Malé: 26 Apr 2008

Visit Malé in the Maldives and you’ll find that Robinson Crusoe might have been on to something. Sparkling, sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and oftentimes only one dwelling per island, albeit much more luxurious than Crusoe’s.

Twenty-six natural atolls comprised of 1,900 small islands make up the Republic of Maldives. The Maldivians evolved from early Indian, Sri Lankan, Arab and East African settlers and sailors, who went from being Buddhists to being followers of Sunni Islam.

The Maldives’ religious affiliation explains why local women are discouraged to frequent the abundant tea houses on Malé, although foreign female tourists are welcome.

Travel between the islands oftentimes requires hard to obtain permits to preserve the tranquillity and natural beauty of each one, but with only limited motorized traffic in Malé (there is none on the other islands), even the republic’s capital promises to rejuvenate your spirit and senses.

Excursions:
MALE GUIDED WALK

FLIGHTSEEING