Maldives

Highlight:

Malé : The capital city with attractions like the Malé Fish Market, the National Museum, and the Grand Friday Mosque.
Maafushi : Beautiful beaches, a variety of water sports, and a range of guesthouses.
Baa Atoll : Hanifaru Bay (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) known for manta rays and whale sharks, luxurious resorts like Soneva Fushi.
Vaadhoo Island : The famous “Sea of Stars” phenomenon where bioluminescent plankton illuminate the shoreline.
Fuvahmulah : Diverse ecosystems, Thoondu Beach with unique white pebble sand, diving spots with tiger sharks.

Vaadhoo Island – Glowing Beach (Bioluminescence):
- Famous for the “Sea of Stars” phenomenon due to bioluminescent phytoplankton.
- Best seen during late summer or early monsoon nights.
- Romantic and surreal experience, perfect for night walks.
Male City:
- Capital city, cultural and commercial hub.
- Sites include:
  - Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque): Built in 1658, made of coral stone.
  - Sultan Park and National Museum: Houses ancient royal artifacts, Islamic manuscripts.
  - Local Market: Experience local life, spices, snacks, and crafts.
Sun Island (Nalaguraidhoo):
- Known for lush greenery, tropical flowers, and white sand beaches.
- Popular for luxury resorts and romantic getaways.
Addu Atoll:
- Less commercialized, with untouched reefs and authentic local life.
- Historical WWII British military remnants.
Thulusdhoo Island:
- Known for surf breaks, vibrant local life, and affordable guesthouses.
- Cokes Surf Point is a must for surfers.

Scuba Diving:
- One of the world’s best diving destinations.
- Famous dive sites include:
  - Banana Reef (North Male Atoll)
  - Maaya Thila (Ari Atoll)
  - Fotteyo Kandu (Vaavu Atoll)
- See manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, and vibrant coral gardens.
Snorkeling:
- Easily accessible even from resort beaches or house reefs.
- Great visibility and abundant marine life.
Underwater Scooter Riding:
- Unique way to explore the underwater world with minimal effort.
Submarine Tour (in Male):
- 45-minute underwater experience in a tourist submarine.
- Great for non-swimmers to experience marine life.
Big Game Fishing & Night Fishing:
- Catch tuna, marlin, and sailfish.
- Local night fishing trips are a cultural experience.
Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Kayaking & Paddleboarding:
- Available at most resorts.
- Parasailing offers stunning aerial views of lagoons and reefs.

Overwater Bungalows:
- Iconic accommodation style in the Maldives.
- Offers privacy, direct ocean access, and unbeatable views.
Private Sandbank Picnic:
- Spend the day on a deserted sandbank with gourmet food and drinks.
- Ideal for honeymooners.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise:
- Watch spinner dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Often includes champagne and snacks on a traditional dhoni boat.
Luxury Yacht & Catamaran Cruises:
- Charter boats for sunset cruises, island hopping, or diving trips.
Underwater Restaurants:
- Example: Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives.
- Dine surrounded by coral gardens and marine life.
Floating Breakfasts & Spa Experiences:
- Unique resort offerings combining relaxation and indulgence.

Island Hopping:
- Visit inhabited islands for a glimpse of daily Maldivian life.
- Combine local islands with uninhabited ones for picnics or snorkeling.
Traditional Boduberu Performance:
- Percussion-based folk music with drumming, singing, and dancing.
- Often performed during resort cultural nights.
Cooking Classes:
- Learn to prepare Maldivian dishes like Mas Huni (tuna salad), curries, and coconut-based sweets.
Visit a Local Mosque or School:
- Interact with locals and understand Islamic traditions and education.
Shopping for Local Handicrafts:
- Wooden carvings, lacquerware, woven mats, and seashell crafts.

Overwater Spas:
- Treatments with ocean views and natural ingredients.
- Many offer couple’s treatments and traditional healing practices.
Yoga & Meditation Retreats:
- Sunrise and sunset sessions overlooking the water.
- Available in wellness-focused resorts.
Ayurveda Therapies:
- Inspired by Indian traditions, using herbs and oils for balance and healing.

Whale Shark & Manta Ray Excursions (Ari Atoll & Hanifaru Bay):
- Seasonal snorkeling/dive trips to see these gentle giants.
Turtle Watching & Conservation Programs:
- Participate in or observe nesting and hatching (varies by season).
Eco-resorts & Coral Planting Activities:
- Resorts offering coral gardening, marine biology sessions, and reef cleanups.