The Maldives is a destination that is basically associated withsea, sand and sun, extraordinary coral reefs, and exquisite beach resorts. However, what pervades smooth and seamless veneer of the republic of Maldives is a gamut of experiences and locations, every island being different from the other. Getting to decide which one of the more than a thousand four islands in the Indian Ocean to visit is quite a task. The goal of this guide is to inform travelers about the most beautiful and unique islands in the Maldives: local and luxury ones. If you are in the need of the actual ethnic flavor, excitement, leisure, or luxury, this all-encompassing guide shall facilitate you with your dream Maldivian holiday.
Picking the Proper Island for Your Experience While in the Maldives
The strategies involved in choosing the suitable island for a vacation depends on several factors such as passion, amount of money to be spent and activities of interest. The Maldives offers the opportunity for experiences and accommodation at every price level all the way from very budget to luxury. When it comes to selecting the island, your vacation may be affected depending on the island that you choose. For instance, local islands allow the tourists a true and raw experience of the Maldivian culture and mainly can be cheap while resort islands offer features such as seclusion, beach brands, and luxury.
When it comes to local islands one must take into consideration cultural differences. Maldives is in Asia and is a Muslim country, therefore, it is expected that especially on local islands, women cover up. For example, although there are invariably sections of some resorts that allow bikinis, these sections are absent in local islands, therefore, a visitor may have to cover up well. Residents and visitors who love water games such as snorkeling and diving may prefer islands with rich and surreal coral reefs as an additional advantage, whereas those going to holiday resorts enclaved on the island may be more concerned with luxurious facilities like spa centers and beautiful calm environment.
Finally, the question of how to have a perfect Maldivian vacation outcomes from the selection of the island in compliance with one’s interests.
Below are some of the best Sulawesi islands that can be considered as top tourist destinations:
1. Dhangheti
Dhangheti is not a very famous island; however it provides a true flavor of Maldivians’ life. This is also not so developed island situated in the South Ari Atoll and the fact that it is not overloaded with tourists is a great advantage. Dingati was also a virgin site as far as tourism was concerned, and there was so much friendliness from the inhabitants of the place. While other places like resorts are more business like and less rural Dhangheti offers a true cultural experience as you can get to meet the native people and learn about their culture.
Dhangheti is a famous destination for scuba diving and one of the biggest characters of the location is whale shark that come there between May and December. The island contains several tours, including snorkelling trips to watch these gentle giants; therefore, it is a perfect destination to any marine lover. Dhangheti does not have a specifically quiet bikini beach, although recent advancements have opened a place where the tourists can swim unsupervised. This change increases the openness of the island to international tourists while preserving its local feel.
But there are always some difficulties that one can experience in such towns as Dhangheti. The island has environmental challenges for instance, problems in disposing and managing wastes which are prevalent throughout many of the Maldivian islands. However, there are certain problems that have affected the beauty of this place such as ecological problems affecting the sea and the surrounding environment, noise pollution and security issues that make Dhangheti a beauty queen with serene beaches and blue waters. It is deemed convenient to have your planning well done since the local ferry service working does not work round the clock. This particular aspect may be disadvantageous, but at the same time it guarantees no crowds, limited noise and many more.
Getting There: To get to Dhangheti, take ferry number 307 starting from the Villigili Terminal in Male heading to Mahibadhoo, further on, one has to transfer to the ferry number 308 which covers the route that ends at Dhangheti. Just beware of the ferry timings, as they are not very standard or proper.
2.Dhiffushi: A Heaven Sent for the Lovers of the Beach
Kaafu Atoll or better known as the Maldives Islands is the islands of Dhiffushi which is famous with its white sand beaches and crystal water. It is an ideal place for; sun bathing on white sand beaches for those who don’t fancy being immersed in watery blue luxury of a beach resort at fabulous rates. Dhiffushi has a maintained bikini beach thus enhancing the ability of the visitors to freely enjoy the sun and sea. The measured size of Majorca also adds to the peripheral feel of the place where tourists will feel relieved from the daily rush and pressure.
For instance, the marine life is a thriving economy sector when it comes to Dhiffushi. The waters surrounding the island are full of vivid fish, and thus swimming in this area would be rather entertaining. There are several water exercises that tourists can perform in the seashore such as kayaking, paddle boarding hence there is much adventure. For the more relaxed persons, sun bathing on the sand or walking around the island is as enjoyable as any other activity.
Nevertheless, such seeds of beauty are not without limitations especially when it comes to Dhiffushi. Nightlife and restaurants are far and few between than the other more developed regions on the island. But where it may lack life and fun it makes up for it in calmness and the sights and sounds of nature. Dhiffushi is perfect for those tourists who want to have a calm and quiet vacation and do not want to attend night clubs and discos.
Getting There: By public transport Dhiffushi can be reached by taking the ferry on route 301 from Male. The ferry ride is a sort of tour around the atoll, and allows the guests to get into the mood for a laid-back vacation on the island.
3. Huraa
Huraa is another beautiful island located in North Male Atoll presenting the tourists with a rich culture and natural sites. Located just off the north of Male, Huraa can be considered a rather easy to get destination from Male and therefore an excellent way to effectively escape the overcrowded capital of Maldives. Biodiveristy, tropical environent, and warm and welcoming people are the things one can associate the island with. In contrast to some of the other vacation destinations which may give the tourists a limited view of the local people; Huraa gives one the more realistic view of the Maldivians hence a perfect place for culture vultures.
It is arguably equip to beautiful landscapes that are fit for high end resorts like Club Med or Four Seasons therefore protecting the region. During a visit to Huraa, the island was in the process of expansion with new such areas as the bikini beach. The construction of this building was planned to improve the attractiveness of the island for visitors while maintaining the cultural references of the place’s popular identity. The new generated areas have stabilized, and the island provides a beautiful view for the guests.
Snorkeling is also possible in Huraa which is a home of a magnificent coral reef that is nearby the shore. More to do with this aspect, it is a good place to explore the marine life because the reef contains various species of fish among other marine animals. As for the choice of cuisine and dining, and even though there aren’t many variants on the island, what is offered is rather good: for example, The Harbour and the Blue Terrace. Therefore, Huraa covers the roots of the issue by offering a culturally relevant and low-profile experience to travelers.
Getting There: The island is accessible by public ferry with the route 301 and by a speed boat from Male. It takes about 30 minutes in the speedboat and is preferred over the other means of transport for the travelers.
4. Gulhi: An Idyllic Escape
Being one of the small island in the South Male Atoll area, Gulhi is ideal for travellers who seek for a relaxing mood and splendid views. The island is known for its bikini beach officially recognized as one of the most beautiful in the region. Gulhi provides a typical picture of Maldivian overarched by white powdery sandy beaches and crystal blue water.
The above aspects make the island to be suitable for tourists who wish to have a break from various activities in their everyday lives. Compared to other islands it is relatively less crowded and has no or very limited options for nightlife entertainment, so it is suitable for those who seek for a calm and relaxed holiday. As for the motility offered on the island, main activities in this area are swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The sea around has different forms of aquatic life and so one is able to go for snorkeling.
It is also advantageous when it comes to visiting Gulhi since it is very close to Maafushi and you can easily organize to visit the two places in one day. It is divided into several districts and even has several guesthouses and restaurants for tourists which is the maximum that is necessary for a cozy stay. Since it is a small island with no commercial establishments, sticking to basic services and products, Gulhi remains one of the most beautiful and favorite islands for lovers of the beach.
Getting There: Gulhi can be reached by public ferries on route 311. Another thing, which must be taken into consideration, is the timetable of the ferry – it will help to enjoy the view effortlessly.
5. Maafushi: The Backpacker’s Paradise
Maafushi is in one of the southernmost atolls of the Maldives, Kaafu atoll and is now one of the most visited local islands by the low budget tourists. The island is better developed among the other islands and there are many choices of places to stay ranging from the budget guesthouses up to mid-price hotels. Maafushi still presents quite a lively scene as there are many restaurants, cafes, and shops for tourists. The development has made it popular destination, for persons visiting the Maldives with out having to spend a lot of money.
Maafushi has also got its bikini beach through which tourists are able to swim and even have their tan. Though not as isolated and unbending as some of the other beaches in Maldives, it has everything that is required to enjoy a day in the beach. The island facilities available are snorkeling trips, sandbank barbeque or lunch, and scuba diving. Maafushi is also famous for having some of the cheapest rates of the tours in the whole Maldives which makes it a perfect starting point for discovering the region.
However, Maafushi has not been infested fully by a commercialized feel thus sustaining its hospitable nature. The tourism facilities in the island are quite advanced despite the feel of the local culture in the island being maintained. But one should note that Maafushi can get quite touristy at times and particularly during high season. Another is that the developments on the island provided a more commercial look that some areas of the island look more like any other regular tourist destination.
Getting There: The public ferry can be obtained from the route 310, and other ways include, the speedboats which are easily accessible from Male. This ride in a speedboat takes 30-45 minutes to complete and is good for travellers.
Exploring Maldives’ Luxurious Resorts
Indeed, the Maldives is well-known for its luxurious resorts, although not each of it is pricey. Thus, planning in advance and looking for special offers, a family can have a pleasant stay without overpaying for a room at one of these hotels. Most of the resorts have promotional packages in their working period contrary to their idle season hence making it easier to get a taste of the extravagant lifestyle without breaking the bank.
When it comes to lodging an individual is in a position to have a feel of a different kind of accommodation as compared to that of a local island. Privacy is typically a plus to customer experience, especially in the resorts, private beaches, and over watered villas. Other facilities are also available in most of the resorts such as spas, body treatments, excellence dining, and water activities. Food related interesting for tourists is available in Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma and, Fihalhohi Island Resort in different ways. Tennessee’s costs range between €200 to several thousand for a night depending on the resort or the type of accommodation.
When selecting a resort, some factors depend on are; accessibility, what comes along with the resort and the kind of activities that are available. There are usually special offers such as all inclusive that are helpful in controlling ones expenses since they will cover the meals and drinks and some activities. Also, the proximity to a house reef is also an advantage that snorkelling lovers will appreciate, adding that they can explore delightful marine life from the resort.
Choosing the Right Resort: Thus, when choosing the resort, one should pay attention to the geographical position, available infrastructure, and possibilities for leisure. One should also look at whether or not transport and feeding are catered for since they can be expensive.
6. Male: The Capital Experience
Malé is a city that few tourists visit as most of them head directly to one of the calm and beautiful resort island in the Maldives. However, tourists especially doing a day trip in Male they get to appreciate the real life of Maldivians as opposed to the over emulating life in the resorts. As opposed to serene tropical island getaways, Male is a large capital city with a more working environment feel. Being one of the political, economical and cultural centers of Maldives, it gives an idea of the locals’ daily routine.
Due to the fact that the city is relatively small, walking around the city is recommended as the best option. Some of the attractions are: Maldives National Museum contains various relics and historical sites which are important to the Maldives’ history. Another interesting site is the Grand Friday Mosque with the golden dome; the building is rather great. To soak up the local atmosphere try out the local markets here you can buy anything ranging from vegetables and fruits to curios. The most attractive area to visit and observe the daily delivery of fish and their subsequent sale is the fish market.
When it comes to dining Male is a place with a great variation of restaurants serving both Maldivian and other kinds of cuisines. Whether, it’s the simple street side stalls or the exotic and expensive restaurants, you can get your food here. Male does not have the relative tranquility of a beach and clear water like those in the resort islands but if you are willing to explore more, Male can offer you a more lively feel. It can be enlightening to see a day or night in the city should one want to get beyond the almost fantasy like tourist image of the Maldives.
Conclusion: This is the title given to the lifestyle so beloved and perfect in Maldives that people dream of.
The Maldives is actually versatile in a way that it encompasses a good number of activities and experiences of the visitors’ interest and pocket. No matter if you want to spend lots of money for a few days in the paradise island, if you backpacking, or if you want to get to know the culture of the country you are visiting, there is always an island in Maldives that will suit you. Presqu’îles pittoresques telles que Dhangheti et Dhiffushi sont plus authentiques et calmes que les pressbyteriennes grands établissements touristiques modernes des Maldives.
Maldives is a joy for all those focusing on the marine life, because this area offers excellent conditions for snorkeling and diving in the most magnificent coral gardens all over the world. The temperature of the water and its transparency determines the variety of fish and other sea creatures starting from the gorgeous fish to the great whale sharks. Even if you do not enjoy diving you can sit on the seashore and enjoy the beauty of Maldives or simply go for a swim in crystal clear waters.
While organising a trip, it is better to choose islands of different types to be able to see the maximum concerning the offer of the Maldives. For instance, you might begin with two to three days by the coast and visit some local island, center and Familiarize with cultural practices before checking in at a renowned luxurious resort. This approach enables one to feel the local culture and aort at the same time to avail the best that Maldives offers.
All in all, it can be concluded that the Maldives is a peculiar destination that has much more to it beyond the beach. This makes it a rich destination that has varieties of marine life and excellent facilities such as luxurious resorts. In a nutshell, watching world-class sunsets, swimming with manta rays, walking barefoot on white sandy beaches, touching the untouched, being at one with nature and its wonders, and much more, are awaiting everybody in the Maldives, should one decide to unwind in this part of the world.