Eats: The Beach House’s “modern Asian-influenced continental” fare, in the chef’s own words, can be explored at any of the island’s three restaurants—or even from the convenience of your villa’s own backyard. There’s something intimate about having all of your meals served beneath your private beachfront gazebo, but if you prefer company, there’s plenty of that to be had, as well. The resort’s signature dining experience, Saffron, offers the tastiest of Asian-fusion cuisine in a stylish and romantic setting perfect for those honeymooning or needing a break from the kids, while Medium Rare (obviously) caters to meat lovers with its mouth-watering steaks and lobsters drawn directly from the eatery’s central pond. Four Corners is ideal for the indecisive diner: with a full buffet of food from all over the world, you can sample a little of everything, including comfort food from your own country should homesickness strike.
Diving: Prior to my visit to the Maldives, I was a snorkeler and nothing more. But a little urging by the dive instructors on Manafaru had me strapping on a tank and taking the plunge. The crystal-clear waters and extended visibility make the Maldives one of the foremost diving destinations in the world. Beginners can test the waters, literally, by learning the ropes in the shallow end just off the beach, but the more experienced divers have their pick of untainted open water spots. The dive center sends boats out to nearby points, as well as the reefs of uninhabited isles, so the aquatic opportunities are endless. Thousands of species of marine life comb the sandy ocean bottom—from trumpetfish and Napoleons to manta rays and the moray eel—and, if luck’s on your side, a school of curious dolphins will swim by to say hello. (Note: invest in an underwater disposable camera or waterproof case for your digital camera before you go.)
Festivities: As a Muslim country, the Maldives prohibits drinking (have no fear: resorts are granted alcohol permits to appease their guests), thus the natives must find other means of entertainment. Traditional gatherings like drumming exhibitions, called boduberu, are a popular pastime. A group of locals (usually men) plays a set of bongos in a blend of Indian and East African-inspired music, singing along and gaining momentum and speed with each bar. On nearly every occasion, a brave soul or two will rise and let the beat guide his body, much to the amusement of the crowds of onlookers. Don’t be deterred if you’re hand-picked to groove along beside them. Go with it, and you’ll be all the more popular!
