SafBlog: December 2014

When it comes to online blogs, you usually see the general information such as what you can do & where to stay but not about other facts. I am going to talk about points of tourism as well, but in a different angle.

Male’ is really a beautiful city, a place I still miss. It is relaxed even for expatriates & for tourists; since you don't have much to do, for most of the time you can chill.

Male’ is the world’s smallest island city fully commercialised, business runs for double shifts, shops are open from 7am to 11pm & a city that uses the US dollar as their unofficial main currency. More than the locals themselves, you can see expatriates from all over the world here.

In Male’ the standard of living is very expensive since about 99.99% of commodities are imported. Unfortunately the country has to fully depend on other countries for all their needs, however on the plus side the Maldives’ main business is tourism & exporting fish.

I have never tasted fish like Maldives fish. In Sri Lanka you will never find fish that tastes like fish produced from the Maldives & when it comes to tourism you will never find fine resort islands like those in the Maldives.

Let's discuss some interesting facts about the Maldives subject by subject:

People in Maldives or Maldivians

Sadly the young generation is spoilt by drugs. You can see everywhere young drugged-up boys & unfortunately girls too. Drugged-up generations are not only in Male’ but also in domestic islands nearby. For tourists it's harmless, yet I have seen lots of expats who have experienced sexual abuse, stealing, beating etc. I am not saying all locals are like that, as I have seen and met some wonderful & innocent people. As a tourist you are still safe when walking around with a resort guide or your tour operator appointed guest guide. The older generation & people hailing from islands are very kind & innocent.

Male' Maldives Fish Market

This is an awesome place to buy fish. You can buy most varieties here; mainly you will get tuna & reef fish and you also have the option of buying fish alive. I have never seen a fish-cleaning process like they do in the Maldives. The people here are nothing short of experts and what ever fish type you give them, they will skin them in a min, as fast as machines. This is a must see!

Video of fish cutting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgrxOjxbfes&list=UUM6-SV2N42kpIDWh_C-yj1Q

Local Market in Male' Maldives

You can find 100% local and island products here, mixed with vegetable shops. Behind this local market you can find dried Maldives fish (umbalakada) market.

Fishing Trip in Male’

One of the best experiences you can have here is fishing. What do you think about have a fishing trip in a big local fishing boat and having your catch for bbq? Whilst you can go fishing in the resort, the fishing experience in Male’ is a different experience.

Submarine Dive in Male' Maldives

I was in Male’ for 9 years but never got time to have the submarine experience. I have seen photos & based on my friends’ experiences, I can say it is pretty cool!

Maldive Island hopping

Around male you will find many small islands. If you like to see the lifestyle of islanders for yourself, you should definitely go island hopping. I have been to an island called “Koddipparu” such a lovely tiny private island, and also “Kuda Bandos” is one of the famous islands near Male, ideal for picnics, office private parties and the like.

Guest Houses in Male', Maldives

For sleep-overs, there are guest houses with good standards, but some of the guest houses are of very bad quality. If you are really concerned about security then guest houses are not what you are looking for.

Hotels in Male’, Maldives

Why do you need a Hotel in Male? If you are on a business trip or an overnight stay only, I can recommend male' hotels. Maldives is one of the best holiday destinations, however it does not mean Male' hotels. I recommend only Traders Hotel & Hulule Hotels. There are new hotels in Hulu Male but I can not name any since I have not seen them personally.