Tag Archives: Maldives

The amazing Kuda Eid Festival in Maldives

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Anantara Dhigu Maldives a Maldives Resort offers spacious luxury accommodation facilities to all guests. Accommodation in Maldives would be brilliant with more classy places like Anantara Dhigu Maldives. Maldives is a 100% Muslim country. So all Islamic festivals are celebrated in a higher key in these islands.

One of the richly celebrated festivals is the Kuda Eid Festival. Also known as Fithru Eid this festival marks the end of Ramadan which takes place throughout one whole month. The Kuda Eid Festival lasts for three days at a stretch. On the first day people o to the mosque early in the morning and seek for blessings. Later on hearty feasts are conducted with the gatherings of relatives and friends. Special offerings are done to the poor and needy people during this time. Traditional dances are performed by people in the rural areas, making the festival more exciting and colourful.

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.

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Maldives Easter Celebrations – Commemorating the Resurrection

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Since the Maldives is a Muslim country, Christian holidays are not celebrated in a big way, though one can nevertheless experience Easter celebrations. Travellers looking for Maldives resorts which to base themselves at can choose Kurumba Maldives since it provides idyllic accommodation for the entire family. One of the best luxury hotels Maldives has to offer, this resort has a wealth of leisure facilities that will help make your Easter holiday even more enjoyable. Following the forty day period known as Lent, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ who Christians believe to be the son of God. Easter falls on a Sunday and the 50 days following this day is known as the Easter season, culminating on Pentecost Sunday.

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+

Ramadan Festival Maldives – The festival of the moon

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Also known as Rorda Mas, the Maldives Ramadan Festival is one that carries quite a lot of importance in the lives of Maldivians. Maldivian Muslims fast right through the month of Ramadan which falls on the 9th month of the Muslim calendar. This cultural event can only be fully experienced if the visitors lodge in one of the Maldives island resorts that are being raved about quite a lot. Naladhu Maldives is a Maldives Hotel that is popular among the many visitors that visit the country with the aim of participating in the country’s many colourful cultural events.

The festival begins with the occurrence of the moon and lasts till the appearance of the next moon. Right through this period, Muslims fast during the day time and due to this reason, all restaurants and eating places are closed during this time. Even working hours are altered during this time of the year for the convenience of the fasting Muslims.

 

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Celebration of God

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Though Maldives depends on its neighbours for most basic necessities such as food and drinking water, the nation of many islands has an abundance of scenic venues, transcending beaches and bountiful natural formations. In spite of its tiny dimensions, the many atolls are full of activity, customs and culture. To witness the splendour of the chain of islands, a fair amount of jet sitting or boat riding is required as there are no bridges between them.

Being a predominantly Islamic nation, the various religious rituals and celebrations pertaining to Islam are practiced widely throughout the country. The father of the religion, Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is a day of celebration, happiness and much festivities in the country. As per the religious calendar, the much awaited day is celebrated on the twelfth day in the month of Rabee – ul – Awwal as per the Hijri Islamic calendar.

During this time of the year people invite relations and friends over for grand meals, involve themselves in spiritual activities, pay homage to their God Allah and have a merry time. Prophet Muhammad’s teachings have spread far and wide since 622 AD and this is a custom in all Islamic communities, but in Maldives the celebrations are underpinned by scenic wonders and natural beauty.

The Hijri or Islamic calendar is based on lunar movements and does not run parallel to the datebook that we are accustomed to. Rabee-ul-Awwal is the third month in the Islamic Calendar and the word “Mawlid” is generally associated with Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday which falls on the 12th day of this month. All the other celebrations pertaining to Muslim society, such as Ramazan and Hadji are governed by this date chart.

Travelling between Maldives island resorts is an adventurous activity of its own as you need to take a boat ride or a sea plane ride to travel between the islands. Even a Maldives hotel would set the stage for the season and have scrumptious spreads that can be enjoyed by the whole family. At Naladhu Maldives in the South of Male, the flavour of the cuisine and the ambience of the resort constantly contest to surpass one another. Enjoy a coastal getaway like no other when you stay at this enchanting resort.

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+

Valentine’s Day in Maldives

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Couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a memorable way can base themselves at one of the luxury hotels Maldives such as Kurumba Maldives. A standout among Maldives resorts, it boasts an enchanting coastal location. On this special day lovers can take a swim or dive together depending on their level of skill. Sunbathing to perfect your tan is also a tempting option and as the dusk sets in set the mood for the night ahead with a candle light dinner on the beach, under the vast start studded sky. Taking a romantic picnic in one of the secluded Maldivian islands is also a favourite among couples.

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Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Family Gatherings – Eid ul Adha in Maldives

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The Maldives joins all other Islamic nations in the world to commemorate Eid ul Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice, in honour of prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael to show obedience to god. It is also a commemoration of the end of the Haj. Fifteen mosques in Male, Hulhumale and Vilingili are designated to conduct special Eid prayers. The Eid Adha is performed any time after sun rise, before the Zuhr time on the 10th day of the Dhul Hijjah according to the Muslim calendar, around the middle of October, and lasts for four days. Goats and sheep are sacrificed as god accepted a sheep in the place of Ishmael. As worshippers are encouraged to turn out in their best for Eid prayers the shops in Male do a brisk business in new clothes.

Many people in Male take advantage of the four day holiday to go to their homes to be with family in the outer islands where Eid Adha is celebrated in the traditional way. The day begins with early morning prayers followed by a sermon and with Boduberu, Maali, Dhiun and Vedhuma dances and drumming involving the whole community and ends up with a delicious feast with special goodies made with the participation of the whole family in a convivial atmosphere. The feast can only be celebrated once the full moon has been spied and the date for the feast announced by a religious leader. Male is declared a traffic free zone from 4 to 10 pm for the holiday allowing families in the city to engage in traditional religious activities and share their joy with friends and family. Greeting cards are exchanged but now SMSs are more popular. This is the day that Muslims show their gratitude to Allah for showering his blessings on them. Islamic charities help the less privileged to celebrate Eid ul Adha by organizing feasts and animal sacrifices.

Cocoa Island Maldives is the kind of place that discerning holiday makers choose to enjoy tranquility in addition to tropical splendour. Stay in spacious, beautifully appointed contemporary overwater villas and suites with panoramic sea views; try Asian fusion and Mediterranean cuisines in addition to healthful Como Shambala cuisine and enjoy many hours of over and underwater leisure activities at thisMaldives luxury hotel. Take away very special memories of a wonderful vacation at this exceptional Maldives resort.

In the Whirl of Things – Bolimalaafath Neshun Folk Dance

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One of the best ways to get acquainted with the people of a country is through their music and dance. Folk dances make this possible as they are performed by members of the public at social gatherings and are performed to traditional music that has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. However not all traditional dances can be deemed folk dances as some have ritualistic origins and others are court dances.

Although small in size the Maldives has a rich cultural heritage and its songs and dances are a window to the history and culture of its people. While many of its dances reflect the influences of neighbouring nations and visiting travelers and merchants, the Maldives has several dances that are quite home grown. Since the Maldives had a royal court up till 1968, the songs and dances also reflect the influence of the royal court as many of the songs and dances had their beginnings there.

Bolimalaafath Neshun folk dance for instance, performed exclusively by women is based on the practice of offering gifts to the sultan during festivals. The gifts take the form of beautiful shells which were a valued commodity during ancient times. They are put in specially decorated and packaged boxes or vase known as the Kurandi Malaafath. A group of 24 women dressed in colourful traditional attire that have been perfumed by passing them through burning incense, dance and sing as a group to the accompaniment of traditional music and break off into groups of twos, threes and fours that step forward during the dance to present the gifts to the sultan. The songs generally express sentiments of patriotism or loyalty. Although there is no sultan anymore the dance, an important part of the country’s culture is still performed on occasion, though without the gifts.

Stay at the Anantara Kihava Maldives Villas to experience an idyllic tropical beach holiday. One of exceptional Maldives resorts guests are offered a luxurious collection of beach and over water villas and residences that ensures privacy and tranquility, key ingredients for a relaxing holiday. If detoxifying, and rejuvenating is high on the agenda, then this hotel, one of key Maldives spa resorts can offer a series of the latest treatments using natural ingredients that will leave no doubt as to the efficacy of its treatments.

Art Calligraphy and Crafts in Maldives – Expressing the Culture of these Beautiful Islands

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Culture in the Maldives Islands is a very distinct aspect of its people. The history of the island involves a period of Buddhism followed by the introduction of Islam in the 12th century. As a result, there is an interesting mix of aesthetic ideals that collect and transform the way Maldivians create their unique artwork.

Calligraphy is an ancient art form which is used to adorn beautifully decorated texts, especially those of religious significance such as the Qur’an. Visitors to the island will find many documents and engravings depicting verses from the Holy Qur’an on the walls of important historical sites. The Hukuru Miskiy in Male’ is an example of an ancient site that displays amazingly engraved tombstones with religious excerpts in perfect calligraphic style. Such artistic marvels could be further appreciated when one considers that this art form is now obsolete due to the mastery of calligraphy and engraving skills needed to create such feats. Visitors to the island interested in witnessing such artistic marvels should pay a visit to the Hukuru Misikiy; the oldest existing mosque in the Maldives islands.

Apart from the aged art of ornate writing, there are objects available for tourist to take home with them. Wood Lacquer Ware is a speciality item available mainly on the island of Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. The process of making Wood Lacquer Ware involves the hollowing of wood taken from the Alexandrian Laurel and the crafting of gorgeous boxes and ornaments. Such trinkets would make splendid mementos or souvenirs to take back to one’s own home country. Additionally there are distinctly Maldivian mats which are most abundant in the Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The women of this region fashion a fantastic array of “Thundu Kunaa” which display fascinating abstract designs that turn an ordinary mat into a thing of beauty.

The cultural exquisiteness that the Maldives islands offers is a staggering affair. As such, one will naturally be in search of a Maldives resort that displays its countries artistic heritage with pride and taste. Some of the many Maldives luxury hotels would certainly provide such an ambiance, but none more so than the Anantara Dhigu, Maldives. This fine establishment situated in Dhigufinolhu Island in the South Male Atoll, is a haven that epitomizes the serene beauty of the Maldives. Visitors to the islands will be able to unwind and enjoy the cool breeze across the crystal clear waters.

Fascinating Kadhaa Maali Folk Dance

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The intriguing Kadhaa Maali folk dance is native to Kulhudhuffushi Island in the Maldives. A popular dance form, this appealing attraction is not to be seen elsewhere. The performance commences with the beating of drums accompanied by the local Kadhaa instrument. Dancers attire themselves in colourful costumes, representing evil spirits and ghosts. The dance is considered to be a means of warding off these hostile beings.

Modern travellers in search of a fine Maldives resort will find an attractive option in the Maldives bungalows offered by Anantara Veli Maldives. These quality accommodations provide well-appointed interiors with courteous hospitality.

Explore the Underwater Marine Life of the Maldives

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While the Maldives is known for its picturesque beaches and exciting water sports, below the surface of the water there is a fascinating world just waiting to be explored! The colourful reefs that surround the islands are home to a wide range of marine life and offer countless hours of exploration when engaged in such activities as snorkelling or diving. The country is home to over 700 marine life species including, Butterfly fish, sharks, rays, black and white snappers and turtles to name but a few! Offering truly unique holiday adventures, a Maldives cruise such as the one provided by Atoll Explorer can be enjoyed by the whole family. This liveaboard Maldives also offers diving and snorkelling and gives one a chance to experience firsthand the beauty that lies beneath the waves.