When you mention the Maldives the picture that will come to mind is the clear blue waters, over water villas and a tranquil tropical get away. However, there is more than the luxury resorts that is a rich culture and lifestyle that not many travelers get to be exposed to. In order to experience this paradise as a local, you must take your time, live simply, and get lost in the life travel of the Maldives island.

No matter whether it is the first time you are going there, or you are going back to explore the places more thoroughly, these Maldives travel tips will assist you in finding the true spirit of the islands, be it in local cuisine, or local traditions.

Get to Know the Local Island Life

Although most of the tourists are staying in the private resort islands, the real Maldives is located in the local inhabited islands. Such locations as Maafushi, Dhigurah, and Thulusdhoo provide some insight into the Maldivian everyday life.

Here, there are welcoming locals, vivid houses and small family-owned guesthouses. Get time to socialize with islanders, visit their markets and engage in community projects. It is important to respect local traditions, so it is better to dress decently on populated islands and never take pictures without permission.

In this way, you will be able to have a glimpse of another Maldives beyond the postcard-perfect beach.

Select Guesthouses instead of Resorts

In case you desire living in the Island life, you ought to stay at guesthouses rather than in the luxurious resorts. Not only are they affordable but they also provide you with the chance of communicating with locals.

The guesthouses offer home made Maldivian cuisine, local tours and private hospitality. It is an excellent means to explore the old-fashioned fishing culture, crafts on the island and the slower pace of everyday life.

This is among the best Maldives travel tips to keep in mind by the travelers who want to experience the authenticity in the countries.

Eat Like a Local

The Maldivian food is a delicious combination of fresh seafood, coconut and spicy aromas. Go without the international buffets a day and treat yourself to local foods such as mas huni (tuna and coconut salad), garudkiya (fish soup) and rihaakuru (fish paste).

Attempt to eat in small cafes or hotaa (local restaurants) where people eat. You will not only get to enjoy delicious food but you will also get to learn about warm hospitality that is characteristic of the Maldivian culture.

In case you are an adventurelover, go on a local family cooking experience to understand the preparation of such dishes with the help of age-old recipes.

Embrace the Island Pace

The Maldives live life by the rhythm of the sea calm, slow and peaceful. Don’t rush your trip. Rather than jumping on far too many islands, use more time on fewer of them.

Rise in the early morning and watch the sunrise, go on slow strolls along the beach and have conversations with the locals. Disregard rigid schedules and allow days to pass.

It is an easy-going attitude, which is among the keys to experiencing the Maldives as an islander.

Appreciate the Environment and the Ocean

Maldives is a very delicate ecosystem on earth. Responsible tourism is needed by coral reefs, marine life, and beaches too.

Single-use plastics should be avoided, reef-safe sunscreen must be used, and care should be taken to touch or step on the corals during snorkeling. Get involved in conservation campaigns or beach clean-ups on the islands of the country- there are various programs in which tourists can contribute to conserving the aquatic life.

Sustainability is not a mere trend in travel in this case, but it is a must to ensure that this paradise does not die before the children of the future generation.

Try Local Adventures

Although water villas and infinity pools are enticing, there is much more to visit. Go fishing with the locals, snorkel with reef sharks or rent a dhoni boat to see the sunset.

On populated islands, it is possible to rent bicycles and go through small lanes, mosques, or observe sports activities on the island such as bashi (traditional game of women). These tours get you a step nearer to the spirit of the island and enable you to understand how much Maldivians identify with their nature.

Visit Multiple Islands

One of the most effective ways of exploring the country is through Island hopping. All islands possess their own atmosphere: there is surf-friendly Thulusdhoo and calm Dhigurah and artsy Gulhi.

Local ferries or speedboats can be used to travel among islands. Ferries are not as fast, but they provide an opportunity to interact with locals and have a scenic view of the sea at a slow pace.

In the case you have more than one destination, make sure to allot buffer time in the event of weather changes, the Maldives transport system operates under the Maldivian time and it is always loose!

Learn a Few Local Phrases

Even though English is the language most commonly spoken, knowing some of the vocabulary in Dhiveki the native language is respectful and will assist you in bonding with locals. Such basic expressions as Assalaamu Alaikum (hello) or Shukuriyaa (thank you) can help a lot when it comes to making new friends.

Shop Local Crafts

Contribute to the development of small island economies by buying handmade souvenirs rather than those that are imported. You will discover the elegant crafts such as the lacquered wood boxes, woven mats and seashell jewelry.

Whenever you can, buy directly with the local artisans this will keep the ancient craftsmanship and make sure you bring home a little bit of Maldivian culture in your souvenirs.

Conclusion

In order to experience the Maldives like an islander one has to go beyond the luxury resorts and experience the local beat. Whether it is spending the night in guesthouses and enjoying locally-cooked food or visiting inhabited islands and saving marine life - these Maldives travel tips will make your holiday a cultural adventure.

Allow the gentle sea breeze to help you make your days, experience the hospitality of the local people, and leave footprints only on the sand. To get more inspired, see more ideas and get planning tips, read the Maldives travel guide by Go Kite Tours - your reliable friend in discovering paradise in the local manner.