Discovering the Culture of the Maldives

06 Nov 25

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The Maldives is a destination shaped by creativity, tradition, and a deep connection to its surroundings. At Nova Maldives, the vibrant rhythm of local life is celebrated through art, storytelling, and craftsmanship that reflect the soul of the islands. Each creation, from hand-carved wood to colourful woven mats, carries the mark of generations who have lived in harmony with nature. These crafts are more than beautiful keepsakes; they are living expressions of heritage and community. 

Exploring local arts and crafts is a journey into the islands’ creative heart. Nova embraces this cultural spirit, inviting you to discover the artistry that gives Maldivian life its warmth and authenticity.

Stories of island life

Discover the beauty of Maldivian culture at Holhuashi, a peaceful space that celebrates connection and community. Inspired by traditional island meeting spots, it is where stories, flavours, and local life come together under the shade of the banyan tree. Here, guests can listen to age-old tales, learn a few words of Dhivehi, and experience the warmth of Maldivian hospitality through authentic cuisine and conversation. The Holhuashi is where the true spirit of the islands unfolds, inviting you to slow down and feel a sense of belonging.

Timeless beauty beneath

Set within the South Ari Marine Protected Area, Nova enjoys one of the most remarkable locations in the Maldives, renowned for its year-round manta ray and whale shark sightings; one of the few places in the world where these gentle giants can be seen in their natural habitat. Exploring the underwater world around Nova feels like entering a museum preserved in time. The coral reefs that have thrived for generations remain as vivid and intricate as ever, each one telling a story shaped by nature’s quiet patience. As you dive or snorkel, you move through a world untouched by haste, where whale sharks, turtles, and colourful fish glide gracefully through the blue. The nearby dive sites offer endless discoveries, each revealing a new chapter of the ocean’s beauty. 

The essence of island living

Dining at Nova is a journey through the flavours of the islands and beyond. At Soul Kitchen, Maldivian and International dishes shine with fresh local ingredients and the warmth of island hospitality. At Mizu, the overwater teppanyaki restaurant, flavours of East Asia meet freshly caught Maldivian fish, creating dishes as pure as the ocean itself. After dining, retreat to a Sunset Beach Villa with Pool or Interconnected Beach Villa, where the sea is only steps away and barefoot living flows as naturally as the tide, just as Maldivians have lived for generations.

The soul of island life

The Maldives is a place where every moment tells a story, from the vibrant reefs to the traditions that shape daily life. At Nova, these stories come to life through culture, flavour, and shared experiences. Each day spent here is a reminder of what it means to live simply and meaningfully by the sea.

Contact us today at [email protected] or +960 66 88 777 to discover the culture of the Maldives at Nova. Don’t forget to subscribe to our Soulful Tales newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive offers – including 20% off your next stay. 

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