Local Life of Maldives

Must have experience in the Maldives 

Maldives aerial shot from USA today
Maldives aerial shot from USA today

The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and overwater bungalows. While many tourists come to the Maldives to relax and unwind, there are also plenty of local experiences to be had that can help you immerse yourself in the culture of this unique island nation. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top local experiences to have in the Maldives.

1. Visit a Local Island

A guesthouse in the Maldives – Photo from: PSM News

One of the best ways to experience the local culture in the Maldives is to visit a local island. While many of the resorts are located on their own private islands, over 200 inhabited islands in the Maldives offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Maldivian people. You can take a day trip or even spend a night or two on a local island, where you can interact with the friendly locals, taste traditional Maldivian cuisine, and experience the culture first-hand.

2. Go Fishing

Photo Reference: GT Fishers Maldives

Fishing is a way of life in the Maldives, and it’s also a popular tourist activity. You can go on a fishing excursion with a local fisherman, where you can learn about the traditional fishing methods used in the Maldives and catch your dinner. After the fishing trip, you can have your catch cooked in traditional Maldivian style and enjoy a delicious seafood feast.

3. Experience Local Cuisine

Photo by joalibeing

Maldivian cuisine is a unique blend of Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences, with a focus on seafood and coconut. While many of the resorts offer international cuisine, it’s worth seeking out local restaurants and street food vendors to taste some of the authentic Maldivian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include Mas Huni (a traditional breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, and onions), Garudhiya (made freshly out of Skipjack Tuna), Fish curry, and roshi (a type of flatbread).

4. Learn Traditional Crafts

Photo reference: The Maldives Expert

The Maldives has a rich tradition of handicrafts, including weaving, embroidery, and boat-building. You can visit local craft markets and workshops to see these crafts being made and even try your hand at making something yourself. You can also visit a boatyard to see how the traditional Maldivian fishing boats, called dhonis, are constructed.

5. Attend a Cultural Show

Photo reference: The Maldives Travel

Many of the resorts in the Maldives offer cultural shows, where you can see traditional music and dance performances. However, for a more authentic experience, it’s worth seeking out local cultural shows on a local island. You can see traditional bodu beru drumming, which is a type of music that originated in East Africa and is now a part of Maldivian culture, as well as other traditional dances.

In conclusion, while the Maldives is famous for its beaches and resorts, there are also plenty of local experiences to be had that can help you immerse yourself in the culture of this unique island nation. Whether visiting a local island, trying local cuisine, or learning traditional crafts, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the authentic Maldives beyond the tourist attractions.