If you are looking for the top things to do in the Maldives, cultural experiences should be high up on your list. The Maldives’ beauty lies not just in its natural scenery, but also in its people. Ours is a culture shaped by centuries and a sense of place: the sea is central to the local way of life; the nation is scattered across long-travelled trade routes, resulting in a confluence of multiple influences; and the sun-soaked climes are surely responsible for the laidback warmth of the people.
At The Nautilus, we are exceptionally proud of our culture. From commissioning craft and décor items from local artisans, that showcase their talent and our country’s rich traditions, we endeavour to share with our guests our remarkable culture in all its multi-hued forms.
Browse through some of our top Maldivian experiences:
1. Savour the flavours
The food of the Maldives tells a story of place, history and coming together. Here, seafood is naturally a staple, and colourful infusions from far-flung places testify to the rich and diverse heritage of a people of trade: flavours from the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka and East Asia are peppered throughout our dishes.
At The Nautilus, our award-winning chefs specialise in exquisite fusion food for your dining pleasure, but beyond this lies a richer taste of local cuisine: Maldivian cooking classes. Imagine exploring the freshest ingredients of spices, seafood, coconut and lime while whipping up your own gastronomical masterpiece – in a relaxed and fun-filled environment.
2. Learn the art of lacquer
Lacquer art, or Liyelaa Jehun, adorns the furnishings, structures and décor of residential and public spaces across the archipelago – and has done so for centuries – most notably seen in beautiful vessels, boxes and drums of red, yellow and black. The meticulous process of sculpting and lacquering while spinning the wood on a shaft, then polishing and hand-engraving intricate designs in the lacquer, is highly skilled but utterly rewarding and wonderfully meditative.
On our shores, you will notice this handicraft throughout our spaces – and you can also immerse yourself in the creative process itself. Allow our artisans to guide you through the basics, step by step, to produce a gorgeous island souvenir of your own making.
3. Go fishing, local style
With 99% of Maldives territory made up of our famous blue seas teeming with life, it should come as no surprise that fishing is integral to Maldivian culture. It sustains communities both literally – as a diet staple – and economically, with many families’ livelihoods depending on it. Fishing is also, of course, a favourite pastime the world over, and a sublime way to switch off from the cares of the world and tune into nature’s rhythms and bounty.
At The Nautilus, we only source fish caught by the pole-and-line method, which is not only environmentally and socially sustainable, but also an age-old tradition passed down through generations. What’s more, we are delighted to be able to offer guests excursions with local fishermen, as they share their trade secrets, help you secure that legendary catch and welcome you to a way of life that you will never forget.
4. Try your tongue at Dhivehi
The local language, Dhivehi, is another example of the rich melting pot that is Maldivian culture. Over time, a number of languages – including Hindustani, Tamil, Arabic, Persian, French and English – have been woven into the vernacular, with Dhivehi words also adopted into the English language.
Learning an indigenous language is one of the best ways to truly experience a place, and not simply visit it. As such, we offer beginner classes in Dhivehi to all our guests, young and old, making it a fantastic family activity. You will be able to greet Maldivians in a way that speaks to the heart, as “Baddhalu vee thee varah ufaavejje!” rolls off your tongue.
Image Source: Getty Images
5. Get soulful with boduberu
That wonderfully vibrant music of the Maldives – boduberu – makes the perfect soundtrack for a tropical adventure, whether it’s live entertainment during a delicious feast or the main attraction at a beach party. The word literally means “big drums”, with pulsating rhythms the anchor point of this lively and traditional music form.
Our ever-popular boduberu classes are a must for any visitor wanting to embrace the mood of the island, with guests encouraged to try their hand at beating out tempos on drums and tambourines, sing along to moving lyrics or simply sway to the rhythms by following an easy dance routine.
Get in touch to begin creating a world of your own making – and to savour the cultural flavours of the Maldives: contact us at [email protected].