Maldives is an archipelago of numerous natural islands but amidst them is the unique Thilafushi Island. Why is it unique you ask? Because Thilafushi is an artificial island, it in fact has made many lists of being one of the world’s strangest man-made islands. Initially a natural lagoon it was located in one of the shallowest regions of Maldives, spanning just 7km and a width of 200m. However it was converted in to a landfill in 1991. This gave it the nickname ‘rubbish island’.
Today land in the island has been leased by the government to entrepreneurs. Cement packing, boat manufacturing and methane gas boiling are some of the big industries on the island. The growth has been so big that currently it generates over 14 million Rufiyaa per annum.
However many environmental issues have cropped up because of Thilafushi still being used as a dump yard. Many impatient freighters who couldn’t wait for the dumping process started dumping rubbish directly on to the island, some even letting it float as they couldn’t be bothered unloading them. This caused the government to outlaw such dumping on the island; domestic waste though is still brought here.
If you are only interested in the pretty islands then this one isn’t for you. Kihavah Huravalhi Island is one of the many beautiful paradises of Maldives. It is just 35 minutes via seaplane from Male. Located here and offering those relaxing vacations that Maldives is known for is Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. Like most Maldives resorts there are plenty of activities. Participate in an endless list of beach sports, try your hand at some cooking classes, spend some time on improving your fitness, catch up on your reading, or wind down with yoga. There are also plenty of adventure water sports in all Maldives spa resorts.
Try something different. Why not go fishing on the big boat and bring back some catch that the hotel’s chefs will cook for you or if you are up for it will teach you how to cook it. Canoeing is a more relaxing way to hit the water and they can put together a picnic basket for you.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
