FIYA - January 2014 issue by Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz

draree ams.

where

VILLAHOTELS &RESORTS

made..

Villa Hotels & Resorts, Villa Building, Ibrahim Hassandidi Magu, Maleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Maldives. +960 331 6161

+960 331 4565

info@villahotels.com.mv

HIBISCUS (HIBISCUS ROSA-SINENSIS)

Hibiscus Flower (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) known locally as Sai Maa is a brightly colored flower with large petals and showy blossoms, found in the tropical countries and thus found in abundance in the Maldives. Hibiscus flowers are mainly use in the Maldives in decorations. Decorating with this flower adds a bit of of tropical style to any setting. These are also used a lot in designing centerpieces at

weddings and parties. Also, hibiscus flowers are chained together and weaved into a necklace and is used to welcome guests to their islands.

purpose. Also hibiscus flowers are seen and used a lot at spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because of its medicinal and refreshing purposes.

It would be very common to see a hibiscus flower tucked behind the ear of visitors to Maldives and would probably be one of the most photographed flowers during their holidays. Because of their size and strong vivid color, they are very ideal for this

Another common use of these flowers is to make tea. It taste & smells great while more importantly it is suggested that drinking hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels

THISISSUE 08

Through Pyrard’s Eyes : Reception of high ranking officials sent from Male’

Top 10 places to find Manta Rays in the Maldives.

History of a Dhoni : A unique Saling boat in the Maldives

Relax and unwind at Royal Island Resort and Spa

Enjoying Maldives sunny Beaches

Holiday dreams are made of sun-drenched islands in exotic destinations – and the Maldives Flyme Seaplane experience.

Eriyadu Island Resort A Timeless Escape

Araamu Spa Pamper your senses

40 05

EDITOR’S NOTE Assalaamu Alakum and welcome to the 3rd issue of FIYA, the inflight travel magazine of Flyme. I would like to wish all a happy new year and wish you all the best in 2014. As usual, we have some interesting articles in this issue written just for you. A diving trip to Maldives could not be complete without seeing a Manta Ray in their natural habitat and Shafraz Naeem does just that by letting you know the top 10 places to see Manta Rays in the Maldives while Andy Probert looks into our unique sailing boat called “dhoni”

ANDY PROBERT is a freelance writer with an interest in travel, entertainment and people.

BRITT BAKER is a freelance writer based in the United States. She enjoys writing about incredible places near and far.

There are very few foreign writers who have documented our culture & history and one of the most famous person was Francoi Pyrard de Laval and we start a series of articles on FIYA to bring you his stories.

CATRINEL NAUZNICOV Melony Candea is American. She’s been a traveler and travel writer for over 5 years, and currently lives in Europe.

Saving the best for last, be one of the first readers to get a glimpse of Flyme’s new seaplane experience that is about to start. I hope you enjoy your stay in Maldives and look forward to seeing you again

MELONY CANDEA is American. She’s been a traveler and travel writer for over 5 years, and currently lives in Europe.

Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz @ShafrazHafiz

MELANIE CHARLESWORTH

Inflight Magazine of FlyMe is designed and published by Squid Media, a comprehensive one-stop, digital media solutions for all organizational communication needs.

Originally from the UK, Melanie Charlesworth is a freelance writer based in Central Portugal.

www.squidmedia.net studio@squidmedia.net

Cover Art by

SHAFRAZ NAEEM

Zummi

is one of the most renowned underwater Photographer in the Maldives

Photography

Ibrahim Iujaz Hafiz Mohamed Shafraz Naeem Ali Rilwan

take a bit of maldives...

H. East Light, Ameer Ahmed, Magu, Male', Republic of Maldives Tel: +960 300 6886 Fax: +960 333 0884 E-mail: info@innermaldives.com

innermaldives.com

THROUGH

Pyrard’s EYES

RECEPTION OF HIGH RANKING OFFICIALS SENT FROM MALE’

An account from François Pyrard de Laval By Nishwan Abbas

In his writings on his travel to Maldives, Francois Pyrard gives an account of what he witnessed during the r eception of one of the king’s high ranking of ficials to the island of Fehendhoo. Below is a r e-written summar y of what he describes.

From the distance the boat or “odi” in which the official is makes a signal with a red flag, furls its sails, and casts anchor at a gun-shot from the island. The lord or chief man from of the island sends to inquire who it is, and being informed, gives order for his reception, and goes out to meet him, accompanied by as many men and boats are available, leaving only the Katibu, the caretaker of the island, with four or five of the Muskulhin, or elders of the island.

The boats are laden some with coconuts, others with bananas, betel, and other fruits with which the island abounds, everything being arranged in baskets and white boxes made of coconut leaves. These are made for the occasion and not used again. On presenting these, the lord of the island enters first and salutes the other saying “Salaamu Aleikum”, then stooping down, touches his feet with his right hand, which he then raises and puts on his own head, as if to mean that he would put his head under the other ’s feet. All the others in the attendance do the same, and bring all the presents, two at a time, with a rod on their shoulders, at the middle of which the present is suspended. This salutation and present is called “Vedhun Eruvun”. The lord of the island then makes his speech, and begs the official to land, and to do him the honour to take his lodging at the place

prepared. As the great lord nears the island, the Katibu and the others who are waiting on the shore, come forward, wading in the sea up to their waists, and carrying each his cloth or turban on his left arm. This cloth is half silk and half cotton, very well woven, and coloured red. Then the Katibu and his followers salute him, and make a speech, offering him cloths and other presents, which are courteously received, and taken in charge by his attendants. As soon as the lord desires to land, one of the chief Katibu or Muskulhin comes forward to offer his shoulder – a function much esteemed – and the other gets on his shoulders; and so, with a leg on each side, he rides him horse fashion to land, and is there set down. Great care is taken that his feet do not get wet, for that they hold a great disgrace. He is then conducted in great honour, accompanied by all the residents, to the lodging

prepared for him and his suite. There the people salute him again, and he talks with them for an hour or so, and then all take their leave. Then they bring him a bath of lukewarm water, nicely prepared, and after that odorous oils to rub his body withal. Next they give him wine of coconuts – toddy – to drink, the finest and tastiest to be got, along with many portions of betel, very neatly served. Thus refreshed and rested, he proceeds to the main mosque of the island called the

“Hukuru miskiy”. There he says his prayers for upwards of an hour, and then returns to his lodging, where meanwhile his table has been prepared with all the delicacies of the island. While he is upon the island, all people of quality and means send him presents, such as savoury dishes, fruits, and betel, neatly served and borne by the hands of women, with the greatest ceremony and honour possible.

Reference: The voyage of Francois Pyrard of Laval to the East Indies, the Maldives, the Moluccas and Brazil, v.1 – Pyrard, Francois - 1887

‫ދެފަރާތައް ދެފައި އެލުވާލައިގެންނެވެ‪ .‬އެއްގަމާ ޖެހެންދެން ގެންނާނީ މިގޮތްމަތިން އަސްދުއްވާ ފަދައިންނެވެ‪ .‬އޭނާގެ ފައިންޕުޅު ލޮނުގައި‬ ‫ޖެހިއްޖެނަމަ އެއީ ވަރަށްބޮޑު ބޭ އަދަބި ކަމެކެވެ‪ .‬ދެން އެރަށު އެންމެނާ އެކުގައި ޢިއްޒަތުގައި އެބޭކަލަކު ދުރުވަންނަވާނީ އެބޭކަލަކަށް‬ ‫ތައްޔާރު ކުރެވިފައިވާ ޚާއްޞަ ގެއަށެވެ‪ .‬އަދި އެތަނުގައި ހުރިހާ އެންމެންވެސް ފައިންޕުޅުގައި އަތްލާ ސަލާމްކޮށް ނިމުމުން އެ ބޭކަލަކު‬ ‫ގަޑި އެއްހާއިރު ވާހަކަ ދައްކައެވެ‪ .‬އަދި ވާހަކަ ދައްކާ ނިމުމުން މީސްތަކުން އެބުރި ހިނގައިދެއެވެ‪.‬‬ ‫ދެން އޭނާ ހޫނުފެނުން ފެންވަރުވައެވެ‪ .‬އެއާ އެކުގައި އޭނަގެ ގައިގައި އުނގުޅުމަށް މީރުވަސް ދުވާ ތެޔޮވެސް ގެންނާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިގޮތުގެ‬ ‫މަތިން ޙަންމާމުގެ ކަންތައް ނިމޭއިރަށް އެރަށުން ލިބެން ހުރި އެންމެ މީރު ރާ ބާލައިގެން ގެނެސްދޭނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިއާއެކުގައި ވަރަށް‬ ‫ރީތިގޮތަކަށް ތައްޔާރުކޮށްފައި ހުންނަ ބިލެތްވެސް ގެނެއެވެ‪ .‬ދެން ދުރުވާނީ އެރަށުގެ އެންމެ ބޮޑު މިސްކިތް‪ ،‬ހުކުރު މިސްކިތަށެވެ‪.‬‬

‫‪11‬‬

‫ޕ ި ރ ާ ޑ ު ގ ެ ޤ ަ ލ ަ މ ު ނ ް – މ ާ ލ ެ އ ި ނ ް ދ ު ރ ު ވާ ބ ޭ ކ ަ ލ ު ނ ް ނާ މ ެ ދ ު ކ ަ ނ ް ތ ަ އ ް ކ ު ރ ާ ގ ޮ ތ ް‬ ‫ތ ި ރ ީ ގ ަ އ ި ލ ި ޔ ެ ފ ަ އ ި މ ި ވ ަ ނ ީ ޕ ި ރ ާ ޑ ު ގ ެ ލ ި ޔ ު ނ ް ތ ަ ކ ު ގ ެ މ ަ އ ް ޗ ަ ށ ް ބ ި ނ ާ ކ ޮ ށ ް ޚ ު ލ ާ ޞ ާ ކ ު ރ ެ ވ ި ފ ަ އ ި ވ ާ ލ ި ޔ ު މ ެ ކ ެ ވ ެ‪ .‬މ ި އ ީ‬ ‫ފ ެ ހ ެ ނ ް ދ ޫ ގ ަ އ ި ޕ ި ރ ާ ޑ ް ހ ު ރ ި އ ި ރ ު‪ ،‬ރ ަ ސ ް ގ ެ ފ ާ ނ ު ފ ޮ ނ ު ވ ަ އ ި ގ ެ ނ ް މ ާ ލ ެ އ ި ނ ް ދ ު ރ ު ވ ި ބ ޭ ކ ަ ލ ަ ކ ާ މ ެ ދ ު ކ ަ ނ ް ތ ަ އ ް ކ ު ރ ެ ވ ު ނ ު ގ ޮ ތ ާ‬ ‫ބ ެ ހ ޭ ގ ޮ ތ ު ނ ް ލ ި ޔ ެ ފ ަ އ ި ވ ާ ލ ި ޔ ު މ ެ ކ ެ ވ ެ‪.‬‬ ‫ރަސްމީ ޢިއްޒަތްތެރިން ދަތުރުކުރައްވާ އޮޑީގައި ނަގާފައި ހުންނަ ރަތް ދިދައިން ސިގްނަލް ކުރުމަށްފަހު ރިޔާ ތިރިކޮށްލާ ނަގިލި‬ ‫ވައްޓާލުމާއެކު ބޮޑު ބަޑިއެއް ގޮއްވާލާނެއެވެ‪ .‬ދެން އެރަށުގެ ފަރާތުން އޮޑީގައި ހުންނެވީ ކޮން ދަރަޖައެއްގެ ކާކުތޯ ބަލަން އެއޮޑީގެ ދަށަށް‬ ‫ފޮނުވައެވެ‪ .‬މިކަން ސާފުވީހާ އަވަހަކަށް އެބޭކަލަކު ބޭލުމާއި އިސްތިޤުބާލު ކުރުމުގެ ކަންތައް ތައްޔާރުކުރަން ފަށާނެއެވެ‪ .‬ރަށުގެ އެންމެ‬ ‫އިސް ވެރިޔަކު‪ ،‬އެ ރަށުން ލިބެން ހުރި ހުރިހާ ދޯންޏެއްގައި ވާހައި ގިނަ ބަޔަކު ގޮވައިގެން އޭގެ ކައިރިޔަށް ދެއެވެ‪ .‬ރަށުގައި‬ ‫މަޑުކޮށްގެން ތިބޭނީ ހަމަ އެކަނި ކަތީބާއި ހަތަރު ފަސްވަރަކަށް މުސްކުޅިންނެވެ‪.‬‬ ‫ދޯނިތަކުގައި ގެންދާނީ ކުރުނބަޔާ ދޮންކޭލާއި އެރަށުން ލިބެން ހުރިހާ ވައްތަރެއްގެ މޭވާޔާއި ބިލަތެވެ‪ .‬މި ތަކެތި ހުންނަނީ ބޮންތި ފަނުން‬ ‫ވިޔެފައިވާ ގޮނާއި މުޅީގައެވެ‪ .‬ދެވަނަ ފަހަރަށް މި ތަކެތީގެ ބޭނުމެއް ނުކުރާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މި ތަކެތި ގެންނައިރު އެންމެ ކުރިއަށް ހުންނާނީ‬ ‫ރަށުގެ ވެރިމީހާއެވެ‪ .‬މީނާ ވަނުމާއެކު‪" ،‬ސަލާމް ޢަލޭ ކުމް" މިހެން ބުނެ އިސްތިޤުބާލު ކުރާނެއެވެ‪ .‬ދެން ކުރިޔަށްގޮސް ބޭރުން ދުރުވި‬ ‫މެހްމާނާގެ ކުރިމަތީގައި ގުދުވެ އޮވެގެން އެ މެހްމާނާގެ ފާގައި ކަނާތުން އަތްލާފައި އެއަތް އުފުލާ އޭނާގެ އަމިއްލަ ބޮލުގައި‬ ‫ޖައްސާލާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިހެން ހެދުމުގެ މާނައަކީ އޭނާގެ ބޯ އެސާހިބާގެ ފައިންޕުޅު ދަށަށް ލުމެވެ‪ .‬އެތާގައި ދެން ތިބި އެހެން މީހުންވެސް‬ ‫ކަންތައް ކުރާނީ ފަދައިންނެވެ‪ .‬އަދި އެބައިމީހުން ގެނައި ތަކެތި ގެނެސް އަރުވައެވެ‪ .‬މި ކަން ކުރާގޮތަކީ އެފަހަރަކު ގެންނަންވީ އެއްޗެއް‬ ‫ދަނިޑިގަނޑެއްގެ‬

‫މެދުގައި‬

‫އެލުވައިގެން‬

‫އެ‬

‫ގަނޑިގަނޑުގެ‬

‫ދެކޮޅުގައި‬

‫ދެމީހުން‬

‫ކޮނޑުއަޅައިގެން‬

‫ގެނައުމެވެ‪.‬‬

‫މިގޮތަށް‬

‫އިސްތިޤުބާލުކުރުމާއި ހަދިޔާ ދިނުމަށް ކިޔަނީ "ވެދުން އެރުވުމެވެ‪".‬‬ ‫ވެދުން އަރުވާ ނިމުމަށްފަހު ރަށުގެ ވެރިމީހާ ވާހަކަދައްކާ‪ ،‬އާދޭހާއެކު އެ ބޭކަލަކަށް ދަންނަވާނީ އެބައި މީހުންގެ ރަށަށް ފައިބައި‬ ‫ވަޑައިގެން އޭނާއަށް ތައްޔާރުކޮށްފައިވާ ގެކޮޅުގައި ހުންނެވުމުގެ މާތްކަން އެރަށުގެ މީހުންނަށް ދެއްވުމަށެވެ‪ .‬އެއަށް ފަހު ދޯނީގައި‬ ‫އެބޭކަލަކު ފައިބަންނަވަނީއެވެ‪ .‬ދޯނި ރަށަށް ކައިރިވާން ފެށުމުން ގޮޑުދޮށުގައި ތިބި ކާތީބާއި މުސްކުޅިން މޫދަށް އެރިގެން‬ ‫ހިނގައިގަންނާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މި ގޮތަށް މޫދަށް އެރެމުންގޮސް އުނަގަނޑާއި ހަމައަށް އެރޭއިރު އެބައިމީހުންގެ ފޭރާމާއި އަދި ބޮލުގައި އަޅާ ފޮށާ‬ ‫އޮންނާނީ މޫދުގެ ލޮނުގަނޑުގައި ނުޖެހޭނޭހެން އޭނާގެ ވާތުގައެވެ‪ .‬މި ބުނި ފޭރާމަކީ‪ ،‬ފަށުޔާއި އުޔާއި ދެބާވަތުން ވަރަށް މޮޅަށް ވިޔެފައި‬ ‫ހުންނަ ރަތްކުލައިގެ ފޮއްޗެކެވެ‪ .‬ދެން ކަތީބާއި އޭނައިގެ ގާތުގައި ތިބިމީހުން ސަލާމްކޮށް ވާހަކަ ދައްކާ‪ ،‬މެހްމާނާއަށް ފޮތި ފޭރާމާއި‬ ‫އެހެނިހެން ހަދިޔާ އަރުވައެވެ‪ .‬މިތަކެތި އޯގާވެރިކަމާއެކު ޤަބޫލުކުރެއެވުމުން އޭނާގެ އަރިހު ބޭކަލުން އެތަކެއްޗާ ޙަވާލުވަނީއެވެ‪.‬‬ ‫މާލެއިން ދުރުވި ސާހިބާ ފައިބައި ވަޑައިގަންނަވަން ބޭނުން ވުމާއެކު‪ ،‬ރަށުގެ ކަތީބު ނޫނީ މުސްކުޅިންކުރެ އަރާހުރި މީހަކު ކުރިއަށް‬ ‫ގޮސް އޭނާގެ ކޮނޑު ދައްކާލާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިއީ ވަރަށް ޤަދަރުހުރި ކަމެކެވެ‪ .‬އެނާގެ ކޮނޑުގައި ބޭރުން ދުރުވި މެހްމާނާ އިށީންނަވާނީ‬ ‫ދެފަރާތައް ދެފައި އެލުވާލައިގެންނެވެ‪ .‬އެއްގަމާ ޖެހެންދެން ގެންނާނީ މިގޮތްމަތިން އަސްދުއްވާ ފަދައިންނެވެ‪ .‬އޭނާގެ ފައިންޕުޅު ލޮނުގައި‬ ‫ޖެހިއްޖެނަމަ އެއީ ވަރަށްބޮޑު ބޭ އަދަބި ކަމެކެވެ‪ .‬ދެން އެރަށު އެންމެނާ އެކުގައި ޢިއްޒަތުގައި އެބޭކަލަކު ދުރުވަންނަވާނީ އެބޭކަލަކަށް‬ ‫ތައްޔާރު ކުރެވިފައިވާ ޚާއްޞަ ގެއަށެވެ‪ .‬އަދި އެތަނުގައި ހުރިހާ އެންމެންވެސް ފައިންޕުޅުގައި އަތްލާ ސަލާމްކޮށް ނިމުމުން އެ ބޭކަލަކު‬ ‫ގަޑި އެއްހާއިރު ވާހަކަ ދައްކައެވެ‪ .‬އަދި ވާހަކަ ދައްކާ ނިމުމުން މީސްތަކުން އެބުރި ހިނގައިދެއެވެ‪.‬‬ ‫ދެން އޭނާ ހޫނުފެނުން ފެންވަރުވައެވެ‪ .‬އެއާ އެކުގައި އޭނަގެ ގައިގައި އުނގުޅުމަށް މީރުވަސް ދުވާ ތެޔޮވެސް ގެންނާނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިގޮތުގެ‬

‫މަތިން ޙަންމާމުގެ ކަންތައް ނިމޭއިރަށް އެރަށުން ލިބެން ހުރި‪12‬އެންމެ މީރު ރާ ބާލައިގެން ގެނެސްދޭނެއެވެ‪ .‬މިއާއެކުގައި ވަރަށް‬

By Mohamed Shafraz Naeem

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HAA DHAALU ATOLL +

SHAVIYANI ATOLL

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SEENU ATOLL

So many visitors come to the Maldives year in year out to experience our waters. Sun bathe in our pristine blue lagoons, snorkel with the vast marine life or to experience scuba diving in our oceans and get up and close with our diverse marine life. But no journey to the Maldives would be complete without seeing or having an experience with a Manta Ray or a Whale Shark in the Maldives. We are renowned for visitors being able to have this experience anytime of the year.

On majority of the dive sites you will experience Manta Rays in abundance as they have cleaning stations for these Mantas. They are seen slowly dancing in the water without any notice of the divers who surround them to watch this spectacle show. They wait for their turn at these cleaning stations to be cleaned by the cleaner wrasses and shrimps who inhibit those cleaning station rocks. They hover while they are cleaned and once done, moves swiftly while the next Manta takes its turn. Below are the top 10 destinations to view Manta Rays in the Maldives.

HANIFARU BAY Location:

Baa Atoll

Depth :

25 m

Best Time:

August - September

LANKAN Location:

North Male’ Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

May – September

MADIVARU MANTA POINT Location:

South Ari Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

October – November

THODDOO REEF Location:

North Ari Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

Through out the year

FUSHIVARU THILA Location:

Lhaviyani Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

January - March

DHONKALO Location:

North Ari Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

November - April

SUNLIGHT THILA Location:

North Male’ Atoll

Depth :

12 m

Best Time:

March - October

RASFARI CORNER Location:

North Male’ Atoll

Depth :

20 m

Best Time:

December - April

BODUHITHI THILA Location:

North Male’ Atoll

Depth :

20 m

Best Time:

December - April

VILLINGILI MATHEE FARU Location:

North Ari Atoll

Depth :

15 m

Best Time:

Through out the year

RELAX AND UNWIND AT ROYAL ISLAND RESORT AND SPA By Melanie Charlsworth

It is hard to imagine a more idyllic location than Royal Island Resort &Spa, located on the breathtakingly beautiful Hurubadhoo Island in the Maldives. ON ROUTE TO PARADISE Your journey to this secluded Island is an unforgettable experience in itself, from the capital city of Male, you may travel to your destination by seaplane followed by a short boat trip, or via a combination of wheeled airplane and speedboat. Both options take approximately 40 minutes and the views on route to your Baa Atoll paradise provide the first glimpse of the incredible scenery this stunning environment has to offer.

HOSPITALITY From the moment you set foot on Royal Island you will be welcomed by staff who want nothing more than for you to have the best possible experience and their natural gift of genuine Maldivian hospitality will ensure that throughout the duration of your stay you feel like Royalty.

ESCAPE The Baa Atoll boasts some of the richest waters in the Maldives and its wonderfully diverse ecosystem led to the

area being declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011. Hanifaru Bay is famous for attracting some of the largest gatherings of Manta Rays in the world and here you can have the incredible experience of seeing and interacting with both Manta Rays and Whale Sharks! This is an area of pure, natural excellence and absorbing the lush green backdrop of Royal Island with its huge palm trees, long stretches of fine white sand and clear

turquoise waters offers the ultimate escape. The resort itself has been carefully designed to provide a luxurious and restorative environment to leave visitors feeling wonderfully refreshed and indulged. Luxurious Accommodation Royal Island Resort and Spa offers two types of accommodation. From the peaceful, secluded sanctuary of your private luxury villa you will feel a million miles away from any stresses associated with your usual daily routine.

Each and every one of our luxury Beach Villas is equipped with all of the amenities you would expect from a 5 star resort, elegantly furnished to a high standard with a contemporary, spacious feel. You can relax and unwind on your own private veranda overlooking the dazzling Indian Ocean, or step out onto the sandy beach to enjoy the tranquillity of your very own oceanfront oasis. The resorts exclusive Presidential Suiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offer the ultimate in luxury. These vastly spacious villas are

regally decorated, boasting their own private pool and Jacuzzi and Presidential Suite guests have the additional benefit of being attended to by their very own butler.

PAMPERING At the Araamu Spa there are a variety of treatments on offer to indulge the senses and take your relaxation to another level. Enjoy a full body massage, an aromatherapy facial or perhaps a romantic massage for two. Whatever your preference every one of these natural treatments are

guaranteed to improve your feeling of wellbeing, helping you to unwind both physically and psychologically.

WINE AND DINE The cuisine on offer at the resorts two restaurants guarantees the satisfaction of every palate as the resorts culinary experts have put together a varied menu using only the finest ingredients. A choice of four stylish bars gives guests plenty of options in terms of ambience and entertainment.

ACTIVITIES

The beaches surrounding the island provide the perfect spot for relaxation or recreation. You could walk or sunbathe on the pristine white sands or perhaps take a dip in the crystal clear sea and explore the rich variety of coral and fish species within the protection of the reef.

UNFORGETTABLE With so much to see and do in this tropical island paradise you will be spoilt for choice. Royal Island Resort and Spa is the perfect place to create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.

Top up your tan on the poolside, take a dip in the stunning infinity pool, or if the mood takes you, why not play tennis, table tennis, badminton or perhaps work out in the gym. There are also a number of water sports to choose from including canoeing, jet skiing, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving.

By Andy Probert

As much as white sands, blue skies and luxurious cast-away accommodation are the brands of the Maldives, it is the humble dhoni boat that defines an engaging symbol and tradition that links the islands’ past and its tourism-fueled future.

generation to keep the dhonimaking traditions alive.

The dhoni still plays an important, everyday role in the Maldives as a fishing vessel for local communities, while tourists can be transported back in time with a dhoni-style ride to their farflung hotels or cruise the local ice-blue waters.

The boat was constructed by stitching planks, but have, over the latter course of the last century, given way to other sources such as dowels, hardwood, mechanical means and even, for more contemporary tourist travel, fibreglass.

Historically, Maldivian people were able to cover great distances as part of their trades, particularly fish catches, with Far Eastern and South Indian traders. What is remarkable is that dhonis were handcrafted without plans, but simply by the craftsmen’s eye, loving touch and patience. This skill was then passed down within the family from generation to

Originally built from locally derived Maldivian timber, typically coconut, the dhoni had sails and rudders to enable fishermen and traders to travel great distances.

The word ‘dhoni’, similar in design to the Arabian dhow, was derived from the Konkani word ‘doni’ and ‘thoni meaning ‘small boat’ in Malayalam. The boats are generally used for catching fish, particularly tuna. A boat can typically be between three and ten feet in length, take two months to construct before hitting the water and can carry up to 12 people. While the islands are

renowned for dhoni-making, the main centre of the boat-building industry is within the Alifushi Raa Atoll. Such is the popularity of the modern dhoni, that nearly 30 years ago, there were more than 1,600 registered fishing vessels in the Maldives. While fishing exports, mainly to Sri Lanka, has declined in recent years, tour agents, fishermen and luxury hotels are now using dhonis as a unique mode of transport for travellers. Dhonis are being used for many aspects of the tourism industry, including scuba diving, or, just as fishermen used to do, to travel and crisscross between the many Atolls. One of the particular sports to while away the days is to dhoni-spotting. Dhonis are indigenous to the individual islands and can be identified by a registration number in Arabic and Roman numerals.

The letter signifies the atoll that the dhoni emanates from and the number represents the individual island. The nimbleness of the dhoni enables them to reach coral reefs and provide many spectacular days out for tourists to see manta rays and a whole host of wildlife. Equally, those looking to experience life on a dhoni, can take advantage of super cruises and cruise for several days with food and drink laid on during the break. And for a truly inspiring way to experience a dhoni, newlymarried couples will often use one to get married on or experience a romantic setting as part of the sun-drenched Maldives experience. For the most part the dhoni has been fixture in the lives of Maldives people for centuries, providing much needed boost to the local economy with fishing. But the dhoni is now setting a new course in providing travelers seek new experiences and ways to explore the Maldives. Indeed, the dhoni is here to stay.

By Iselle McCalman

Although there are a number of destinations in the world that might fit this description, Maldives is one of a kind - fun, romance, adventure all in one experience - with the difference that you have to fly to your resort as most islands in the Archipelago can only be reached by air. Maldives have therefore become synonymous with seaplane operations. For many years this was virtually the only way to get to, and around, the many islands dotting the turquois sea landscape.

Various air operations came and went, but the seaplanes remained. Much has changed in the past two years with the arrival of the land-based Flyme airline. Flyme’s promise of ‘Getting you there in style’ has made a big difference in how visitors perceive their vacation in the Maldives. Now well established, Flyme will whisk you away to your resort in comfort, as well as operate night flights for your convenience.

The truth is, however, that most of the visitors equate the idyllic island holiday with a seaplane experience which they would normally get during the transfer flight. To accommodate this Flyme is now introducing a true seaplane experience in the style our passengers have become used to. The first Flyme Seaplane – an air-conditioned Cessna Caravan C208 – will be available for a variety of sightseeing flights, photo

opportunities, special celebrations and many more. Most importantly, it is not linked to the resort transfer and can be taken in your own time when you are relaxed and ready for the adventure… Choose the picture perfect day for your Seaplane Experience. Enjoy the vistas of the vast Indian Ocean and the piercing blue skies. Witness the crystal clear water, untouched coral reefs and

white sandy beaches lined with palm trees. Capture a real bird’s eye-view of the very beach villas or water bungalows you are staying in and share the memories with friends and family. That is what dreams are made of. Operated by Villa Air, the Flyme Seaplane will launch at the end of March 2014. More information on the ‘Flyme Seaplane Experience’ will soon be available on the

website. Bookings can be made on the website, at all the Villa resorts, as well as a number of other selected resorts, or by calling the Flyme Reservations number +(960) 301 3000 Flyme operates out of Ibrahim Nasir International Airport as well as Maamigili Villa International Airport and is currently servicing all airports in the Maldives.

By Catrinel Nauznicov

With a population of barely more than 300,000 and 1, 192 islands, Maldives is an enigma for the tourist. Despite its stunning number of islands and vast popularity for its natural beauty, the archipelago nation is the smallest and least populated country in Asia. And of almost 1,200 islands, barely one-tenth are inhabited â&#x20AC;&#x201C; leaving so much scale for exploring and travel to the adventurer outside of Male, its capital. Spread over 26 coral reef atolls, Maldivesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; diverse floats on a fertile underwater mountain range in the Indian Ocean, and it has many protected areas to keep it as environmentalfriendly as possible. Thus, its stunning reefs, breathtaking coastlines and pristine beaches unsurprisingly draw water sports enthusiasts, sun-worshippers and honeymooning celebrities all year round. With hundreds of islands and thousands of resorts dotted throughout the country, enjoying Maldivesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; beaches can be an overwhelming affair.

CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND Straddling two private islands for some quiet calm, the sea breeze and morning surf greats you at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Miles and miles of natural white sand stretch across both islands, where visitors stroll serenely about barefoot on the fine sand and beach villas are mere steps away from the shore. The view from the water villas, which overlook an unspoilt reef and lagoon teaming with sea life such as whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and turtles, further emphasise the calm that present when one comes face-to-face with such natural beauty. For a closer and easier look at the inhabitants of Rangali’s lagoon, the Conrad is also home to the world’s first all-glass undersea restaurant.

KANUHURA On the Kuredu Island in the Lhaviyani Atoll, the acclaimed Kanuhura beach provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of life, and is often used by discerning visitors who value their privacy by the seashore. It takes quiet and tranquillity to a whole new villa, as you can step out of the thatched villas right into Kanuhura’s turquoise lagoon, where rays and turtles play. Lounge under parasols by the bay as you dig in into the pearly-white fine sand dunes. The sea air spills into rooms as the open layout means you fall asleep and wake up to the sounds of waves lapping just a few feet from your bed. The luxury island’s tranquillity is only slightly disturbed time to time as a sea plane drops off new visitors, waiting to be enthralled by the large expanse of stunning beaches and lush tropical forests.

FILITHEYO ISLAND RESORT The only island in the unspoilt Faafu Atoll, Filitheyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beach and lagoon remain untouched by man made structures, and visitors often enjoy long walks down both sides of the island on talcum powder soft sand, under the lull and shade of the palms. The sandy paths wind their ways into the island, shaded by tropical vegetation and perfect for discreteness. With breath taking views of channels on both sides of the triangular island, Filitheyo also houses an amazing variety of beautiful coral and abundant fish life. Whale sharks and mantas have even been spotted. You can even encounter big fish in the shallow thilas and channel dives.

LILY BEACH ISLAND RESORT Set in the South Ari Atoll where sharks cruise its south western waters from May to September, Lily Beach is a renowned romantic getaway, where couple watch the sun set on the Indian Ocean straight from private decks, and walk hand-in-hand along the immaculately kept sandy shoreline. Its exotic in-house reef is just a few metres away from the resort and exclusive dive sites add to the great worldwide reputation Lily has of being one of the best beaches in the Maldivian archipelago.

By Melony Candea

“It was like swimming everyday in a beautifully maintained aquarium!”

A CENTRAL LOCATION IN THE MALDIVES IS KEY Tucked in the very heart of the Indian Ocean, Eriyadu Island is just 42 km from Male. This oval-shaped gem holds the key to discovering unforgettable marine life, whether it’s on the North Male Atoll or by an excursion to one of the 35 best dive sites in the world. Enclosed in lush vegetation, with sparkling sandy beaches and a crystal clear lagoon, Eriyadu Island Resort provides an overall sense of tranquility that enriches.

TASTY TIDBITS & ENTERTAINMENT DELIGHTS The resort has a spacious on-site dining room for either half or full board; a coffee bar; and the wildly popular Sunset Bar. There are also themed evening meals and BBQs, plus a sumptuous buffet that will satisfy even the most diverse and delicate of palates. The bar has a custom-made menu filled with delectable tidbits if you’ve chosen to go half-board.

To top off a full day of diving, snorkeling, or just pampering yourself, you can relax with one of the exciting weekly nighttime programs. The special programs include a diverse array of traditional (Bodu Beru) dance performance, live local musicians or the disco.

RELAXATION ACTIVITIES: “A LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE” The stunning house reef is just steps away, with vibrant foliage shading the way. An exotic holiday at the Eriyadu Island Resort lets you indulge in your every tropical whim. Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, enjoying the spa, going diving, sampling the cuisine- it’s all at your fingertips. Beach activities include volleyball, or if you’d like a good workout try the on-site gym. For lovers of leisure, the spa offers beauty treatments and massages; W iFi is available in the cafe; private beaches are easily found; and there’s even a laundry service.

DIVING AND WATERSPORTS GALORE For watersports enthusiasts, the possibilities are nearly endless for exploring the warm, crystalline-blue waters. W ith windsurfing, catamaran sailing, or the professional on-site diving center for any level of diving and snorkeling experience. The resort can provide rental equipment, diving courses with a certified instructor, or for an exciting excursion to more than 40 dive locations. More daring, adventurous divers might try night diving, safari or even wreck diving.

A UNIQUE SEA LIFE The centuries old coral reef nearby the Eriyadu Island Resort explodes in vivid colours with some of the most beautiful sea life flowing through the lagoon. You might spy turtles, octopi, feather-tail rays, morays, various sharks- ‘resident sharks’ usually appear in the lagoon daily around 5 p.m.and many more fish than can be listed. W ith 4 entry points available around the island, you’ll be able to see an irresistible combination of natural beauty with the island’s tranquility.

BEACHFRONT VILLAS WITH PRIVACY & COMFORT The deluxe beachfront villas are mere yards from the water. There are 60 Superior rooms and 6 Standard rooms. The Superior rooms are fully equipped and have private verandas. Many have their own private beach. The Superior rooms in the Eriyadu Island Resort are wonderfully spacious and include: a queen-sized bed or 2 twin beds, air-conditioning, a minifridge, a coffee/tea kettle and dark-wood or tiled floors. The rooms are cleaned and fresh linens are provided daily.

The Standard rooms are in one block of the resort, smaller and are furnished more simply. If you expect to lavish yourself in luxury, the Superior rooms would be better. All rooms have an open-roof ventilation system. A back entrance to each villa leads to the shower, which ensures you can rinse off the sea and the sand at your convenience.

ERIYADU ISLAND RESORT IS FOR EVERYONE If you’re looking for relaxing extravagance or for the underwater journey of a lifetime, the island is a delicious balance between the tranquil and the exquisite. The guests at the Eriyadu Island Resort are as diverse as the island’s offerings are. Singles, families and even diving groups discover the allure of the island. W ith a little something for everyone, it’s a perfect blend creating a unique, luscious and timeless escape.

*HOT RESORT DEALS in Maldives! Book Early and Save! P Book between 60-45 days prior to your arrival or Stay more pay less offer and save! P Applicable for your stay at selected Resorts by Book Maldives Team P Discover a superb selection of our favorite family-friendly resorts P Special amenities for Honeymooners and Renewal of Vows packages P Check out our recommended budget resorts!

Maldives online booking portal

www.bookmaldives.com

By Britt Baker

If you’re looking to offer your senses the most soothing and relaxing experience possible, look no further than the Araamu Spa. You will be delighted with gorgeous colours, calming lights, mellow music and blends of the most exotic aromas to reach a state of Zen like you’ve never experienced before. The Araamu Spa offers the highest level of Asian hospitality, allowing you to feel completely relieved and at one with yourself and your environment as you relax in this delightful space.

paths and warm wood flooring offer natural walkways throughout the spa. The spa strives to provide visitors with a break from their fast paced lives, so they can each enjoy the relaxation they truly deserve. At the spa, you will go through a complete rejuvenation of your mind, body and soul, so you can reach your highest potential in your daily life. W ith the nature based procedures and treatments and the peaceful surroundings, you can be sure your body, mind

re-centered and in harmony with your surroundings as you experience the spa services available there. Some of Araamu Spa’s revitalizing services include massage therapy, aromatherapy, facials, manicures, pedicures and hair and skin care to help you feel and look your best. Accented by incredible Asian artwork, earthy shades of rich fabrics in walnut, mustard and olive, and impeccably handcrafted furnishings created by Maldivian Artisans, the Araamu Spa offers an enchanting atmosphere for you to enjoy. Bamboo framed partitions offer all the privacy you could want, while the powdery white sand

and soul will feel completely refreshed after your time spent there. At Araamu Spa, the staff seeks to help visitors to find harmony and stability in their lives and to experience how powerful relaxation can be given all the daily stress each of us encounter. You will feel

The staff at Araamu Spa takes care in their work and treats every client with the special attention they deserve, and every part of the services offered is meant to enrich the guests’ lives. All of the personnel are selected carefully based on their past achievements, experience and education and receive

specific training on the service concepts and treatments of Araamu Spa. High quality herbs, naturally processed oils and mineral-rich clays are used to cleanse, treat and nourish all types of skin, and an adaptation of Ayurveda based treatments are used to provide the holiday experience people dream of! Araamu Spa has been a trendsetter all throughout the Maldives since 2003, offering visitors the best in spa and

wellness services with their natural alternative treatments. They have created new trends in holistic services while staying on board with international trends and standards. Their drive to provide total wellness and holistic healthcare services through natural methods is undeniable. Through their many resorts and spas located throughout the Maldives, including Paradise Island, Sun Island, Royal Island, Holiday Island and Fun Island, Araamu Spa allows guests to experience soothing their bodies, minds and souls in a unique way that they will surely find unforgettable. Araamu Spa also offers a lovely boutique with carefully maintained, well-appointed interiors that offer a home-like feeling for each visitor. In the boutique you will find an array of spa products for personal treatments and procedures, and a helpful staff is always on hand to assist you with finding the perfect products for your needs, allowing you to take the experience with you even after your holiday and delight your senses whenever you need another pick-me-up. Araamu Spa will indulge your mind, body and soul in a way that you could have only dreamed of experiencing.

Flyme is a privately owned Maldivian Airline operated by Villa Air, which is part of the Villa Group. Our objective is to provide an exceptional service to all passengers on our airline and to sustainably contribute to the economic growth of the Maldives.

Although the airline operates from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport in Male, Flyme can boast its own airport, Villa International Airport Maamigili, where passengers are received in style before being transported to the various resorts. All technical facilities are also located here.

The flexibility and reliability presented by the airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flight schedules affords passengers a unique and convenient service. Since air travel is a major means of getting around, you might as well do it in style! Launched in 2011, Flyme is now comfortably in its 3rd year of operation and growing. Our vision it to become a world-class regional airline through excellent service and innovation.

Our passengers can expect a safe, comfortable, quality air-travel experience, with the added benefit of frequency - including night flights â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reliability. Although not always possible due to the late arrival of international flights, our aim is to provide on-time departures. In addition, as from April 2014, the Flyme Seaplane will be operational for sightseeing and special trips.

PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ATTENTION All passengers in wheelchairs or requiring assistance can be accommodated by forwarding a request to the Customer Service Department at least 3 days before the flight arrival.

BAGGAGE LIABILITY We take the utmost care with your baggage. To assist us please remove all valuable/fragile items from the checked baggage. We will make every reasonable attempt to return mishandled baggage within 24 hours, compensate passengers for reasonable expenses associated with delayed delivery as required. Verified baggage claims are settled on the basis adopted by IATA (International Airlines Transport Association). Although there is no obligation to replace damaged bags, Flyme will evaluate such claims on a per-case-basis. Refer to the Customer Information leaflet you received before boarding. If for some reason you did not receive it, please ask your Cabin Crew for a copy. LIQUOR LAWS No alchohol is allowed outside the resorts in the Maldives. So when departing your resort please ensure that you have no alcholic beverages in your bags, as these will be confiscated at the airport. WATER All water in the Maldives are desalinated, so please use sparingly. Bottled water for drinking is available at all resorts.

For any information or queries do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Department at

Customer.service@flyme.mv

OUR FLEET Flyme uses a technologically advanced fleet of aircraft that are among the best for the short haul air travel. The ATR 42-500 and 72-600 turbo propelled aircraft is the latest evolution of the ATR family. This type of aircraft is ideal for the domestic air transport service in Maldives due to its excellent performance, optimum passenger comfort and outstanding reliability. It is also ideal for use in the Maldives because of its high manoeuvrability in shorter air strips such as those in some of the Maldives domestic airports.

The configuration and seat capacity planning in our fleet provides very comfortable legroom. Additionally the high capacity air-conditioning system, soft cushion leather seats and the seat fitting ensuring sufficient elbow room provides passengers with comfort levels equivalent to those of jet aircraft. All aircraft are fitted with night flying instruments which means your transfer can take place regardless of the time you arrive.

MAP OF

MALÉ

18 22

11 SULTAN PARK

10 3

5 4

PLACES OF INTEREST HOUSE 1PARLIAMENT PALACE 2PRESIDENTIAL MOSQUE / MINARETE 3FRIDAY OFFICE 4PRESIDENT’S CENTRE 5ISLAMIC COURT 6 SUPREME

MARKET 7 FISH MARKET 8 LOCAL 9 NO.1 JETTY ART GALLERY 10 NATIONAL MUSEUM 11 NATIONAL FERRY TERMINAL 12 HULUMALE’

13 POST BULDING OF MALDIVES 14 BANK TRADE CENTRE 15 STO HEADQUARTERS 16 POLICE FEERY 17 AIRPORT HOSPITAL 18 ADK

SHOPS 19 SOUVENIR OF CEYLON 20 BANK 21 HSBC BANK OF INDIA 22 STATE

MAIN ROADS Boduthakurufaanu Magu

Fareedhee Magu

Majeedhee Magu

Ameer Ahmed Magu

Orchid Magu

Medhuziyaaraiy Magu

Chaandhanee Magu

OTHERS ATM

HOTELS

An elder from the island of Th.Gaadhiffushi weaves a mat using dried palm leaves

SwISS waTchES TO dREaM Of fOR 160 yEaRS

TissoT Luxury AuTomATic 80 hOuRS Of pOwER RESERvE

www.tissot.ch

T I M E L I N E

Reefside Timeline KKM Building, 03 Orchid Magu, Maleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rep. of Maldives Tel: +960 332 2366 / +960 332 3545 (Ext. 101)

Sun Island Resort & Spa Electronics Shop (Reefside) Rep. of Maldives Tel: +960 668 0088