Amilla Maldives is offering a cultural immersion experience to the resort’s guests with visits to discover neighbouring island communities.
Tourists were permitted to resume local island trips recently as the Maldives ended its Covid-19 public health emergency. Going beyond the usual stroll and stopping at the souvenir shop, guests at Amilla have the opportunity to visit ancient heritage sites on the nearby islands of Kendhoo and Kudariliku.
The former is home to a mosque older than 800 years. Built from coral stones and whitewashed with limestone in a site surrounded by coconut palms, the Kendhoo mosque is believed to have been the first in the country. Guests can also observe women making coir rope by beating and plying apart coconut husks that have been buried at the beach or mangroves to soften for three months. The strands are woven by hand into bundles of rope.
On Kudarikilu, a special arrangement with the resort allows guests a rare glimpse of a ‘secret’ heritage museum run by a passionate local collector. The private collection “contains countless historic pieces that showcase the history of the Maldives, such as thodi’s, farming tools and ancient pottery,” according to Amilla.
Buoyed by the success of its inaugural event, Amilla is planning to host a Maldives Cultural Week from 20 to 26 July, featuring a local sand artist, two Maldivian fashion labels, Dhivehi lessons, cookery workshops, drumming and games.
Amilla Maldives Resort and Residence is among many properties benefitting from tourism bouncing back. The resort was fully booked over the festive season and Easter holidays.
“Don’t discount a Maldives holiday during Maldives monsoon season. The vast majority of days between June and November see sun and this is an ideal time to visit Hanifaru Bay to see Manta Rays,” said General Manager Jason Kruse.
