from Adaaran Club Rannalhi which is equally, one of the best hotels in Maldives to spend your holiday at. Ideal to spot grey reef sharks, barracudas, giant green turtles and a host of other marine mammals that frequent these waters, Kandhooma Thila can be your reason to schedule a day trip filled to the brim with exciting encounters and picture-perfect poses.
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.
