Things to do when visiting Male

1. Must-visit attractions 1. Grand Friday Mosque - The largest mosque in Male, with its golden dome forming a sharp contrast with the white building, and its exquisite interior decoration, allows you to experience the Islamic cultural atmosphere. There are national hero tombs and monuments around, which are suitable for taking photos and checking in. 2. Sultan Park and National Museum - A cultural landmark in the city center, the museum displays ancient handicrafts, Chinese porcelain and Maldivian historical relics, and provides an understanding of the cultural ties between the Maldives, Arabia and Sri Lanka. 3. Male fish market and local market - The best place to experience local life. In the morning, you can watch fishermen trading tuna and other seafood. The market also has special souvenirs such as wooden dhoni models and shell carvings. 4. Artificial Beach - A recreational area built by the government, suitable for swimming and beach volleyball. In the evening, local young people often gather and it is full of vitality. 5. North Malé Atoll - The atoll closest to Male' contains more than 25 resort islands such as Hulhumalé and Bandos, where day trips or diving activities can be arranged. 2. Special Experience 1. Diving and snorkeling - The waters around Male' are a great diving destination. We recommend exploring the coral reefs and wreck dive sites in the North Male' Atoll, such as the Banana Reef and the Victory Wreck. 2. **Sea fishing and sunset barbecue** - Go fishing on a dhoni in the evening. The caught grouper can be grilled directly on the beach. Paired with the cocktail "Maldives Lady" (non-alcoholic), you can feel the romance of the island. 3. **Overlooking the atoll from a seaplane** - Watch the Maldives' "Pearl Necklace" atoll landscape from the air, a must-see for aerial photography enthusiasts. 4. **SPA and island therapy** - Most resort islands offer tropical plant essential oil SPA. It is recommended to try coconut oil massage to relax your body and mind. 3. Food and Shopping 1. **Recommended local cuisine** - **Fried Fish Balls (Mas Huni)**: Coconut-flavored tuna served with pancakes, a must-try for breakfast. - **Spicy Fish Cake (Kuli Boakiba)**: Spices mixed with fish and fried, with a unique flavor. - **The Maldive Lady**: A refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail specially prepared by each hotel. 2. **Shopping Guide** - **Chaandanee Magu**: Buy souvenirs such as wooden dhoni boats and shell-carved bracelets. Please note that coral products are prohibited from being taken out of the country. - **Singapore Market**: Focuses on selling handicrafts and tropical fruits, and supports small bargaining. --- 4. Transportation and accommodation tips 1. External traffic - There are no direct flights from China. You need to transfer via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Colombo. It is recommended to book connecting flights in advance. 2. Internal transportation - **Speedboat/Seaplane**: The main way to get to the resort island from Male Airport, the price is calculated according to the distance (e.g. North Atoll islands are about 30 minutes by speedboat). - **Taxi**: Taxis are the only yellow-plate vehicles in the city. The fixed fare is 15 Rufiyaa (about 1 USD), which is suitable for short distances. 3. **Accommodation recommendations** - **High-end resort islands**: All-inclusive islands such as Centara Grand, suitable for families or honeymoons. - **Budget hotels in the city**: Such as The Somerset Hotel, convenient for exploring local life. --- 5. Best travel time and budget - **Time**: The dry season (November-April) has fine weather, suitable for taking photos and diving; the rainy season (May-October) has lower prices and showers do not affect the itinerary. - **Consumption level**: Daily budget per person is about USD 150-300, mineral water is USD 1-2 per bottle, and restaurant dinner is USD 30-50 per person. --- 6. Notes 1. **Visa**: Chinese citizens can apply for a visa on arrival for free (valid for 30 days). They need to bring their hotel reservation and return ticket. 2. **Religious etiquette**: You must wear long pants/long skirt when entering the mosque, and women must wear headscarves; avoid drinking in public places. 3. **Environmental regulations**: It is prohibited to pick up corals or shells privately, and souvenirs must be purchased in regular stores.