Male is “so fun to explore”—definitely not coming back next time 🤣

Maldives’ joy is clearly in the sea—snorkeling to watch schools of fish flash like silver ribbons 🦈, liveaboards chasing whale sharks 🚢, munching on lobster while watching sunsets 🌅... But once you step foot on land, especially residential islands or around Male, boredom hits like a lazy tide 🥱. Wandering Male for a day (while checking off Xiaohongshu-recommended spots), here’s the verdict: the capital’s tiny, and there’s not much to see. Let me break it down. Male as a whole is just a small island 🏝️, split into three parts: Hulhumale, Male City, and the airport island. Most offices and government buildings are in Male City; while food spots and guesthouses cluster in Hulhumale. Pics 1–5 were all taken in Hulhumale: 1️⃣ Riveli Beach Club & Restaurant 2️⃣ Hotel Ocean Grand at Hulhumale (Hulhumale’s Ocean Grand Hotel). You can eat or have afternoon tea on the rooftop—nice sea views on clear days 🌊. It’s also a popular transit stay for Chinese travelers. Pic 6 is a well-known Thai restaurant in Male City: Sala Thai Restaurant. Five-star service, and the food’s decent enough. Pic 8 is that hyped local spot on Xiaohongshu—their ice cream 🍦 is famous, and the lemon 🍋 flavor is chef’s kiss. Narrow streets, zipping scooters, sidewalks where you brush shoulders with strangers—after stepping off a liveaboard, my legs still felt wobbly, like I was swaying on a boat. Hahaha. Bottom line: Whether you’re transiting or planning a City walk, don’t spend too much time here. It really is that boring 🙄. #Male #MaleSurroundings #MaleInternationalAirport #Maldives #MaldivesTravelGuide #MaleGuide