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On the southern tip of the North Male Atoll is Male, the capital of the Maldives spread over an entire island. A third of the country's population is said to call it home. Although small in size it has a certain vibe, a mix of its conservative past and modern present that makes the city a fascinating place to explore. Its market places, ancient monuments, busy shopping districts, cafes, galleries, mosques and museum provide glimpses into the lives of the city's people and give you opportunities to interact with them. Male can be covered by foot or by bicycle quite quickly and very much faster by taxi. Since the city has a history going back several centuries it may be best to start with the 17th century Hukuru Misky mosque said to be built on the site of the country's first mosque. Here visitors will find carved hard wood panels, bold but faded red calligraphy and still bright lacquer work inside and carved and inscribed coral graves of sultans and their families outside. Opposite the mosque is Medhu Ziyarat the tomb of Abdul Barakat Yusuf who is credited with converting the Maldives to Islam in the 12th century. In the same locality is Muleeage the ornate early 20th century former presidential residence. The new residence of the president in Orchid Magu is referred to as Theemuge. Many buildings of old Male are in or close to Sultan Park a rare green space which is part of the old palace grounds that no longer exist. Kalhu Vakaru Miski mosque to the south east area of the park has an interesting history of being moved around before finally being put here. With no mortar between the coral stones and no nails in the wood its construction has fascinated many a visitor. The Esjehi Art Gallery also near the park, housed in a late 19th century two storey elegant building celebrates a range of Maldivian arts and crafts. The National Museum, among the new buildings in the park, provides information on the Maldives royal past and its pre Islamic times. Other places that should form part of a city tour are the Islamic Centre probably the most prominent building in town that has a golden dome can be seen far out at sea. It is designed to accommodate 5,000 worshippers for Friday prayers. The National Gallery on Majeedi Magu is worth a visit. Its eclectic collection of Maldivian art and special exhibitions also feature international art works. For relaxation the manmade beach on the eastern side of Male and the city's restaurants are some of the places to try. Why not nip into some shops while on a city visit. Shops in Male offer a range of interesting wares that include souvenirs, traditional clothing, cosmetics, perfumes and textiles. Majeedi Magu and Chandhanee Magu are the streets where the shops are. Who can resist the lure of a tropical island with a white sandy beach and luxury ocean front accommodation surrounded by a warm blue sea? Kurumba Maldives offers beautifully appointed, spacious guestrooms, bungalows and villas with a variety of luxury amenities in just such a location. Nine restaurants serving everything from Indian to Italian cuisine in addition to romantic candle lit diners on the beach and exotic spa rituals top the list of indulgences at this property which is one of the leading luxury hotels Maldives has to offer. Ideal for those in search for the best Maldives resorts the country has to offer, it also lets you go diving at famous dive sites on the North Male Atoll or simply take it easy in the clear warm water of the Indian Ocean. Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
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