When you think of the Maldives the image of crystal blue seas and beach huts spring to mind – but it’s capital city is far cry from its tourist areas.
The Maldives has cemented itself as a luxury, far-flung, holiday destination loved by Brits with cash to splash. Idyllic islands, clear waters, pristine beaches and an overall image of tropical paradise greets any tourist who lands.
No crowds, peace and quiet and a tropical backdrop is what draws many to the Maldives, but the capital city, named Male, is a very different picture. It has a bustling population of 211,908 according to its 2022 consensus and is far busier than its off-set islands. It’s in this capital that all of the Maldives’ business is done – with courts, a government hospital, along with both public and private schools.
Tourists on their journey to fly and flop may want to actually explore Male, which is described as beholding the true culture of the Maldives before they continue their journey. Many seeking five-star bliss completely bypass the Maldivian culture there is to explore.
The small city has a rich Asian culture, colourful architecture and narrow streets filled with speciality markets. Travellers report a hugely busy, densely populated area, with motorbikes aplenty and a city bursting with life. City life still embodies some of what the Maldives is known for in the tourist arena – its beaches are still lined with bright white sand, and the sea is still glittering blue.
But – there are some strict rules to abide by for anyone looking to truly unwind under the Maldives’ heat. Alcohol can only be consumed within the confinement of tourist resort islands, and not anywhere near where locals live. There are also penalties for anyone exploring residential areas, or any area that’s not a resort, while intoxicated.
People are also not allowed to bring their own booze into the Maldives. The UK Foreign Office says: “Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands. Do not take any alcohol out of your resort. You can be arrested and deported for possessing and drinking alcohol, or being intoxicated outside resorts and on inhabited islands.”
Women are also not allowed to strip down to their bikinis unless they are in a resort, or on a specific beach where the rules are somewhat relaxed. Outside resort areas, which includes the city of Male, women must have their shoulders covered at all times. Short or tight fitting shorts are not prohibited, the Foreign Office confirmed, and “arms and upper legs must be covered when bathing.” It added: “Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.”
