The
Maldives has always and will always remain a unique destination for the fun
loving tourist seeking an exotic holiday. Over a 1000 tiny islands are
grouped into natural atolls that are protected by surrounding coral reefs.
The islands are of pure white coral sand and are low-lying, the highest
point on any given island being no more than a meter and a half above sea
level! Buddhisim arrived here in 300 BC and was the main religion till 1153
AD when Islam started having an influence on the Royal family followed by
conversions. Today, a common language (Dhivehi) and religion (Islam) have
been two blessings that unite the people into a cohesive and peaceful
society. Pride is taken in tradition though not at the expense of liberal
and enlightened compassionate thinking.
| POSSIBLE
ACTIVITIES FROM YOUR RESORT |
Cruising: Cruising in the Maldives is called a 'safari'! Cruising
vessels specially commissioned to cater to the needs of guests come in all
shapes and sizes. Your itinerary on one would often include stopping over
for varying lengths of time at favorite diving, snorkeling or fishing
points, in addition to visits to various island.
Island hopping: This is another way of fitting in a lot into one
package. This entails a visit by boat to one or more fishing villages in
addition to visiting one or more uninhabited islands.
Attractions Of Male': During your
stay in the Maldives, you must visit Male', the capital
of
the Maldives. Male' is roughly two square kilometers of land. There is no
natural source of even portable water. Despite this, Male' manages to be
reasonably green, peaceful and even graceful in its charm. Male' would
certainly count as one of the smallest capitals in the world. A third of the
country's population, about 75,000 live on this island which is so different
from all the Resort Islands. In the old bazaar area which still houses the
country's hub of wholesale and retail trade, 0the lanes are so narrow that a
single vehicle would find it difficult to navigate through, especially with
its throngs of busy people. The capital has several fascinating sights which
offer a interesting glimpse into the history and culture of this great
country which most people mistakenly identify only as a top class Water
sport destination of fairy tale resorts.
Huskuru Miskiiy: Built in the 17th century the Huskuru Miskiiy or
Friday Mosque served the population of Male' as their main mosque for almost
four centuries. Built in 1656 the mosque is a masterpiece of coral curving
and traditional workmanship - probably the best display of coral curving
anywhere in the world. The walls of the mosque are hewn together with blocks
of filigree-curved coral blocks. Heavy wooden doors slide open to the inner
sanctums with lamp hangings of wood and panels intricately curved with
Arabic writings. The area surrounding the mosque is a cemetery with a legion
of intricately curved coral headstones.
Mulee-aage: Right in front of the Hukuru Miskiiy is Mulee-aage, a
palace built in 1906 by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III, The palace with its
wrought iron gates and fretwork friezes on its roof edges and well-kept
garden was intended for his son, but the Sultan was deposed.
The National Museum: The National Museum is housed in an Edwardian
colonial-style building of three storeys, with amazing collection inside. A
variety of artifacts from times past would give an
idea
of the unique and rich culture and history of this island nation. A visit to
the museum gives an instant insight to the wealth of history most visitors
never suspect existed.
The Islamic Centre: The Islamic Centre is the most vivid
architectural landmark of Male'. The spectacular golden dome in all its
majesty dominates the skyline. Completed in 1984, the Centre consists of a
mosque big enough for 5000 people, an Islamic library, conference hall,
classrooms and offices.
The Male' Fish Market: The main commercial area of Male' is located
on the northern waterfront of Male'. This area is the main hub of trade and
is a hive of activity through out the day. The waterfront and the by-lanes
in the area are crowded with shops stocked with a variety of goods. Also in
the area are the Male' Fish Market and the Local Market selling a range of
local produce. While some 'dhonis' from all corners of the country unload
dried fish, fresh fruits and vegetables from the atolls others are seen
loading everything from foodstuffs to construction materials. The pace
increases in mid-afternoon as fishing 'dhonis' start returning with their
day's catch. The catch, mainly tuna are carried across the road into the
open-sided market and laid out on the tiled floors. As fast as the fish are
brought in they are bought and taken away by men from all walks of life. The
market is kept scrupulously clean, washed down each day and disinfected
Photo-flights If you want to enjoy an especially wonderful view of the
country, try an air excursion by a seaplane. A glimpse of these wonderful
islands from the air is an unforgettable sight.
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