How to Experience Maldivian Culture Authentically – Distinctive Experiences for the Culture Lover

 The lovely Maldives would undoubtedly be ranked amongst the world’s most idyllic vacation destinations, attracting countless holidaymakers with its pleasant tropical weather, picturesque natural scenery, stunning beaches, private island resorts and abundant water activities. However, this enchanting nation also boasts a unique and interesting culture that would capture the imagination of the culture lover. Some of the genuine cultural experiences that you could enjoy here are described below.

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Enjoy typical afternoon tea

 Should you make your way to a Maldivian café, coffee shop or restaurant on a local island in the afternoon hours, you will have the opportunity to feast on a mouth-watering selection of conveniently sized savoury as well as sweet treats called hedhika. You will find that the savoury treats often feature a filling of tuna, vegetables, chilli and egg, whilst the sweet specialities would include sponge cake, pancakes and French toast. In the authentic local style, you may wash down your repast with some black tea just as the locals do. 

Take a ride on a ferry or dhoni

Whilst seaplane rides happen to be a much-desired luxury in these islands, a rather different kind of travel experience would be taking a ride on the humble public ferry. Taking the ferry is also an economical mode of transport and will enable you to travel between the nation’s inhabited islands. As you might expect, this form of travel will also provide you with the chance to mingle with the locals and admire the loveliness of the surroundings. While those staying in private resorts will not need to take a ferry, they can instead, go on cruises or fishing excursions on a dhoni; this is a traditional local boat which offers a unique cultural adventure as well.

Experience Boduberu performances

Another not-to-be-missed experience in the Maldives is viewing a performance of Boduberu – ‘big drum’ in the local language – which involves drumming, dancing and singing. This traditional cultural speciality is typically performed by men, with the ensemble including a group of drummers as well as a lead singer. Mainly, the songs focus on tales of romance, heroism and satire. The Boduberu performance would commence with a slow beat, gather pace and finally conclude with a rousing crescendo. Naturally, you will have the opportunity to dance along with the performers if you so desire! 

Find out more about local history 

Your stay on the islands wouldn’t be complete without experiencing authentic Maldives history and culture by visiting some of the noteworthy historical sites. Especially in the nation’s far northern and southern regions, you will come across fascinating evidence of the culture of the islands before the development of tourism. As you explore these sites, you will encounter remains of Buddhist stupas, absorbing mosques, other shrines, and so on. You will also find key historical attractions in the nation's capital, Male, home to such sites as the 17th-century Old Friday Mosque. For more information about travelling to this destination and its cultural allures, consider an online resource like The Maldives Travel. 

Dine in the local manner

 The native Maldivians are reputed for their hospitality and friendliness; should you take the opportunity to converse and interact with them, you may very well be invited to a local home for dinner. As you might expect, this is likely to be a captivating experience for both you and your hosts. Whilst it may be possible that your hosts would not be perfectly fluent in English, they will undoubtedly do their best to make you feel comfortable. You may also try eating with your fingers as locals do, enjoying various Maldivian specialities.

Go surfing with Maldivians

The country is renowned for its surfing opportunities, with an abundance of outstanding surfing spots located close to one another offering a more modern cultural experience where you can interact with Maldivians. During the local weekend – which falls on Friday and Saturday – it is possible to mingle with local surfers eager to engage in friendly competition with you. Some of the well-known surfing sites are Thulusdhoo at North Male Atoll, Gan at Laamu Atoll and Guraidhoo at South Male Atoll. For the finest, most regular swells the period of choice is the duration from April through October, coinciding with the off-peak season when rates will be less as well.