For decades, the Maldives has been synonymous with luxurious resorts, pristine beaches and exotic vacations. Home to some of the world’s most luxurious and exclusive beach resorts, the country draws in people from across the world, from young lovers to honeymooners to families. Apart from its iconic beaches and hotels, the nation also boasts a distinctive cuisine that is loved by many people.

Authentic Maldivian cuisine has its roots in South India and Sri Lanka, and this is clear in the popularity of seafood and spices amongst Maldivians. Surrounded by clear, Rich Ocean, the Maldives diet is based primarily on fish and seafood. Fish is generally prepared using a variety of Asian and European cooking methods and is often complemented with rice and vegetables. Skipjack tuna is amongst the most-loved seafood items in the country and it is eaten in many different ways. Other favourite types of fish include little tunny, yellowfin tuna, frigate tuna, bigeye scad, wahoo and Mahi-mahi. Garudhiya, a clear fish broth with tuna and fish head, is the most popular dish in the region. Fish sauce, fish balls and dry fish curry are also eaten regularly and they are often prepared with coconut, ginger, onions and chilli. The fiah is never eaten uncooked.

Besides fish, rice is also heavily eaten by the Maldivians and it is considered a part of their staple diet. Other carbohydrate staples include taro, sweet potato and breadfruit. Vegetables are often eaten as side dishes or as fillings in seafood dishes. The Maldives climate is conducive to many delicious fruits such as bananas, pineapples, coconuts, avocado, mangoes, oranges, limes, lemons and grapefruits. Pork and alcohol are prohibited to Maldivians who are predominantly Muslim, but tourists are allowed to indulge in a wide range of meats and wines.

Most Maldives luxury hotels have master chefs that specialize in cooking up authentic and mouth-watering Maldivian dishes for its guests. Accommodation in a beautiful Maldives resort is easy to find. The Anantara Dhigu, Maldives is a luxurious hotel that offers great accommodation as well as a broad variety of food and beverages that are unique to the Maldives.