Joanna James
Known for its crystal clear waters, oodles of vibrant marine life, rich natural attractions and a hospitable and friendly populace, Maldives is a destination of dreams. Here are the five most Instagrammable spots located across the archipelagos of this paradise destination.
The capital city of Male may be small in size, but it pulses with life and colours. Wandering through its streets and markets offers you a multitude of photography opportunities. There are plenty of souvenir shops, seedy cafes, colourfully adorned surf shops, restaurants and more. You could also find local produce, seafood and fresh tropical fruits which will make for amazing photographs. Being the heart of Maldives, Male offers easy access to a range of nearby islands and resort establishments including Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort.
If you are fond of seeing elusive and vibrant marine denizens up close and personal, and wish to snap some amazing marine photographs, head on over to Hanifaru Bay. The destination is a UNESCO biosphere reserve where warm currents and abundant plankton bring in a wide array of filter feeders—offering you a spectacle that brings some of the most unique marine creatures to a feeding frenzy. Here, you can dive along with manta rays, whales, whale sharks, sea turtles and even dolphins. Down at the ocean floor see and awe at vibrant reef fish along with unique species of molluscs and crustaceans. If you are serious about your photography game, bring along a pressurised case for your professional camera since you might have to dive up to 10-15 metres below sea level and at some places even further to click unique ocean vistas.
Another one of the unique islands of the Maldives which is home to the local populace, Maafushi island is where you need to be if you wish to take pictures of the island living at its best. Offering you a unique perspective on this island nation, Maafushi Island gives a glimpse of a busy yet peaceful life in a tropical paradise. You can click away pictures and indulge in authentic local fare and converse with the island dwellers about their livelihood, you can also take pictures of the locals if they’re okay with it. You can visit local cafes, libraries and markets - having a taste of the local life here on Maafushi Island is a must-do for all adventure seekers and photographers. If you like the views and vibes of the islands, you could also opt for a stay at a Maldives beach villa in Maafushi for those seeking a more authentic stay.
Nothing racks up more views and likes than the bioluminescent beaches of Vadhoo Island when you’re in the Maldives. Known for its unique phenomena the beaches are home to a type of planktons which illuminate in a brilliant blue hue once disturbed. Given that there are millions of these microscopic creatures inhabit the waters, what gets a display of vibrant neon blue during the summer nights along the waves? Walking along the beach and stepping on the waters will also have the same effect which will surely be mesmerising.
Being the southernmost populated island in the Maldives, Gan Island is another quaint region filled with a host of attractions including local markets, a wide array of eateries and souvenir shops. If you wish to cover a remote yet authentic way of living, amongst these enchanted islands through your photographs, this is the right place to be at.
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.
