Constance Moofushi Resort

Maldives is a tiny island nation in the Indian Ocean but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty and stunning landscapes and an even more spectacular seascape. The diving scene in the waters surrounding this island nation is among the best in the world and Maldives, therefore, finds itself in the list of top exclusive holiday destinations of the world. Maldives is a tourist friendly nation and as such it has a large number of hotels, resorts and cottages to accommodate the continuous stream of visitors.
There are a large number of resorts that have come up in recent years with the exclusive aim of giving their guests an unforgettable stay in the Maldives. The Constance Moofushi Resort is one such exclusive resort where the comfort of the guest is the topmost priority.

Overview of the resort:
The Constance Moofushi Resort which opened to its guests as recently as 2010 is situated in the South Ari Atoll which is a diver’s paradise with the best diving sites situated in the waters around the atoll. The Constance Hotel group has made the best efforts to give their guests a luxurious stay in a relaxed beach atmosphere. From comfortable living arrangements to a menu with a varied cuisine, spa facilities and to top it all the best diving opportunities in addition to much more entertainment and sight seeing prospects, Constance Moofushi Resorts are among the best in the world. The resort staff consists of a group of personable individuals who are always at hand to take care of the guest right from the time they arrive at the Male airport and are escorted to the resort using the sea plane. This special treatment continues right through the entire stay and transport back to the airport at the end of the holiday.

Senior Water Villa

Accommodation:
The villas are airy living spaces spread over the entire resort property and have easy access to the beach and direct access to the shallow waters surrounding the resort. The villas are divided to include beach villas, water villas and senior water villas which are equipped with air-conditioning, shower and bathrooms, WIFI on the house, LCD connection, in house safes, iPod connection, mini-bar, tea and coffee making equipment, telephone, comfortable sitting areas on wooden terraces, etc. While beach villas give the guest access to the private beach, the water villas lead directly to the shallow waters where the diving enthusiast can spend leisure time snorkeling and checking out the spectacular marine life.

Manta restaurant

Restaurants and Bars:
The Manta and Alizee restaurants and the Manta and Totem Bars at the resort are lovely areas where the guest can lounge or unwind while sampling the wide variety of cuisines that are prepared to perfection by master chefs. The restaurant Manta which has a sand floor is a perfect place to sample different dishes while enjoying the vast expanse of the blue ocean from one’s table. The wide variety of choice wines from the resorts cellars are also worth trying out.
Alizee is the grill restaurant situated on the beach at the water’s edge where a wide variety of grills are cooked in the open while the guest watches. Afternoon lunch can be had near the pool or the beach bar and is just as relaxing.
The tropically designed Manta Bar is the ideal place to try out some choice liquors, mocktails and cocktails while listening to music played by the in house DJ.
The Totem Bar is situated among a shady clump of trees on the beach and the guest can lounge in peace and enjoy some of the resorts signature drinks while using this green covering as a refuge from the hot tropical sun.

Spa de Constance

Spa de Constance:
The Spa de Constance is the resort spa which includes a series of rooms built on the water and a yoga area for the guest to relax and enjoy the different natural, healing spa treatments while allowing the blue waters calm the mind and eyes. The guest can choose from a number of treatments, massages, facials or opt for tailor made packages which are designed to suit different requirements of each guest and get pampered while the body and mind are nourished and rejuvenated by professional massage therapists. The oils, scrubs and body wraps are specially formulated to give the guest the best healing and relaxing effects.

Direct access to the reef

Diving and Snorkeling:
Most of the visitors to the resort are there specially to take advantage of the diving and snorkeling facilities and to view the stunning underwater world teeming with a mind boggling variety of marine life from close quarters. The resort’s experienced diving instructors make it possible for the beginner to understand the nuances of snorkeling and diving and help him /her to get acclimatized to the water and enjoy the experience of snorkeling and diving among the fish in the sea. The experienced diver is guided to the best diving spots in the ocean where it is possible for them to see the largest variety of rare sea creatures some of which are seen in this part of the ocean. Diving and snorkeling equipment can be rented from the resort for the entire course of the diving and snorkeling lessons.

Other Services and facilities:
In addition to superb living facilities, food and relaxation, Constance Moofushi also makes laundry services, babysitters, smooth internet connectivity, swimming pool and gym facilities, entertainment areas, sightseeing, water sports, deep sea fishing, excursions on the sea using the Dhoni and many more facilities available to the guest. Some of these services are on the house and some like the Dhoni excursions, sight seeing, sunset cruises, water sports, etc come at a price.

Constance Moofushi Resort

Conclusion:
The Constance Moofushi Resort is a perfect place for honeymooning couples, families on holiday and diving enthusiasts also. Each guest is made to feel special and the personal care taken by the staff is sure to make the guest want to come back here time and again. The amazing diving scene and the plush living arrangements enhance the entire holiday making it an unforgettable memory which many want to experience over and over again. The Constance Moofushi Resort, in the short time since its start, has proved to be a popular choice for visitors to the Maldives.

Introduction to the Atoll Explorer:
The Atoll Explorer is the first live-aboard cruise ship to have been started and managed by Universal Resorts in the Maldives in 1996 and the management has continued to provide the finest efficient service to its guests in an informal but stylish atmosphere.
It is one among some of the finest live-aboard cruise ships that operate around these islands giving tourists an enchanting and comfortable expedition through these magnificent atolls without having to set up base at just one island.

The boat itself:
The Atoll Explorer, a new and interesting concept when introduced to tourists in the Maldives, became an instant success and the management has ensured that this success story has continued down the years. The highlight of the Atoll Explorer is the presence of PADI, a specialized diving school which gives the guests an unbelievable diving experience.
The vessel itself is a comfortable haven with charming living areas, a sturdy interior mechanism to propel the ship and experienced and capable staff to take care of both, the vessel itself and the guests.

Accommodation on board:
The Atoll Explorer is built to hold 40 guests and comes equipped with 20 cabins which are categorized into three types: Cabins A, B and C. While Cabins A and B are located on the upper deck and come with a double bed and a balcony, Cabin C cubicles contain dual single beds and a large window which gives an extensive view of the ocean. Telephone facility, a wardrobe, air conditioning units, private bathroom and washroom and personal articles like beach slippers, beach bags and a wide array of aromatherapy items are also included in each cabin keeping in mind the preference and comfort of the guest.

Leisure Areas on board:
The two sun decks on the Atoll Explorer are ideal places to spend sunny mornings and drink in the beauty of the ocean and sometimes even get to see dolphins frolicking in the water. The Jacuzzi on the sun deck is a great place to soak in the water and relax as whirls and water jets massage and rejuvenate the body and senses.
Evenings can be spent on the deck watching a glorious sun set on the horizon and the dark sky starting to come alive with twinkling stars or enjoy a slide show of the underwater world while catching up on the events of the day with new friends and fellow travelers.

Restaurant and Bar:
Recent re-decoration and renovation of the restaurant in the upper area of the boat has opened up the closed space of the restaurant to allow its guests uninterrupted views of the ocean while enjoying a few drinks before moving on to a sumptuous buffet of special Asian dishes, varied cuisine and sea food specialties. The revamped stereo system ensures good music and guests can also make use of the Nespresso machine which has been set up in the restaurant.
The dinner on the last night of the tour is hosted by the ship’s captain and has a live band in attendance to liven up the evening and bring the entire tour to a fitting climax.
The bar which is very modern and stylish and yet has a relaxed feel is well stocked with choice wines and alcohol and the cocktails created here embody the essence of Maldives. From Mojitos to Bellinis and many more newly created cocktails, the guest has a wide choice.

Diving Opportunities:
The Atoll Explorer has a certified PADI Dive Base on board and professional divers from Euro-Divers to take the amateur diver and even the first time diver through a set of instructions to get them to understand the marine world beneath their feet.
The dive schedule is designed so that maximum diving opportunities along the North Ari Atoll or South Ari Atoll – two among the top areas for diving, make it possible for the diver to get within touching distance of sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, octopus, moray eels, lobsters and myriad vibrant colored fish in their natural habitat. For those who find the prospect of diving a little intimidating, snorkeling in shallow waters among the coral reefs is a pleasurable experience.

Cruise schedules:
The Atoll Explorer has two cruise schedules lined up for its guests interested in touring the islands and seeing Maldivian sights, the spectacular beaches and the stunning under-water world. Holiday makers can choose between any of the two schedules to suit their holiday requirements.

1st Itinerary:
The first itinerary draws out a cruise plan along the North Ari Atoll and the islands in the area. Anchored at Kurumba, the Atoll Explorer is a mere fifteen minutes from the Male Airport and the guest is picked up from the airport and escorted to the Atoll Explorer, where after a getting acquainted session and dinner the cruise begins. The cruise itinerary includes a stop-over at Koajaadi Finolhu which has a spectacular lagoon and coral reef for snorkeling and diving, a visit to Kuramati Island Resort and the fishing village of Rashdhoo for some more diving among the reefs during the day and reef fishing during the night, a brief stop at Velihatu Island Resort for a spot of day and night diving and further travel to Meerufenfushi where one can go swimming, diving or just lie on the sand working up a tan. The sea side barbeque under the stars at Dhiggiri Island followed by a picnic day the next day is apt and the dinner on the last day hosted by the captain sums up the whole holiday. The guest is free spend time at the Kuramati resort and go sight seeing or shopping in the capital city Malé the next day followed by dinner with a live band in attendance.

2nd Itinerary:
The second cruise around the South Ari Atoll starts with a pickup at Malé International Airport to the Atoll Explorer where after an evening dinner and meeting fellow travelers the cruise starts with a stop over at Madhoo Island for some diving and snorkeling in the spectacular coral reef followed by some more sunbathing, snorkeling, diving or swimming at Theluveligaa Island and a night fishing trip before an onward journey to Rai Dhigga Island which is a snorkeling paradise. This is followed by a brief halt at the uninhabited island of Huruelhi to snorkel, swim or laze on the beach before moving to Ariadhoo on a whale shark expedition and also a stop at the fishing village of Maamigili. The Maldivian beach barbeque on the Ariadhoo beach and a picnic party the next day are followed by a dinner hosted by the captain on the last day. Holidaymakers can stop at Kurumba Resort to sight-see and shop at Malé followed by an evening of music and dancing.
Though the two itineraries are separate from each other, many guests opt for both schedules to make the most of their holiday to Maldives.

Dress Code:
The Atoll Explorer is a holiday style cruise ship and the guests are encouraged to let go off their inhibitions and dress up in the same spirit that befits a sea side holiday. Shorts, T shirts, swimwear, sarongs, etc are the order of the day while casual clothes like cotton trousers, cotton dresses, sandals, etc are perfect for the cool evenings at the restaurant or the beach. Maldives is an Islamic country and trips to the islands call for suitable conservative clothing in keeping with the country’s laws.

Conclusion:
The Atoll Explorer was started with the specific promise of giving its guests an unforgettable, all inclusive holiday which includes excursions to the islands on the cruise path, dinners on the beach, all meals on board along with certain select beverages, leisure entertainment, snorkeling and may other prime services and they have come good on their promise. The guest is given the privilege and luxury of enjoying a holiday without the hassle of hidden mounting bills and this tradition has been maintained even today. The personal care and efficient service given by the friendly staff to make each guest feel comfortable and special is reason enough to lure visitors back to take a holiday on the Atoll Explorer time and again. The holiday maker on the Atoll Explorer is sure to get complete value for money and a holiday that they will remember for a lifetime.

L’Atoll Explorer en français

Maldives is a diver’s paradise. There are very few islands like Maldives when it comes to getting a view of breathtaking sights and landscapes and a taste of stunning under water experiences. Maldives is a favored holiday destination for couples on honeymoon, and beach vacationers and is an extra special treat for under water adventure enthusiasts. In many cases, the areas around the islands are surrounded with coral reefs that stretch out far into the ocean. It is these magnificent atolls, lagoons and house reefs that bring divers and underwater explorers to its scenic depths.

Snorkeling in a school of fish

Every person who comes on a Maldives vacation desires to come within touching distance of thefascinating fishes and marine animals. All, from the cautious swimmer to the professional diver come to Maldives to experience the pleasure and privilege of seeing exotic fish and sea animals in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Many of the holidaymakers like snorkeling because they find the prospect of diving into deep waters slightly daunting and may not be ready for the open deep ocean. Snorkeling gives the diver who is hesitant to go into the deep the advantage of seeing a myriad of marine life from the safety of shallow waters.

For the snorkeling novice, getting into waters to swim with the fish may not be easy but it is a great way to start unlocking the first steps to underwater sports. All that the potential snorkeler will need is some good swimming knowledge, an instructor and snorkeling equipment which one can buy from shops selling diving equipment or get on site. The main equipment needed for snorkeling are a mask, a snorkel and a pair of fins.

Snorkeling Equipment by Ejdzej

Making sure that one has the proper equipment that fits is very important. The snorkeler getting equipment on rent may have certain issues with the fit of the mask, the snorkel, the length, flexibility or comfort of the fins. It is therefore a good idea to buy this equipment prior to your departure in a specialized shop where you will be able to get professional advice. A good and well-fitting snorkeling gear is a good start and this will save future underwater headache.

There are different type of masks with different visibility features and a purge valve. The snorkels are as central to the snorkeling process as the masks. There are different snorkels like the plain snorkel, dry snorkel and snorkel with a wave deflector. The dry snorkel is a good option because it keeps the water out allowing the snorkeler to breathe easily.The snorkeler can, however, choose the one that will suit him the best. The fins should also be well fitting and comfortable to give the snorkeler the reassurance and ease while in water. Too long they will be tiring, too short not powerful enough.

Another important necessity is a good sunscreen lotion which is very essential to keep the snorkeler from suffering sun burns, a long sleeve t-shirt or what is called a skin which is a kind of very thin lycra made dive suit.
It is a good idea to practice with the new equipment, especially when one is new to snorkeling. Using the snorkel and masks and practicing breathing through the snorkel – first only with the mask and snorkel on and then immersing the head into water and breathing through the snorkel and purging water that enters the snorkel is good practice before going snorkeling.

Once the snorkeler has got the basic technique and is ready to take the plunge, he/she should remember to be calm and relaxed and stay on the outer area of the group of snorkelers which will ensure the best marine sightings and safety from any collision with a fellow snorkeler.
Maldives as a snorkeling destination is very popular among tourists and, therefore, most of the star hotels in the country offer their guest special snorkeling packages to make the most of their holiday to the island.

Lily Beach: Direct access to the reef from your villa

Special mention should be made about the Lily Beach Resort and Spa on the Huvahendoo Island which is situated along the South East of the Ari atoll which has a wide area of corals and reefs making it a magnificent area for snorkeling. The house reef on the island is a splendid with a wide variety of marine life that inhabits the waters in this area. The snorkeler is given all the assistance by the resort when it comes to equipment, guides and other help. The waters in this area are teeming with turtles, sting ray, frog fish, dolphins, eagle ray, lion fish, moray eels, parrot fish and a whole lot more of other species of fish. On some days, especially during the months from May to November the snorkeler also gets the privilege to come up close to whale sharks and mantas. The visitor also has the choice to go on a night snorkeling trip along the atoll.

Filitheyo Island Resort: House Reef

The Filitheyo Island Resort which is situated close to the Faafu atoll is also a great snorkeling destination because of the superb great house reef that surrounds it. A profusion of trigger fish, clown fish, angel fish, turtles, sting rays, oriental sweet lips, red groupers and many more different species of fish make the water down burst into different colors of the rainbow with these exotic fishes swimming around. The visitor to this island resort will surely not be disappointed with the snorkeling experience that can be got in this area of Maldives.
Snorkeling is a very relaxing sport and has many enthusiasts who snorkel for long periods of time taking in the wonder and beauty of the world beneath the waters. Even a snorkeler new to the sport is sure to be interested and get hooked to this underwater sport for life. What better environment than the Maldives to get into this sport. So if you are serious about snorkeling you should definitely book your next Maldives vacation!

Mauritian view

Mauritius brings to mind scenes of the sweeping seashore, swaying coconut palms, the undulating waters of the Indian Ocean lapping at the shores and a sense of being on an eternal holiday. This beautiful island is a great vacation spot for vacationers, tourists and especially for couples wanting to celebrate their honeymoon.

Aerial One&Only Saint Géran

But unlike other seaside holiday destinations where the only thing to do is to relax by the

sea and spend the entire holiday working on getting the perfect tan and making the most of the water and indulging in a variety of water sports, Mauritius offers all this and more.

Mauritius is a one stop holiday destination where the vacationer can get a slice of the sun,sand and sea; places rich in history; cultural heritage of the island, shopping opportunities galore and all this is only a small part in the process of discovering this gem in the cobalt blue ocean.

Piton de la rivière noire

Mauritius lies in the Indian Ocean close to Seychelles and Madagascar just off the coast of Africa. The long coastline that surrounds the island isalmost 330 kilometers and the coral reefs surround most of the island. The landscape moves from the white sands of the shore to the plateau region with the mountains Piton de la Rivière Noire and Pieter Both and La Pouce framing the backdrop.  The islands of Agalega and Saint Brandon come under the authority of Mauritius.

A Church

Mauritius is shrouded in a history which has seen a number of settlers who came and stayed at the island briefly and then making way for newer inhabitants. The Arabs were the first to discover this uninhabited island sometime in the 9th century. The Portuguese came next but they stayed back on the island for a brief time. The Dutch were the first settlers who came and colonized this island for almost 150 years. They were followed by the French who had control of the island till the British wrested control from the French in the early 19th century and stayed on at the island till 1968, when the country became independent. The settlers left the island but left back their culture, traditions, food habits, religion and many more customs. The locals have absorbed each culture making it their own, and this evident even today in the everyday life of the local Mauritians.

Mauritius is one island where the visitor can come any time of the year and still enjoy their vacation. Mauritius sees a lot of sun and cool sea breeze all through the year. There is not much change in temperatures even in the winter months which last from May to November. The holiday maker can make the best use of this temperate climate to soak in the rays of the sun or go diving and treat themselves to the myriad water sport prospects.

A major chunk of Mauritius’ economy is dependent on the tourism industry which almost never slides. Most of the local people make their living based on the tourist influx. For the people living on the plateau, agriculture- mainly sugarcane growing was the main means of livelihood but this has all changed and today Mauritius is seeing a huge rise in the textile and garment industry with foreign investment making headway into the economy of the island. This has helped to stabilize the country and its economic condition.

Port Louis Chinese temple

The tourist is the mainstay of the economy in the coastal areas and everything is finely attuned to suit tourists who visit Mauritius. The hotel industry is completely in sync with the tourists and their needs and every effort is made to give the vacationer the most luxurious and plush service that can be made available. The tourist is spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing between small hotels for the budget traveler to attractive villas and plush resorts offering every luxury under the sun. Religion and culture are a huge

Indo-Maurician

attraction in Mauritius. Africans, Indians, Europeans, Muslim and Chinese residents have their distinct cultures, traditions and festivals which merge together to form a wonderful blend of festivals, dance forms, music, cuisine, architecture, etc that can only be seen in Mauritius.

Keeping in line with its hospitality and service with a personal touch, the Spas and fitness centers offer world class treatments and body therapies to help the guest feel the serenity and calmness taking over the body and mind. The holiday maker can also spend time at the nature reserves on the island and explore the forests and experience nature at its natural best.

Market

For the shopaholics and those wanting to take back a piece of Mauritius with them, there are myriad markets and shopping centers that have something for every tourist leaving no one dissatisfied. The tourist can also check out the local handicraft stalls at the Tourist village which stocks up on locally made artifacts and handicraft items peculiar to the region.

Extreme sport enthusiasts can take to the sky, water or both to experience the thrill of sky diving and see the wonder that is Mauritius from the skies or go diving among the coral reefs that stretch along the coast and see the beauty of Mauritius in the deep sea. There are various diving options for beginners or the professional divers who can go deep sea diving among the big fish of the sea.

Snorkeling

Many of the top hotels like The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius, The Oberoi,  Naiade Resorts Les Pavillons, Constance Belle Mare Plage, Shanti Maurice, etc offer their guests the luxury of snorkeling, deep sea fishing, glass bottom boat excursions, diving, windsurfing,  kayaking and a whole range of sports to keep the guest entertained. The couples on their honeymoon are especially pampered with special packages and sports that they can enjoy as a team.

Mauritian Sunset

And when the day is almost done the tourist can sit back and enjoy the beautiful Mauritian sunset while relaxing with friends and family or if they want more action the pubs, nightclubs and restaurants that dot the area are welcome places to let one’s hair down and dance the night away to pulsating music. The Casinos on the island are a great place to try one’s luck at roulette, poker, slot machines, etc and spend the evening watching world famous live performances.

A Mauritius Travel is a vacation waiting to be experienced and enjoyed and the vacationer in Mauritius is sure to take back wonderful memories that will not be lost for a long time to come. And for the honeymooners, there is no better place than Mauritius to start a new life of togetherness and love.

Whale Shark by Zac Wolf

The under water world is a revelation in itself because of the myriad of creatures and marine fish and animals that co-exist in colorful and vibrant harmony. The oceans beckon water lovers to explore its depths and ocean life but the one creature that is a very popular sight that draws divers to it is the Whale Shark.
The Whale Shark is the largest living fish to be found in the oceans. This filter feeder is one fish which unlike its more aggressive extended family is a very gentle and timid creature. Its size belies its gentleness and placid nature. The Whale Shark is identified by its size which can be anything between 14 to 15 meters, with some reports of sightings of 18 meter long Whale Sharks. These fish can weigh up to 47,000 pounds and are recognizable by their grayish black background with white lines running horizontally across the body and white spots on the spaces in between. These spots are one distinguishing trait that tells one Whale Shark apart from the other.

Whale Shark by Jon Hanson

The mouth of the Whale Shark measures up to five feet from end to end with hundreds of fine teeth set in rows. But these teeth are not used to

feed; rather, the Whale Shark is a filter feeder which uses the five sets of massive gills to ingest its food and throw out the water that enters the mouth while feeding on small creatures which includes algae, plankton, squids, anchovies, sardines, mackerel and similar small fish.

Krill

The Whale Shark has a body that is made up of cartilage except for a raised backbone line that runs the entire length of the body. Studies have shown that this mammoth fish can carry hundreds of young ones, though majority of them do not complete their birth term and die or are eaten by their siblings while in the mother’s belly.
Whale Sharks, as opposed to their humongous size are calm and docile fishes. They are curious and playful and attack only when provoked. The only danger to a diver would be getting injured by a startled Whale Shark’s powerful tail fin.
These fish move through oceans spanning different continents and are usually found in the warmer

Whale sharks distribution map by Chris Huh

waters of the western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. They can be seen close to the coasts and usually swim close to the surface and unfortunately become an easy target for fishermen and fishing trawlers that carry out illegal shark hunting.
Today this magnificent creature is on the list of endangered animals that may become extinct if preventive measures are not adopted. The main reason for the decline in the Whale Shark population is the rampant illegal fishing of sharks for their fins, meat and liver which are in demand in Asian countries as delicacies. Also their elusive nature, their slow growth and sexual maturity, erratic reproduction patterns and inter-breeding are causes for their decline.
This timid creature has largely remained hidden away from cameras and researchers who are making efforts to study this shy creature. Their activities and movements of adult and juvenile Whale Sharks have not been accurately documented and their environment is still unknown. But with widespread efforts being made by marine biologists to understand this fish and conservation programs all in place the future does not look so bleak for the Whale Shark.
President Barrack Obama has only recently signed the Shark Conservation Act of 2010 which bans shark fishing or shipping their fins without the remains. They also have put in a clause to reject the import of seafood from countries which allow shark hunting. This has proved to be a shot in the arm for the conservation groups fighting for the Whale Shark.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Maldives, a small island nation and a popular holiday destination sees many scuba divers, both amateurs and professionals, visiting along with the usual honeymooners and vacationers. This is mainly so because in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean around this island, especially along the outer rim of the South Ari atoll sees Whale Sharks in abundance all through the year. The thrill of diving in Maldives in these warm waters and encountering the elusive Whale Shark is something which is irresistible. Marine biologists and researchers also flock to this island nation of islets and atolls for this very same reason.
The Maldives Government has recognized the need to protect this endangered creature which is an important reason for their booming tourism economy. The Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP), a U.K registered charity has opened its doors in 2006 and in collaboration with the Maldives government has drawn out certain protected areas for the Whale Sharks around the island; a drive that has the support of the local citizens, marine biologists and researchers alike. The MWSRP has also come up with solid programs which include education and awareness programs which seek to stop the practice of Whale Shark hunting, a traditional pursuit of the local fishermen.
The MWSRP has the support of the government in all its conservation endeavors and is dedicated to studying and understanding the Whale Shark – its behavioral aspects, its breeding and reproduction patterns and its movement across the different oceans through genetic mapping and tagging programs.
Strong efforts and laws are put into place to ensure limited boat activity at controlled speeds and restricted tourist movement around the protected areas around the South Ari atoll and Baa atoll.

Constance Moofushi Resort

The hotel industry in Maldives is also doing its bit to help in the conservation process. The Conrad

Resort and Spa at Rangali Island in South Ari is the Maldives base for the MWSRP which sees to its projects and their working and completion from this resort. The hotel arranges one day trips twice every week for its guests to be a part of the photo-identification procedure of all sharks present in that area and understand the work of the MWSRP. The Lily Resort & Spa and the Constance Moofushi Resort have incorporated specialized scuba diving programs under the tutelage of trained and professional divers to experience the beauty of the world under the water. There is no dearth of diving centers which make available trained professionals to help in the diving programs for tourists and amateur divers.

Whale Shark & Diver

The MWSRP accepts monetary help by way of donations to fund its work and has also started research excursions and welcomes volunteers to join in their programs which include taking pictures, measuring Whale Sharks, making presentations at community workshops and helping to review and make changes to the Whale Shark database. The advantage for the volunteers is the opportunity to get up close with the Whale Shark – the gentle giant of the seas and also be part of a core group which has the ability and focus to protect the Whale Shark from extinction.


The island

Strolling on powdery fine sands, seeing your reflection on crystal clear waters, watching the sunset with your special someone from lavish stilt bungalows – these are the things that people look for in their honeymoon. And these are the things that call couples to spend their Maldives vacation in Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa.

Island Villa

Perfectly situated in Gaafu Atoll, the largest atoll in the Maldives, Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa offers pure tranquility, with the nearest island being over 10 km away. You are greeted by a sand-covered reception area, and several outdoor pavilions. You have 50 villas to choose from – 36 island villas that lie just a few feet from the sea, a number of which with a private pool, and 14 aqua villas that stand on stilts directly above the water. The resort blends easily into the natural environment, with natural wood, cotton material and grass mats as furnishings. All the villas also have a private deck that open into the ocean, offering a magnificent view of the horizon.

Main Pool

Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa is a foodie’s delight, with two restaurants, Relish and Battuta, to satisfy your cravings. Relish serves healthy, international cuisine, while Battuta offers a refreshing mix of local cooking. An extensive array of beverages is available, from imported wines and beers to cocktail drinks to tropical favorites to Italian coffee. For a more intimate and romantic theme, guests can request for the meals to be arranged inside the villa or on the private deck.

The Beach

The Maldives are well-known for their one-of-a-kind dive sites. Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa offers a peek into the Maldives’ diverse underwater world, with their PADI Dive Centre. You can view a wide range of corals and fish species up close. Aside from diving, active couples can also choose from a number of water sports, including windsurfing, catamaran sailing and canoeing, to name a few.

Spa by Mandara

End your day at the Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa with a relaxing treatment at The Spa by Mandara. Set in the center of a lush garden with a swimming pool, the spa offers a complete wellness experience to make you feel calm and rejuvenated.

Environmental awareness is a must in the Maldives, and Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa epitomizes it. The resort is the first in the republic to meticulously adhere to the Green Globe standards, ensuring that its construction and operation preserves and protects the natural beauty all

Aqua Villas

around it. Environmentally-friendly systems, such as solar panels and harvesting of rainwater, have been incorporated in the resort. Everything in Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa is pristine and pure, and the surrounding splendor is largely untamed.

Every villa at the Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa has a local assistant assigned to it, to ensure that guests always remain comfortable throughout their entire stay.

A Maldives vacation in Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa is a true Maldivian experience. The fine white sands, the deep blue waters, the tropical night sky, andthe lavish accommodations – a retreat to the Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa adds up to an overwhelming, one-of-a-kind experience that will mark the beginning of the rest of your lives together.

Bora Bora (top), Taha'a, Raiatea

So this is it you are off to Bora Bora! Nice, here are a few lines which will give you a taste of this gorgeous island.

Presentation:
Part of the picturesque group of islands known as French Polynesia, Bora Bora has become one of the premium vacation choices for people that wish to experience the best that nature has to offer in a relatively undisturbed location.

It was first inhabited by Polynesians about 1700 years ago and they still make up the majority of people that live there.  Europeans first arrived just a few hundred years ago and have had a strong influence on the island as well.

The natural surroundings have much to do with why people find it to be such an incredible holiday destination.  The island is surrounded by a lagoon that appears turquoise and the clear water allows people to easily see the bottom and all of the colorful fish that inhabit the area.  A long reef also surrounds the island and there are a number of smaller islands called motus that rise up from the reef.

St. Régis Bora Bora

In a stark contrast to the low motus, or sand islands there are towering peaks on Bora Bora and they come as the result of volcanic activity.  Both Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu serve not only as a beautiful backdrop to many of the resorts on the island but also provide visitors with the opportunity to go exploring.  The landscape is dotted with coconut palms trees and lush vegetation that is found everywhere.

The surrounding water provides fresh seafood that has always been incorporated in traditional Polynesian cuisine.  With the

Private Motu at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort

infusion of European influences, a distinct flavor has been given to the food and the area and it is some of the finest in the world.

Many of the activities on Bora Bora have to do with the incredible water.  Many people who come to visit take advantage of the snorkeling and scuba opportunities to see the colorful aquatic life up close.  There also many water sports above the waves like parasailing, water skiing or people can take out a small watercraft like a canoe or kayak.  One of the reasons that the water sports are so popular is that the rough seas are kept away by the lagoons.

A number of different tours are available that will allow people to see the beauty of the island. Tourism is an important industry to Bora Bora and there are resorts found on the main island and also on the small motus that surround it.  Visitors can choose from larger resorts with modern facilities or select one that is extremely secluded and provides privacy in the midst of paradise.

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Many tourism companies will use photographs of Bora Bora as it represents one of the finest tropical destinations available.  The overwater bungalows on stilts

are something that any traveler to the South Pacific would love to experience at some point and they are available with a surprising array of modern amenities.

What to Do In Bora Bora:
If you choose to have your honeymoon or vacation in Bora Bora, you will find that you are surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenes of nature you can imagine.  While much of it is still very pristine, there are plenty of things to do and many of them are perfect for a couple.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving:
This area of the world is known for its atolls that provide quiet turquoise lagoons that are protected from the rough seas of the Pacific Ocean.  They are filled with colorful wildlife and this is one of the best places in the world that you can choose to go snorkeling or scuba diving.  If you are not familiar with it, there are many outfits that can provide you with equipment and instruction.

Jet Ski: Best to explore the lagoon:
There are plenty of other sports that you can joy on top of the water.  Renting jet skis or wave runners is a great way to tour around the area with your partner and they give you the option to simply stop in the middle of the water wherever you want and enjoy the moment.

Glass bottom boats & Lagoonarium:

Tupuna Mountain Safari

There are charter tour boats that can take you out to see the incredible world beneath the waves.  Glass bottom boats are available and you can even book some of them for a

romantic cruise for just the two of you.  Many are set up with this purpose in mind and will even provide you with lunch and celebratory cocktails to toast your love. In the natural environment of the lagoon, you will get the opportunity to swim in three separate enclosed pools and enjoy close encounters with marine life (sharks, rays, jackfish, turtles, parrot-fish). The guides will show you how to approach carefully these animals. No, you will not encounter “Jaws”; it does not live there.

Trekking, nature & drives:
There are many beautiful things to see on land as well.  This tropical paradise is filled with lush and green plants and colorful flowers.  One of the best ways to view them is to go horseback riding; you can choose either to walk along the beach or go through the trails where you will smell vanilla vines and wild hibiscus, see coconut palm trees and truly feel like you are in another world. There is a road that circumnavigates the island and tour operators can give you a 4×4 ride to experience all of the best spots.

Shopping: craft, black pearls & art:
There are places where you can shop in Bora Bora and one of the most common souvenirs that people bring back is one or more of the black pearls that the area is so famous for.

Massage at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa

Many of the resorts will have boutique shops where you can buy these and other locally produced crafts. You will also find many art galleries selling local paintings or sculptures. If you are into ink, a famous Polynesian tattoo might interest you.

Spa:
Because the area is known as a romantic getaway for couples, there are many places where you can avail some of the finest spa services in the world.  They have a variety of different techniques and you can usually get a couple’s massage either in air conditioned comfort or in many cases in an open air setting by the seaside.

Eating:
The food in Bora Bora is often an interesting combination of Polynesian and other international flavors, particularly French.  There are places where you can go and enjoy a meal in the dining room and look out on one of the serene lagoons as the sun makes its way over the horizon.  It is a romantic moment that will surely stay in your memories for years to come.

Enjoy your stay!

Malosmadulu Atolls

Delicate white sand tickling your feet. The wide open ocean going as far as the eyes can see. The sound of the waves kissing the shore. Breathtaking sunset views beyond compare.

Alavish retreat with all the comforts you could ever want. If this is your dream luxury honeymoon destination, then we’ve got the perfect place for you: the Maldives.

The Indian Ocean plays host to the 1,190 islands of the Maldives, separated into 26 atolls. The capital of the country is Male, situated on the Kaafu Atoll. There are a number of interesting structures and buildings that appeal to visitors in the area, such as the Independence Square, the Friday Mosque and the Sultan Park and National Museum. The Islamic

Center is also well-known, and houses the golden-domed mosque, the largest mosque in the country. The city is also where the Male International Airport, where most flights land, can be found. If you have a few hours to spend, Hulhumale Island, an artificial island with a decent beach and a few good restaurants, is worthy of a visit.

Male by Shahee Ilyas

Male, however, is not the primary attraction in the Maldives. Majority of the Maldivian islands remain uninhabited, and because of this, the crystal clear waters surrounding the islands and the marine life in it remain largely unharmed. This is what attracts tourists from all over the world: the gorgeous ocean and the abundant sea life here.

At the Maldives, there is plenty of sunshine for you and your special someone to enjoy. The tropical climate is idyllic, and the constant sea breeze keeps the air cool and the guests refreshed. Shoes and slippers are not needed, for your feet merely glide on the soft, white sand. All these make the Maldives the perfect location for beach lovers, those who just want to spend some quiet, quality time with their loved one. The islands are also ideal for the more adventurous, as water sports, including swimming, snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing and water-skiing, are popular here.

Yellow Snappers by U Kefrig Filitheyo Island Resort

With such a wealth of coral reefs and sea creatures, it is no wonder that one of the most popular activities in the islands remains to be scuba diving. Here, the underwater ecosystems are varied, with more than 400

species of fish and other marine animals identified and described in the Maldivian waters. The over 200 species of corals are home to many fishes, sponges, manta rays, eels, turtles, and even sharks. All of these can be within your reach at the different dive sites all over the country. The larger pelagic fish are usually encountered at the outer atolls. Meanwhile, the smaller species can be seen even in the shallow waters near your luxury resort.

Aside from the natural beauty of the Maldives, one of the major reasons why it has become so popular among newlywed couples is the presence of a number of lush resort hotels on the islands. In general, a resort takes up an entire island of its own. This translates to a vast expanse of stunning, private shore for every guest. It’s the simple, romantic isolation that makes the Maldives so completely inviting to newlywed couples the world over.

Park Hyatt, Maldives Hadahaa

A typical resort for honeymooners allows you to choose from several lodging options, the most popular of which are the Maldivian overwater bungalows. These suites are built on stilts over the water. Some of these bungalows even have glass floors, allowing you to view the sea and abundant sea life below, in the comforts of your own room. For some of the best accommodations in the islands, be sure to check out the following resorts: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, and the One&Only Reethi Rah. Most of the resorts in the Maldives are less than an hour away from the capital by plane or air taxi.

Hilton Iru Fushi

The resorts offer a complete array of facilities for its guests. Suites and rooms usually include a bathroom or two, designer furniture, and a complete entertainment system. Guests are also allowed access to resort shops, gym or sports center, restaurants, cafés, lounges and swimming pools.

Food is not a problem, even with the particularly selective. Authentic Maldivian food is full of flavor, typically spicy with a hint of coconut. Fish, specifically tuna, is commonly served. Some must-try dishes include mas huni for breakfast and the breadfruit curry known as bambukeylu hiti. If you’d rather stick with the conventional meals, a variety of international cuisine is also served. Many resorts can arrange candlelit dinners for two in your own deck or by the beach, where you can stare at each other’s eyes under the night sky.

Rest and relaxation is never complete without a trip to the spa, which, fortunately, most Maldivian resorts have. You can choose from a wide assortment of spa treatments, some designed especially for couples, to calm you down, refresh your senses and rejuvenate your mind and body.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

The wonderful thing about the Maldives is that it has been able to combine luxurious travel and accommodations with nature conservation and preservation. The government advocates ecotourism, and most resorts adhere strictly to the set policies and laws. Many resorts have also installed certain systems to protect the environment, such as better waste disposal and solar panels. Also, the people are unbelievably warm and hospitable. Most of the hotel staff speak English, and will gladly cater to any of your needs and whims.

A honeymoon vacation to the Maldives is not a cheap trip. However, the expenses for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, where every luxury you can think of is placed neatly at your doorstep, are definitely worth every cent. Some select resorts in the country, such as the Lily Beach Resort & Spa and the Constance Moofushi Resort offer an all-inclusive option, which usually results in lower costs.

Secluded and intimate, the Maldives offers the most romantic scenery and atmosphere that you can

wish for during your honeymoon. Here, first-class service is the standard. There’s simply no better paradise than the Maldives!

Thai Market Vegetables by Takeaway

Discover How the Thai Balance Their Varied Taste Buds
One of the most exciting parts of traveling is trying out the local cuisine. There’s nothing like enlisting the participation of your taste buds to fully immerse yourself in a foreign culture, especially when the country involved is Thailand.

The Thai cuisine is wonderfully representative of the Thai culture, but also good enough to stand on its own. In fact, Thailand has become more of a culinary destination in the eyes of many tourists. And the best part is, Thai cuisine is expansive enough to meet the varied tastes of people from all over the globe. There are enough dishes for those with more adventurous taste buds, the more conservative eaters, and most of all, Thai has quite a lot to offer for the health-conscious, even the most meticulous vegetarians. This is actually one of the reasons why Thai food has become quite popular lately.

Balance – Key Ingredient in Thai Cuisine

Green Curry Ingredients by FotoosVanRobin

The Thai cuisine is easy to describe and distinguish. Mainly, it thrives on balance. Light preparation, strong flavor. Light ingredients, strong aroma. To achieve this balance, Thai dishes never veer towards a single ingredient too much and instead often includes an extremely varied range of ingredients. Thanks to the Thai’s affinity to balance, most dishes are good for digestion.

And most of all, no other cuisine is as pleasing to not just one but all of the five taste senses. Thai food is always a bit sweet, a little sour with a tinge of salt, and almost always spicy. The only optional taste sense is bitter, but it nevertheless comes into play in several iconic Thai dishes. To achieve this exciting mix of flavors, the Thai uses a lot of herbs such as cilantro, lemon grass, mint, ginger, tamarind, garlic, soy beans, and Thai basil.

Thai Cuisine Dissected

Generally, Thai cuisine is made up of a hodgepodge of influences coming from Thailand’s neighbors. In fact, several Thai dishes are originally Chinese dishes, such as the noodle and soy-based foods. Cooking techniques such as deep-frying and stir-frying, which are well-used in Thailand, were also introduced by the Chinese.

Thai Basil with Flowers by Risacher

After it has evolved on its own, Thai cuisine can now be classified according to the four regions of the country, namely northern, northeastern, central, and southern Thailand, and each regional cuisine often has a distinctive ingredient. For northeastern Thai, this ingredient is lime juice. For dishes in the south, you may very well expect some coconut milk and fresh turmeric.

The usual Thai table also has a common setting: rice, a single dish for each eater, several complementary dishes to share, and a whole bunch of sauces and condiments. If you plan on setting up a Thai restaurant, one of the biggest challenges is keeping track of all the sauces and spices you need to supply. There’s dried chili flakes, sweet chili sauce, chili peppers in rice vinegar, spicy chili paste, sriracha sauce, and the famous phrik nam pla, which is made by mixing fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped bits of chili and garlic.

Rice is a staple in Thai cuisine; not just any rice too, but the special and sweet jasmine rice abundantly found in Thailand’s central plains. The single or individual dishes, on the other hand, are often noodle-based. Since both rice and noodles are staples, the Thai has even come up with Khanom chin, or Thai rice noodles.

Thai Cuisine Appreciated

If you want to truly appreciate Thai cuisine, don’t plunge in with your spoon and fork the moment the food arrives. Instead, take time to feel the heat of the food and take in its strong aroma before taking your first bite. And with every bite, take time to notice the lightness of the food.

Women & a Traditional Thai Buffet

You also need to make sure of two things:

• Rice – Rice is needed to balance the strong flavor of Thai dishes; you will not appreciate the dishes without rice.

• Sharing – Thai dishes are meant to be shared; sharing adds to the experience because you can sample many different dishes and experience different flavors in just one meal.

Thai food don’t require chopsticks. In fact, they require the use of spoon and fork. Chopsticks are only used for the noodle-based dishes.

Immerse Yourself in Thai Cuisine

For breakfast. If you want to have a true Thai breakfast to start the day with, you can go with the chok or rice porridge or perhaps the khao tom, which is rice soup mixed with either pork, chicken, or shrimp. If you want something spicy, go with the khao khai ciao, which is an omelet with white rice and chili sauce.

Individual dishes: A Thai meal often consists of an individual dish, as opposed to the shared dishes. Some of the most popular individual dishes include:

Khao mun kai by Takeaway

• khao man kai (garlic-steamed rice with toppings of boiled chicken and a dipping sauce)
• the khao phat (Thai fried rice consisting of chicken, beef, shrimp, pork – the works; also available in vegetarian style)
• phat khi mao or noodles stir-fried with Thai basil

Shared dishes: The shared dishes are really what build up a Thai meal. These shared dishes add more flavor to make each meal varied and all the more memorable. Some of the best Thai foods include:
• kaeng khae – spicy curry consisting of meat, herbs, vegetables, and acacia leaves (Northern Thai)
• kaeng khiao wan or green chicken curry (Central Thai)
• lap mu or salad with meat, onions, chilies, roasted rice powder, and mint garnishes (Northeastern Thai)
• kaeng lueang – sour spicy curry with meat and vegetables (Southern Thai)

Snacks and desserts: A Thai meal is usually finished off with a sweet snack (although sometimes snacks are replaced with fresh fruits). Popular snack offerings include:
• chaokuai or grass jelly served with shaved ice and brown sugar
• khanom bua loi or balled sweets made of taro root and dipped in coconut milk
• khanom mo kaeng or sweet pudding made of coconut milk, eggs, sugar, flour, and sweet fried onions

Thai Recipes to Try

For your first try in Thai cuisine, why not choose the National Pad Thai, Thailand’s national dish? The Pad Thai or Phat Thai is a dish made up of stir-fried rice noodles with a harmonious and very iconic blend of fish sauce, eggs, tamarind juice, red chili pepper, and lime juice, plus garnishing of peanuts and coriander. You can choose your main ingredient; it could be chicken, seafood, or tofu, depending on what you feel like eating.
Here’s an easy to follow Pad Thai recipe to start with:

Chicken Pad Thai Recipe for Two in Ten Easy Steps

Pad Thai by BenFrantzDale

What you’ll need:
• 8 oz. Thai rice noodles
• 1-1/2 cups raw chicken meat (preferably breast or thigh), sliced
• Chicken marinade: 1 tsp. cornstarch plus 3 tbsp. soy sauce
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-2 red chilies, minced
• ½ cup fresh coriander
• 3 cups fresh bean sprouts
• 3 spring onions, sliced
• 1/3 cup crushed peanuts
• ¼ cup chicken stock
• 1/8 tsp. ground white pepper
• Vegetable oil
• Lime wedges

For the sauce:
• ¾ tbsp. tamarind paste in ¼ cup warm water
• 2 tbsp fish sauce (prepare some extra as an added condiment)
• 1-3 tsp. chili sauce
• 3 tbsp. brown sugar

1. Boil large pot of water and remove from heat. Put in your rice noodles. Prepare other ingredients while they soak. Make sure noodles don’t get too soft; drain them as soon as they are soft for eating but still have a little crunch in them.
2. Work on the sauce. Combine all ingredients in a cup and stir well to dissolve the sugar and tamarind paste completely. Don’t worry about all the sugar; the sweetness will be balanced by the tamarind.
3. Place chicken meat slices in a bowl and pour in the marinade. Stir well.
4. Warm up a large frying pan in medium heat. Add the garlic and minced chili and stir-fry for around 30 seconds.
5. Add the marinated chicken and stir fry for around a minute. When the pan dries up, add chicken stock and stir fry until the chicken is cooked. This may take anywhere between 5 to 8 minutes.
6. Add the noodles and the sauce. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes; toss noodles around while doing so. Add oil if the frying pan is too dry.
7. Add bean sprouts and sprinkle the pepper.
8. Keep tossing the noodles until they are cooked; they should be chewy and sticky by the time you are done.
9. Taste and add more fish sauce until you achieve your desired flavor.
10. Transfer into a serving plate and top with coriander, spring onion, and chopped nuts. Add fresh lime wedges on the side. If you have chili sauce in the house, make sure it’s on the table when the Pad Thai is served.