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Guide to Male, Maldives
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MaleThe capital of the Maldivian islands is a beautiful, yet unusual place. Today, it is the only capital in the world that exists as a sole island. Despite Males small size, it holds an average of about 25% of the republics population. The island itself has around 80,000 permanent residents, but the flood of merchants and visitors from neighboring islands brings that number well above 100,000 any given day. As you walk around the streets of the city, youll notice the brazen pastel colors just about everywhere you go. The land is dotted with lush tropical land and countless palm trees (however, there is much less vegetation here than other islands of the Maldives), as well the majority of governmental buildings including the Presidential Palace in the country. Though much of the islands buildings are new and aspects of the city are being renovated on a consistent basis, Male, along with a number of other Maldivian islands, has historic evidence of more than 5000 years of habitation by human beings.
When to go:
The majority of travelers visit Male from December to April, when the weather is best and daylight lasts longer. Its also dry season, so theres really no reason to book a flight for another time in order to avoid the crowds. If you just want to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet, though we dont recommend it, visit anytime from May to November. Beware of the humidity, rain, and, strangely enough, less friendly authorities (Note: the Maldives were severely damaged by the Indian Ocean earthquake of 2004. We urge you to contact your travel agency for more information regarding the status of Male before booking).
Getting there and around:
The airport to Male and a number of other Maldivian islands is located on Hulule Island, yet is known as Male International Airport. Chances are that you have booked accommodations with a resort or hotel; in that case youll be provided with transportation via private boat when you arrive and depart from Male. If not, you can always arrange a dhoni (taxi boat) ride. While you wait, theres plenty of accommodating centers inside the airport, including: bank, duty-free shops, snack bar, post-office and a restaurant.
Most people travel Male by taxi, motorcycle, bicycle, or, most commonly, by foot. The island is quite small, so you will be able to get around much of the populated area by foot. But if you wish for something speedier, rent a bicycle. They are cheap and an exciting alternative to
Attractions:
Republic Square is where most locals go for social gatherings, or just to relax. During the evening, adolescents are found in great numbers here. Though Republic Square isnt as the usual city square, a number of important establishments for the people and the government reside here. Around the Square youll find the Islamic Centre, the headquarters of the National Security Service, the headquarters of the Police, and the Presidential Jetty along the waterfront.
The Islamic Centre,or Grand Mosque, is highly visited by a great number of Maldivian citizens and tourists. You immediately notice the large dome and minaret atop the Mosque, dominating the skyline. Though the exterior is quite beautiful, visitors can only see the inside (where the real treasures lie) if one can obtain official permission (easier to get during high-season). The interior of the mosque is enormous, and can easily house more than 5000 worshippers. The walls and ceiling are entirely decorated with fascinating architectural enhancements and motifs. Since the Mosque was erectly in 1984, the mix of modern and traditional is completely evident, but this factor only adds to the buildings beauty.
Male is also home to the National Museum, inside Sultan Park, where youll find an abundance of historic items from you guessed it the time of the Sultan. Most of the items here are weapons, though there are a number of exhibits for clothing and furniture. Though it is not the most intriguing site in Male, the National Museum has quite a unique charm, which is essential why we recommend a visit.
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