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VILLAHOTELS &RESORTS
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Villa Hotels & Resorts, Villa Building, Ibrahim Hassandidi Magu, Male’, Maldives. +960 331 6161
+960 331 4565
info@villahotels.com.mv
The White Tern (Gygis alba) locally know as Dhondheeni, sometimes called as Kandhuvalu dhooni is a small seabird traditionally only confined to the Addu Atoll, the southern uttermost atoll in the Maldives. However, the White Tern is commonly found across the tropical seas of the world and in the Indian Ocean. The White Tern is one of the most beautiful and interesting resident bird found in the Maldives. It has got all body white with black eye-ring and black bill with blue at the base. Legs and feet are also blue, with yel-
low to webs. In recent decades white tern has been proudly used as a symbol by the people of Addu Atoll to represent their atoll in the Maldives. The main habitat of white tern is breadfruit, mango and other large trees in Addu Atoll. In early 1990s some of the White Terns have migrated to adjacent atoll and started to flourish in Haodigala: uninhibited island Ghaafu Dhaal Atoll. In Haodigala white tern’s main habitat is wild screw pines (Pandanus tectorus), and it is widely believed that some
of the terns have migrated to Gaafudhaal Atoll due to habitat destruction in Addu Atoll. White Tern is a protected bird in the Maldives; hence, their capture, sale and captivity have been prohibited. However, there are no vital conservation measures taken to protect the nesting habitats of White Terns. In order to flourish the white tern, the symbol of Addu Atoll, it is vital to protect the habitat of this beautiful and interesting bird.
Article was written by BluePeace, an Environmental NGO in the Maldives
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Dhivehi Ruh
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Guide to speaking Dhivehi
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Barefoot luxury meets unpretentious style at the six star Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.
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TME Retreats
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Villingili A land of no cars
Swimming with the whale sharks
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10 quirky facts you didn’t know about the Maldives
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Mohamed Takurufaan’s “whistle-stop” tour of Maldives 05
EDITOR’S NOTE It is with great pleasure I welcome you to the June 2013 issue of Fiya - the inflight travel magazine of Flyme. There are lot of interesting articles which would be of interest to you during your journey on our flights. Some content to note includes an article on watching Whale Sharks at the south end of Ari Atoll, at the Maamigili Outside. That’s outside where Maamigili Airport is based, so while you land and take off at the airport, just take a look at the ocean through the windows, if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a Whale Shark. While Mr.Nazim writes about the journeys of one of our most celebrated hero in our history, Andy Probert gives you 10 quirky facts about Maldives, which you might not be too aware of. Did you know that each single part of a coconut tree has a use? We have the details. Read more about this and more in this edition of Fiya, a magazine striving to keep you interested in our beautiful country while you fly above our islands... Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz @ShafrazHafiz
Inflight Magazine of FlyMe is designed and published by Squid Media, a comprehensive one-stop, digital media solutions for all organizational communication needs. www.squidmedia.net studio@squidmedia.net
Cover Art by Zummi
Photography
Ibrahim Iujaz Hafiz Mohamed Shafraz Naeem Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz
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MOHAMED NAZIM SATTAR A keen researcher of history, holds a degree in Arabic with Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. His book, King Kalaafaan Manuscripts is a wonderful achievement that will help researchers of Maldivian history. ANDY PROBERT Andy Probert is a freelance writer with an interest in travel, entertainment and people. His recent works are as diverse as writing for a global hotel chain, a Singapore media company and inexorable rise of the Turkish property sector. MOHAMED ZUHAIR (ZEDEY) Well known among the locals as an exceptional Dhivehi Language teacher. Likes to write and do research on his free time. DONNA RICHARDSON An experienced journalist from the UK, she is currently a freelance travel writer specialising in the area of budget travel in the Maldives.
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In a country where land is scarce, Coconut trees have built an identity. There was a time where Toddy tapping, Coir rope making and other things related to the Coconut tree was part of our everyday life. From the roots to the fruits of the tree, we were making use of all of the parts in our daily lives.
different types of local sweets. These sweets were used as part of their staple foods at that time and have been documented to being exported to neighbouring countries as well.
Different parts of the coconut, the fruit of the coconut trees has been used in the everyday life of Maldivians. “Kihaa” a hard and crunchy part inside the coconut, is used as a an
Parts of the root of the coconut tree are used as an add on to “Bilay Gandu” (a local version of the Indian Paan). While the base of the coconut trunk is used in the process of making a local building material, which was used to build houses in the past with coral stones, the trunk of these trees were used as wood to build houses and more importantly our local sea vessels known as “Dhonis” and these were the most trusted wood by the Maldivian builders & boat makers those days. Back then, one of the most important thing the coconut tree was used for was to get toddy. The toddy collected from the trees were used to make enjoyable snack with “rihaakuru” (a traditional paste made from cooking tuna in water with salt for a long period of time). Coconut water is refreshing drink, which is also used as an energy drink when body feels weak. Coconut Meat is something, which Maldivians use in all types of cuisines. Be it making curry, cooking some rice
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or making a spice, we tend to use coconut a lot. Another famous dish among Maldivians is Coconut meat and dried fish. Coconut meat is also used to make coconut oil. One of the things which were used as an export from Maldives was also dried coconut, which had the husk removed. This made Maldives famous within our neighbors and at the time, most were things which were created from different parts of the coconut tree. The outer coverings of the coconut fruit on the trees also known locally as “Bombi Gandu” was also something used to start fires. Another famous use for “Bombi” (the husk of the coconut) is to make coir rope by extracting natural fiber from the coconut husk after it is kept in water till it can be ex-
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tracted. Coir rope was used by Maldivians for tying purposes and was also exported. Coconut tree leaves were used to cover their homes and shelters as well as room separators. Back then, instead of tin roofs, these leaves were woven and used as thatched roofs to shelter their homes. Removing the leafy part from these leaves a very weak & thin stick. However, when bundled with more of these stick, it creates a natural broom, which is used to clean. Leaves are also weaved to make baskets. In short, Coconut trees and the lives of Maldivians have been so connected together that it is the national tree of Maldives as well.
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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
Photos by Mohamed Shafraz Naeem It’s every visitors dream to see a Whale Shark or a Manta Ray during their holiday in the Maldives and more often than not, their dreams do come true. Maldives is one of the few locations in the world where these majestic creatures are seen throughout the year and one such location to spot a Whale Shark almost everyday is at the South tip of South Ari Atoll near Maamigili island more commonly known as ‘Maamigili Outside’.
Have a peek
If you are lucky, you could catch a whale shark on your way up after a dive at the location. But majority of the visitors who travel to the location to see these majestic and peaceful animals, get to snorkel very close to them while they come up for feeding. Whale Sharks are totally harmless and come up to the surface to feed on plankton. Most of the time, there will be more than one Whale Shark within the area and if they are not disturbed, they can be there for hours for the visitors to enjoy.
Be Patient
A good majority of Maldivian Resorts are located in Male’ Atoll & Ari Atoll. Majority of Liveaboard Safari Vessels take the Ari Atoll routes. This infact makes “Maamigili Outside’ a very accessible location to all and more accessibility means there are going to be more people there as well. At times this leads to overcrowding. It is advisable to be patient and let everyone have a chance to swim with these Whale Sharks and cherish this experience. We should not touch or hold them as this would make them swim down and disappear into the blue. Therefore, the experience could only be enhanced with the support of everyone.
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Controversy
In 2008, a UK based charity called ‘Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme’ (MWSRP) was conducting a Whale Shark research program and started a tagging project. Local divers raised issues about the methodology used in conducting the research and that Whale Sharks were disappearing from the region because of the tagging, to which till now no scientific evidence is found.The MWSRP stated that it has been in touch with the government of the Maldives and the local community to develop the Marine Protected Area. The issue has raised more awareness regarding the Whale Sharks, their habitats and discussion among everyone on making these unique places and creatures more sustainable for the future.
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Recently awarded “The Best Water Villas in the World”, “The Best Suites in the World” and “Best Spa Resort in the Maldives”, this spectacular two-island resort boasts luxurious villas, two spas and the best dining experiences in the Maldives, including Ithaa undersea restaurant, the only one of its kind in the world. Guest can enjoy three different resort experiences on our two islands: the quintessential over-water Maldivian hideaway in 50 overwater villas on tiny Rangali Island; beachfront living in 77 beach villas on the main island; and 21 spa-themed water villas at the Spa Retreat. Each of the 150 villas reflects our luxurious contemporary and laid-back style,
with stylish facilities in an indoor-outdoor living space that sits in perfect natural harmony with the Maldivian environment.
Renowned worldwide for the excellence of our cuisine we offer gourmet temptations in eleven different restaurants and bars across the two islands. W ith the widest choice of dining in the Maldives, food lovers will find themselves at home amongst the seven world-class restaurants, while for wine connoisseurs, over 15,000 bottles of wine await in the underground W ine Cellar, in the Cheese & W ine Bar or at any of our stunning dining venues.
For spa aficionados, we offer you a choice of two different spas, each one designed solely to find new ways to nourish, treat, and indulge your, body and soul. We have personally selected these “best of the best” treatments and rituals for you. The only resort in the country to offer guests two entirely separate spas, each with its own philosophy, treatment menu and product range, we ensure you can enjoy the widest choice of therapies in the Maldives. Lavish colour therapy couples’ treatments in the glass-floored Over-Water Spa are complemented by the extended range of holistic wellness programmes and nutritional health advice at The Spa Retreat. Younger guests are also catered for with an ‘ice-cream’ themed spa menu for 3-12 year olds.
A million ways of doing nothing W ith one of the best coral reefs in the atoll teeming with vibrant marine life, warm waters and a myriad of colourful creatures, here you’ll find some of the best diving and snorkelling sites in the world. The five-star PADI Dive Centre, managed by Sub-Aqua, has multi-lingual instructors offering courses in one of the most beautiful classrooms in the world: underwater. Non-divers can view our reef from below in our own threeseater submarine or from above in our glass-bottomed boat. Land-based adventurers will find a host of recreational activities to suit your every whim: daily excursions to
neighbouring islands, tennis, badminton, snorkelling safaris, diving, yoga, windsurfing, biggame fishing, catamaran sailing and cruising aboard one of our two yachts. Jogging, working out in our two-storey gym and the two infinity pools round out the options. No stay at Conrad Maldives would be complete without spending time on our outstanding house reef, which is just steps from the beaches of the main island and offers endless snorkelling opportunities to see turtles, rays, corals and an impressive variety of fish. Younger guests are kept entertained with an outstanding daily programme at our Majaa Kids’ Club where each day is a new adventure offering fun-filled entertainment for the younger
For reservations and enquiries, please email Conrad Maldives at mlehi.maldives@conradhotels.com or visit the website at www.conradmaldives.com For a daily taste of the Maldives,follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/conradmaldivesrangaliisland twitter www.twitter.com/conradmaldives
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guests and the chance for their parents to relax. The ocean around us offers a treasure trove of delights. Go snorkelling with whale sharks all year round and enjoy the benefits of having a scientific guide with you: we are the home for research scientists from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme who share their knowledge and insights into these mysterious giants with our guests. This is the only resort in the country where you can watch the manta rays from dry land as they perform their nightly wintertime ballet under the bridge while for sheer pleasure, nothing can match the joy of watching dolphins from the deck of our yacht at sunset. And finally to the most important matter of all: the villas. All of our villas – except beach villas – have a private jet-pool or Jacuzzi on the sun deck. In every villa the beach, ocean or tropical beauty of mother nature are in view from floor-toceiling windows and the natural setting is complemented by the latest in modern design and amenities including a private terrace with wooden sun loungers, umbrella, and coffee table, flatscreen satellite TV, CD stereo with iPod connectors, DVD player, Nespresso tea/ coffee machine, air conditioning and ceiling fan, refrigerated mini bar and IDD telephones. The generous collection of toiletries is by Aromatherapy Associates.
Mohamed Takurufaan’s “whistle-stop” tour of Maldives. Mohamed Takurufaan (1544-1585)(reigned 1573-1585)
Sultan Mohamed Takurufaan the Great of Uteemu, was the Maldivian hero who liberated the islands from Portuguese domination in the 16th century according to Maldivian historical annals. In his guerrilla war against the Portuguese he is reported to have travelled to all parts of the Maldives. Below are some of the known islands (from north to south) where he made a presence.
Minicoy After killing the Portuguese Vedor whist taking him to Malè in Kalhuoh Fummi, Mohamed Takurufan and his team including his family fled to Minicoy in 1568. He settled his family there and conducted raids against the Portuguese in the Maldives.
HA. Vangaaru
HA. Thakandoo
This island was the last safe harbour on journeys to and from Minicoy. Given that chiefmen from this island held high positions during Mohamed Takurufaan’s reign it is believed that he would have sailed to and from this island in Kalhuoh Fummi during his raids against the Portuguese.
Mohamed’s brother Ali Takurufaan was killed in this island when the brothers sailed in one night trying to take away Ali’s wife to Minicoy. Ali’s tomb is located in this island.
HA. Uteemu Mohamed was born here and lived here until he and his family was forced to flee to Minicoy in 1568.
HA. Baarah The Northern capital during Portuguese rule. The Portuguese Vedor resided there. Mohamed built the legendary boat Kalhuoh Fummi in the island. His first wife Rehendiye Goyye daughter of Cat Fatima of Boshi Woods was from Baarah.
HDH. Nolhivarafaru Mohamed’s guru, Nolhivaranfaru Edurubey is buried in this island. He advised Mohamed on warfare and reading the stars for navigation.
SH. Maroshi The toddy-tapper in the Maroshi made coconut-mat sails for Kalhuoh Fummi. The boat would sweep in at high tide and creep out from the other side of Maroshi when the tide was low, taking along the mat sail on the beach made ready for the boat’s arrival.
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SH. Komandoo Komandoo and Mati Komandoo appeared from the sea as one island. They were in fact two islands with a narrow channel separating them. Once when the Portuguese were chasing Kalhuoh Fummi Mohamed and his followers rowed and punted the boat into the channel and guided her along it until they reached the lagoon at the other side. The wind took them again and they sailed quickly out into the open sea. The Portuguese mistakenly thought the boat was trapped between them and the island of Komandoo.
R. Duvaafaru This is the island of the legendary ship-boy of Kalhuoh Fummi called Dandehelu. He is supposed to have accomplished multi-tasks in one go.
B. Horubadoo (Royal Island) Now a resort, this island is renowned for being Mohamed’s grandmother’s island. The island has an ancient bathing tank.
K. Malè The capital of Maldives where Mohamed reigned for 12 years and where he is buried.
ADH. Hanyaameedoo The tomb of the slain king Sultan Ibrahim III (1585-1609), popularly known as King Kalaafaan is located in this island, where the ship carrying the slain King was brought by the tide. Kalaafaan was the only son of Mohamed Takurufaan. Kalaafaan was
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buried by the side of the main mosque of the island. For more than four hundred years, this tomb has been revered by Maldivians, rulers and people alike.
ADH Mahibadoo This is where Mohamed’s niece Tukkamana is buried. According to historian H.C.P. Bell, “tradition in Malè is unanimous that on the death of Kalaafaan [Mohamed’s son], that for some time (weeks, months, even up to four years) Kalu Kamana [Tukkamana], daughter of Hassan Ranna Baderi Kilegefanu, uncle of S. Ibrahim III, ruled (at least nominally) until her death at sea, or at Mahibadu Island (Ari Atoll), when on pilgrimage to offer the customary annual alms (aharu mati fula kakkan) at Hanna Midu Island (Ari Atoll) where the slain Sultan Ibrahim had been buried”.
M. Kolhufushi Kalhuoh Fummi was wrecked near this island. Mohamed built a mosque in Kolhufushi using the timer of his wrecked boat. The mosque was burnt down in the 1800s and by the 20th century it was believed all the original timber of Kalhuoh Fummi had perished with the fire. But the 2004 tsunami destroyed a wall of the mosque to reveal that the islanders had hidden the boat’s timber inside the wall.
DH. Meedoo This is the island where Mohamed killed his brother Hassan Takurufaan’s brother-in-law, Meedoo Kilege.
François Pyrard de Laval (ca. 1578 – ca. 1623) who was shipwrecked on Baa Atoll in 1602 is remembered for a personal written account of his adventures in the Maldive Islands from 1602 to 1607(1609?). In his work titled the Voyage of François Pyrard of Laval to the East Indies, the Maldives, the Moluccas, and Brazil he says: Subsequently, the younger of the two kings [Mohamed Takurufaan and his brother Hassan Takurufaan] being fallen into a grievous sickness, it befell that his wife’s brother, who was the greatest noble in the land, revolted against them. He bore the name of his island and fortress, to wit, Misdoue Quilaguè. This island, which I have visited, is 30 leagues distant from Male towards the south, in the atollon Nilandoue. Thither the elder brother [Mohamed Takurufaan] proceeded in force with secrecy and despatch, bidding them say nothing to his brother, who was sick unto death. At length this lord was taken and put to death, and all his island pillaged. But when the news reached Male, his sister, the younger’s wife, had such sorrow that she wished for death, and they had some pains to prevent her laying hands on herself in her despair; whereupon her husband, all sick though he was, swore that if God should give him health again, his brother should rue it. For all that he died of that sickness, and men said that he was more valiant than his brother.
The reason why this elder brother despatched these great lords was, that he knew that his son would be king, and he misliked that such rivals should exist; for the son was still young, and was never like to be as valiant as his father. And so his humour turned out, as I to some extent saw, for he was in nowise inclined to war, but solely to letters, sciences, and manufactures, and he was also much given to women, as, indeed, was nothing remarkable in that land.
GDH. Vaadoo The renowned scholar Sheikh Mohamed Jamaludeen, who returned to Maldives in Mohamed’s reign is buried in this island. Dhivehi Tareek says: The Great Takurufan [Mohamed Takurufaan] was saddened by the absence of the scholars he needed to organise religious and state matters. He was preoccupied with this problem when Sheikh Mohamed Jamaludeen returned to Maldives from the
Hadramaut region in Yemen. This scholar had left Maldives when king Hassan Shirazi, a son of king Hilaalee Black Mohamed, had reigned from 1528 to 1548. Jamaludeen travelled all over the Hijaz in Arabia, and studied with the scholars of Hadramaut. King Mohamed was pleased when Jamaludeen returned to Maldives and treated the sheikh as an aristocrat, with many awards and praises. Takurufan asked him to stay with the court in Malè, but due to his strong piety and asceticism, Jamaludeen declined this offer and instead asked for permission to live in a remote island.
Jamaludeen. He was teaching children and praying to holy God when he died on that island. Among his students were Abu Bakur Fandiyaru Takurufan and Addu Bodu Fandiyaru Takurufan.
S. Gan Pyrard says Mohamed had a fortress built in Gan in Addu Atoll. H.C.P Bell’s book has an account of its ruins. The fort was leveled by the British in WWII to make way for a runway.
W ith the consent of the king, he went to Vaadhoo island on Huvadhu atoll. Vaadhoo’s chief, Mohamed Fandiaiy Takurufan treated him honourably and built a house for him in a spacious area. Jamaludeen settled in Vaadhoo and began teaching Ali Naib Takurufan, the son of Fandiaiy Takurufan. Children came from many places to learn from
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10 quirky facts you didn’t know about the Maldives As you’re flying into the Maldives, your thoughts will quite rightly be concentrated on soaking up the sun, digging your toes in the sand, lapping up the surf and everything that a laidback holiday entails.
that you may not have appreciated the Maldives is renowned for, and when you get home, you can impress your friends and family with.
So while dreaming the next several days away on your chosen atoll, why not consider these 10 quirky facts
Maldives may be the most sought after holiday place on earth, but did you know it is the smallest country in Asia – and the smallest Muslim nation on earth.
While the rest of the world takes a weekend break on Saturdays and Sundays, the Maldives designates Friday and Saturday for its residents to take a break and be with their families.
To highlight the effects of climate change across the globe, the country’s government became the first in the world in 2009 to hold a cabinet meeting underwater.
The official name of the Maldives is actually Dhivehi Raajjeyge Jumhooriyyaa, while the word atoll is derived from the Dhivehi word atholhu meaning a ring-like coral island surrounding a lagoon.
If you want to play the numbers game, there are 2,000 species of fish, 1,199 coral islands and a human population of just below 300,000 26
It is the flattest country in the world, meaning that it is also the lowest: with its average ground level at just 1.5 metres and its highest point 2.3 metres
Educationally, Maldives has one of the best skilled workforces available on the plant. It follows the British educational system and has a stunning 99 per cent literacy rate.
Because the country is so flat, the Maldives as a nation is 99 per cent made up of water
While Dhiveli is the official language, the Maldives, given its rich history and of being colonized due to its importance in the midsts of history, accepts English as its second language, although other European languages such as German, French, Italian and Japanese are often spoken.
The Maldives has a rich list of sports stars, actors and business people who have stayed on its islands. It has played host to the likes of Michael Schumacher, Christiano Ronaldo, Tom Cruise, Ronan Abrahamovich, Paul McCartney, film star Katie Holmes, David Beckham and his wife Victoria, Madonna, Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez, to name just a few.
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Photos by Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz
W ith the obvious lack of cocktails and sunloungers, because it is an inhabited island, Villingili a 10 minute ferry ride from Male, but still has the feeling of being on a resort writes Donna Richardson. Perhaps that’s because it used to be one. It was gifted to the community as a commuter village to solve overcrowding in populous Male’. Offering foliage and wide, open sandy streets, plus a decent house reef, this is a perfect antidote to the big smoke. From the moment you step onto the island, you are astounded by its greenery and quaintness. It feels like you are miles away from Male’, and that’s what makes it appealing to many tour-
ists who are forced to spend a portion of their holiday in the capital, as they await transfers to the resorts. First and foremost, it is an accessible island where you can enjoy peaceful ‘picnics’ and mix with the locals on their own turf. There are two beaches to choose from to have your picnic on. One is facing the house reef and the other is facing the skyline of Male’. Upon alighting at the ferry terminal, stop to grab a drink and a snack at the quaint open air shop, then turn right and you emerge into a bustling port filled with trade ships and small dhoni’s and the occasional safari boat.
One of Villingili’s main attractions is its excellent house reef, making it a haven for snorkellers. Continue on from the harbour and you can enjoy one of the best house reef’s you will find outside of a resort in Male’ atoll. Under the water some of the most beautiful fish and marine life can be found in abundance. During a recent snorkelling trip a graceful green turtle glided over the drop off point, while many species of fish zipped in and out of the rocky coral outcrops and swaying sea cucumbers. Surgeon fish, butterfly fish, triggers and an abundance of other marine life species can be found here, resilient to its environment.
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If you turn right instead and wade through the jungle outcrop you can see local life in action and be rewarded with a view of the capital’s skyline in the distance. Marvel at how it is possible to slip a pair of fins and swim out to the edge of the reef, yet there is nothing but a concrete sea wall in Male’. Locals are curious of foreigners and want to say hello constantly. Constant reminders that this is a patriarchal society are evident in the pestering nature of the local men to western women. There is an older population who are conservative and the local women can only wade
in their burka’s (known affectionately as burkinis). Meanwhile, it is interesting to note that, within just a span of a decade, with a whole teenage generation of Villingilian youths being born and having lived all their lives on the island, Villingili has now evolved for itself a unique cultural identity: its “natives” now feel Villingili’s culture is “separate enough” to refer to their neighbors in Male’ as “those people” in Male’. It is interesting, how in such a short period of time, people’s attitudes evolved, so soon distinguishing a cultural identity from their nearest neighboring towns and cities.
The atmosphere here is quite different from that of Male’, from an environmental perspective and from a social perspective: more than a decade of settlement has seen the junglestyle vegetation disappear but the remaining few trees, which are old and gigantic, still give an interesting mix of ruralsuburban feel that seems like a mix of Male’s urbanness and remote islands’ ruralness. You won’t see many cars on the island, except one licensed taxi. Thats because the previous administration banned the use of motorised vehicles, forcing people to use their two legs to get around with – for an island less than a couple of km squared this is not too arduous and very pleasant. It is hard to describe in a word or phrase to encompass Villingili. It is neither totally urban nor totally rural and you can’t exactly describe it as simply just a “mix” of two environments and cultures, either. An advantage is that it enjoys cheaper rents and a serious shortage of housing in the capital makes this satellite island perfect for families and those who prefer a quieter life.
Having more space than the capital, it also draws expats and locals from the city on day trips. “I’m not quite sure how to describe it but living in Villingili is like the ultimate dream,” a 26-year-old youth told me. He said that he would like to see more trees and bushes especially on the beach but that it is still ok compared to Male’ and Hulhumale.” “Here, it’s not exactly rural but since I get to see features that are common in remote islands, I prefer living here in Villingili and I try to stay away from Male’ as much as possible,” he said. Many islanders spend their time resting in the swinging “undolis”, while children play in the streets with the wild cats and kick footballs about for entertainment. On the island there are shops and basic services including schools, and also the Maldives’ only orphanage. Of course, there are drawbacks too, as the infrastructure of Male’ intrudes on this lost paradise, since its is less than a few kilometres across the water from Thilafushi (Rubbish Island)
where all the waste is incinerated. Unfortunately, at times of the day there is a plume of smoke reminding you how close this island is. Occasionally the inevitable foreign objects in the water, made worse by local attitudes to waste disposal. Still, the marine life is resilient and has seemingly adapted to this. Corals have symbiotically found a way to grow around the trash, yet litter is endemic on the local islands. The smoking Thilafushi, or rubbish island, where the atoll’s waste is disposed only shows to the discerning traveller that indigenous peoples are being maltreated in the quest for luxury and Robinson Crusoe experiences for guests of the country, yet it has to be disposed off somewhere. As a satellite town to its older sister Male’ (and the fifth district of the capital), it is planned to link the two via a causeway under the Eye of the Maldives Project, so visitors must take in its beauty now. Yet in Villingili, you can walk in the middle of the street and you somehow feel that this seems right.
How to get there? A single journey costs 3MRF or 6MRF for a return trip. Villingili terminal is located on the far western side of the capital close to the Indira Gahndi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). Highlights Snorkelling, greenery and real trees. A chance to see local life on your own terms and to get away from the capital.
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iligniliv
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Till a few years back, Maldives have been branded as one of the most expensive holiday destinations in the world. In fact even today that maybe the case, but lately a new market is seen emerging and that is the budget travellers market. Budget Travel in no way means the visitors experience would be any less or hindered. Let me try stop trying to describe this, so have a read, look at the pictures and at the end of this article I will name the price you can experience all this with. After the initial success of Guest Houses in
North & South Male’ Atoll, the new sector of local tourism is growing to other regions of the Maldives and “TME Retreats Dhigurah” is one of the first such retreats to be based in Ari Atoll, one of the most famous areas in the world known for its exquisite and unique diving experiences as well as big white sandy beaches.
The Retreats TME Retreats Dhigurah offers “Shairose”, a deluxe 8 bedroom beach hotel as well as “Rihiveli”, a deluxe 4 room beach bungalow with a plunge pool. Designed for maximum privacy and comfort with all modern conveniences, the hotel is located on the edge of the village and within walking distance to enjoy the Maldivian island lifestyle. The white sandy clear beach is just a few meters away from the hotel.
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Dhigurah TME Retreats Dhigurah is located on the island of Dhigurah in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. Preferred transfer is by taking a 20 minute domestic flight from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport and then taking a 30 minute boat ride to Dhigurah, a small fishing village with a population of about 600, which has all necessary amenities including school, medical centre and a generous harbor.
Rooms Each room has an en-suite bathroom with hot and cold water, mini bar, satellite TV and air conditioning. Additional services include #G Internet, local mobile SIM cards, laundry services, daily cleaning, changing linen and front desk service. “Rihiveli� has a fully equipped kitchen and laundry for guests who book the entire bungalow. The plunge pool can only be used by guests only.
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Dining All meals are served at the A La Carte restaurant in the hotel. The restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines including local and western dishes. Alcohol is not available on the island as the law does not allow it. Upon request, the hotel can arrange guests to visit nearby resorts (about 15 minutes by boat) if alcoholic beverages are needed.
Excursions W ide range of excursions are offered at the hotel. The most popular excursions include whale shark safari, snorkelling trips, island hopping, night fishing and morning fishing.
Scuba Diving Island Divers on Dhigurah is a PADI accredited dive centre equipped with the latest dive gears. Trained and experienced local dive masters will guide you to the best diving points in South Ari Atoll, which is well known for its diving. The dive school also provides all PADI certification courses from open water to speciality courses.
Did you know that you can stay at the TME Retreats for less than USD 80.00 per day?
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Hello (Formal)
Hello (Informal)
How are you?
Yes
Assalaamu Alaikum
Kihineh?
Haalu Kihineh?
Aan
No
Where?
Why?
Who?
Noon
Kobaa?
Keevve?
Kaaku?
There
Here
My Name is
Good
Ethaa
MIthaa
Aharenge Namakee
Ran`galhu
What island is that?
Where are you from?
What?
This
E-ee kon rasheh?
Kon rasheh?
Koacheh?
Mi
That
What is you name?
Thank you
What place are we going?
E
Kon nameh kiyanee?
Shukuriyya
Kon thanakah dhanee?
I am sorry
How old are you?
My age is
What time is it?
Ma-aafu Kurey
Umurun kihaa vareh?
Aharenge umurakee
Gadin kihaa ireh?
What is the price?
How long will it take?
What time are (we) going?
Agu kihaavareh?
Kihaa ireh nagaanee?
Kon irakun dhanee?
你好
你怎麼樣？
是
Assalaamu Alaikum
Haalu Kihineh?
Aan
沒有
在哪裡？
為什麼呢？
是誰呢？
Noon
Kobaa?
Keevve?
Kaaku?
那裡
這裡
我的名字是
好
Ethaa
MIthaa
Aharenge Namakee
Ran`galhu
是什麼島
你是哪裡人？
什麼？
這
E-ee kon rasheh?
Kon rasheh?
Koacheh?
Mi
該
你叫什麼名字？
謝謝
我們去什麼地方
E
Kon nameh kiyanee?
Shukuriyya
Kon thanakah dhanee?
對不起
怎麼老是你？
我的年齡
現在是什麼時候
Ma-aafu Kurey
Umurun kihaa vareh?
Aharenge umurakee
Gadin kihaa ireh?
什麼是價格？
需要多長時間
我們什麼時候
Agu kihaavareh?
Kihaa ireh nagaanee?
Kon irakun dhanee?
привет
как дела?
да
Assalaamu Alaikum
Haalu Kihineh?
Aan
нет
Где?
почему?
кто?
Noon
Kobaa?
Keevve?
Kaaku?
там
здесь
меня зовут
хорошо
Ethaa
MIthaa
Aharenge Namakee
Ran`galhu
то, что стров является то, что
Откуда Вы?
Что?
это
E-ee kon rasheh?
Kon rasheh?
Koacheh?
Mi
что
Как тебя зовут?
спасибо
какое место мы идем
E
Kon nameh kiyanee?
Shukuriyya
Kon thanakah dhanee?
яизвиняюсь
сколько вам лет?
мой возраст
который час
Ma-aafu Kurey
Umurun kihaa vareh?
Aharenge umurakee
Gadin kihaa ireh?
какова цена?
Сколько времени это займет
в какое время мы собираемся
Agu kihaavareh?
Kihaa ireh nagaanee?
Kon irakun dhanee?
ciao
come stai?
sì
Assalaamu Alaikum
Haalu Kihineh?
Aan
no
dove?
perché?
chi?
Noon
Kobaa?
Keevve?
Kaaku?
ci
ecco
il mio nome è
buono
Ethaa
MIthaa
Aharenge Namakee
Ran`galhu
quale isola è che
dove sei?
cosa?
questo
E-ee kon rasheh?
Kon rasheh?
Koacheh?
Mi
quella
qual è il tuo nome?
grazie
quale posto stiamo andando
E
Kon nameh kiyanee?
Shukuriyya
Kon thanakah dhanee?
mi dispiace
quanti anni hai
la mia età è
che ore sono
Ma-aafu Kurey
Umurun kihaa vareh?
Aharenge umurakee
Gadin kihaa ireh?
qual è il prezzo?
Quanto tempo ci vorrà
che ora stiamo andando
Agu kihaavareh?
Kihaa ireh nagaanee?
Kon irakun dhanee?
hallo
wie geht es dir?
ja
Assalaamu Alaikum
Haalu Kihineh?
Aan
keine
wo?
warum?
wer?
Noon
Kobaa?
Keevve?
Kaaku?
es
hierher
mein Name ist
gut
Ethaa
MIthaa
Aharenge Namakee
Ran`galhu
Welche Insel ist, dass
wo kommst du her?
cosa?
questo
E-ee kon rasheh?
Kon rasheh?
Koacheh?
Mi
quella
as ist dein Name?
danke
was ist der Preis?
E
Kon nameh kiyanee?
Shukuriyya
Agu kihaavareh?
Es tut mir leid
wie alt bist du?
mein Alter ist
Wie sp채t ist es
Ma-aafu Kurey
Umurun kihaa vareh?
Aharenge umurakee
Gadin kihaa ireh?
welchen Platz werden wir
Wie lange wird es dauern
Welche Zeit werden wir
Kon thanakah dhanee?
Kihaa ireh nagaanee?
Kon irakun dhanee?
MAP OF
MALÉ
18 22
11 SULTAN PARK
2
1
10 3
12
13
21
20
17
14
5 4
19
16
15
8
9
7
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
6
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Azidon Pvt. Ltd. Tel: +960 3300999 Fax: +960 3005500 http://www.azidon.com info@azidon.com
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