Maldives is known for its unique ‘one island, one resort’ concept. However, you do not need to go to a resort to experience the best of what the country has to offer.

Local islands, such as Thulusdhoo, are home to the same beautiful, pristine beaches that you would find on a resort but offer you something that resorts cannot: the ability to mingle with the locals and experience their food, culture and way of life. Guesthouses like ours allow you the opportunity to stay in and experience local Maldives. Take the opportunity to mingle with locals and if you can, dine with them in their homes for an unforgettable experience.

Go fishing with local fisherman to see how they make their living – and the added benefit is that you may catch some fish that you can bring back to the guesthouse and have cooked up for you. Surf some of the best waves in the world. Taste local food, like mashuni and roshi (a typical Maldivian breakfast, composed of tuna, onion, coconut, and chili, served with flatbread) or rihaakuru diya (a thick fish paste cooked with coconut milk and served with rice). Yes, it is true that alcohol is not served and cannot be consumed on local islands; many find that they do not miss it but in case you do, often there are floating bars docked nearby local islands where you can enjoy a drink.

Visit local and experience the true ‘Dhivehi Raajje’ (meaning ‘the country of the Dhivehi people’).