The Atolls
Why go?
It is difficult to separate out the different atolls in the
Maldives, as at the end of the day their key natural draws -
idyllic islands, crystal-clear turquoise shallows and fabulous
diving - remain constant throughout.
With the country's capital, Malé, in its
south-eastern corner, North Malé was somewhat unsurprisingly
the first atoll to be developed for tourists. Malé's
international airport, a huge reclamation project, joined two
deserted islands to form a runway able to cater to large jets,
whilst sitting only 1m above sea level at its highest point (making
for an interesting sensation when landing).
The south-western side of the Malé Atoll is home to most of
its locally inhabited islands. As is the case throughout the
Maldives, fishing is the mainstay here, and the islanders' deeply
rooted way of life is still strongly upheld - although western
influences, such as technological and linguistic skills, are also
evident around the capital, especially in the younger
generation.
Many of the Malé Atoll's resorts - approximately 30 - are
also situated here, within easy (but also suitably distant!) reach
of the airport, via boat. As the most developed atoll, Kaafu
undoubtedly offers the greatest number and range of resorts
-although, due to the nature of the surroundings, this is not
something that would ever influence your own holiday
experience.
Despite also being a designated part of the tourist zone, for many
years the Baa Atoll (or South Maalhosmadulu) remained undeveloped.
Today it has a total population of 10,000+ spread across its
islands, including its capital, Eydafushi, complete with
man-made harbour. The majority of the Baa Atoll's islands are found
on the eastern side, including Soneva Fushi, the
first island resort to be built here. A delightfully unspoiled
atoll, it still has relatively few resorts, and many uninhabited
islands.
Fishing is once again central to the islanders' way of life, with
fish traded on a weekly basis in Malé for building
materials. There is also a small agricultural trade, including
coconuts, bananas, water melon and papaya - while slightly more
unexpected specialities of the region include lacquer boxes and a
troupe of dancing girls who travel throughout the country.
Also worth noting, for divers, is the large number of mantas
that visit the Baa Atoll during the rainy months of May-July.