Local island tourism is a topic that often gets mixed up with domestic tourism, but in this article I would direct my focus on how we can truly embrace local island tourism in the Maldives. Over the past decade, we have observed a noticeable increase in the efforts exerted in promoting tourism in the local islands. This has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of tourists visiting and exploring the local islands. As someone who is proud to call the beautiful island atoll of Fuvahmulah my home, I can't help but reflect on how this shift towards local island tourism has affected my unique home.

Fuvahmulah, popular among the divers as "Shark Island" or "Tiger Shark Island”, has carved out quite a special niche in the Maldivian tourism landscape. This success was not achieved by accident; this was due to the deliberate efforts made on the idea of selling experiences rather than just rooms or flights. The pioneers of tourism on the island focused on promoting the thrill of encountering tiger sharks, as a unique experience which you can rarely get from anywhere else. With divers from all over the world, flying in just to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, today, Fuvahmulah stands out as a brand in its own right.

This alone holds an important lesson: local island tourism is more than just providing accommodations, it gives us the opportunity to let the travellers fully immerse themselves into the history, culture, traditions and the unique experiences each of our islands have to offer. For this reason it requires a shift in our mindset and approach. Instead of simply offering beds for travellers, we should focus on showcasing our rich culture, heritage, and history. Each island has its own unique story, and it’s time we embrace and share these stories with the world. By doing this, we can show the travellers the true meaning of local living.

Fuvahmulah is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Unlike the Maldives' typical ring-shaped atolls, Fuvahmulah is a one-of-a-kind single island atoll. The island's two large fresh water lakes, Bandaara Kilhi and Dhadimagu Kilhi, are a rarity in the Maldives. These tranquil lakes, surrounded by lush greenery, are home to diverse bird species. In addition, the picturesque pebble beach, near the biggest surf break on the island, offers visitors a glimpse into the Maldives that goes beyond the usual touristic scenery. The underwater world is equally enchanting, providing countless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Divers flock to the island to witness tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and even oceanic manta rays in their natural habitat. What sets Fuvahmulah apart is its year-round accessibility for tiger shark encounters, a spectacle unparalleled elsewhere in the Maldives. However, as we promote these unique experiences, we must ask ourselves: is it a must to cater to the tourists’ desire for bikini beaches and alcohol even in the local islands? Is there a better way to promote local living?

This is where I believe we may not be heading towards the right direction. While it is essential to welcome our visitors with the highest level of hospitality and warmth, it is also our responsibility to connect them to our culture and educated them about our values. Traveling in its core essence is to explore and learn about the places we visit. Our visitors are keen to understand our traditions and our way of life, they are also curious to learn the things we practice and the reasonings behind certain restrictions we have. By promoting authentic cultural experiences, we can undoubtedly attract visitors who deeply appreciate our way of life, rather than those who simply seek typical beach resort vacations.

Imagine welcoming travelers who are eager to dive deep into the local way of life, dress like a local, enjoy local cuisine in a family-run eatery, take part in local celebrations and learn how to make traditional crafts. This style of tourism not only enriches the visitor experience but also empowers local communities while preserving our rich and unique culture.

Image Credit: Pelagic Divers