Maldives Inspiration

Maldives consists of 1192 coral islands in 26 atolls with a total land area of 300 km2.

90% of the islands have a land area less than 0.5 km2, and 80% of the islands are less than 1 metre above sea level. Of the 1192 islands, only 192 are inhabited.

Maldives’ marine area is almost one million km2. The coral reefs and sand islands are located on a submarine ridge formed on ancient, now sunken, volcanoes. The coral reef systems are the 7th largest and the 5th most diverse ecosystem.

The population is 400,000 people, mostly living on Malé (capital city), with one of the highest densities in the world.

Maldives has relied heavily on marine coastal areas for food and resources. Tourism has become the primary economic activity with its majestic natural scene, but ignoring their unique cultural assets. There is much more in Maldives other than sun and turquoise waters.

Maldives was ventured in 2000 BCE, via maritime trading routes by Egyptian, Mesopotamian and Indus Valley civilizations. Traders & travellers continued to visit, becoming the main source of cowrie shells, used as currency in Asia & Africa. Sri Lankans arrived next, by the 4th C AD Theravada Buddhism dominated in Maldives. Arabs were the last to arrive in the 9th C and by the 10th C AD the Middle Eastern seafarers. The last Buddhist King converted to Islam in 1153. After the 16th C, it was under Portuguese, Dutch & British control, largely self-governed by the Sultans until 1932 when the sultanate became elective. The British were the last colonial power and even after Maldivian independence in 1965, continued to have a presence till 1976. The sultanate was abolished in 1968, establishing a republic.

Dhivehi is the national language of the Maldives. Many languages including Arabic, French, Persian, Portuguese, Hindustani, and English, have influenced the development of Dhivehi through the ages.
English language is widely spoken. Practically every Maldivian speaks English because it’s the language used in Maldivian schools. English is the Maldives’ unofficial second language.
The Maldives is 100% Sunni Muslim. Tourists should respect the local rules: dress respectfully when visiting the capital or local islands. Most local islands have a designated Bikini Beach for tourists, where bikini attire is allowed. Alcohol is not permitted on local islands. No pork may be brought. Dress codes & alcohol laws do not apply to tourists staying at resorts or on liveaboard boats.

The Maldivian cuisine is a rich assemblage of traditional flavours with strong influences from its neighbouring countries, India and Sri Lanka; a unique culinary identity.

Mas huni is a Maldivian speciality tuna salad with coconut that is traditionally eaten for breakfast with chapati bread (amazing after a morning surf!) The fresh spicy dish is made with tuna, coconut, chilli and onion, blended, seasoned and served with chapati bread.