Local crafts
Many resorts offer day trips to inhabited islands where you can usually visit local artisans in their workshops and buy some of the beautiful local arts and crafts. Malé, the capital, also has several markets of fresh and wholesome food produce for those wanting to sample local fare.

Diving and snorkelling
To appreciate the exceptionally varied and plentiful underwater life then go diving or snorkelling; some of the best sites in the world are found in the Maldives. All of the resorts have professional, fully-equipped dive schools offering a range of activities.

Fishing
A fishing trip on a modern speedboat equipped for big game fishing is a great experience for any fisherman. Go at night to catch groupers, snappers, squirrelfish or barracuda. Round off the trip with a barbecue with the day's catch.

Uninhabited islands
A day and a night spent alone on an uninhabited island is quite the experience. You can usually do so as part of an island-hopping tour. Another option is to visit a fishing village with a trip to an uninhabited island (where often a beach barbecue is served).

Boat cruise
A sunset boat cruise aboard a dhoni, the wooden boat that is the Maldives' standard mode of transport, is a blissful way to end the day. You'll cruise around uninhabited islands, where you'll be served drinks and snacks while local musicians play their traditional bodu beru drums to attract dolphins.

Windsurfing
For a taste of some of the Maldives more challenging activities, try windsurfing at Lhohifushi and Dhonveli in North Malé Atoll, two relatively reasonably priced island resorts where the country's most famous breaks can be found. The season for surf is from March-October.

Spa treatments
For an enormous range of treatments, massages, therapies and other pampering, make an appointment at your resort's spa - now a feature at almost every resort. For a real treat book a double massage for you and your partner.

Marine biology
Your resort's marine biology lab - many of the better resorts now have a dedicated team of scientists taking care of the local marine life - usually have volunteer programs that allow guests to get involved. Guests can often help with laying coral reefs and looking after juvenile sharks, turtles and rare fish in captivity.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.