Ari Travel Guide (Maldives/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Ari

Ari is an idyllic island located in the Maldives, a country consisting of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean. Ari is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions and offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. In this ultimate travel guide to Ari, we’ll explore the best things to see and do on the island, the local cuisine and where to stay, and provide some tips on how to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ari has a rich history, and there are several museums and historical sites that visitors can explore. The Maldives Heritage Museum offers a fascinating insight into the country’s past, with exhibits showcasing the traditional tools, crafts, and customs of the Maldivian people. The Old Mosque is another must-see attraction that dates back to the 17th century and is considered one of the oldest mosques in the country.

Natural Attractions of Ari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ari’s natural beauty is its main draw, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy on the island. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, and there are several dive centers on the island that offer guided tours to some of the best dive sites in the Maldives. Visitors can also take a boat trip to see the dolphins, turtles, and other marine life in their natural habitat. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several walking trails and lookout points that offer stunning views of the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ari

Ari is a small island with limited roads, but there are several biking and hiking trails that visitors can explore. The island’s sandy beaches and shallow waters make it an ideal destination for leisurely bike rides. There are also several walking trails that lead visitors to some of the island’s natural beauty spots, including lagoons and mangrove forests.

Best Things to Do in Ari: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural beauty and cultural attractions, there are several activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. One of the most popular activities is a sunset cruise, where visitors can watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean while enjoying a traditional Maldivian meal. Other activities include beach volleyball, fishing trips, and local island tours where visitors can learn about the daily lives of the Maldivian people.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ari

Day 1: Arrival and relaxation on the beach Day 2: Snorkeling and diving trip to nearby reefs Day 3: Visit the Maldives Heritage Museum and Old Mosque Day 4: Leisurely bike ride along the island’s beaches Day 5: Sunset cruise with traditional Maldivian meal Day 6: Dolphin watching boat trip Day 7: Island-hopping tour to neighboring islands

Food and Drink Scene of Ari

Must-Try Dishes

Maldivian cuisine is a blend of Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences, and seafood features prominently in their dishes. Some of the must-try dishes on Ari include:

Garudhiya: A traditional Maldivian fish soup made with fresh tuna, onions, and curry leaves.
Mas Huni: A salad made with shredded smoked tuna, coconut, and onions, often served with flatbread.
Hedhikaa: A type of savory snack, often compared to Indian samosas, popular on the island and made from dough stuffed with various fillings.

Local Beverages

The Maldives is a Muslim country, and alcohol is restricted. However, there are still plenty of refreshing non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy, including:

Kurumba: A coconut milk-based drink flavored with cardamom and cinnamon.
Sai: A sweet, milky tea, often served with biscuits or snacks.
Bajiya: A deep-fried snack made from dough and filled with onions and tuna.

Where to Stay in Ari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ari offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from high-end resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the popular hotels on the island include the Constance Halaveli, Gangehi Island Resort, and the Kandolhu Maldives. Visitors looking for a more budget-friendly option can consider staying in one of the island’s guesthouses or homestays, such as the Ari Heaven.

What to Buy in Ari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ari is known for its local handicrafts and traditional products, many of which make great souvenirs to bring home. Some of the popular items include coconut-shell products, items made from local seashells and corals, and traditional woven mats.

Local Culture and Customs of Ari

The Maldivian people are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. Visitors are asked to respect the local customs, including dress codes and avoiding public displays of affection. The Maldives is a Muslim country, and visitors are expected to respect local traditions and practices.

Best Time to Visit Ari

The best time to visit Ari is between November and April when the weather is dry and sunny, and the seas are calm. The temperature during this time is usually in the mid to high 20s Celsius. Avoid visiting from May to October when the risk of monsoon rains increases, and the seas can be rough.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ari

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Seek permission before taking photographs of locals.
Protect the environment and marine life by not littering.
Take proper precautions against the strong sun and heat.

Don’t:

Public displays of affection are not allowed and are strictly frowned upon.
Do not wear revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
Do not damage or take coral or shells from the sea.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ari

Ari is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take the usual precautions, such as watching out for pickpockets and not leaving valuables unattended on the beach.

Health in Ari

The Maldives is a malaria-free country, but visitors are advised to take insect repellent and use mosquito nets if necessary. Tap water on the island is not safe to drink, so visitors are advised to stick to bottled water.

Getting to Ari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ari

Ari is serviced by the Maldives’ main international airport, Velana International Airport, located in the capital city of Male. Visitors can take a domestic flight from Male to Dharavandhoo Airport, located on Baa Atoll, which is a short boat ride away from Ari.

Bus Stations Near Ari

There are no bus stations on Ari, as the island is small and only accessible by foot, bike, or boat.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a seaplane from Male to the nearby Baa Atoll, followed by a short boat ride to Ari.

How to Get Around in Ari

Visitors can explore Ari on foot or by bike, as the island is small and only accessible by these modes of transportation. Some guesthouses also offer private boat tours for exploring the surrounding islands.

Where to Go Next from Ari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Maldives is made up of over 1,000 islands, and visitors can easily explore other neighboring islands from Ari. Some of the popular nearby destinations include Thulhaadhoo Island, Baa Atoll, and the capital city of Male.

Conclusion

Ari is a stunning island that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventure-filled vacation, or a taste of local culture and cuisine, Ari has something for everyone. With this ultimate travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on this beautiful island in the Maldives.