Maldives Travel

Maldives Islands Introduction
The Maldives is a nation of coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Geographically, it is located between 72o 32’ 30” E 73o 45’ 54” E and 7o 06’ 30” N to 0o 41’ 48” S, which puts her just north of the Equator and southwest of the Indian peninsular.
The Maldivian archipelago consists of about 1190 small low-lying coral islands of which few of them are, just a meter above sea level. These islands stretch more than 800 km from north to south covering a total area of about 90,000 square km of which about 99% is water. 200 islands are inhabited while 87 islands are developed as resort islands. The fragile house reefs of these islands act as a barrier of protection from tides and waves. These reefs also contribute to the formation of sand and continuation of the life cycle of the marine species. It also acts as a habitat to thousands of tiny and large organisms.

The former British protectorate that gained independence in 1965 is famous for its splendid white beaches, crystal clear lagoons and peaceful tranquillity of nature’s blessing. This unique creation of nature naturally forms 26 atolls, which for administrative purposes are made into 20 by the government. This small republic was a kingdom before it was declared a republic. The population is estimated 265,000 in 1999. The ethnic origin of the natives is still in debate among scholars and researchers, but it is evident that there is a close resemblance with the South Asian, Southeast Asian, Arabic and African cultures and influence. Maldivians speak in a unique language called dhivehi and have their own transcript thaana for writing.

MALDIVES ISLANDS - CULTURE
The Maldivian culture is rich with flavours from most of the seafarers who set foot on its soil. Traditional dances and music may not be an everyday event but there are occasions where traditional music and dances are performed. Though traditional dresses are not used by present day generation there are many types of traditional dresses made for both sexes.

Like the unique geographical formation, the cultural events and ceremonials are unique according to the event that is celebrated or performed. Naming a newborn child, Bodumaloodhu (a prayer accompanied with festive meal), Eid festival and circumcision of male child are few events that take place where the taste of rich cultural 'cocktail' can be experienced. Bodu beru (big drum) performanceis the best-known form of performance of traditional music and dance where females and males participate. Bandiyaa (a dance performed by woman), Thaara (dance performed by male) is among the top traditional music and dances practiced in the Maldive Islands.

Traditional food basically fish used as the main component has been influenced from the Indian subcontinent. Garudhya (tuna soup), spicy curry and rice are the stable food of most of the population. Most other dishes such as western meals like pasta are normally modified with a flavour of tuna in it when prepared for local consumption. Other meats and chicken are normally eaten in special occasions.

MALDIVES ISLANDS - ECONOMY
The Maldives is not blessed with many natural resources except for her beauty and the riches of the sea. In fact, 99% of its territory consists of water. Hence it is not surprising that tourism and fishing are the major industries of the country. Agriculture is practised only on a limited scale, as the land is not very fertile. The diversity of the flora is limited to a few tropical fruit and vegetables, root crops and others. The essentials and consumer goods are not manufactured because of the lack of resources. Almost everything required for living has to be imported.

During seventies and early eighties the Maldivian economy was based on three major industries, fishing, tourism and shipping. Though Maldives has traditionally relied on fishing it also had developed a modest merchant fleet in the region called Maldives Shipping Limited (MSL). However, today shipping is a minor actor in the Maldives where only two industries dominate the economy. Fishing provides most employment to the inhabitants while the tourism controls the major foreign exchange.

Notwithstanding the scarcity of resources in the Maldives, the past two decades have experienced a phenomenal growth of the economy. In fact, Maldives is one of the few countries which enjoys an annual GDP growth rate of 6.0%. The main activities in the modern industrialisation arena includes fish canning, manufacture of garments, bottled of aerated water and fizzy drinks, brick making, refrigeration, transportation, banking, andinsurance. These activities are significant in today's economy.

Other minor industries in the Maldives consist of building and construction, boat-building, rope-making, blacksmith, handicraft, lacquer work and other cottage industries.

FISHING
Traditionally fishery is the main occupation and major livelihood of the Maldivians. It is also the second largest industry in the Maldives. The main methods of fishing are pole and line for skipjack tuna. Surface trolling is done for little tuna, frigate mackerel, wahoo and jacks. The main composition of fish catch is skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), representing 50-75% of the total catch. The second most important fish caught is the yellowfin tuna (Thunus albacaraes). The main fish products exported are; frozen fish, canned fish, dried fish and salted dry fish. The traditional fishing vessel is a sailing dhoni not about less than 15 feet long. Thatch sail were also used in the early days of fishing. Clothe sails and rowing is common in traditional fishing practice. The Maldivan fishery is famous in the world for its dolphin friendliness

Maldives Tour Package


Places of Interest in Maldives