The Maldives is well known in the tourism industry around the world for their hospitality, perhaps because most of those qualities in a fantastic host come so naturally to Maldivians.
Taken them out of their working environment, you will notice them annoyingly laid-back. Will make you question the potential of ever pulling the life together. But the pleasant, accommodating, kind, friendly, warm nature will not vary.
There is no such thing called a grouchy Maldivian. A heartfelt smile on the face is probably the earliest thing you will notice on a Maldivians face. And upon having a conversation, the humor. The vivacity in no time will make you feel accepted and part of them. It’s not an influence of the luxury side of Maldives; we don’t know how else to be.
WE also have a problem saying NO in regards to day to day life among friends, family, and coworkers. I can think of only one reason for this casual YES – We don’t plan our days ahead. Don’t ask us about the weekend because we don’t even know whats tomorrow. Why? I ask myself this question every day. I guess we flow with one day at a time basis.
Now talking about flowing, we are sluggish in nature. I call it slow and steady. Which leads to poor time management.10 -15 minutes delay is, regrettably, very standard. Waiting for a bike ride for five minutes walk is very usual as well. Don’t Get us wrong. It’s not that we don’t have the respect of time. We are just very calm people.
What do locals do in such small islands?
Coffee- we spend night after night going out with friends to a cafe’/restaurants and sip on coffee. We drink more coffee than coconut water.
In the islands, most people live in an extended family house. Most men work far away from home/family in a resort for months on while women manage the household, and some do the regular job within their island. The absence of the man figure in the house is often not yearned or well adjusted. Perhaps the women do an outstanding job keeping the family together or when they visit the gifts and much love they bring sort of makeup for it.
But we never miss out on fun things to. Family/friends Barbecues, night fishing and my most favourite-PICNICS.
A Maldivian picnic is usually a day long. Leave at twilight and come at dusk. Breakfast, lunch, evening tea is at the beach. Most of the day is spent in water, playing games and having one good family time together. PS: you never go to a picnic of 4 people. We take as many relatives and friends as we can. Having said that some consider a speed boat and head to a little island nearby as well.
One thing you might notice is people on the street of all ages before the sunset. Some on foot, some riding motorbikes in groups. We call it the evening walk. Not something we do for fitness but to socialize.
Leave a Reply