Background

One of the world’s smallest capital cities, Malé has taken over her tiny island home. Edged by coral reefs and sitting in the Indian Ocean half way down the skinny Maldives archipelago, every inch of land is covered in gleaming white mosques, soaring office blocks, crowded streets and shady parks. Head away from the waterfront to wander the sleepy streets inland. The harbour, football stadiums and the sheltered Artificial Beach are at the eastern end of the island. Neighbouring Viligili, a 15-minute boat ride to the west, has sweeping sandy beaches.

First-time visit

Arrive on the jetty to admire Malé’s thriving business district, decked out in shiny new high-rises, and to explore the centuries-old fish market; next door coconuts and bananas are piled haphazardly in the produce market. Dress modestly to visit the Grand Friday Mosque, its gold dome dominating Malé’s skyline. The shady enclave of Sultan’s Park is a good place to take respite from the sun. To see underwater wonders, book a submarine trip to the submerged reef just 10 minutes out of the harbour.

Return visit

Malé’s old town is a colourful jumble of cheerily painted houses. Pop into the coral-stone Hukuru Miskiiy – dating from 1656, it’s the oldest mosque in the country. In the cool of the evening the city comes to life along Malé’s bustling waterfront. Watch tomorrow’s stars playing football and in-line skaters scooting past. Then buy a mango ice cream from a road-side kiosk before wandering around to Marine Drive to see the sun sink into the Indian Ocean.

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