Male is the bustling capital of the Maldives and it supports a third of the country’s population. This heavy dose of urbanisation infuses almost every nook and cranny of the cityscape, has resulted in using up almost the entirety of the island’s landmass, gaining it the title of the fourth most densely populated island in the world. This is not surprising as it is the centre of government and commercial activity. Jumhooree Maidan was created in 1989, not only to give the city its largest public space but a place where people can socialize and relax, but also to create an ideal location to accommodate public celebrations and even protests. It is marked by a large flagpole in the middle flying a huge Maldivian flag that is said to be visible even from out at sea. Located on the waterfront on the northern side of Male Island, this is the first place most visitors see when arriving by boat as the jetties allocated to the airport ferries are located here.
As a prominent space in the centre of the city, Jumhooree Maidan is bordered on its northern side by Male’s main road Bodu Thakurufaanu Magu and around it are important government buildings and commercial establishments and the Islamic Centre, with its grand mosque. Sultan Park and the National Museum are some of the other important places close to the Maidan. The activity in and around the Maidan usually increases in the late afternoons and evenings when the citizens of Male come out here to enjoy picnics, socialize with family and friends, let the children run around, enjoy the cooling sea breeze, kick a football or simply hang out. Pigeons, an occasional mynah and sea bird forage for food among the throngs of humanity. For anyone wanting to feel the pulse of the city, to see what makes the Maldivians tick and even to meet Maldivians on a one-on-one basis, this is definitely a good place to start one’s cultural immersion. This tree-lined swathe of grass is at its best during the wet season from May through to December when it presents a soothing alternative to a congested urban landscape.
Replete with all the aspects that the Maldives is famous for, the Adaaran Prestige Vadoo delivers not only on the scenery but on all facilities and amenities so prized by holiday makers for a carefree beach vacation. As a popular option for a quality Maldives Island resort on the archipelago, guests enjoy access to a whole range of water sports, a vibrant house reef and excursions and activities that make wonderful memories. Take advantage of special offers to stay at this Maldives resort to experience a holiday that many dream about but a select few experience.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+