10 Facts about Maldives

1. Maldives is the flattest country on earth. The maximum above sea level is 8 feet (2.4 meters).
2. Alcohol is banned outside of resorts in Maldives. Alcohol can only be consumed in resorts and they cannot be legally removed from resorts. Pork, pork products, and any religious materials offensive to Islam is forbidden to be imported to the country.
3. The Maldivian flag portrays a couple of things;The white crescent resembles Islamic faith. The red color represents the  every drop of blood sacrificed by our nations heroes and the green symbolizes peace and prosperity.
4. Maldives has been ranked as the best country brand for rest and relaxation, ranked second in best country brand for beauty, ranked third in best country for resort lodging options, all in the year of 2008.
5. Maldives holds the highest divorce rates. 10.97 divorces per 1,000 yearly.
6. Maldives is the smallest Muslim Nation in Asia.
7. Cowry shells (Cypraea Moneta) was once used as trade of currency with merchant ships passing through the country.

8. Maliku Island (Minicoy) used to be a part of Maldives. On 1st November 1956 became a union territory of Lakshadeep.

9. In order to preserve the fisheries and biodiversity of Maldives. it is planning to create the largest Marine reserve in the world.The project is said to be completed in 2017.

10. On February 7th 2011, President Mohammed Nasheed resigned as the president after three week of  opposition-led protests that ended up in mutiny. Mr. Nasheed later declared that it was forced out in a coup de'tat. He officially announced that he was forced to resign at gunpoint. After a day of resignation a riot was carried out in the streets of Male' city which led to Mr. Nasheed and 50 other people being injured.

    "To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries" -Aldous Huxley- 

Underwater Cabinet Meeting

Maldives held the worlds first underwater cabinet meeting on October 17th 2009.

Former president Mohamed Nasheed dove 20 feet below the lagoon of Girifushi Island with 13 other government officials. Girifushi is an island mainly used for military training. The meeting was held to raise the concern of raising sea levels, Maldives islands of consisting of 1,192 coral islands on average lies 2.1 meters above the ocean.He fears that the Indian Ocean archipelago would be swamped if carbon emissions are not reduced.

The underwater cabinet meeting was held 30 minutes to raise awareness of what would happen to Maldives if action is not taken. The ministers and cabinet secretary signed a document calling on for all countries to reduce the carbon emissions.

Mr. Nasheed said "What we are trying to make people realize is that the Maldives is not a front-line state. This is not merely an issue for the Maldives but for the world"

Mr. Nasheed called all world leaders to take this issue in hand urgently for the U.N climate change conference that was scheduled for December in Copenhagen.

The Maldivian presidential secretariat has said that this underwater campaign was a part of a campaign by international environmental NGO 350.org.

Mr. Nasheed announced his plans to raise fund if the 1,192 coral islands of Maldives submerge to buy a new home land for the people of Maldives. He also promised to make Maldives the world's first carbon-neutral nation within a decade.

The document that they signed said : "We must unite in a world war effort to halt further temperature rises. Climate changes are happening and it threatens the rights and security of everyone on earth.

We have to have a better deal. We should be able to come out with an amicable understanding that everyone survives. If Maldives can't be saved today, we do not feel that there is much of a chance for the rest of the world."

The countries are to negotiate with Kyoto protocol which controlled the carbon emissions, at the UN conference.


"We are trying to send a message to the let the world know what is happening and what will happen to the Maldives if climate change isn't checked" -Mohammed Nasheed-

Submarine Dive

Enjoy the magnificent view of the Maldives Underwater beauty without getting wet or equipment. This whale submarine will give you the chance to see the underwater world.

This German Whale submarine was created by the Karlsrhue,Germany. This submarine has the capacity to carry 50 passengers and can go to the depth of 150 meters. The whole craft is air conditioned and normal atmospheric pressure. This craft is built in a way to keep the passengers safe and comfortable. Water and food supplies are stored in the submarine for all crews and passengers.

It dives every 90 minutes starting from 9 in the morning to 8 in the evening. Some Hotel/resorts will provide this service and if so you can make a booking through the front desk.If they do not provide with this service you can make a direct reservation from Whale submarine Maldives by calling them and they will fix arrangements for you.

You will be taken to the dive site after settling your booking and arrangements by a vessel. From the airport to the dive point, the time calculated to reach by the vessel is about 20 minutes.

The guides and instructors will brief you on different dive sites. The submarine stop at different dive sites which will allow you to enjoy and see the spectacular and breathtaking views of the underwater creatures and corals.  The first stop will be 25 meters and and then 40 meters. If the current and time is good, you can get the opportunity to get to see shipwrecks and shark feeding sites.

You will experience 45 minutes of this astounding underwater submarine drive and emerge back to the surface. The vessel will take you back to the airport or the resort that you have arranged to stay at.

This will be a great opportunity, specially if you have traveled to Maldives with your family. You can take your kids, your partner, you friends, your parents and enjoy what the underwater world Indian ocean has to offer you.

If you are visiting, make sure that this goes on your bucket list!

 “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.” – Wyland

Events & Festivals

Events and Festivals in Maldives are lead by the Luna calender.



Eid Festival

There are two Eids that are celebrated by the Muslims; one is annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. the other one is celebrated after the completion of Ramadan. Ramadan is the month where Muslims fast for a month. And it is is called 'Eid-Ul-Fitar'. During this Festival Maldives celebrate with their friends and families. People usually wear new clothes and games and traditional music are played.Specially in the islands. These days this festival is also celebrated in modern terms having music shows and holds parades on the streets. During Eid Festival, it is a great time to visit to local islands.

Independence Day

In July 1965 Maldives was granted full independence from the British.This is one of the biggest National events carried out in the Maldives. National Security Services and school children perform special parades and dances where the President will take part in the celebration. 

Martyr's Day

In 1558 Male' was invaded and attacked by the Portuguese. The ruling Sultan Ali 6th fought the invaders with help from a few country men. He was killed during the fight and was declared a Martyr. This day is celebrated in the memory of the National Hero, Sultan Ali the 6th.

National Day

After the invasion of Portuguese and the killing of Sultan Ali 6th Maldives was under the Portuguese colonial rule. In 1573 Mohamed Ali Thakurufaanu Ali Auzam ended the colonial rule of 15 years. 1st of Rabee ul Awwal (Islamic calender) is celebrated as National Day of Republic of Maldives. Parades and root marches in Male' city and islands are held as a celebration of this day.

Prophet Mohammad's Birthday

Special food and prayers are made on this day to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Mohammad.This day is marked on the 12th of Rabee ul Awwal in the Arabic calender.

Republic Day

On the first of January 1953, the Maldives became a Republic after hundreds of years as a Monarchy.The Monarchy was restored shortly. On 11 November 1968 Republic was formed again. On this day parades and special events are held.

Victory Day

Sri Lankan terrorist group attacked the Maldives government on 3rd November 1998. However the attempt resulted in failure and they fled from the country. This day is marked as the victory day.

Ramadan

Ramadan marks the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed to Mankind. This month is counted the ninth month of the Islamic calender. During the month of Ramadan Muslims will abstain from eating, drinking and sexual activity from dawn to sunset. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. And this month focuses on praying and purifying through self-restrain. Special kinds of food are made for breakfasting and is taken with the families and friends.

List of Public Holidays in Maldives 2014

01st January: New Year Holiday
02nd January: National day
13th January: Prophet Mohammad's Birthday
02nd February: The day Maldives embraced Islam
01st May: International Labour Day
28th June: Beginning of Ramadan
26th July: Independence Day
27th July: On the occasion of Independence Day
28th July: Fit'r Eid
29th July: On the occasion of Fit'r Eid
30th July: On the occasion of Fit'r Eid
03rd October: Hajj
04th October: Al'h'aa Eid
05th October: On the occasion of Al'h'aa Eid
06th October: On the occasion of Al'h'aa Eid
07th October: On the occasion of Al'h'aa Eid
25th October: Islamic New year
03rd November: Victory Day
11th November: Republic day
23rd December: National Day


" May the festival of light encircle your life with Joy and Happiness. Success comes at your home "

Sand Bank Dining or Lunch

Want to Indulge in a getaway with your partner?

The only thing around you would be the azure blue sky and emerald water and the soft white sand. Can you imagine yourself and your partner in such a euphoric place?

Sand Bank picnic will give you the opportunity to have have an escapade with your loved one. You can enjoy the natural wonders and private moments with your partner. It would be truly and a liberating and a blissful experience, wouldn't it?

Just request for a sand bank picnic from the staff from wherever that you are staying. Most of the Hotels, Guest Houses and resorts will provide you with this service. Once your picnic is confirmed just hop on to the boat and let them take you to a mini paradise.

Before you go make sure that you request for what you want. A romantic candle light dinner or a casual tropical lunch for two?

You can even make it a little adventure for the two of you. Take a snorkeling kit with you and just lunge into the water. Enjoy the rich and exotic marine life.

Soak up the sun and the enjoy listening to the melodious waves.

Don't forget, we will give this opportunity to you too. Stay at Kanbili Guesthouse, Himmafushi!

"In every out thrust headland, in every curving beach, in every grain of sand there is the story of the earth."  -Rachel Carson-

Parasailing in the Maldives

Are you up for a thrill?
Let's parasail and catch the stunning aerial view!

Can you imagine yourself hundreds of feet above the water, seeing the coral reefs, the crystal clear water, and sandy beaches from above, the wind rushing to your face and the water splashing onto your skin as you are pulled by the speedboat below?

This activity is one the most adventurous and exciting activity that is available in the Maldives.

Before you begin parasailing, you would be taken through a safety briefing.
It is important to stay calm and steady while you are gushing through the wind. Check the weather before you go, avoid going when there a cloudy skies, the weather should be sunny with a good wind. The area you go on for this activity should be an open ocean so that you and the speedboat can be on rope that is attached. And do not forget to check the equipment before you go.

The minimum combined weight for parasailing is 125-130 lbs and maximum weight combined is 350-375 lbs.Weight requirements may change due to wind conditions. Any one below 18 should have a consent form signed by their parents or guardians. If something happens while you are airborne, you can give the the crew a signal which will be discussed in the safety briefing.

You will be taken to a certain spot by the speedboat, within the boat there is a rope that is connected to the parachute. there are will be straps that will be attached to your body through the parachute and you will have a life jacket. once it is attached and you are ready to fly the operator will let let out the winch rope and you go up and up!

The Birdseye view will amaze and sooth you. This will definitely be a experience to remember!



 
“Life is either a great adventure or nothing.” - Helen Keller

Manta Rays

Manta Ray sighting is one of the biggest attraction to those who come to Maldives for scuba diving and is widely known as the "Maldives Big Five". Manta Ray sighting is going to be an adrenaline charged experience.

Manta rays can be found in the tropical waters, especially in coral reefs.

Manta rays can be found in the Maldives through out the year, but the manta ray spots can vary from seasons. In the Western side of the atolls diving for manta rays is best in the northeast monsoon and in the east side it is best when it's the south eat monsoon.

The largest manta rays that is usually found by the divers is measure up to around 18 feet.

The manta rays mainly feeds on plankton's and fish larvae. Manta rays does not have a sting in it's tail and the defense mechanisms they have are their speed and size. Different types of sharks are known to be predators of the Manta rays. Manta rays can swim quite deep in the waters but they are usually found in shallow waters near the coral reefs. They are particularly found in the Pacific,Atlantic and India Oceans. The manta rays is now protected species in the Maldives

The manta rays presents no harmful or dangerous risks to diver and are considered one of the most peaceful creatures in the Maldives.


Best Manta ray dives spots in the Maldives;

Manta ray Hanifaru Bay:

Considered as one of the best manta rays spots in the world where you can find manta ray feeding frenzy during the months of May to November. You also have the opportunity to see mantas cyclone feeding, a divine and sight to see!

Felidhoo Atoll:

A small reef can be found 200 meters east of dhiggiri resort. Mantas in the areas can be best found in the southwest monsoon.

Madivaru (South Ari Atoll):

In the North east monsoon there is are very good chances of finding manta rays. This is a marine protected reef on the south of Rangali kandu. The mantas can only be found in these spots when there is a strong current. Carrying a safety balloon will be highly suggested.

Lankan Manta point (North Male' atoll):

This is one of the best manta sites in the Maldives. And you will see big ones here. Just be careful not to be on the base of the rocks because those creatures will see it as a occupation of the are and move away.

There are a few more spots for manta ray sighting in the Maldives.

Come and enjoy the sight of these harmless beautiful creatures. It would be an exhilarating experience!


"Fishes live in the sea, as men do a-land; the great ones eat up the little ones" -William Shakespeare-

Wedding & Honeymooning

How about renewing your wedding vows in a tropical paradise?
The powder soft beach, the spectacular turquoise lagoon, your love of life standing in front of you promising you a perfect future and a life time of happiness.
Sounds Blissful,yes?

The Maldivian law does not approve of legal binding in the Maldives but ceremonial weddings are often indulged by foreigners visiting Maldives, as it is one of the best Honeymoon destinations.

Pick your wedding theme. Decide whether you want a casual ceremony with surfboards for decorations and a simple summer dress or you want a elegant beach wedding theme with classic white wedding dress. It is up to you. The backdrop would be perfect for taking photo's!

Just like you decided to pick your theme pick exactly where you want it. Do you want it in a deserted island? A resort? An inhabited island?

You can choose how big your ceremony would be. Do you want a three layer cake with a topper figure? or you want a simple on decorated with seashells and starfishes?

The beautiful and marvelous surroundings, the amazing setting of your wedding ceremony in the Maldives will be something that will always remain in your memory.

After you have renewed your vows and finished the wedding ceremony, you can embark on your honeymoon journey. Cruising, Island hopping, manta ray point seeing, diving, submarine ride, surfing, there are so many options that you can choose from. Discuss it with your partner and plan your perfect beach wedding and adventurous honeymoon!

Come discover the wonders of Maldives!

"When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."  -Harry (Billy Crystal)-

Hikimas Mas Roshi

                                www.kaskus.co.id

Ingredients:

150 gram Chipped Tuna (Muguri Hikimas)
1 Coconut scraped
4 Curry Leaves
1 inch Ginger
2 Lemons
2 Chilies (Roa Githeyo Mirus)
3 Dried chilies (fried) (hikimurus)
2 Onions
1  1/2 Teaspoon oil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt
2 cup flour

How to Make:

Tuna Mix:

Cut the onions, chilies and curry leaves in small bits. Mix tuna, salt, lemon juice, dried chilies, turmeric powder and salt. Mix together in a large bowl. Then add the some scraped coconut and mix well.
Make balls from the combined ingredients and keep them in the bowl.

Flour:

Add flour, oil, salt and scraped coconut and mix well in a large bowl. when the dough is made make balls out of the dough and keep them.


Now put the tuna mix inside the dough and flatten them. Heat a flat pan (medium Heat) and bake them until it's golden brown.

Serve hot with a hot black tea.

Enjoy!


"A recipe has no soul.You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe" -Thomas Keller-

We re included in the top ten beaches!

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top-10/beaches/

Why do you travel?

An introspective article about why I love to travel.

Different people travel for different reasons.Sometimes it's to seek an adventure.Or to simply escape from where one is.

When you are living your daily life, you are mostly stuck in a routine. You wake up in the morning, have a cup of coffee, you get ready and go to work, and you try your best to make ends meet. That is usually the ordinary life of a person. Sometimes this ordinary life does not give you the chance to explore yourself.

Travel gives you the chance to find yourself more, to discover and to explore yourself.

One of the greatest things travel gives you is the opportunity to have adventures. You can explore a different country, different people, different cultures. Maybe you can do something you have been wanting to do, like skydiving or bungee jumping! Adventure can give you an adrenaline rush!

Sometimes travelling makes you more grateful. Grateful for being able to see,touch,taste,walk,feel etc. It will overwhelm you for being lucky. Lucky for simply being alive. Travel will teach you how to live in the present moment, the only place you really exist in. 

Travel gives you a whole new perspective of how you see the world and what you think of this world. It gives you a healthier perspective of this world. Seeing how different people lives are in different parts of the world, different struggles, and different ways of overcoming their obstacles. It will definitely make you more open-minded and give you a realistic image of how things are.

Challenges are something you will absolutely face when travelling around. Whether you are forced to stay at a crappy motel, or having a dispute with a stranger. Challenges will make you do more than what you thought you were capable of. You learn to adapt to changes. Challenges will make your grow.

Travelling teaches you things that cannot be taught in a school or a college or in a novel. You see the world and you discover things on your own. You learn so much about yourself, about people, about the world etc. When travelling you are the teacher and the student as well. You are embarking on a beautiful journey of discovering the world. 

These are the reasons why I love to travel. What's your reason?

"To travel is to live" -Rumi-

How to plan your trip to Maldives

Plan your trip early. It is always safe to plan your vacation ahead in order to be on the safe side.

Here is how you can plan your dream vacation to the Maldives;

What kind of vacation?

First of all you need to know what kind of vacation you are going on before planning your trip. Is it a family vacation? A honeymoon? A trip with your friends? Find out which type of Holiday you are going to go on so that you have a clear picture of what you want in your head.

What are your travel dates?

Maldives is year round sunny but the southwest monsoon can bring rain to the country. It is therefore important to pick your travel dates wisely. The driest days are between November to March.

Where do you want to stay?

Whether it is a resort, a hotel in a tropical island of Maldives that you want to stay in. It’s vital for you to know where you want to go. Pick your place of stay and book early.

How long is your vacation?

The best things to do is to book your return ticket to your home. Plan how many days you want to spend in the Maldives and plan your departure date.

What do you want to do?

Plan what you want to do in the Maldives. Do you want to go on a cruise trip? Do you want to go diving? Or do you want to be involves in other water sport activities? Know what you want so that it is easier for you. Most Hotels/ Guest houses and Resorts have special packages for activities. So decide what you want to do before confirming your vacation!

What do you bring?

It is always the best choice if you pack lightly but essentials will be needed in your suitcase just in case. It important to bring the right choice of clothes when visiting to a foreign country. As Maldives is sunny the best choice of clothes will be lightweight, cotton clothing.

How do you get to your destination?

When you reach Male’ International Airport. You can get on a ferry or speedboat and get to the capital city of Maldives within a few minutes. The place you have chosen to stay at will provide you with transfer. Some resorts may offer to take you straight from the airport. Boats (dhonis), speedboats, sea air craft is available for resort transfers and if you are visiting to an island you can book a plane ticket, speedboat transfer or boat transfer to reach your destination.

Hulhumale’ is just 20 minutes away from Male’ city you can buy a ticket from the Hulhumale’ terminal and visit there in a boat or you can get a speedboat and reach there within just a few minutes.

Vilingili is just 5 minutes away from Male’ city and you can buy a ticket from Vilingili ferry terminal. Speedboats are not available for Vilingili.

Most importantly enjoy your vacation! Explore and discover the wonders of Maldives.

Don’t forget to experience your stay with us at Kanbili Guest house, Himmafushi!

“We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment” –Hilaire Belloc”

Travel Gears & Accessories

Here are some travel gears & accessories that will make your trip much easier;

Snorkel set

Eye mask

Ear plugs

Travel notebook

Cosmetic and Toiletry bag set

Sunscreen

Work out shoes

Sandals

Travel bottles

Camera

Portable tripod

Headphones

Underwater Camera

Back pack

A book or a novel

Sunglasses

Dry bag

Portable charger

Travel mug

Passport wallet

Moisturizer

Band-Aids and pain killers 

Mosquito repellent

Travel Insurance

iPod

“A traveler without observation is a bird without wings” -Moslih Eddin Saadi-

Maldivian Recipe

Rihaakuru Dhiya

Ingredients:

Rihaakuru

Coconut Milk

6-7 Curry leaves

1 Onion

2 Chilies or dried chilies

1 Lemon

Water

How to make:

Chop the Onions and chilies thin, squeeze Lemon juice on the chopped onions. Add the curry leaves and Rihaakuru and mix it thoroughly.  Then add the coconut milk and some water. Mix and serve at Room temperature.

Best Served with Maldivian vacuumed fish and Roasted dried chilies.

Accompanied with White plain rice.

Enjoy!

Dhivehi...

The National language of Maldives is Dhivehi. The origin of “Dhivehi’ is Dhivehi meaning islanders and Bas meaning language. The Language is believed to be derived from Sinhalese (Sri Lankan Language) though it has been influenced by other languages in the developments such as Arabic, French, Persian, Portuguese, Urdu and English. Dhivehi is written in Thaana script starting from left to right. Experts recently has said that the language was derived from the ancient Indian Language Maharashtri. But linguists believe that it comes from both India and Sri Lanka.

This Indo-Aryan language was influenced by the Arabic language in the 12^th century when the Maldives embraced Islam. The earliest were found in the 12^th century engraved on copperplate grants called Loamaafaanu. In the 18^th century the Thaana became the official writing system.

There are so many islands scattered around the Indian Ocean, and the language as a result has a very rich blend of dialects. Mostly even though some islands may have different dialects the National language is something that the people are familiar with.

Addu Bas, is used in the Southern Atolls. It is also the most widespread dialect of the Maldives.

Mulaku Bas, is another major dialect used in the Maldives by the people from Fuvahmulah. In this dialect the 

features include ‘Laamu sukun’ and an ‘o’ sound instead of ‘u’ is used at the end of the words.

Huvadhoo Bas another dialect of the Maldives used in the Huvadhoo Atoll. The dialect is similar to both Addu bas and Mulaku Bas. This dialect most commonly uses the retroflex ‘T’.

Some of the important words and phrases of the Dhivehi Bas include:

Hello – Assalaamu alaikum

How are you? – Haalu Kihineh?

Fine, thank you? – Ran’galhu, shukuriyaa

What is your name? – Kon nameh kiyanee?

My name is…….. – Aharenge namakee………

Nice to meet you – Baddhalu vee thi varah ufavejey.

Please- Aadheys kohfa

Thank you – Shukuriyaa

You are welcome – Maruhabaa

Yes – Aan

No - Noon 

Good Morning – Baajaveri Hendhune

Good Night – Baajaveri reygade

Where? – Kobaa?

What? – Koacheh?

When? - Kon iraku?

Who? – Kaaku?

What time is it? – Gadin Kihaa ireh?

How do I get to………? - Kihene aharen…………ah dhanee?

Do you have any rooms available? - Evves kotarieh liben ebahuri tha?

How much? – Kihaa varakah?

Do you speak English? -  Ingireysin vaahaka dhakkan ingeytha?

The English Language is common among the Maldivians. And most of the people are fluent in writing and speaking the English language.

“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language that goes to his heart.”  ‒Nelson Mandela-

A map of the Maldives

Food in the Maldives

 www.flickr.com

Maldivian Local Food mainly involves three things; Fish, Coconut and Starches.

We are surrounded by water all around us, which makes fish the most used element in our cuisines.

The palm trees provides us with Coconuts which is another main elements used in Maldivian dishes, especially in Curry dishes.  Curry is accompanied by ‘Roshi’ which made from Starch.

The most common and famous dishes include;

Dishes/ Cuisines:

Mashuni

Mashuni is a famous and typical food eaten for Breakfast in the Maldives. ‘Mashuni’ literally means fish and coconut. It is composed of tuna, grated coconut, onions, chilies, lime, and salt. This is accompanied by Roshi or Huniroshi (with grated coconut). This goes well with a hot black tea.

Garudhiya

 Garudhiya is a clear fish broth. It is typically known as a traditional food of Maldives. The broth is made from tuna species such as skipjack tuna, yellow fin tuna, frigate tuna and little tunny. This can be accompanied by Plain white rice or Roshi.

Kulhi Riha

Kulhi Riha literally means spicy curry. It can either be made with Vacuumed fish or fresh tuna. The flavors of the spices and fish delivers a great taste palate. This also can either be enjoyed with Plain white rice or Roshi.

Short eats & Savories:

Bajiyaa

Short eats and savory bites are taken as an evening snack mostly accompanied with hot black tea. It can also be taken with a cup of coffee. These are available in most of the restaurants and Café’s.

Kulhi boakibaa

This can be considered a savory tuna cake. The main ingredients involve fish and coconut and it’s spicy and is a great bite for your tongue!

Gulha

Gulha is a deep fried tuna dumpling made in a ball like shape. It can be either made from wheat flour of rice flour. Other ingredients involved are Onions, chilly, coconut, curry leaves, lime juice, turmeric powder and salt.

Paan Boakibaa

Paan boakibaa is a sweet bread cake. Other ingredients used are condensed milk, Eggs, Vanilla essence etc. On top you can add pine nuts if you prefer.

There are a large variety of short eats and savory bites that are local made in the Maldives. And evening tea is considered a tradition.

We provide Evening tea at Kanbili Guest-House, Himmafushi. So do not forget to add tea to your list.

For more information please contact us through email or call us!

Restaurants ins Male’;

Sala Thai

With Authentic Thai environment the restaurant provides one of the best Thai foods in town. The chefs here are actually from Thailand. This would be a great place if you love Thai food.

It is located in Burunee Magu, inside Boutique Hotel.

Shell beans

Shell Beans specializes in their signature sandwiches, and also provides healthy food and different dishes from around the world. There are three shell beans located in the Male’ city, one in front of the 7^th jetty, another at Ameenee Magu and the most recent one at Ithaa Goalhi near customs.

Café’ Marine Drive

Located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu near the Hulhumale’ Ferry terminal. They provide dishes from different kind of Pastas to Beef n’ Fries. This has a very friendly and comfortable environment and food here at a fair price.

I would personally recommend you to try their beef burger!

Sea House Maldives

This is considerably one of the most popular café’s in Male’. They have a variety of dishes among the Menu and has breakfast buffet in the morning. The view is overlooking the jetty area. You can see the spectacular view of dolphins jumping out of the water!

Break Water

Break water is Located in the Artificial Beach that’s gives a very comfy environment which the beach and the fresh breeze that keeps blowing. This restaurant specializes in Indian and Thai food. The Service is good and is a really place to come by.

Jade bistro

Jade Bistro has a very rich menu from pastries to steaks. They provide you with free Wi-Fi connection and is a nice place if you want to work or read a book.

It is located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu near the water.

Jazz Café’

Jazz Café is a very simple café’ where you can enjoy a hamburger or a cup of fresh coffee. The place provides live music at times and is an ideal place if you would like to enjoy a typical laidback place to hang out.

It is located in Haveeree Hingun.

Palace Sichuan Chinese restaurant

An Authentic Chinese restaurant in the heart of Male’ City. The food, Service, Environment and Value is known to be very good. Why don’t you try the dumping’s from here the next time you crave for some Chinese?

It’s located in Nooraanee Goalhi.

Dhivehi Malafaiy

Located in Rahdhebai Magu this is a restaurant serving local and tradition Maldivian cuisines. The place also has the option for you to try out Sheesha and choose from a variety of flavors. Visit here and enjoy the delicacies of the Maldivian Local cuisines!

Lemon Grass 5^th

This is popular chain restaurant in Male’. It’s a family type restaurant specializing in Indian and Thai food.

Located in Fareedhee Magu.

Trends Restaurant

This restaurant provides intercontinental cuisines and very appealing for their breakfast buffets.

This is great place to have dinner, lunch with family or even with a group of friends. The open air areas are very refreshing and vitalizing.

Located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu.

Salt Café’ and restaurant

Salt Café is on the 6^th and 7^th floor, the location of being near the water gives us an amazing view. The ambience here is one of the best in town. And there are variety of food available here. You can even get Sushi and Sashimi here! They also provide a special menu with special prices for lunch called express lunch and in the evening there is tea time special with short eats. This is definitely one of the places you have to try!

Dine More

Dine more is famously known for the cheesy and delicious submarines in Maldives. They of course do provide other food too! They have Burgers, Rice and even kottu Roshi available in their menu. The submarines are definitely something to try on! There are several Dine More’s in Male’ city One in Artificial beach, one in the carnival area, one in Majeedhee Magu, One in City Park. There is also a Dine More Located in Hulhumale’ And Addu City.

La’ban Diner

La’ban Specializes in seafood and has variety of drinks from coffee’s to smoothies. This is a great place for groups or even taking kids! The place is very cozy and upbeat and would be great place to go have a coffee or even enjoy a meal with your partner!

There are many other restaurants in the Male City that are not mentioned above. But one of the best restaurants and cafés are mentioned above. So when you are in town do not forget to try and explore the places. I am sure that it will be fun and Delightful.

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." ―Virginia Woolf

Male' City

Located in the southern rim of North Male Atoll, lies the Capital city of the Republic of Maldives. Male’ City is occupied of about 100,000 people.

The city is small and would be easy to walk around. Though there are Taxi’s and buses as methods of transportation.

It is mostly crowded with locals in work life, schools and hectic everyday tasks. As Maldives is a 100% Muslim country women wear clothes modestly as possible despite the humid weather.

The Local currency is Rufiyaa and most shops offer to exchange money for Dollars.

The official and common language of Maldives is Dhivehi. An Indo-European language. English is used widely here.

There are a couple of things that you can enjoy in the Male’ city including;

Places to see:

Sultan Park and national museum

Sited at the center of Medhiziyaarai Magu, Sultan Park is the royal palace ground of the Sultan’s palace.

There is no entrance fee to the park.

The national museum is the building of the remains of the Sultan’s palace. You can see a variety of artifacts on display that was the possessions of the royal family. The entrance fee for the National museum is $3. The museum will be open from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and on Friday it opens from 4pm to 6pm.

Republic square (Jumhooree Maidan)

The republic square was established in 1989, and this is a very common place for gathering and hangouts.

It is located in the northern water front of Male’ city.

It has a tall mast with the National flag so it you won’t miss it!

Friday Mosque (Hukuru Mikiyy)

This was built in 1656 with pleated coral walls. The mosque has Arabic writings and ornamental patterns.

Non-Muslims are not allowed inside any mosques without prior permission.

Raghu Gandu (surf Point)

Located in the southern-eastern side of Male’. This is where you can enjoy the waves on a board.

You can sit by the Blue-house built by the locals and watch the youngsters enjoying the waves.

There are a couple more places that you can visit, don’t hesitate to ask your tour guide or even a local for guidance!

Shopping in Male’ City:

Local Market & Fish Market

The local Market will provide you with various Maldivian made good and savories. And will come at a reasonable price.

The local Market is located in Boduthakurufaanu Magu. It is a block away from fish market in the northern waterfront. You will different stalls where you can purchase what you wish to buy.

The fish Market is hectic and full of people. They have various fresh fish including Fresh tuna. Skip jacks, reef fish and many more.

Souvenir Shops

On the Chandhanee Magu, you will come across several souvenir shops. You can find local made handicrafts, Maldivian arts and crafts, cigarettes, clothing’s, jewelries and many more.

State trading organization

Located at Orchid Magu, this is a good place for grocery shopping. It will also have local snacks and imported food, drinks, cosmetics, toiletries, vegetables and fruits.

Majeedhee Magu 

This the main shopping area where you will find various stores. The shops remain open from 9am to 11pm except from 6pm to 8pm and for a few minutes between 3pm to 4pm.

The hectic Male’ City with give you a couple of places to wander around and enjoy.

Make sure to apply sun protection when visiting here. It is sunny out here!