How to Experience Maldivian Culture through Local Customs and Traditions? 

Arriving in this beautiful archipelago visitors are sped away to their Maldives luxury resort. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the beaches, activities and comforts, they have a relaxed and enjoyable stay. However, the Maldives have a rich culture steeped in customs and traditions. To truly enjoy this destination, spending some time exploring their deep roots is worthwhile. Discover how to gain firsthand experience of the intriguing local life of this nation of many islands.

Background

The Maldives are a cluster of nearly 1200 islands in the Indian Ocean close to the Equator. They are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty complemented by a tropical climate making them a preferred destination for many discerning travellers. The culture of the Maldives has been shaped by the influences of its neighbouring nations such as India, Sri Lanka, Arabian countries, Africa and Malaysia as the land has been at the heart of the maritime trade routes and hence is vibrant. Most local islands retain this unique identity, culture and traditions and the people are friendly and welcoming as you will encounter during your stay.

Local Island Excursion

Experience the essence of Maldives at a local village. Many luxury resorts offer excursions for visitors at a charge. Some niche properties like OBLU SELECT Sangeli Maldives even include certain excursions on a complimentary basis as part of the overall plan extended to their guests. One such insightful exploration selected by discerning guests keen to discover more about this beautiful land is a local island experience. 

Having been inhabited since the 5th century BC, the earliest settlers were Buddhists having arrived from neighbouring Sri Lanka and India. However, in 1153 CE Islam was embraced by the Maldives under the influence of Arab nations. At present, the Maldives remains an Islamic state. There are many mosques seen around the main local island, Male Island. Witness the mosques, spend time at the Islamic Centre Male and visit the Male Museum to gain more insights. Modesty in dress and demeanour is expected when you visit local islands and public places due to the Islamic culture embraced by the Maldives. (Such restrictions do not apply at luxury resorts).

Take time to interact with the local vendors as you buy souvenirs or local crafts on this excursion to gain insights into their simple lives and help local communities uplift their businesses.

Music and Dance

The rich culture of Maldivians is often expressed in their music and dance. The Boduberu, a traditional dance form in the Maldives seem to exemplify the rhythm, drumbeats and language of African nations and this is firmly entrenched in the cultural fabric of the Maldives.

Some resorts offer a regular glimpse into this cultural aspect with Boduberu music each week enabling visitors to enjoy the rhythmic tunes and associate them with the rich culture of the Maldives. 

Guests who celebrate their wedding ceremonies or vow renewals appreciate the Boduberu drums on their special day on the pristine beaches of luxury resorts. Traditional Bobuberu dance performances can be included to enhance these simple island wedding ceremonies.

Traditional Maldivian Food

It is worthwhile to taste traditional Maldivian food during your stay although most luxury resorts also offer international dishes. Seafood and coconut are staples of Maldivian cuisine as are spices and herbs which are endowments of the blend of many cultures such as Indian, Sri Lankan, Arabian and so on. Try seafood dishes which are an integral part of Maldivian cuisine like Roshi, Garudhiya, Rihaakuru, Gulha and Mashuni that will be offered on your dining plans while a fond sweet dish is Saagu Bondibaiy made with sago pearls that should not be missed. All these different dishes represent the rich culture that Maldives is blessed with.