Traveling to the local islands of Maldives can be a wonderful way to experience the local culture, interact with the friendly Maldivian people, and explore the natural beauty of the archipelago. Here are some essential things to know:
1. Local Islands vs. Resort Islands: Maldives is famous for its luxury resorts on private islands. However, since 2009, guesthouses have been allowed on local inhabited islands, offering a more affordable and authentic experience.
2. Choosing Local Islands: There are over 200 inhabited local islands in the Maldives. Some popular ones for tourists include Maafushi, Dhiffushi, Fulidhoo, Thoddoo, and Ukulhas. Each island has its own unique charm, accommodation options, and activities. In OHANA MALDIVES we carefully select the best accommodations to ensure your stay is comfortable, memorable, and truly immersive in reasonable rates.
3. Accommodation: Local islands offer guesthouses and budget hotels as accommodation options. These establishments are operated by locals and provide comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Some guesthouses have access to private beaches.
4. Activities: Local islands offer a range of activities for visitors. You can explore the white sandy beaches, swim in the turquoise lagoons, go snorkeling or diving to discover the vibrant marine life, enjoy water sports like kayaking and jet skiing, and take boat trips to nearby sandbanks and uninhabited islands.
5. Local Culture: Interacting with the locals is a highlight of visiting the local islands. You can learn about the Maldivian way of life, taste traditional cuisine, visit mosques, and participate in cultural activities such as traditional music and dance performances.
6. Dress Code: While local islands are more relaxed compared to resort islands, it's respectful to dress modestly when outside the beach areas. Bikinis and revealing clothing are generally acceptable on designated tourist beaches or private areas.
7. Transportation: To reach local islands, you can take a speedboat or a public ferry from Malé, the capital of Maldives. Speedboats are faster but more expensive, while public ferries are cheaper but slower. Private transfers can also be arranged.
