Male Travel Guide
Travel guide to Male, Maldives with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Male sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Male Overview
Male is the capital city of the Maldives, a chain of almost 1200 coral islands grouped into atolls, 26 in total. Of the islands themselves 200 are inhabited, with a further 80 as tourist resorts. They are located in the Indian Ocean to the southwest of India.
The city itself is found on the Male Atoll, home also to the main international airport, and with a population of some 50,000 people is the key city, due in no small part to the growth of tourism here, an industry that is flourishing here as travellers seek alternative destinations from the norm. The area is truly beautiful it has to be said, with the most fantastic beaches and glorious seas. It is also easy to find peace and tranquillity here with so many different locations just a water taxi or boat plane ride away.
An important point to remember about Male and the Maldives generally is that the resorts are pretty much self contained, with all the facilities a visitor needs. For those wanting to take a look outside them it is pretty safe but somewhat limited. There are a small number of restaurants in Male for example, however the tastes of the locals are somewhat different to those of visitors, so caution is advised when trying local dishes. It tends to be the spiciness and richness that can take the visitor by surprise.
Top Male Attractions
In addition to the actual islands themselves, that are outstanding, a couple of buildings in Male are of interest. The first is the Mosque, with its fine golden dome standing out and also the National Museum that tells the history of the islands with some fascinating artefacts and wonderful stories.
Shopping in Male
There are some local markets where freshly caught fish and locally made crafts can be bought and the hotels will also offer a number of items, usually linked to the holiday - sports clothing, sun cream, etc. However the reason for people visiting the Maldives is not to go shopping, which if developed would spoil the nature of the whole area.
Male Sporting Events
In such beautiful surroundings the sea plays a huge part in the leisure activities here. Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular due to the clear waters. Fishing is also well represented, with boats available to go out to sea in search of some big fish and a great story.