Maldives Festivals
September 18, 2009 by Islandhopper
Filed under Things to do in the Maldives

The rich culture of Maldives is truly visible and experienced during Maldives festivals. A number festivals and special days are celebrated at this island that bring people together and give them reasons to enjoy and have fun with their family and friends. Exchange of gifts and sweets on these festivals make children more excited and thrilled about them. These carnivals also bring children an awareness of their country’s culture as they include different folk dances and traditional music with wooden instruments followed by feasts comprising of their traditional cuisines. All the religious as well as national occasions are celebrated and shared with same enthusiasm and feelings, with people enjoying together without any discrimination.
Ramadan is one the most important religious festivals on the Maldives. The ninth month is celebrated as Ramadan according to Muslim calendar. This festival includes fasting of a month for which even the working hours are altered. Apart from this Prophet’s Birthday, Kuda Id, and Eid-ul Al’h’aa are other important days that are celebrated across the island in full form and with all colors, fun and excitement. On the day of Kuda Id, all men and women start their day with an early visit to mosque to perform prayers after which everyone prepare a feast for their friend and relatives. All schools held events on national days such as Republic Day and National Day and Independence Day and celebrate by organizing competitions and cultural programs. On the Independence Day large number of school children performs traditional folk dances at Republic Square. These national and religious days bring holidays for children and wash the streets with flag colors which depict the patriotism in their hearts.
Maldives vacations should include some time spent enjoying the dance and music which are the major source of enjoyment. These festivals call for drummers, musicians and dancers from all across the country to sing and dance and make these days memorable for everyone. Traditional folk dances and music symbolizes the country’s lively culture and fills heart with rhythm of their tradition. Almost all the events end with a feast. All type traditional and famous cuisines are prepared on these days to make them even more special. Sea food is a specialty of Maldives which becomes even more delicious and tempting during festivals. Foni boakiba (coconut milk and rice pudding), gula (fried fish balls with tuna and coconut), kiru Sarbat (sweet milk drink), and kuli boakiba (spicy fish cakes) are some of the common cuisines of Maldives which are the ‘must eat’ delicacies of each festival and event.
Bandiya Jehun is another way of celebrating festivals in Maldives. It is special way of entertainment in which a group of young Maldivian dances on the tune of metallic water pots, which is accompanied by a song. Raivaru recitation is yet another source of enjoyment, in which a poem is sung in a traditionally slow form.
Festival celebration unites natives and brings them close to their country, family and friends. Tourists can get the taste of true Maldivian culture and tradition during festivals. You can enjoy the best of Maldivian daces, music and food. In short, no Maldives vacation is complete without a taste of the local culture via Maldivian festivals.
Maldives Activities
July 2, 2009 by Islandhopper
Filed under Things to do in the Maldives

What if there were one place in the world that you could travel to and be able to see and do the most amazing things you have ever dreamed of? There does exist such a place and it is called the Maldives. Located in the Indian Ocean, the legendary Maldives have been attracting tourists for years. There are many attractions that allure people in and capture their hearts. There are so many sights to see and things to do that you will never have to worry about not having anything to do. Even if you want to spend your days soaking up the warm sun on one of the many sandy beaches, you will be surrounded by beauty and charm.
Formed from large land masses that broke apart millions of years ago, the Maldives were formed from old volcanoes and created some of the most beautiful reefs, coral and scenery that you could ever imagine. The Maldives became famous for the money shells that were abundant and used for trade. The fishing in the Maldives led to the discovery of the Maldive fish, which is still a delicacy in India.
If you love to try different foods and experience new cultures, the Maldives is the place for you to try. The exotic fish offer delicacies that are well known around the world. The tropical climate allows for many kinds of tropical vegetables and fruits to grow, and the people who live in the Maldives are strong in their culture and heritage. The recipes and cuisine that derived in the Maldives are yours to experience at one of the many luxury resorts that are part of the islands.
If water sports are your choice of fun and excitement, you will find
plenty of ways to spend your sunny days in the Maldives. Surfing, snorkeling, diving and boating are a few of the activities that you can enjoy on your stay. For those who prefer the serenity of the sandy beach and the relaxing sounds of the oceans, there are plenty of sandy beaches waiting for you to see. There are tours that you can take by ferry boat that will guide you through the islands and show you some of the most beautiful scenery that you will ever see. The coral reefs and amazing views will delight you.
If you love to fish, there are plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy your afternoons on a fishing tour or learning about the rich culture of fishing in the islands. No matter what it is that you are looking for, or what you enjoy to do, you are sure to find it all in the Maldives. If you are looking for a vacation that offers beauty, heritage, tropical climates, rare and exotic fish and plant life and so much more, the Maldives are waiting for you to explore. The many resorts make it easy for you to stay and relax among nature and discover all of the beauty of paradise in the islands.
