Caleb Falcon
The beautiful Maldivian archipelago is a tropical paradise of wondrous attractions. Apart from the obvious lure of ocean fun you should look forward to fabulous shopping trips of absolute joy.
If you are after the exotic a visit to Chaandanee Magu is a must. The area is well known for its excellent collection of souvenirs and local crafts. The stretch is home to a huge number of stalls selling unusual souvenirs and handicrafts such as mats, masks, painted t-shirts and miniature boats. A speciality buy in Chaandanee Magu are the miniature dhonis and colourful local mats known as Thudu Kuna. Look out for wooden masks of various sizes and colours that are sure to make interesting gifts.
Mobile markets are travelling markets that visit many of the Maldives luxury resorts. If you are staying at a Maldives luxury hotel inquire about dates and if the mobile market is making a stop; if not check out its next nearest destination. These markets come highly recommended as they offer great bargains across a host of items. Mobile markets are ideal for picking up exquisite ornaments and colourful local bracelets. Enjoy the sublime pleasures of your Maldivian resort by carrying out all shopping at the fascinating mobile markets; never leave the comforts of the white sand beach as you indulge in plenty of retail therapy. Anantara Naladhu Maldives is one such resort.
There are plenty of tours that offer a full or half a day's island hopping tour. Generally these tours cover about 3 to 4 islands. On these islands you will come across many local handicraft shops. The prices too are much lower than those on the resort islands. Add to this the thrill of exploring typical Maldivian villages and you have memories to last a life-time.
Mafushi Island is home to a number of local shops that sell a variety of goodies, such as t-shirts and fridge magnets. Prices there are much cheaper than resort shops or even the airport souvenir shop.
Majeedhee Magu is a colourful shopping street that runs all the way from the east to west of Male Island. Anything and everything is available here at a bargain price. Textiles, costume jewellery, clothing and even electronics are on display.
Visit Sun Island - home to a marvellous jewellery store; selling sapphires and other dazzling gemstones. The prices are high but you are guaranteed of quality jewellery and stones. There are lovely designs to choose from as well as loose gemstones, which are sold in neat little boxes.
The Sun Island souvenir shop will not disappoint those looking for exotic souvenirs. The prices are quite reasonable while interesting artefacts such as incense, clocks, oil paintings, ash trays and photo frames are available as memorable buys from sunny Maldives. This shop is also well stocked in holiday essentials such as sun blocks, shampoos and other necessities.
