Joanna James
As a collection of nearly 1200 islands, the Maldives is no ordinary beach vacation hub for the masses. Famed for its water sports adventures and pristine natural heritage, here are eleven activities every tourist should enjoy during a getaway to the paradise isles
Blessed with a geography that appears to have been created for the sole purpose of island-hopping, there's no better way to get a sense of the atolls and coral islands that make up the Maldives.
Those who are fortunate enough to be visiting the Maldives during the whale-watching season from December to March can not only spot the world's largest mammal in the wild but also schools of dolphins that often trail behind whale-watching boats entertaining passengers.
Whether you are based at Kuda Villingili or any other resort, scuba diving in the country's best dive spots is a must for all holidaymakers. While HP Reef, Banana Reef and Manta Point are some of the top diving hotspots in the country, there are also a number of shipwrecks that have transformed into fascinating marine ecosystems.
As an activity that does not require any special skills or prior experience, snorkelling is perhaps the easiest way to acquaint yourself with the marine life heritage of the Maldives without leaving the confines of your resort island. As most resorts boast their own house reef, embarking on a snorkelling tour is as simple as stepping outside your overwater villa with a snorkelling mask and jumping in.
Offering holidaymakers a chance to witness the sunset from a unique vantage point, sunset cruises are not just reserved for couples and honeymooners.
Travellers who wish to explore the Maldivian coastlines at their own pace can sign up for a sea kayaking adventure with a local tour operator. As an activity that does not require swimming skills, it is also a family-friendly excursion option.
Often ignored by the travelling public, Male is the administrative, cultural and commercial capital of the Maldives. Things to do and see in this dynamic city are as varied as the islands that make up the archipelago although most agree that a tour of the National Museum and the Grand Friday Mosque should be a part of every travel itinerary.
As resort islands in the Maldives provide limited opportunities to engage in retail therapy, it is necessary to head to local markets such as Chandanee Magu to stock up on souvenirs. Male's shopping complexes and trendy boutiques are equally attractive retail outlets for those in search of resort wear and home décor items.
Taking part in conservation efforts such as coral planting to restore coral reefs can be a rewarding activity for conscious travellers.
Ranked among the globe's top surfing hubs, there's no better location to hone in on the basics of wave riding than the Maldives.
Home to one of South Asia's most underrated cuisines, Maldivian dishes and curries not only include hearty broths such as Garudhiya but an array of delectable seafood-infused dishes including Reef Cutlets and Mas Huni.
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.
