🇲🇻 Maldives
The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, south-west of Sri Lanka. It is an archipelago of 26 atolls, comprising of nearly 1200 islands. The capital and largest city is Malé. The official language is Dhivehi and the primary religion is Islam. The population of Maldives is around 515,000 people.
The Maldives is best known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports.
The Maldives economy is based on tourism, fishing, and small-scale manufacturing. The country has a developed infrastructure and a high standard of living.
The Maldives has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by its history of trade and commerce, as well as its location at the crossroads of major sea routes. This culture is reflected in the Maldives' traditional architecture, music, and arts.
The Maldives was ruled by a monarchy until 1968, when it became a republic. It was then ruled by one-party government till 2008, when the first multi-party presidential election was held, since then the country has been moving towards democracy.
It's worth noting that the Maldives is also one of the most low-lying countries in the world, and it's at a high risk of being affected by climate change, in particular by the rise of sea level, which puts in danger many of its islands and the lives of its inhabitants.
Maldives Travel Taboo
The Maldives is a Muslim country with a unique culture, and as such, there are certain customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of when traveling there. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the Maldives:
- Dress modestly: The Maldives is a conservative country and it's best to dress modestly, particularly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing and consider covering your arms and legs.
- Respect for Islam: The Maldives is a Muslim country and visitors should be respectful of its religious practices and customs. It is important to be mindful of your behavior and avoid actions that might be seen as disrespectful or offensive.
- Alcohol consumption: Public consumption of alcohol is prohibited on many islands, and only served at resorts and private islands. Visitors should be aware of local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption.
- Photography: Photography should be avoided of certain religious and cultural sites, including inside mosques and madrasahs. Additionally, it's considered impolite to photograph people without their permission, particularly in rural areas.
- Touching Maldivian currency: It is considered disrespectful to handle or touch Maldivian currency with the feet.
- Beaches : Most of the beaches in Maldives are designated for guests of specific hotels, so it's important to be aware of where you are and not to trespass on private property.
- By respecting these customs and being mindful of local laws and regulations, visitors can help to ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to the Maldives. It's important to remember that by showing respect to the culture and tradition of Maldives, it will make the visit an even more enriching and rewarding experience.
Maldives Local Food
The Maldivian cuisine is a blend of traditional Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arab flavors, reflecting the country's history of trade and commerce as well as its location at the crossroads of major sea routes. Some popular local foods in Maldives include:
- Roshi: It is a type of flatbread that's traditionally served with a variety of curries, stews, and soups.
- Garudhiya: A fish broth made from fresh tuna, tomato, lime and chili, it's considered a staple dish in the Maldives and is often eaten for lunch.
- Mas Huni: A traditional Maldivian breakfast dish, which consists of grated tuna mixed with coconut, chili and onions, usually served with Roshi.
- Kukulhu Riha: A curry made from chicken, onion, chili and curry leaves, it's one of the most popular Maldivian dishes.
- Bambukeylu: A delicacy made from smoked and dried Tuna, grated coconut, onions and chili, it's often served as a side dish.
- Falooda: A sweet and refreshing dessert made from vermicelli noodles, jelly, and sweet syrup, often flavored with rose water or pandan.
- Gulha: A sweet dumpling made of flour and coconut, it's commonly served as a dessert during special occasions and festivals.
Maldives Festiaval
The Maldives has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by its history and location, as well as its Islamic faith. Here are a few of the most popular festivals and events in the Maldives:
- Eid-ul-Fitr: It marks the end of the month of Ramadan, and it's the most important festival for the Maldivian Muslims. It's a three-day celebration of fasting, prayer, and feasting.
- Eid-ul-Adha: It's also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, it's a four-day festival that is celebrated by Muslims around the world. It is a time of prayer, and the sharing of food and gifts among family and friends.
- Independence Day: Maldives gained its independence from the British on 26 July 1965, the day is celebrated as a national holiday and it's marked by parades, speeches, and other public events.
- Republic Day: This day is celebrated on 11 November to commemorate the establishment of the Republic of Maldives in 1968. It's marked by patriotic speeches, parades and cultural performances
- World Tourism Day: On 27 September Maldives celebrates the world tourism day, it's celebrated with cultural performances, food festivals and other events.
- Maldives Day: A national day which was introduced in 2011 to celebrate the Maldives, it's held on the 26th of July, the same day as the Independence Day, it's marked by cultural performances, food festivals, and other events.
Maldives History
The Maldives has a rich and complex history that spans several centuries. The earliest known settlers of the Maldives were the Dravidians and the Sinhalese, who arrived in the region around 500 BCE. The island nation was later settled by the Buddhists, before becoming a Muslim sultanate in the 12th century.
- In the 16th century, the Maldives came under the influence of the Portuguese, who controlled the islands for 15 years before being driven out by the local inhabitants. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Maldives was ruled by a series of powerful sultans.
- During the 19th century, the Maldives became a British protectorate, but it retained a high degree of autonomy. In 1965, Maldives gained its independence and become a republic in 1968.
- Throughout its history, the Maldives has been shaped by its location at the crossroads of major sea routes and its Islamic faith. This has led to a unique culture, as well as a long history of trade and commerce.
- In recent years, the Maldives has undergone a process of political and economic modernization. The country has become a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, however, the Maldives faces the challenges of climate change, which is a risk to the livelihood of its inhabitants and the survival of the country as a whole.