Maldives Beyond the Beach: Activities, Culture & Cuisine

Photo by Shai Pal on Unsplash

When you think of the ultimate luxury vacation or honeymoon destinations, there is no doubt that the Maldives jumps to the top of the list. While the main appeal of the archipelagic state is to lay back on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and indulge in some rest and relaxation at your chosen paradise resort, the country still offers the potential to have an active, cultural, and immersive experience. 

Diving & Snorkeling

Blessed with the warm, shallow, and calm waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a prime diving and snorkeling destination. If you are not a qualified Open Water diver then you can opt to get certified during your vacation or book a discovery dive. Even if diving is not for you, the snorkeling conditions are phenomenal. 

One of the ​​country’s premier destinations for getting in the water is the Baa Atoll, a recognized UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This is where you can glide among one of the largest collections of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean alongside the manta rays who travel here to feast on the plankton. If you would rather swim with whale sharks, then you can book an excursion to the Dhigurah and Dhangethi islands which are the base of the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme. Although these marine giants reach lengths of 40 feet (12 meters) they are harmless. 

Maldivian Culture 

Beyond the luxurious resorts and nodding palm trees, the Maldives is hiding a fascinating culture. The majority of Maldivians practice Islam and their customs draw inspiration from Indian, Sri Lankan, Arabian, Persian, and African cultures. When you explore Male and the villages of the smaller islands inhabited by Maldivians, you will have the opportunity to visit beautiful mosques and purchase unique handcrafted items. 
If you are fortunate you might have a chance to witness a live performance of bodu beru: a Maldivian drum fashioned from the bark of a coconut tree. Singers and dancers perform to the beat of the drums and the experience will surely bring some magic to your stay.

Your resort will be able to help you travel to its neighboring islands and you can enquire about watching a bodu beru performance. 

Culinary Delights

As most of the accommodation in the Maldives provides an all-inclusive service, you can look forward to eating all your favorite international dishes. I also recommend seizing the moment to sample traditional Maldivian cuisine, which focuses on spicy curries and fragrant soups, with seafood and yams leading the way. Tuna is big business in the Maldives and is one of the major industries behind tourism. Try the classic Maldivian breakfast that comprises a mix of flaked tuna and grated coconut tossed with onions, chili, and a squirt of lemon juice, served with roti flatbread. Beyond the resorts – where alcohol is available for guests – you can pair your meal with freshly squeezed fruit juices. Sharp but refreshing, lemon juice is a firm favorite with the Maldivians.

Other activities you can look forward to in the Maldives include sea kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, and dolphin-watching excursions.

As we look forward to resuming normal travel, the Maldives is one of the best options at present for US travelers. The borders are open to all passport holders providing you have proof of a negative Covid-19 test. When you are ready to plan your trip of a lifetime to the Maldives, contact me and we will find the perfect resort for you. 

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