The Maldives is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, boasting some of the most beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. With its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs, the Maldives attracts millions of tourists each year.
The Maldives is one of the most visited countries in the world, with nearly 1.4 million tourists visiting in 2019. This accounted for a total of 8% of the country’s GDP. The Maldives is also one of the most expensive tourist destinations in the world, with the average cost of a hotel room in 2019 being around $400 per night.
THE UNIQUE UNDERSEA RESTAURANTS
You don’t have to be an undersea adventurer to witness the glorious marine life in Maldives. Just head to one of the many restaurants that offer underwater dining. Yes, you read that right! Enjoy a lavish six-course meal at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, or put your dancing shoes on and head to Subsix, the deep sea club that makes a night out even more fun! Meanwhile, guests at Anantara Kihavah can head to the world’s first underwater wine cellar and enjoy the international gourmet cuisine on offer while witnessing the dazzling flora and fauna underwater.
THE CLEAR WATERS AND CORAL REEFS
Embark on a diving or snorkelling expedition in the lagoon and discover an all new world underwater. Revel in the beauty of the coral reefs, which will make you want to shun land forever, or be wowed by the turtles, manta rays, sharks and other aquatic animals that you will inevitably cross paths with. Many resorts also offer photo dives, night snorkelling trips and the chance to observe glorious species like dolphins in their natural habitat!
The best part? You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the beauty. Maldives has some of the clearest waters in the world which boasts of great visibility all year round, ensuring that no one misses out.
THE SANDY BEACHES AND CALM SEAS
Though snorkelling and diving are fun, there’s a lot more to do when it comes to water and adventure sports in Maldives. There’s something for everyone, from children and families to hard core adrenaline junkies!
Grab a canoe or a banana boat and discover the waters, or go sailing in your very own catamaran! Those looking for something more exciting can indulge in activities like knee boarding, wake boarding and waterskiing, whereas guests who want to explore the vast water body in an all new way can just rent their very own seabob. There are also a host of other activities – jet skiing, parasailing and surfing, to name a few – that beckon the adventurer to Maldives!
THE MARKETS, MOSQUES AND MUSEUMS
A lot of people stick to the beach during their Maldives vacation, and it’s safe to say that they’re missing out. Every inch of the country is drenched in a history and culture that is just waiting to be discovered.
Nowhere is this more apparent than the Male Fish and Local Market, where visitors can get a chance to mingle with the locals, sample fresh food and learn about the culture and rituals that shape the country. Also on the must-visit list are Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque) and the Grand Friday Mosque, both of which are more than just religious sites- they’re also architectural wonders.
THE SPAS
A vacation to Maldives isn’t complete until you go back feeling completely rejuvenated. And with the beauty and tranquility that cover every inch of this magnificent country, it’s hard not to.
Kick back and relax at one of the many spas that have glass floors, through which you can observe the beauty and activity in the ocean during your massage. Take this a step further and treat yourself to an underwater treatment at Lime Spa, or indulge in Ayurveda-influenced Indian spa treatments at the Jiva Grande Spa
