Khudoyor Rakhmatov

Thailand has many spectacular charms that never cease to amaze its visitors regardless of how many times they visit. For some, Thailand could be a place full of tropical islands surrounded by pristine waters while others may just want to enjoy the hectic urban lifestyle in cities like Bangkok and Phuket. However, it’s no secret that there is a lot more for those who are willing to discover this beautiful country to the fullest, and get acquainted with its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Hence, we would like to take a glimpse at the junction of Thailand’s deeply-rooted traditions and modern values which can only be experienced during nationwide celebrations – festivals!

1. Songkran Festival

People splash water at each other during Songkran Festival.

The Songkran Festival (Water Festival) is Thailand’s longest-running festival, with its origins dating back to the 14th century. The actual celebration itself can be traced back to the 16th century when it was an occasion for people to visit temples and pay respects to their ancestors. Up until 1888, it was the official New Year of Thailand as it marked the beginning of the Lunar year. The event is held annually from the 13th of April through the 15th and it is one of the nationwide festivals celebrated by all.

In Thai culture, it is believed that when you “pour” your troubles away by splashing water on others you will be cleansed of all your problems. The water fights are started by a ritual pouring of water from a small wooden bucket onto sidewalks or ground throughout Thailand.

The Songkran Festival has grown over time, but there are still some aspects that have remained constant throughout its existence. It’s still a chance for Thais to spend time with family members and friends, as well as for them to celebrate their culture through food and drink. Meanwhile, foreigners get to witness and take part in such a rich cultural event in Thailand.

2. Phi Ta Khon Festival

A group of performers wearing ghastly masks.

The Phi Ta Khon Festival or Ghost Festival is one of the most interesting festivals in Thailand. It is a three-day festival that combines religious traditions, a fun-loving party atmosphere, and local handicrafts. It is celebrated for three days with thousands of locals wearing colourful, ghastly masks with stretched faces and phallic noses, painted in bright, and gaudy colours. The Ghost Festival’s origin is a mixture of Buddhist and animist beliefs. Friday is usually when the main parade takes place, Saturday has music shows and pageants while Sunday is reserved for Buddhist ceremonies.

The Phi Ta Khon Festival originated from the belief that ghosts were still roaming around during this time of year due to leftover spirits from previous years. According to legend, there are two types of ghosts: good ones who have died in heaven but still want to help others on Earth; and evil ones who want nothing more than to cause trouble for humans by stealing their possessions and harming them physically or emotionally. Thai people would wear these ghastly costumes in order to confuse bad spirits into believing they are good spirits themselves so they will leave them alone without causing any harm to humans or animals in their vicinity.

3. Yi Peng Festival

People release lanterns in the air during Yi Peng night.

Yi Peng which stands for Lantern Festival has its roots in Chinese tradition like many other Asian festivals. The Chinese celebrate their New Year each year by releasing lanterns into the sky as a symbol of hope for better times ahead. This tradition has been carried over to other Asian countries as well, including Thailand.
The Lantern Festival is a Thai holiday that celebrates the end of Buddhist Lent, which lasts for three months. The celebration takes place during the full moon in October or November.

The festival carries both spiritual and worldly meaning for the people of Thailand. Aside from celebrating the end of the monsoon season, it is a way of ridding oneself of negativity and seeking goodness in life. Meanwhile, for new generations, it is more of an entertainment where everyone gets together and has fun.

Yi Peng (The Lantern Festival) takes place annually in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The festival is celebrated with fireworks, parades and dancing around the city’s local landmarks such as Wat Chedi Luang Temple, Wat Phra Singh Temple and Wat Si Chum Temple.

4. The Lopburi Monkey Banquet

Monkeys Feasting on Fruits at Lopburi Monkey Banquet

The Lopburi Monkey Banquet is one of the most interesting festivals in Thailand. It takes place over a period of two days in November and has become very popular among tourists in recent years.

The main attraction at this event is a herd of monkeys that reside in Lopburi province and they are fed by visitors all year round. However, in November, the simple treats that they get from visitors are replaced by something a lot grander. A huge banquet is laid out for about 3,000 monkeys that live in this part of Thailand, giving them a chance to feast on 4 tons of fruits, vegetables and an array of other treats.

If you would like to join the party, the location of this festival is not too far from Bangkok to the north and can be reached in less than 2 hours by car or public transport. Be prepared to witness a feast that all creatures in the animal kingdom would be jealous of.

5. Wonderfruit Festival

Wonderfruit Festival (Source)

The Wonderfruit Festival has been around for many years now and it has grown into one of the most popular events in Bangkok for locals as well as tourists alike. Not only does it showcase some of the best bands from around Asia but also lets visitors immerse themselves in an artsy environment that brings them closer to their inner creativity. The festival also offers something for everyone with many activities such as cooking workshops and dance performances for kids as well as adults!

Wrapping Up

Dianne, Assistant Manager – Marketing visits the London School of Business & Finance in Singapore.

Thai people are naturally optimistic, cheerful as well as friendly nation and festivals are their way of sharing their happiness and positivity with others around and the rest of the world. From what we have discovered so far, they are very good at it. If these festivals weren’t enough to impress you, trust me, there is more left for you to explore in person than what we uncovered today. In case you are wondering how you can do that, well, there are a few options: You could either take a short trip to Thailand which wouldn’t be enough to experience all at once or you can opt for a longer stay which might be quite expensive. However, there is a third option that brings benefits of both together: finding a way to live in Thailand for several months without straining your pocket and RMC Asia does just that! You can have a wonderful time in Thailand while learning valuable skills through our internship programs. We can find you a perfect internship at one of our partner host organizations and set you off for an unforgettable experience in no time. Just don’t forget to submit your application. See you in Thailand soon!

Southeast Asia is teeming with beautiful destinations all of which are worth visiting many times over while some of them are yet to be explored fully such as Vietnam. Although the country has been known for its wonderful attractions such as tropical islands, hectic city life, historical monuments, water sports, mountain adventures, and more, some of them deserve special attention to notice their unique charm. Hence, we decided to take you on a tour around Vietnam to make sure you will get to know how spectacular this country is, and hopefully, it will occupy a spot on the list of top destinations for your next trip.

1. Halong Bay

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in Vietnam. It’s like a dreamland for tourists who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the country. No wonder why it is given the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and described as one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural treasures!

Halong Bay is famous for its limestone islands, which are formed by erosion over many millennia. The bay has more than 10,000 islands, which are shaped by wind and water action into jagged pinnacles that look like a pile of broken glass.

There are also caves in Halong Bay that can be explored such as Hang Sung Sot, with three mammoth caverns, and Hang Dao Go with superbly weird stalagmites and stalactites. For most people though, the highlight is simply cruising amid the karsts and soaking up the changing scenery of pinnacles as you pass by.

2. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and the country’s economic, cultural as well as educational center. The city is located on the coast of the Gulf of Tonkin, near the tripoint of Vietnam, China and Laos.

The streets are insanely clogged with motorbikes, and cars while the scenery of crowded restaurants and cafés is nothing short of a cosmopolitan lifestyle. In addition, the shopping experience is the best in the country as long as your pocket can handle it.

If you are attracted to the history of the country, you may check out the old district of Da Kao nearby for some of the best surviving examples of the city’s French colonial architecture and also visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda with its dazzling array of Buddhist and Taoist religious iconography.

3. Hue

Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue

Hue is another historic site, and probably the most popular one among tourists in Vietnam as it is brimming with historic buildings and relics of the 19th-century Nguyen empire. Although some of the buildings were damaged during the Vietnam war, you can still witness a piece of Vietnam’s recent history as a whole. 

Located on the banks of the Perfume River, the Imperial Enclosure is a massive complex sprawling 2.5 kilometers and contains several palaces and temples. Here are some of the jewels of the complex that intrigue both tourists and locals alike:

• Ngo Mon Gate is considered the masterpiece of Hue city due to its sophistication and peculiar architecture. 
• Thai Hoa Palace used to be the symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty and was the place of important rituals such as the coronation ceremonies.
• Dien Tho Residence was once the residence of the Queen Mothers.
• Halls of Mandarins were used as offices and to prepare for court ceremonies.

There are other historic sites outside the Imperial Enclosure complex as well. One of them is the Tomb of Tu Doc and the most important pagoda in the area is the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its tower soaring 21 meters high.

4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam for caving, and it’s a World Heritage-listed site that’s home to stunning stalactite and stalagmite displays. You can get to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park from Son Trach City, about an hour’s drive from HCMC (Ho Chi Minh City).

Paradise Cave is one of the most famous attractions for cave enthusiasts in the park due to its mind-blowing 31-kilometer track below ground. Another stunning cave that is worth visiting is a “wet cave,” — Tu Lan Cave. However, don’t forget to come prepared as you will have to swim through the cave-systems river to witness the true beauty within.

5. My Son

My Son Sanctuary

My Son is a ruined Cham-era temple city that dates from the 4th century. It is located in Quang Nam province, about 25km northeast of Hoi An, and is surrounded by lush jungles and high mountains. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and was also recognized as a national treasure of Vietnam in 2005.

There are around 20 temple structures still standing here, all built of brick or sandstone blocks and showing interesting influences from various Asian empires, including Indian and Malay.

If you would like to read about historic facts, then I highly recommend you check out the history of the Cham people who have a unique and rich heritage.

6. Sapa Countryside

Sapa Countryside

Sapa is Vietnam’s most famous mountain town, home to breathtaking natural beauty and stunning rural vistas. Sapa is the main base of operations for travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore this beautiful part of the country as it presents oodles of options to trek between tiny villages, and experience the breathtaking mountain views. The view of mesmerizing green rice terraces you often see on the Internet is most likely taken here.

If you are concerned about all the city conveniences you have to leave behind, don’t worry. Sapa town offers all the amenities you may need such as restaurants, shops, and hotels while there are plenty of homestays in Ta Van if you would like to truly experience the daily lives of Vietnamese by living with a local family.

7. Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba is a small island that sits on the western edge of Halong Bay and is a major tourist attraction thanks to scuba diving, kayaking, and trekking activities.

The island has a number of caves and islets that make up part of Cat Ba National Park. The national park has been designated as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. There are many types of birds on the island including endangered species such as the crested macaque, which can be seen at many tourist sites on the island.

On top of that, Cat Ba is also one of Vietnam’s most important historical sites and home to some very old communities although it is often seen as an adventure tourism destination. Regardless, The best time to visit Cat Ba is from March to the middle of April as you will have the most sunshine and clear water so that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest!

8. Nha Trang

Nha Trang

Nha Trang undoubtedly has one of the best beaches in Vietnam, with lots of sunbathing lounges, umbrellas, and showers dotted along the shoreline. There’s also a good selection of restaurants and bars at the edge of the beach.

During the spring and summer months (April to September), it’s busy here with locals on holiday or visitors from around Vietnam enjoying themselves. The beach isn’t particularly wide but it is long enough for families to get away from the crowds on either side.

In addition to being great for swimming, there are several water sports activities on offer including kayaking, windsurfing, and parasailing. You can also hire water scooters for an adrenaline rush!

9. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island

The island of Phu Quoc, located off the coast of Vietnam’s southernmost province of Ca Mau, is famous for its sandy white beaches and crystal-clear water. With a population of just over 100,000 people, it’s also a haven for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busy cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Phu Quoc is home to some of Vietnam’s most popular diving sites, with clear waters that attract a wide range of tropical fish and coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. The island also has some excellent onshore activities such as hiking along its lush forested trails or taking in some culture at its museums or art galleries.

The best time to visit Phu Quoc is during the winter dry season (November to May), when the beach is deserted and there aren’t many tourists on the island. This makes it easier for you to get around solo if desired, but still gives you access to all that Phu Quoc has to offer: beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and plenty of activities for all ages!

10. Con Dao Islands

Con Dao Islands

The Con Dao Islands are a remote archipelago of islands in Southern Vietnam, lying around 160 kilometers off the coast of Quang Ninh Province. The islands are famous among divers as one of the best places to visit in the country, both for the variety of sea life as well as for the coral reefs.

Much of the Con Dao Islands, and the surrounding water, is a protected wilderness area, with the island shores home to nesting turtles, and dense forest still covering the island interiors.

The main island, and prime base for visitors with all the accommodation and things to do, is Con Son Island, which has sweeps of sand strung out across its coast that attract beachgoers looking for a relaxed sun-soaked getaway.

Wrapping Up

RMC Asia team visits MHTi, one of our partner agencies in Myanmar.

I wouldn’t be mistaken if I call Vietnam an unexplored gem of Southeast Asia, and you probably agree with me after reading about how much it has to offer. Considering how the country is striving to improve its tourism sector and attract guests from all over the world, I wouldn’t hesitate to take the first opportunity to come by and hop on the wagon. “Where would I get such an opportunity?”, you may ask. My answer is “It’s right here with us”. All you have to do is to apply for opportunities in Vietnam and allow RMC Asia to find you the best placement and live your dream while learning valuable skills from top hospitality experts. Join us and discover Vietnam for yourself!

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for many reasons including countless tourist attractions, a unique blend of Islamic ideology as well as traditions with Western values, cultural diversity and fresh opportunities. Although these factors play a significant role in attracting people and raising the status of the city, there are other intriguing facts about visiting and living in this city, which you might want to read up before planning your trip to Dubai.

1. Minister for Happiness

Miracle Garden, Dubai

Believe it or not, The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assigned a Minister for Happiness who is responsible for ensuring happiness among residents in not only Dubai but also the entire country. The position was introduced by the UAE Prime Minister, and Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi was appointed as the first person to ever hold this title. Currently, UAE ranks 24th place in the World Happiness Ranking with a score of 6576.

2. The Coolest Police Cars

Dubai Police (source)

The Dubai Police has the most expensive and fastest fleet of cars in the world as more than a dozen exotic cars that most can only dream of, patrol the city day and night unlike anywhere else. Although police car-chases are a very rare scene in Dubai, these beauties would definitely render any wrong-doer’s escape plans hopeless. Here is to name a few from this luxurious collection:

• Bugatti Veyron;
• Mercedes AMG GT 63 S;
• Lamborghini Aventador;
• Aston Martin One-77;
• Bentley Continental GT;
• Ferrari FF;

3. The World’s Tallest Building

Burj Khalifa, Dubai

It has been some time since the United Arab Emirates took the lead in competition to construct the world’s tallest building. Burj Khalifa with 828 m height – 163 floors, remains undisputed as the tallest man-made structure in the world. Just to give you an idea, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is 300 m while the Empire State Building in New York is 443 m to the tip.
As if it wasn’t enough, Dubai started building the Dubai Creek Tower in 2016 which will be 1,300 meters high when completed, and it is competing with the Jeddah Tower (1000 m) that is being built by Saudi Arabia.

4. Rapid Population Growth

Dubai city at sunset

It’s no big secret that all nations in the world have experienced population growth thanks to humanity’s greatest achievements in recent history and the numbers increased many fold in most countries, however UAE’s numbers are rarely matched. Some sixty years ago the total population of the Emirates was about 150.000, and now according to statistics, its population has reached over 10 million, more than one-third of whom live in Dubai. That is what we call a real population boom!

5. More Foreigners Than Locals

Multinational group of people in Dubai

As I just mentioned above, the UAE’s population growth has been exponential over the last few decades and the reason may not be particularly what you think. Well, it isn’t exactly due to “love” anyways, rather the series of governmental policies that allow foreigners and businesses to relocate and provide them with security and opportunities. The results are astonishing! Almost 90% of the population is foreigners and this number could even be higher in Dubai. There is a catch to all of this though, if I may say, and that is expats only qualify for citizenship applications after 20 years.

6. There Were No Taxes in Dubai

No personal or income taxes till June 1, 2023

Even though The UAE introduced its first-ever corporate tax this year, which will be effective from 1st June 2023, individuals will still be exempt from employment, real estate, equity investments or other personal income taxes unrelated to a UAE trade or business. It was and it still is one of the main reasons why many blue-collar and white-collar workforce is drawn to this city.

7. No Kissing in Public

Practice of modesty in public is highly advised in Dubai

You heard it right! It’s not a very good idea to get too intimate with your partner in public as hugging and kissing publicly are considered an offense, and could have some unpleasant consequences for locals and tourists indiscriminately. It’s just a matter of laws and beliefs that must be respected regardless of which country we travel to. The UAE is no exception: it has its own unique set of laws, regulations and code of conduct that people are expected to follow when visiting Dubai.

8. Strict Regulations on Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is strictly regulated in Dubai.

According to the religion of Islam which is the official religion of The UAE, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, and therefore the authorities regulate and monitor its consumption while individuals under 21 years of age are not allowed to drink at all regardless of their religious beliefs. In the past, only tourists or resident foreigners were permitted to have a special alcohol license to purchase and consume alcohol in Dubai. Nowadays, residents no longer need to present the license to buy alcohol while it must still be consumed privately or in licensed public areas.

9. Gold ATMs

Gold Dispensing ATM, Dubai (Source)

Gold is one of the biggest commodities traded through Dubai, which accounts for approximately 40% of physical gold trade worldwide. To make the lives of gold buyers easier, gold dispensing ATMs have been serving the public since 2010. If you are a gold lover and would like to try it out, all you need is a credit or debit card, and transactions take place only in dirhams.

10. Thirsty City

A lot of water is need to run the city.

UAE’s water consumption is the highest in the world as it’s about 80% more than what people usually use in other countries on average. Although 550 liters of water usage is estimated per person daily, the cooling systems are responsible for most of it. Since temperatures sometimes go up as high as 50°C (120°F) or above, Dubai needs a lot of water to cool those massive structures such as malls, offices and residential buildings.

Wrapping Up

The CEO of RMC Asia, Mike addressing students at Mediterranean Bali Hospitality and Entrepreneur College

This was my humble attempt to mention a few facts about a beautiful city in the Middle East, and I have no doubt that I could barely scratch the surface. Dubai is brimming with countless surprises and I highly recommend you visit it at least once. Meanwhile, if you are an enrolled student or a recent graduate and have long-term plans to go and stay in Dubai, RMC Asia programs could be your best option as we provide internship opportunities in The UAE as well as other top destinations in Asia for young and adventurous individuals like you. Our programs not only serve as stepping stones to start a career in the hospitality industry, but also they become unforgettable experiences to last a life-time. If you are interested, you can learn more about our programs here, and you can also check out our latest internships available here.

There are countless destinations in Southeast Asia that are worth exploring and having a wonderful vacation all year around, however one of them outshines the most with its extraordinary qualities that combine all features of earthly paradise and you guessed it — the Maldives! Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is an island nation — an archipelago of more than one thousand islands. Apart from its exceptional geographical location, hospitable people and beautiful culture, the perfect tropical weather, crystal clear waters and rich marine life are among the many attractions that make the country an ultimate choice for tourists. The diverse beauty of each island also makes you feel like extending your stay in this spectacular country and exploring more. Although each island has its own charm and is worth visiting, it isn’t possible to cover them all in a short span of time so we have narrowed down the list a little and selected 10 most popular islands you may hop around if you happen to visit Maldives any time soon.

1. Nalaguraidhoo Island
2. Alimatha Island
3. Fihalhohi Island
4. Baros Island
5. Emboodhu Finolhu Island
6. Mirihi Island
7. COMO Cocoa Island
8. Huvahendhoo Island
9. Maafushi Island
10. Ukulhas Island

1. Nalaguraidhoo Island

Water Bungalows in Sun Island, South Ari Atoll, Maldives

The Nalaguraidhoo island is also known as the Sun Island due to the sun’s golden glow before it fades away beyond the horizon in the afternoon. Nalaguraidhoo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches that offer breathtaking beauty and tranquility to their visitors from all over the world. One of them is Hani Beach that is famous for its peacefulness as well as serenity. Since the beach is surrounded by thick vegetation and coconut trees, it provides a perfect private atmosphere that makes you forget about all worries of the world.

2. Alimatha Island

Alimatha Island, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives

Alimatha Island is a small island in the Vaavu Atoll which is an ideal spot for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. The azure waters are perfect for diving, snorkeling and boating, and the volleyball matches in the sun-kissed beaches are great fun for sports lovers. Meanwhile, the Ayurvedic massage center, spa, bars, and restaurants make it a revitalizing option among the popular tourist places in Maldives. Despite being relatively small, the island holds some historic significance as well due to artifacts found such as stone sculptures and inscriptions that date back to pre-Islamic times. On the other hand, Alimatha Island has several resorts and facilities that could be all you need to spend your time fantastically on the island.

3. Fihalhohi Island

Fihalhohi Island Resort in Fihalhohi Island, South Male Atoll, Maldives

Fihalhohi Island is a beautiful place located in the South Male Atoll in Maldives. The island is surrounded by coconut palm trees, pristine beaches, and pure blue waters that leaves an impression of unearthly abode. The island’s warm weather is perfect for those who are looking to enjoy water activities while the reef encircling the island is home to a wide variety of marine life, and scuba diving here is an incredible way to get up close and personal with this amazing underwater world. Fihalhohi Island is also famous for its tropical spa treatments, which blend Balinese and other international styles.

4. Baros Island

Baros Island, North Male Atoll, Maldives

The luxurious and exclusive Baros Island is one of the top-rated islands in the Maldives for its natural elegance, world-class resort, and beautiful sandy beaches. With a number of water villas, Baros Island is perfect for vacationing with friends or loved ones who are looking for privacy and VIP treatment. The island has a few restaurants and bars in the villa precinct, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tropical paradise. What is worth seeing more than anything else is the cyan blue water which is a treat to the eyes and the soul.

5. Emboodhu Finolhu Island

Aerial View of Emboodhu Finolhu Island, South Male Atoll, Maldives

Emboodhu Finolhu Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and is owned by Taj Exotica Hotels and Resorts, which has been a part of the tourism industry for more than two decades now. The beautiful arrangement of water villas in the shape of a flower on the island is probably the most sought-after attraction. However, if you’re lucky enough to come here by seaplane, the view from high altitude is also incredible. Let’s not forget to mention that Emboodhu Finolhu means ‘island of flowers’ in Dhivehi language, which reflects the true nature of this island.

6. Mirihi Island

Mirihi Island, Alif Dhaal Atoll, Maldives

Mirihi Island is a tiny island located in the North Male Atoll of the Maldives and it is one of the many islands that make up the Alif Dhaal Atoll. Aside from its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and the most amazing resorts, Mihiri Island is often hailed as a pinnacle of detoxification from all distractions of city life and technologies. The island offers a complete escape for visitors who hope to have some peace and quiet in their life and reset themselves mentally and spiritually.

7. COMO Cocoa Island

Twilight Sky on the COMO Cocoa Island Beach, South Male Atoll, Maldives (Source)

The Maldives is a beautiful country, full of spectacular beaches and gorgeous islands and the COMO Cocoa Island is one of the most popular islands in this country. It is a slice of tropical heaven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The island is home to a large number of resorts and water villas with around 33 of them. Each of these villas provides five-star accommodation and the best hospitality services in all of the surrounding islands. The white powdery beaches that are softer than your skin is something to live for, along with the azure water that embraces the place with pride.

The most popular attraction on this island is probably the beachfront villas that offer you an amazing view of the ocean as well as its serene beauty from every angle possible. You can also enjoy swimming in their infinity pools and sip a drink at sunset or sunrise while listening to nature’s music. There are many activities that can be done here like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, surfing and more. If you are looking for some quiet time away from all the hustle bustle then this is where you need to go!

8. Huvahendhoo Island

Huvahendhoo Island South Ari Atoll, Maldives (Source)

If you think Maldives is only about beach holidays then think again because The Huvahendhoo Island is a genuine proof for all tourist activities one can do in a single place. The island is situated on a pristine island in South Ari Atoll and is surrounded by white sands and crystal clear waters making it an ideal place for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts who want to explore more about marine life in person. The lustrous greenery that makes up the Huvahendhoo Island is also something that can’t be overlooked. You may as well spend hours walking down the soft white sandy beaches while watching the beautiful ocean view unfold in front of you. With restaurants serving both foreign and local delicacies, the island keeps on giving, making it one of the best places to visit in Maldives with family or friends.

9. Maafushi Island

Aerial View of Maafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives

There are some islands in the Maldives that are just too beautiful to be true. One such island is Maafushi Island. This island is located in the Kaafu Atoll, and it has become more tourist-oriented in recent years with over 55 guest houses serving visitors all year round. It offers all the amenities one might need during staycation while local delicacies leave you craving for more. You can also consider coming along with your pack of friends and family to share the joy of spending time on such an amazing island. So, if you’re looking for solitude and peace amidst crystal clear waters and planning not to put too much strain on your wallet, then this place is the best choice!

10. Ukulhas Island

Water Bungalows on Ukulhas Island, Alif Alif Atol, Maldives

Ukulhas island is located on the Alif Alif Atoll, 70 km east of Male, which can be reached by speedboat or seaplane in about two hours. The island is surrounded by mesmerizing coral reefs and blue lagoons, and known for its environmental awareness while being relatively less populated compared to other islands. One of the main attractions of Ukulhas island is its long white sandy beaches that are washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean and it can especially be calming to have a stroll by the shoreline. Its marine life is also incredibly diverse as stingrays, turtles, giant mantas, zebra sharks, reef sharks and other colorful fish species call coral reefs around home.

Wrapping Up

Team RMC Asia talking to interested participants about our internship opportunities during the Swiss Education Group’s Recruitment Fair in Switzerland, May 2022

As we mentioned in the beginning, Maldives consists of more than a thousand islands, most of which are trip-worthy, and therefore it feels almost unfair to leave so many breathtaking locations out. However, we have done our best to present the list of the most popular islands among tourists as promised while we also had to keep this article from becoming a geography book. Regardless, Maldives is a beautiful country with all qualities of tropical paradise that can’t be explored in a few days, so we recommend you try out travel options that allow you to stay in and enjoy the country as you go. One such option is available right here in RMC Asia through our internship programs such as Work & Travel Asia, Hospitality & Business Internship and Management Training Programs. As long as you meet our requirements, you are good to go to Maldives and have an exotic island hopping adventure.