Introduction to Maldives' Capital City: Malé

Maldives is a beautiful island country located in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and colorful marine life. In the heart of the Maldives lies its capital city, Malé. This vibrant city, although small in size, boasts a rich culture and history, and offers plenty of things to do and see. Let's take a closer look at Malé and what it has to offer.

The History of Malé

Malé has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The first settlers on the island were believed to be Buddhist sailors from the Indian subcontinent in the 3rd century BC. In the 12th century, Islam was introduced to the island and it has been a Muslim nation ever since. Over the years, Malé has been ruled by various dynasties and empires, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British. The city has undergone many changes throughout its history, but it still retains its traditional charm and culture.

Things to Do and See in Malé

Malé might be small in size, but it offers plenty of things to do and see. One of the must-visit places in Malé is the Maldives National Museum. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts, including royal antiques, religious relics, and traditional costumes. Another popular attraction is the Hukuru Miskiy Mosque, also known as the Old Friday Mosque. Built-in 1656, the mosque is a beautiful example of traditional Maldivian architecture.

If you're interested in learning about the local way of life, head to the city's fish market. Here you can witness the hustle and bustle of the local fishermen, and even buy some fresh seafood. Another great way to experience local life is by wandering through the narrow streets of Malé, where you'll find colorful houses, busy shops, and friendly locals.

Food and Drinks in Malé

Malé is a great place to experience the local cuisine. The city is famous for its delicious seafood, which is often cooked with a blend of traditional Maldivian spices. One dish you must try is rihaakuru, a tuna-based sauce that is typically eaten with rice. Another popular dish is mas huni, a breakfast dish made with grated coconut, tuna, and onions, which is usually served with roshi (traditional flatbread).

When it comes to drinks, Malé offers a variety of options. Coconut water is a refreshing and popular drink in the Maldives, and can be found all over the city. For something stronger, try the local drink called raa. It's a type of toddy made from the sap of coconut palms and is often served in local bars.

Getting to Malé

The easiest way to get to Malé is by flying into Velana International Airport, which is located on Hulhulé Island, just a short boat ride from Malé. The airport serves numerous international airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways.

Once you arrive at Velana International Airport, you can take a taxi or a ferry to Malé. The ferry departs every 15 minutes from the airport's jetty and takes around 10-15 minutes to reach Malé. Taxis are also available outside the airport terminal, and the journey to Malé takes around 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Malé might be small, but it's full of charm, culture, and history. The city offers plenty of things to do and see, from visiting museums and mosques to experiencing local life and sampling the delicious cuisine. So, if you're planning a trip to the Maldives, make sure to include a visit to Malé in your itinerary.