While some resorts have shared a bit of local history and culture with the reproduction of an authentic Maldivian hut or two Heritance Aarah has recreated virtually an entire mini-village. The outdoor exhibition sits on over a half an acre of Walking Pine forest. It includes traditional house (obviously), a school (above), a water well and a structure for food prep that includes a number of ancient culinary tools.
Many resorts feature Maldivian curries, fish dishes and of course the classic breakfast dish, mas huni. But The Standard’s Gudaguda restaurant takes Maldivian ingredients and recipes to a truly distinctive gourmet level. We enjoyed a meal including (pictured)
A trip to the Maldives can literally seem like a visit to a deserted tropical island, but the archipelago is rich with history and culture. Many times this local backdrop is quite removed from the contrived resort experience. Many guests are interested in it and get a taste with local island excurisions. But Oaga has infused every single one of its rooms with their own stories taken from Maldivian lore (which you can read here). And the XXX villas have their stories written in the pool which connects them all (as a good story should).