How to Explore the Maldives Like a Local - Tips for Experiencing the Maldives as a Local
Renowned for its overwater villas and luxury resort islands, the real Maldives is a world apart from these resplendent spaces specially crafted for the travelling masses. Although enjoying a stay in a fine hotel is a part of every holiday experience, those heading to the Maldives should strive to explore what the archipelago has to offer beyond its five-star accommodation hubs and stunning beaches. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a Maldivian getaway like a resident.
1. Start with Male
Although most tourists land at the Male Airport and rush to reach their hotel base at Adaaran Maldives or any of the countless top Maldives all-inclusive resorts in the atolls, a stay in the capital can be the perfect start to your getaway. Often ignored in favour of remote resort islands, Male is the beating heart of the Maldives and can serve as the ideal introduction to local culture, customs and way of life. Spending a day or two in the capital can help visitors get acclimatised to the weather and the norms of Maldivian society while also discovering the city's many heritage sites and landmarks. A tour of the Grand Friday Mosque, Sultan Park, Republic Square and Utheemu Ganduvaru Palace is likely to make a big impression on first-time visitors. Don't forget to wine and dine in local restaurants and check out the street food scene as these elements are only accessible in Male.
2. Get Around like a Local
While honeymooners and vacationers at large seem to rely on speedboats and seaplanes to travel around the country, those who would rather travel like a local can opt for more public transport options. Although buses and taxi cabs are only available in Addu, Hulhumale and Male, travellers who are spending time in the outer atolls can use ferry services to get around. Ferries are the most affordable means of travel accessible to locals and visitors, and the only disadvantage of hopping on local ferries is that they do not stick to a regular timetable.
3. Discover the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve
No trip to the Maldives would be complete without uncovering the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve known as the Baa Atoll. Home to one of the Indian Ocean's largest coral reef collections, the area is also teeming with Manta Rays and other marine species. Considered a prime snorkelling hub, visitors can explore the seabed of this stunning atoll on a snorkelling expedition while a tour of the Manta Trust is another must for environmentally conscious visitors. The Hanifaru Marine Protected Area is another hotspot that tourists must explore during a stay in the paradise isles.
4. Go Fishing
Fishing is not only one of the country's most lucrative industries but also a way of life for most Maldivians. Living so close to the ocean in their island dwellings, Maldivians are connected to the ocean in more ways than one. Signing up for a fishing tour is a great way to indulge in a national pastime and experience the thrills of angling at the same time. The Maldivian government has restricted fishing activities to certain areas and local tour operators organise not only daytime tours but also nighttime fishing excursions.
5. Dine like a Local
Whether one is dining at a local restaurant or a resort cafe, it is important to select local dishes during mealtimes. While there may be delicious continental options, the flavour of local seafood dishes such as Mas Huni and Garudhiya are difficult to beat. The latter is an aromatic tuna fish broth while Mas Huni is usually paired with roti or rice. Don't forget to order local fruit juices and sago pudding for dessert.
