Maldives - the lowest country in the world
The scenery of the Maldives is amazing. The island nation, occupying the archipelago of the same name, is located in the Indian Ocean. Its surface is made up of 1190 islets and 26 atolls. As many as 894 islands are uninhabited. The highest points of the archipelago are only 2 meters above sea level. The heavenly views of the lowest country in the world are unfortunately endangered. Global warming is raising water levels and the islands are in danger of being flooded.
To enjoy the turquoise-emerald lagoons and romantic sunsets, it's best to fly to the Maldives between late November and May, when the dry season is over.
Male - a small capital city with a lot of traffic
Male is the largest island of the Maldives and at the same time one of the smallest capitals in the world. Its area is less than 6 km². In the context of its size and narrow streets, the number of vehicles passing through it is astonishing. There are even bus lines and taxis running. Crowded buildings and skyscrapers intrigue with the colors of the rainbow. It is worth looking around the island and seeing the Palace of Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III and the Grand Friday Mosque, the largest mosque of the archipelago. An example of Maldivian architectural art is the oldest mosque from 1658 years, Hukuru Miskiiy. Coral stone was used for its construction. Interesting exhibits are located in the former Sultan Palace transformed into the National Museum. Do you want to get to know the local lifestyle better? Take a look at the fish and fruit and vegetable market.
Houses on the water - exclusive communing with nature
Picturesque beaches with soft, extremely light sand attract tourists from all over the world, but one of the rarities of the Maldives are houses on the water, built on stilts driven into the bottom of the ocean. Most of them have a private terrace which leads directly to the Indian Ocean. As soon as you wake up, you can put it on swimsuit and plunge into crystal clear water. A private swimming pool is hidden in the shadow of such a solution. Some bungalows are equipped with a glass floor, so you can see what is happening in the underwater world at any time.
Between and over the islands
Getting to the selected island usually requires landing first at the Male airport, from where you need another transport, but you can also travel between the islands in various ways. You won't pay much if you choose to travel on one of the ferries, but there are also motorboats and seaplanes. Not only the moment of take-off and landing of the seaplane provides an amazing experience - the sight of the rings of atolls emanating with intense blue-turquoise shades will not let you forget about yourself. If you don't want to take to the air, take a romantic picnic on the boat to admire the sunset.
Islands and islets - suggestions and recommendations
Living in a house on the water is an incredible attraction, but if you need to lower it departure costs, you can visit tiny fishing islands with rooms or apartments. There are also tourist resorts within one atoll. The main tourist destinations are Ari Atoll, North Male Atoll, South Male Atoll, Addu Atoll, and Lhaviyani Atoll.The last one enchants with its three-kilometer long white sand beach. There is an island in Ari Atoll Huvahendhoo, which attracts diving enthusiasts with an extensive, bustling coral reef. Mirhi is one of the smallest Maldivian islands. It is filled with silence and unspoiled nature with lots of tiny yellow flowers from which it is named. In the Atoll Haa Alifu is one of the largest islands in the Maldives, Dhonakulhi. Lush vegetation with lots of coconut and banana trees, picturesque villas and clear water invite you to take advantage of the luxurious resort Hideaway. Are you interested in local culture? Life in Omadhoo has been going on for years as traditions are passed down from generation to generation. Pink, yellow, green and… Guess what color else is used to paint the houses? Of course, turquoise. Buildings in such colors can be admired, among others In Fulidhoo.
Heaven on Earth - why is the beach shining?
The beach at Baa Atoll, on Mudhdhoo Island, looks as if it was illuminated by millions of stars at night. The microscopic algae called lingulodinium polyedrum. They are red during the day and turn blue in the evening. The movement of the environment causes the phenomenon of bioluminescence.Mudhdhoo is also one of the best diving and snorkeling spots. In addition to the fabulous coral reef in the Indian Ocean, you can see rays, turtles, dolphins and sharks.
Seabobing - for those who like to make things easier
Do you feel discomfort just thinking about going underwater? Instead of diving, use seabobing. It's just swimming with a kind of motorized board. It works quietly, so it does not scare the inhabitants of the water. It is held in front with both hands. Just put on your goggles or a full snorkel mask, and you can move both on and under the water. If you are concerned about that two-piece bathing suit will not pass the test during such an adventure, choose comfortable one-piece outfit.
Cultural and culinary flavors of the Maldives
The Maldives is a Muslim country, so only resorts are allowed to swim in bikini, although on some private beaches there are specially separated areas where the prohibition does not apply. In local islands, please respect the rules and dress modestly. When visiting places of worship, shoes must be taken off and women must additionally cover their heads. The current currency is the Maldivian Rupee (MVR) - instead of state dignitaries, the banknotes and coins feature local animals, as well as scenes related to traditional life on the islands. Tuna dominates among animals and it is also the leader on Maldivian plates. The restaurants serve curry or grilled fish and chicken. All kinds of coconut products are also ubiquitous. It is worth a try huni folhi, or pancakes with grated coconut.The taste and smell of local dishes, the smell of sea water and vegetation, the sound of the ocean, the picturesque landscapes of the archipelago and the sensations of walking on the soft sand make the Maldives feel with all your senses. Have you counted how many times the word "turquoise" has appeared in this text? It always comes to mind by itself. The archipelago is simply immersed in turquoise.
