Issue #6

ISSUE NO. 6
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI
Located a 45-minute scenic seaplane ride from Male in the unspoilt Noonu Atoll,
The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi rises like a pearl out of the Indian Ocean. Set within 52 acres of
white sands and exotic flora, here guests are immersed in a timeless culture. From the intuitive
detail and personalised service that creates the most beautiful of memories,
to the sublime ambience that permeates each unforgettable taste, touch and experience,
at Iru Fushi the incredible awaits.
Dedicated Passion www.thesunsiyam.com
T +960 6560591 F + 960 6560592
E info@thesunsiyam.com
3
Enjoy your
yout stay in one of the most
Historical Atoll's
in the Maldives, with us...
Tel: +960 689 8721 Fax: +960 6898020
equator@dhivehinet.net.mv
www.equatorvillage.com
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Issue #6, Volume 3 / April 2015
MANAGING EDITOR
Mohamed Mamduh
info@perspective.mv
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Maryiam Athiza Athif
Nashiu Zahir
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fathimath Lamya Abdullah,
Nashiu Zahir, Aysha Naseem, Maryiam Athiza Athif,
James Hancock, Iselle McCalman
LAYOUT & DESIGN
Ali Imran Mohamed
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
SALES AND MARKETING EXECUTIVE
THE COVER
Aminath Ali
FLYME EDITORIAL MANAGER
Iselle McCalman
IMAGES COURTESY OF THE FOLLOWING
Flyme, Amilla Fushi, MWSRP, Carpe Diem, Duniye Spa,
Eco Islands Maldives, Somerset Hotel, Melody Skye, Gertjan
Van Veert, Shaahina Ali, Wikipedia, Shutterstock
PRINTER
Novelty Printers and Publishers Pvt. Ltd., Maldives
Mash-hood Abdulla
PUBLISHED BY
FOR
Perspecitve Pvt Ltd
3rd Floor, Emerald Building, 2032
Koli Umar Maniku Goalhi,
Male, Republic of Maldives,
info@perspective.mv
www.perspective.mv
Villa Air Pvt Ltd
5th Floor, Villa House, 20181
Kandidhonmanik Goalhi,
Male, Republic of Maldives,
www.flyme.mv
Artist: Kareen Adam
Title: Maakanaa
Medium: silk screen on paper
Size: 18.2 x 24.4 cm
Limited edition of 4 Prints
Flying over the Maldivian archipelago is a serene experience at it inspired this artwork. For
most of the journey I become mesmerized by the vastness of the ocean heaving and flowing
thousands of meters beneath me. I wonder if the maakanaa (crane) meditating by the shore feels the same way
as I do sitting up above in the sky.
This artwork was created for Fiya, Flyme’s inflight magazine.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Kareen is a Maldivian visual artist. Having spent half her life living between Maldives, Sri Lanka and Australia
Kareen’s works reflect ideas about transitions, migration and cultural assimilation. Themes about sense of
belonging and home often emerge in Kareen’s work. This fluctuation between multiple physical and mental
spaces is explored using printmaking – Kareen’s primary medium of expression amongst drawing, painting
and mixed media. The processes involved in printmaking lend itself to the concepts Kareen expresses in her
work, both in its production and aesthetics. Recently Kareen has developed a range of handmade, hand-printed
products under her own label “Kudaingili”. Kareen has a diploma in Visual Arts and a postgraduate degree in
Psychology.
You can contact Kareen for commissions by email kareen.adam@gmail.com and follow her work on Facebook
www.facebook.com/KareenAdam.MKA or website www.kareenadam.com
CONTENTS
5
08
Male’ Guide
10
Evolution of the Maldivian Script
12
Annual Review of Whale Shark Research
15
The History of Gan
24
HCP Bell’s The Maldive Islands - A Review
20
Have you seen the Flying Whale Shark?
28
Wonders of Ari Atoll
30
Belle Amie Bistro
33
Carpe Diem
34
Airport Beach - Munich Residence
18
Amilla Fushi
40
Island Playlist
42
Mezzo Mohamed
44
Turtles of Maldives
46
Holistic approach to wellness
54
Technology Review
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
EDITORIAL

WELCOME ONBOARD FLYME ‫ ވިލާއެއަރ‬،ު‫ ވަނަ އަހަރުގެ ފުރަތަމަ ކުއާޓާރ ނިމުމަކަށް އައުން ގާތްވެފައިވާއިރ‬5102
ީ‫ މި އަހަރަކ‬.ެ‫ފްލައިމީއަށް ވަނީ ވަރަށް ގިނަގުނަ ކާމިޔާބީތަކާއި ކުރިއެރުންތަކެއް ލިބިފައެވ‬
ު‫އަހަރ‬
ަ‫ވަނ‬
5104
،ު‫އަހަރަށްވާއިރ‬
ަ‫ވަނ‬
4
ާ‫ފެށިތ‬
ް‫ހިންގަނ‬
ި‫މިކުންފުނ‬
564 ަ‫ އަދި ޖުމްލ‬.ެ‫ ފަސިންޖަރުން ދަތުރުކުރައްވާފައެވ‬332,000 ީ‫އަޅުގަޑުމެންނާއިއެކު ވަނ‬
ް‫ ފްލައިޓ‬072 ް‫ ޑޮމެސްޓިކް އެއާރޕޯރޓަށް ހަފްތާއަކު މަދުވެގެނ‬7 ،ު‫ގޮޑީގެ ޖާގައާއިއެކ‬
.ެ‫ދަތުރު ކުރުމަށް ތާވަލު ކުރެވިފައިވެއެވ‬
ް‫މީގެ އިތުރުން ފާހަގަ ކޮށްލެވޭ އެންމެ ބޮޑު ކާމިޔާބީއަކީ ވިލާއެއަރ ފްލައިމީގެ ފްލީޓަށ‬
ެ‫ މިއާއިއެކު އަޅުގަނޑުމެންގ‬.ެ‫ މަރުކާގެ ދެވަނަ މަތިންދާބޯޓު އިތުރުކުރެވުމެވ‬ATR72-500
ާ‫ ދަތުރުވެރިންގެ ތަރުހީބު ލިބިފައިވ‬،ް‫ހިދުމަތް ފުޅާކުރުމުގެ ގޮތުން ދަތުރުތައް އިތުރުކޮށ‬
ެ‫ފްލައިމީގެ ދަތުރުތަކާއި އަރާމާއި ފެންވަރަށް ބަދަލެއް އައުމަކާ ނުލައި ފްލައިމީގެ ދަތުރުތަކުގ‬
.ެ‫ހިދުމަތް ފޯރުވައި ދިނުމުގެ ފުރުސަތު ލިބިގެންދާނެއެވ‬
ީ‫ އަޅުގަނޑުމެންގެ ފުރަތަމަ ސީޕްލޭން ވަނީ މިހާރު ރަސްމ‬،ު‫ދިގު އިންތިޒާރަކަށް ފަހ‬
،ި‫ އެގޮތުން ފުރަތަމަ ސީޕްލޭން ޕްލެޓްފޯރމް ވަނީ އަރިއަތޮޅު ދެކުނުބުރ‬.ެ‫ދަތުރުތައް ފަށާފައެވ‬
ެ‫ މި ދަތުރު ތަކުގެ ސަބަބުން ދިވެހިރާއްޖޭގ‬.ެ‫ސަން އައިލެންޑް ރިސޯރޓް ކައިރީގައި އަޅާފައެވ‬
.ެ‫ރަށްތަކުގެ ރީތިކަން ތަފާތު ގޮތަކަށް މަތިން ބަލާލުމުގެ ފުރުސަތު ލިބިގެންދާނެއެވ‬
ް‫ފްލައިމީގެ މި އިންފްލައިޓް މެގަޒިންގެ ކަވަރުގެ އައު ފަރުމާ އަޅުގަޑުމެންނާއިއެކު އާންމުކޮށ‬
ް‫ ދިވެހި އާޓިސްޓުންގެ ހުނަރުތައ‬.ެ‫ދަތުރުކުރައްވާ ފަސިންޖަރުންނަށް ފާހަގަ ކުރެވިދާނެއެވ‬
ެ‫ އެކުރެހުންތެރިންގެ މަސައްކަތް މަޝްހޫރުކޮށް ފުޅާކުރުމަށް ހިއްވަރެއް ދިނުމުގ‬،ާ‫ދައްކާލ‬
ެ‫ މިގޮތުން އަޅުގަޑުމެންގެ މެގަޒިންގ‬.ެ‫ނިޔަތުގައި އަޅުގަޑުމެން މިވަނީ މަސައްކަތް ފަށާފައެވ‬
ާ‫ކަވަރުގެ ކުރެހުމުގެ އަސްލު ބައްލަވައި ގަތުމަށް ހައްދަވަންވީ ގޮތުގެ މައުލޫމާތު އެތެރޭގައިވ‬
.ެ‫ކުރެހުންތެރިޔާގެ ކޮލަމްއިން ލިބިވަޑައިގަންނަވާނެއެވ‬
ް‫އަޅުގަނޑުމެން ކެނޑިނޭޅި މިމަސައްކަތް ކުރަނީ ތިއެންމެހާ ލޮބުވެތި ފަސިންޖަރުންނަށ‬
ެ‫ ފްލައިމީ އާއިއެކު ކުރައްވާ ކޮންމ‬.ެ‫ވީހާވެސް ފެންވަރު ރަނގަޅު ހިދުމަތެއް ފޯރުކޮށްދިނުމަށެވ‬
ު‫ދަތުރަކީ ދަތިތަކާއި ނުލައި ހިތްހަމަޖެހުމާއި އެކު ކުރެވޭ ދަތުރަކަށްވާނެކަމުގެ އުންމީދާއެކ‬
.ެ‫ތިޔަފަރާތުން ދެއްވާ ތަރުހީބަށް ޝުކުރުދަންނަވަމެވ‬
،ް ‫ރިލުވާން ޝަރީފ‬
ީ ‫ ފްލައިމ‬/ ‫ ވިލާއެއަރ‬- ‫މެނޭޖިންގ ް ޑިރެކްޓަރ‬
As we approach the end of the first quarter of 2015,
Flyme has already seen some exciting achievements and
developments. In 2014, its 4th year of operation, Flyme
transported a total number of 332,000 passengers and can
now boast a seat capacity of 264, with at least 175 scheduled
flights a week to 7 domestic airports.
Another milestone was the addition of our 2nd ATR 72500 to the fleet. This expansion means we will be able to
cater for the growing demand by increasing frequencies,
without compromising on the comfort and style our
passengers have become used to.
After a long wait, our SeePlane operation has officially
commenced its commercial operation. With the first floating
platform installed near Sun Island in South Ari Atoll, our
passengers can enjoy a unique birds-eye view of the
Maldives islands. However, flights can still be joined from
Villa International Airport Maamigili as well.
Our frequent travellers might also have noticed the new
look of our magazine cover. We are happy to announce that
Flyme has taken the initiative to work with local artists to
promote Maldivian art. We hope that by featuring artists’
work on our cover, we can give local artists exposure and
motivate them to promote their work. A very limited number
of the original cover prints will be available for purchase.
Please have a look at the artist column for more details.
We are continuously striving to deliver the best services to
you, our valued passengers. The Flyme team will ensure that
the time you spend with us is enjoyable and hassle-free.
Most of all, it is the commitment of everyone at Flyme to
strive to maintain the safety and quality of our product and
not compromise our standards as we grow and aspire for
wider service to our passengers.
Enjoy your flight, and I hope to see you soon on one of our
services.
Riluwan Shareef
Managing Director - Villa Air / Flyme
7
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
N
Male’ Guide
S
Male is the bite-sized capital of the Maldives, a frenzied city
dotted with tall multi-hued buildings, raucous streets and
bustling cafés. The economic hub of the small archipelago,
Male’ presents visitors with an experience distinct from that
of resorts; it is fast-paced, brimming with people and traffic.
For residents, there is simply no time to stop and stare, but
there are quite a few charming places for the tourist to inspect
at her leisure.
The Republic Square
A vast open space, the kind of luxury you do not get in the
city, the square is home to hundreds of pigeons, and quite
possibly the largest iteration of the Maldivian National
Flag. Opposite the square sits the country’s Defense Head
Quarters. On one corner is the tall sky blue Police Head
Quarters. The square is scorching during the day but is a nice
spot to sit and relax late in the afternoon or in the evenings.
The Chaandhanee Magu Souvenir Shop District
An old district that has been around almost as long as tourism
in the country, some of these shops are veritable institutions.
Expect anything from t-shirts adorned with local batik art to
shark tooth pendants to kitschy fridge magnets. And always
bargain.
The Islamic Centre
Just around the bend from the shopping district is the
main mosque of the capital, and indeed, the biggest of
its kind anywhere on the archipelago. Its official name,
Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaan al-Auzam is a
mouthful (Muhammad Thakurufaan is believed to be
chief among those who liberated the Maldives from the
Portuguese in the 16th Century). The majestic golden dome
and minaret mould Male’s skyline; they are readily apparent
as you approach the city.
Friday Mosque and Minaret
Just up the road from the Islamic Centre is another mosque,
but not just any mosque, it is the most important heritage
site of the country. Constructed in the mid-17th century, the
Friday Mosque has been in continuous use ever since. The
mosque is built mainly out of coral stone and features
intricate coral carvings, a pinnacle of Maldivian craftsmanship.
Its interior displays fine lacquer calligraphy and decoration,
among the best in the country. The local carpenters who
carried out the roofing and other woodwork have their graves
in the eastern part of the mosque. The minaret is believed to
be constructed in the fashion of those in Mecca at the time.
It was built on the orders of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar. The
Friday Mosque complex has been on UNESCO’s tentative
World Heritage List since 2008.
9
The National Museum
The museum was first opened in the fifties by the then Prime
Minister Mohamed Amin Didi. The current Museum building,
funded by the Chinese Government, is housed in Sultan Park.
It features relics from the pre-Islamic era and various royal
artefacts, including sunshades, thrones and slippers worn by
Maldivian royalty. The museum is also home to a fragment of
moon rock from the US Apollo mission to the moon. There is a
cover charge of 20 Rufiyaa per adult, but it is definitely
worth the money.
Sultan Park
The biggest park in the capital and once part of the
palace grounds; it is an excellent place to seek shade and sip
a cold drink amid the tall trees, rarities in the concrete choked
city. A banyan tree close to the museum seems to intrigue
tourists. The park is also home to the National Library and
the museum.
Artificial Beach Area
This is the only ‘beach’ to be found in the city, it is a place to
cool off and enjoy some food. No bikinis, but you can catch
the rays in shorts and a tank top. Surrounding the horse-shoe
shaped beach are various restaurants that serve International
cuisines including Indian, Thai and Italian.
Raalhugandu
This area on the eastern edge of the city is where the
cool kids hang out, catching the waves or contemplating
the sea over cigarettes and energy drinks. Obviously a
place for surfing, and getting to know the genial folk of the
local surf community.
Dhivehi Malaafaiy
Located close to Sultan Park, on Rah Dhebai Magu
Dhivehi Malaafaiy is a restaurant specialising in Maldivian
cuisine. It is a great place to unwind, smoke a shisha and
check out a wealth of uniquely Maldivian dishes. Try
Garudhiya and Bai, a local staple consisting of steamed rice,
fish broth, homemade chili paste, lime and onions.
Alternatively go for Kukulhu Musamma, a delectable dry
chicken curry, moderately spicy but edible and enjoyable even
for those with a western palate.
Carnival Area
Further up, in the eastern part of the island, there is another
place for local fare, especially breakfast and ‘short eats’,
finger food consisting of fish balls and samosa-like snacks
called ‘Bajiyaa’, to be had in the evenings. They also provide
some local interpretations of international fare; check out the
ever popular nasi goreng.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Evolution of
the Maldivian Script
by Fathimath Lamya Abdullah
These “Lōmāfānu” Copper Plates
written in Evēla Akuru dates
back to the 12th Century
Although the Maldives is renowned for its exquisite natural
beauty worldwide, there is still much unknown about the
country. Who the first settlers were, and what caused the
inception of the Dhivehi language and the various Dhivehi
scripts are uncertain. These are a mixture of puzzle pieces
many have attempted to put together.
Based on the little archaeological remains that have endured
the many centuries, and reliable texts from renowned
travellers and adventurers, it is believed that Maldives has
been inhabited for at least 2500 years, ever since the Indians
began long seafaring journeys, as the Maldives lay in the
middle of an important ancient marine route. Therefore,
Maldivians are a mixture of many races, descended from
seafarers of the ancient times; Indians, Sri Lankans, Chinese,
Europeans and Africans. Thus, our language and script are
the result of a wide variety of these influences that have
also shaped the country’s culture as we know it.
Ancient Maldivian scripts resemble and share many similarities
with those of our neighbouring countries. It is believed
that many of the changes our script underwent were
brought about intentionally, as a measure taken to maintain
some originality and authenticity reserved to Maldivians.
Furthermore, these changes may have come as a result
of attempts to preserve and protect our traditions and
religion as well.
The oldest texts found in the Maldives were written in Evēla
Akuru. H.C.P. Bell, who was a British civil servant stationed
in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in 1890, and later appointed as an
archaeologist, claimed that Evēla Akuru bore similarities
with the Sinhala script. Evēla shows similarities to South
Asian scripts such as Elu, Tamil and Malayalam’s Vatteluttu.
Accordingly, all these scripts are deemed to be related,
sprouting from, or from the branches of an ancient Indian
script called Brahmi.
Evēla can be seen on ‘Lōmāfānu’ (copper plate grants) and in
inscriptions on ‘hiriga’ (coral stone) dating back to the Maldivian
Buddhist Period. It is written from left to right, and was used
even after the Maldives embraced Islam in the year 1153, when
the last Buddhist King converted to Islam.
To this day it remains a mystery when Evēla evolved to Dhives
Akuru, and when Maldivians actively started to use it as a
substitution for Evēla. Both scripts share a lot of similar
characteristics, with one being that they were both written
from left to right. Furthermore, both Dhives and Evēla letters
give an “a” sound in their default state, even when fili (signs
that give the vowel sounds) are not added to them. Indeed, to
get the other vowel sounds, fili has to be added to the letters.
11
It is speculated that our nation changed its script completely
to reinforce Islam and incorporate its ways better into
the Maldivian culture. This change is speculated to have
happened during the reign of Al Sultan Musa’faru Muhammed
Imaadhudheen Sireekula Sundharu Siyakaa Saasthura
Mahaaradhun during the early 18th century. The Sultan
deemed that the Maldives was in need of a religious reform,
and he worked, alongside the well-educated, to implement
Thaana as the official script, written from right to left
like Arabic.
Noted scholars Hassan Thaajudheen and Mohamed
Siraajudheen both highly familiar with Arabic, and both
known to be advisors to the Sultan, are assumed to have
played a crucial role in inventing Thaana. Additionally,
it is also assumed that the Sultan ordered the change, or
at the very least gave permission for the change, since the
Maldives was a monarchy back then, an individual would
require the Sultan’s consent to bring about such a reform.
A letter written in early Tahana Akuru. Dates back to the early 18th Century
A Dhives Akuru document written in 1626 AD
Dhives Akuru was used throughout the nation, till the late
18th century, when Thaana, the modern Maldivian script,
completely replaced the Dhives Akuru in 1778. The oldest
Thaana writings are seen in documents that date as far
back as 1705. However, it is believed that it was already used
by the southern atolls on a larger scale even before then,
though there is no fool proof evidence backing this up. During
the years preceding the formal transition, Thaana was also
known to be used in official documents of the government.
It is widely accepted that Thaana, which is written from right to
left, was introduced to better integrate Arabic words into the
Maldivian script. The order of the Thaana alphabet follows no
apparent logic as it doesn’t follow the order of the Arabic nor
Indic scripts. It is further unknown if all the letters of the Thaana
alphabet were invented at once, or gradually. The first nine
letters of the Thaana alphabet are derived from the first
nine Arabic numerals, while the next nine letters are derived
from the local Indic numerals. The remaining letters were
probably derived from phonetically similar native consonants,
with the exception of ‘yaa’- the Thaana equivalent of ‘y’, as
there are no assumptions or speculations regarding its origin
so far.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Annual Review of
Whale
Shark
Research
by James Hancock
The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP)
released its Annual Report in March, detailing the
organisation’s key research findings and community
engagement outputs.
We’ve gathered together a selection of the best research bits
to give you an overview of the work that Flyme is helping to
support!
Between February 2014 and February 2015, 308 whale shark
encounters were logged and environmental parameters
recorded by the MWSRP. This was supplemented by an
additional 388 sightings contributed by guides on resorts and
tourists themselves, bringing a total haul of data from 696
encounters – that’s just shy of two encounters per day! No
wonder South Ari atoll is one of the world’s premier whale
shark viewing sites!
13
PHOTO BY MELODY SKYE
The laser-photogrammetry rig in operation. It provides very
accurate lengths in an unobtrusive way
Citizen scientists ‘underestimate whale shark size’
The MWSRP uses a sophisticated technique to measure
the whale sharks called ‘laser-photogrammetry’, relying on
underwater lasers to accurately project a known length onto
the shark from which an equation can be used to calculate
how many times that distance fits into the overall length of the
shark. Using this technique, the determined average length
of a whale shark seen this year was 5.89 metres (≈ 20ft). This
ties in very closely with last year’s average of 5.97m and again
continues to reaffirm what we are beginning to understand
about this whale shark population.
From the results collected by the MWSRP team, we
know that all these sightings represent a total of just 50
individual whale sharks, of which all but 5 were already known
to the team from previous years. This is very representative
of the understanding of the whale sharks in this area, as the
same sharks are seen year after year with only a few new
additions joining the population each season. What was really
exciting for the MWSRP though, was the contributions from
others via the Big Fish Network. In all, 15 new sharks were
identified from photos submitted by ‘citizen scientists’,
showing the value of having many eyes on the reefs over the
course of a year.
Also true to form, the gender bias of these new sharks
remained resolutely male. Four were photographically
confirmed as male, with the team unable to confirm the
gender of the final one. Overall though, the gender bias of
positively sexed sharks for this whole period lay at 93.6%,
slightly less than the overall average of 96%.
Another, much simpler technique to measure sharks is simply
to make an ‘eye-ball’ estimate of the length. Now, the MWSRP
team have had many hundreds of encounters with whale
sharks over the years and also benefit from finding out daily
how close their estimates are to the actual length provided by
the lasers. Even so, the experienced team’s best effort average
for whale sharks over the year was 5.75 metres.
Rather surprisingly, the average estimation of size from citizen
scientists was less, at just 5.17m. That’s a little over 10% less.
This is surprising for a few reasons. Firstly, it’s a compliment to
the system of averaging that the accuracy is that close! There
were some wild estimations amongst the maximum and
minimum outliers! Secondly, it was long suspected that
people first seeing a whale shark underwater would be ‘blown
away’ by its bulk. Add to this that underwater objects appear
25% bigger and closer and for the uninitiated a whale shark
is a mightily impressive object and so it was expected that
people would grossly overestimate the size. One explanation
could be that everyone is used to seeing sharks around about
the average length, so when a rarer, smaller shark turns up
they actually underestimate it’s size! This is the first year that
citizen science estimations have been included in the results
and MWSRP is fascinated to find out whether this is going to
be the case next year, too.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY ECO ISLANDS MALDIVES
PHOTO BY DOUWE DE GRAAF
The nearly 2m ‘Strapless’ showing his entanglement
Released unharmed, this ‘neonate’ shark is one of the first
recorded in the Maldives
Special Recordings
Citizen scientist members of the Big Fish Network contributed
some standout whale shark encounters during the February
2014 – February 2015 period. These encounters expand on
the known range or population make-up of sharks previously
reported to MWSRP and add lots of questions to the
importance of the Maldives to this species.
In November 2014, Eco Islanders Maldives reported a
‘neonate’ whale shark in the Maldives. Estimated at just 1
metre long, this juvenile was at most a few months old.
Captured amongst floating flotsam by fishermen and brought
ashore to be photographed it was released unharmed the
same day. Its discovery sparks exciting questions about the
possibility of pupping areas in the western Indian Ocean for
this species. This individual entered the MWSRP’s whale shark
database as ‘WS217’ and was called ‘Noomaa’ or ‘Blue Flower’
by the fisherman that found it.
The wounds caused by the strap are visible after it is released
In April 2014 divers from the liveaboard vessel MV Carpe Diem
encountered a whale shark estimated just under 2 metres in
length and which was entangled in a plastic box strap which
was threatening to constrict its future growth. Already causing
open wounds on the sharks back and pectoral fins, the divers
successfully removed the strap by hand. WS208 ‘Strapless’
was added to the database.
The new year is still young and the collaboration between
Flyme and MWSRP brings exciting potential for future
discoveries. We will continue to report these as they occur,
but should you wish to learn more about the Maldives Whale
Shark Research Programme then you can find us on our
website, www.mwsrp.org or follow us on Facebook,
www.facebook.com/mwsrp
15
Your Perfect Escape
Designed for pure relaxation with its sun kissed powdery beaches, crystal clear waters and
mesmerizing underwater life, these perfectly located retreats are a true escapist dream.
Riding with the dolphins, alfresco dining by the beach or indulging your senses at the spa,
discover Maldives at your own pace. When you stay with us, our promise to deliver an affordable
luxury holiday stays true.
OLHUVELI BEACH & SPA RESORT
MALDIVES
www.olhuvelimaldives.com
VILU REEF BEACH & SPA RESORT
MALDIVES
www.vilureefmaldives.com
H.Maley-thila, Meheli Goalhi, Male’, Rep. of Maldives
T +960 332 5977 F +960 331 8273 E info@sunsiyam.com
www.sunsiyam.com
PHOTO BY ISELLE MCCALMAN
Sunset as seen from Gan Airport
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
THE HISTORY OF GAN
A unique story of modern-day exploration
Some people might, or might not, know that the British had a Naval
and Airforce Base in the South of the Maldives during the years of
occupation. The story of GAN remains an interesting part of not just
the British Empire expansion, but also of the Maldives.
Gan, located in Addu (previously Seenu) Atoll – the most
southerly atoll in the Maldives, is also the second largest
island of the atoll, after Hithadhoo, and measures 2.2561
square kilometers (0.87 sq mi) in area. Gan (not to be
confused with two other Maldivian islands of the same name,
Gan (Huvadhu Atoll) and Gan (Laamu Atoll)) was formerly
inhabited, but its inhabitants were moved to neighbouring
islands in the atoll after the British naval and airbase was built.
It has had continuous human habitation since very ancient
times. There were large cultivated fields of yams, manioc and
coconut trees on this island.
Approach into Gan Airport
PHOTO BY ISELLE MCCALMAN
Ideal location in the Indian Ocean
Britain first made contact with the Islands in 1887 by means
of a letter from the Governor of Ceylon, representing the
Crown. Subsequently, many expeditions visited Gan and
in 1941 plans were laid to make use of Gan for the purpose
of then shore based ‘Fleet Air Arm Squadron’, this being
under Naval control. By early 1942, work was started on the
first airfield by the Royal Engineer Company Army Units and
the help of the Maldivians. By late 1942 the first runway was
complete, this running NW/SE and being 1,600 yards long.
Not long after, a second runway was completed. This one
being slightly shorter at 1,200 yards and running NE/SW.
A third strip was never completed.
The construction of the airfield was a lengthy process,
undertaken by local manual labourers. First came the job of
removing the top layer of loose soil and a minimum of 12 inches
of lump coral was put down; then came 6 inches of 2 inch
coral, this being covered with sand and coral dust. After this
was well rolled and watered, a final layer of pea coral was
spread over. All this was done by hand - it must have been
tough for the Gan people of that period, but it was not in
vain as the result was a hard, even surface and could take the
landing of a fully loaded freight aircraft.
Gan proved to be of great value during the Second World
War, as the Japanese had over-run Burma and Malaya and at
this time were also threatening India and Ceylon. Yet things
were not quiet in Gan either, as Maldivians were re-housed in
Feydhoo and Maradhoo and Gan was stripped of its mass of
17
Gan island and Addu atoll today –
an attractive alternative in the Maldives
Addu Atoll
GAN
palm trees and scrub to be replaced by guns. Within time, though, the
Japanese were slowly pushed back in Malaya and Gan came to be of less
importance and slowly the island was once again left in peace.
The year 1957 brought the British back to the paradise island, this time
with a slightly longer lease, a 30 year one. It took several years before
a firm agreement was reached by the government and during this time
the Islands witnessed an uprising by some of the Addu people, which
started on the 1st of June, 1959. The reason for the uprising was general
dissatisfaction over Government policies, particularly over taxation, the
channeling of all trade through Male’ and fears that the government
wished to restrict the locals from working for the R.A.F. This problem was
solved though, and life settled down to a happy pace.
Unfortunately for the inhabitants of Gan and the atoll, the islands
were once again abandoned by the British when the Maldives became
independent in 1976. Some of the old buildings, and war relics can
still be seen.
Being so far south on the Maldives map, and
having been subjected to the British influences
for many years, the culture and even language
of the people of Addu are vastly different from
that of Male’ and the more northerly atolls.
Fortunately, the Maldives government supported
the development in Addu atoll. Today Gan has
a hotel catering for tourists and is connected
by causeways to the neighboring islands of
Feydhoo, Maradhoo and Hithadhoo. The airport
runway was restored, a new terminal building
erected and the airport obtained ‘international’
status. The airport also boasts a flying school
- the Asian Aviation Academy. The port is now
a commercial port where many fishing vessels
and safari boats dock. Resorts were built on the
neighbouring islands and many guest houses
are now being developed, which makes this atoll
an attractive alternative to visitors.
For keen divers, this is better than paradise as
the remote location ensures uncrowded and
pristine dive spots with a mix of ocean and
lagoon reef diving.
Getting to Addu: All flights are routed through
Male’ to Gan International Airport where
passengers are collected by safari boat, resort
boat or taxi, depending on the end destination.
The flight is about 1 ½ hours direct or sometimes
flights are combined and first stops at another
atoll airport.
Information from various sources, but special
thanks to maldivesculture.com
Tropical island airport
PHOTO BY ISELLE MCCALMAN
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Amilla
Fushi
Home away from home
Amilla Fushi literally means ‘my island home’ in Dhivehi. As
the name suggests, Amilla Fushi is setting itself apart as
the new home away from home located within the pristine
environment of Baa Atoll, with a refreshingly modern take on
the ultimate authentic Maldives experience.
Conceived and managed by The Small Maldives Island Co.,
Amilla officially opened its doors at the end of March 2015.
The luxury resort brings a new way of doing things to a
destination that has found itself in a conceptual cul-de-sac.
The island comes with a relaxed down-to-earth approach.
Amilla provides a genuine, laid-back service, with all guests
welcomed and flawlessly cared for by unstuffy, charismatic
Maldivian Katheebs.
Amilla is also all about guests enjoying the ultimate magical
Maldives holiday experience, without feeling ripped off.
There will be no stinging guests every time they open a
bottle of water or connect to wifi to Instagram another
pool selfie, then waving them off the island with a serious
case of ‘bill shock’. This also means that there’s no ‘paywall’
deterring guests from making the most of the pristine UNESCO
biosphere Baa Atoll. A 20-minute motorised water sports
activity is included every day for every guest and unlimited
non-motorised water sports activities are complimentary as
well; guests can enjoy a daily 50-minute spa treatment as
part of the room rate; and all child care is complimentary, from
the Kids Club to au-pairs, and a free babysitting service. No
need for parents to cost-control by parking their kids in front
of the resort PlayStation for hours on end; instead families
will be free to splash around to their hearts’ content, with a
host of supervised fun and games ensuring an unforgettable,
authentically aquatic Maldivian adventure.
What’s more, Amilla’s house reef even boasts its very own
renowned ‘Blue Hole’ dive site within snorkelling distance
of the beach. The Small Maldives Island Co. has partnered
with pioneering Dive Butler International to provide safe,
seamless, luxury scuba diving services to new, beginner and
experienced scuba divers alike.
Amilla Fushi comes with clean, contemporary architecture
inspired by the simplicity of a traditional Maldivian house
but with an added element of modernity. The priority when
designing the resort was to keep everything natural and lush,
and avoid destroying habitat or artificially expanding the
island through dredging.
The resort is home to more purpose-designed island houses
of two or more bedrooms than any other Maldives resort perfect for families and groups of friends. All of the houses of
one, two or more bedrooms have directly connecting rooms
under one roof for total peace of mind. Spacious one and
two-bed Beach Houses; 12-metre high, two-bed Tree Houses;
and Lagoon, Ocean Lagoon and Ocean Reef Houses ranging
between 200 and 600 square metres all have their own large
pool and are to be complemented by 6 stunning bespoke
Beach Residences of three to six bedrooms that are due to be
completed by May 2015.
Amilla Fushi is also setting itself apart with its food. The vision
of ‘Island Restaurateur’, acclaimed Aussie chef Luke Mangan
(described by food legend Anthony Bourdain as ‘the Michael
Corleone of Sydney’s restaurant scene’) is to prepare the kind
of food people really want to eat on holiday at a reasonable
price. Out goes tray charge, starched-shirt service and linen,
and in comes cocktails, barbecue flavours, zingy ceviches and
tropical ingredients – realised to perfection at the relaxed
over-water restaurant, Lonu.
Curling around one of the biggest swimming pools in the
Maldives, is Baazaar, the hub of the island. The Baazaar is a
food ‘baazaar’ that gives guests the opportunity to indulge in
diverse culinary offerings from around the world. The outlets
at Baazaar include Fresh, Tapas, Grill, Baazaar Bar, Joe’s Pizza
and even the first proper Fish & Chips shop in the Maldives.
Guests are also free to grab some snacks from the island’s
Emperor General Store, including fresh fruits and vegetables,
deli style sandwiches and fine cuts of meat plus wine from
Cellar Door wine shop, making Amilla Fushi a true ‘home away
from home’ experience for foodies.
19
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Have you seen the Flying Whale Shark?
The wait is FINALLY OVER!!
Flyme has started the commercial flights of its SEEPLANE operation after a period of intensive training and preparation.
Passengers can now have a bird’s-eye view of the Maldives in the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin. The Cessna Caravan
amphibious aircraft, fitted with 7 seats and extra-large windows, makes it the ideal way to capture this unique archipelago.
With the installation of the first docking platform near Sun Island, visitors to South Ari atoll can choose between a runway
or platform operation. The installation of more docking platforms in various locations and other atolls - allowing
passengers easy access to this unique experience - are being planned.
You can SEE more with the SEEPLANE…
At a glance…
AIRCRAFT
Cessna Caravan B208 amphibious
Some of the first
SeePlane
DURATION OF PHOTO FLIGHT
20 minutes
passengers
excited about
MAX # OF PAX PER FLIGHT
7
their flight!
RATES
Contact the resort where you are staying
E-MAIL ENQUIRY AND BOOKINGS
seeplane@flyme.mv
SeePlane crew with the team from
Maldives Whale Shark Research
Programme (MWSRP)
Flyme teamed up with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP), based in South
Ari atoll, flying aerial surveys and
also providing special Whale Shark
Research flights in the SeePlane.
School children from South Ari atoll posing for a
photo in front of the ‘Flying Whale Shark’ before
their flight. They were participants in the Whale
Shark Festival.
21
Undocking from the platform
Taking off…
Taxiing
out
Through the huge
windows of the
SeePlane
SeePlane gracing the blue skies
WHY DON’T YOU JOIN US FOR
• Photo Flights
• Sightseeing
• Personalized charter trips
• Whale Shark spotting
… and many more
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Skin
Care
Tips
by Fathimath Lamya Abdullah
FoR HOT WEATHER
The equatorial tropical climate is what makes Maldives so
very attractive to those that live in colder, frigid temperatures.
Especially popular as a getaway destination during the harsh
winters, the hot and humid weather is regarded as a welcome
change by most. However, this change that you welcome with
good grace might not be something that your skin welcomes
so willingly.
Humidity can be very good for your complexion, as the
damp air aids rapid cell turnover, leaving the epidermis soft
and supple. However, humidity can also cause you to sweat
and this can aggravate acne-prone skin. Furthermore, skin
conditions like miliaria, a heat rash that occurs when sweat
ducts are clogged, or folliculitis, the inflammation of hair ducts
caused by microorganisms, may arise from getting overheated.
Anyone that has lived in one place for long would have
perfected a skin care routine down to the dot according to the
skin type and climate. However, before a trip to Maldives you
might want to re-think your skin care rituals for the duration,
as the procedures that you follow in cold or warm places may
produce some unwanted or harmful effects on your skin in the
hot and humid Maldives.
There are several things that can be done to reduce the harmful
effects of a humid climate on your skin before they even start.
Though the treatments to the various skin conditions may be
different, the steps to successful prevention are quite the same.
All you need to do is adapt your skin care routine to best suit
the humidity, and remain cool to ward off the scorching heat.
23
Moisturize
Cleanse
Humid weather can make your pores go into overdrive
and produce more sweat to cool off your overheated
body, which makes you more prone to breakouts,
especially if you have oily skin. To avoid having oily skin
full of excess sweat, wash your face at least once a day,
using warm water and a non-comedogenic (does not
blocks pores) skin cleanser. If you are prone to breakouts,
you might also need to use an acne-care treatment
that includes salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as these
help to naturally dry up the oil caused by the humidity
while treating the pimple causing bacteria. However, as
these will increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, it is
advised to use them during night time. In a situation
where you feel extra sweaty, just splash some lukewarm
water on your face. This will wash away the sweat and
open your pores without stripping your skin of its
natural moisture.
No TOUCHING
While you might experience an urge to wipe away the
sweat and succumb to its complimentary itchiness, it is
something that you must never do in humid weather. The
ostensibly innocent action only spreads the dirt and oil
present on your face, and may even introduce bacteria,
making the already bad situation worse. Rather than
wiping the sweat off with your hand try blotting your
skin with a clean tissue. You can also use an oil-absorbing,
skin-blotting cosmetic paper, that’s often sold from
cosmetic stores. These extra-absorbent items help to
suck the oil and sweat out of your skin giving you a more
matte appearance.
Exposure to the sun can dry out the skin on your face
and body, and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
It is best to use a moisturizer that contains a broad
spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40 to protect
your face and body from ultraviolet rays. It is advised to
do this even on seemingly cloudy days in Maldives, as
the weather here is quite unpredictable. When applying
moisturizer on your face, skip the areas that produce the
most oil, also known as the T-zone. The moisturizer may
aggravate your already oily skin and make you more
susceptible to breakouts. The T-zone generally covers
your nose and the forehead right above your eyebrows.
EXOFOLIATE
While you might experience an urge to wipe away the
sweat and succumb to its complimentary itchiness, it is
something that you must never do in humid weather. The
ostensibly innocent action only spreads the dirt and oil
present on your face, and may even introduce bacteria,
making the already bad situation worse. Rather than
wiping the sweat off with your hand try blotting your
skin with a clean tissue. You can also use an oil-absorbing,
skin-blotting cosmetic paper, that’s often sold from
cosmetic stores. These extra-absorbent items help to
suck the oil and sweat out of your skin giving you a more
matte appearance.
STAY COOL
One thing you must never be without in a humid climate
such as the Maldives is a bottle of water. Drink plenty of
water to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Additionally,
it is best to wear cool clothing, nothing that will
overheat your body or cause excessive sweating.
Cotton and linen clothing is the most suitable choice,
accompanied by a hat. Doctors also do advice to shower
at least twice a day using anti-bacterial soap.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
HCP Bell’s
THE
MALDIVE
ISLANDS
An account of
the physical features, climate, history, inhabitants,
productions and trade
– A Review
by Nashiu Zahir
25
As to history, Bell admits that the early history of the country
is inaccessible, which he attributes to the Maldives’ isolation
and ‘comparative insignificance’. The Maldivians, he notes, did
not have any known historical records of ‘antiquity’. He also
mentions that a National Record styled Tarikh or Muskulhi
foi, said to be preserved in the Sultan’s Palace in Male’, holds
all important events and matters of state. This record has
apparently been kept for centuries, and is written in the old
Maldivian character – Dhives Akuru- and in the crude initial
form of the modern script– Gabulhi Thaana.
Harry Charles Purvis Bell, 1890
Image wikipedia.org
T
he book is a brief but comprehensive account of the
Maldives in the late 19th century, providing the reader
with rich sketches of the country’s geography,
history, its people, and economy. The author, HCP Bell,
an Indian born British civil servant and archaeologist with a
passionate interest in the country, published a few works on
the Maldives, including the famous monograph on Maldivian
history, archaeology and epigraphy. This edition, published
by Asian Educational Services, a New Delhi based publisher,
comes with several tables, a detailed, folded map of the
Maldives and a small list of errata.
In the introduction, Bell expresses his wish to do justice to
‘a people little known and less regarded.’ He is shocked at
the ignorance of certain eminent parties (in matters related
to the Maldives), including a particular standard geography
treatise (Pinkerton’s Modern Geography Vol.1) that made
authoritative yet uninformed statements. At the time of his
writing, however, there were decidedly few authorities on the
Maldives. Yet, in part by unearthing old colonial records in
Colombo and through examining records of Ibn Battuta and
the French explorer Pyrard, Bell has showcased a wealth of
information on the hitherto neglected country.
Bell is precise in locating the country, and the book starts in
earnest with geographical coordinates, which few people at
the time knew. It goes on to describe the physical aspects
of the Maldives; its atolls, reefs, channels and islands and
other geographical features are presented in good detail. In
the chapter notes, he even speculates as to the origin of the
name Maldives; mentioning four derivations of the name
favoured by different writers. Bell expressly believes Ibn
Battuta’s version – in which ‘Mal’ is derived from Male’, the
Sultan’s island, and Diva (dwipa) from island – to be the
correct one.
The conversion to Islam, Bell deduces from Ibn Battuta’s
narrative, must have occurred late in the 12th century. He
observes a close connection in the 14th and 15th centuries,
between the Maldives and the thriving Muslim settlements
on the Malabar Coast, most notably Cannanore. He further
notes that the commercial prosperity and political influence
of the Arab or Moorish traders, which peaked in the 12th or
13th centuries, remained considerable until they gave way
to the ‘all absorbing powers of the West’, heralded by the
Portuguese. Bell then goes over each period, from the
Portuguese through to the English in some detail. At the
end of the chapter is a handy table, indicating the Dutch and
English governors of Ceylon and the contemporary sultans of
the Maldives, starting from the 17th century.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Regarding the inhabitants, Bell estimates the population of
the Maldives to be around 30,000. He appears to believe
that the population had been larger in earlier times, which
Maldivians themselves believed to be the case. Maldivians
are characterised as ‘inoffensive’ and ‘timid’, and a ‘naturally
suspicious people’, which he attributes to their isolation.
However, once they have confidence in a stranger, they
exhibit an ‘excess of inquisitiveness’ that is often embarrassing
to the outsider. He references Albert Gray, who quotes Ibn
Battuta as saying the Maldivians are ‘sober, fairly honest’ and
‘naturally cheerful, with few wants and therefore inclined to
be lazy and sluggish’. But Bell also quotes Pyrard who says,
conversely, that the Maldivians are an ingenious, industrious
lot who apply their skill successfully to all sorts of productions.
Bell goes on to note the appearance of the islanders, their
dress, habitations, education, marriage, employment and
even burial rites, the latter which, according to Pyrard,
deviates considerably from Islamic norms.
On the topic of trade, the book is well stocked with tables
displaying the values of exports and imports to and from the
British India and Ceylon. It is not surprising that even then,
dried fish was the largest article of export from the Maldives.
Ceylon was its principal buyer. Rihaakuru, which Bell has
erroneously dubbed ‘fish blood’, was also exported to
Ceylon in some measure, as were tortoise shells. Mention is
also made of Maldivian currency. A fact that Bell (via Pyrard)
finds particularly striking about it is that during Pyrard’s time,
the sole Maldivian coin was a silver ‘larin’, which, he believed,
was evidently copied from the eponymous Persian coin, which
was then common throughout the East.
The appendices at the conclusion of the book include lengthy
tracts on the political status of the sultan, his dealings with
the powers of his time, and perhaps strangely, the treatment
of wrecks in the Maldives. Bell’s book is without doubt, a
treasure to those interested in the history of the Maldives. It
is insightful, and carefully written, if in dated style. It contains
surprises for the ordinary reader of Maldivian history and
displays an avid interest in a country that few in the West had
known so intimately.
where
draree am.s
..
made
Villa Hotels & Resorts, Villa Building, Ibrahim Hassandidi Magu, Male’, Maldives.
+960 331 6161
+960 331 4565
info@villahotels.com.mv
27
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
WONDERS
OF ARI ATOLL
by Aysha Naseem
PHOTO BY SHAAHINA ALI
Whale Shark
spotting
throughout
the year
Ari Atoll or Alif Atoll is one of the largest atolls in the Maldivian
archipelago and also a designated tourist development zone in
the country. Geographically, the atoll is blessed with scores of
islands and is enclosed by the best dive sites in the country.
Mr. Mohamed Fayaz, a PADI
instructor at Dive Oceanus with an
overwhelming dive portfolio shares
his favourite 5 spots in the region.
For administrative conveniences, Ari Atoll is divided into North
and South. South Ari Atoll, with its various world class dive
sites is simply a diver’s paradise! Just outside the island of
Maamigili in South Ari, is SAMPA (South Ari Marine Protected
Area), featuring the only dive spot in the world where whale
sharks can be spotted throughout the year.
“How many dives have you done?”
I ask Fayaz, who has trained almost
1000 divers at different levels.
“It’s definitely more than 10,000! I am sure because I stopped
logging after 9000 but now it has definitely exceeded 10,000.”
He spoke with thrill and enthusiasm in his eyes and voice.
Retired from instructing, Mr. Fayaz currently manages the
ogistic side of the dive centres.
DiveOceanus, one of the top dive operations in the Maldives
has 4 centres across 3 atolls in the Maldives. Sun Island Resort &
Spa, Paradise Island Resort & Spa, Fun Island Resort and Holiday
Island Resort: each resort has a diveOceanus centre offering
dive lessons to everyone from beginners up to PADI dive master
certification. All of the diveOceanus centres are rated “5 Star
Gold Palm” by PADI, and can easily access most of the best dive
sites in Maldives.
Mr. Fayaz assures me that these dive sites, each unique in
their own way, makes for an extensive dive experience of the
Maldives, creating a memory lasting a life time. Easily accessible
by boat, the travel times mentioned here are from Sun Island
Resort & Spa, the largest and busiest of the four centres.
29
Bodu Finolhu Thila
An outside reef in front of the small island of Bodufinolhu and a
40-minute boat ride away, this spot is a surprise awaiting you.
If you are lucky you may get to witness a fantastic show just in a
single dive. Schools of mobula rays, mantas rays, eagle rays and
barracudas are found here while an abundance of reef fishes
such as snappers, puffer fish and fusiliers are found on the main
reef. Starting at 7 metres deep and sloping down to 30 metres,
the main reef starts at 23 metres deep. Grey reef sharks are
often found while white tip reef sharks are found throughout
the year.
Kuda Rah Thila
Kuda Rah Thila is one of the most famous dive sites in
Maldives due to its beautiful coral formation. A small reef with
lots of both soft and hard corals, the site was declared a marine
park in as early as 1995. A 40-minute boat ride away, Kuda Rah
Thila is the most colourful dive site on the Dhigu Rah Channel
and is 12-26 metres deep. With two huge overhangs covered in
colourful sea fans and lots of pink anemones at the top of the
site; this is a dive you shouldn’t miss! Its denizens range from
jack fishes to blue striped snappers, giant groupers, shoals of
bat fish, fusiliers and also white tip reef sharks.
Five Rocks
This beautiful reef is comprised of five deep coral blocks
standing adjacent, creating narrow canyons to dive through.
Though small, the reef is 30 metres deep and is one of the most
stunning reefs in the area. Decked with both soft and hard
corals of vibrant colours you also find sea fans and sponges
apart from the plethora of marine life. Occasional guests
include barracudas, white tip reef sharks, stingrays and
tunas, while napoleon fishes and oriental sweet lips are found
in abundance, offering you a delightful dive experience.
PHOTO BY GERTJAN VAN VEERT
Maamigili Beru
This dive site in Ari Atoll, known as the “Whale Shark Point”
is a mere 10 minute boat ride away from Sun Island Resort &
Spa. Located just outside the local island Maamigili towards
the channel entrance, the top reef starts at 5 metres and
slopes down to about 30 metres. Though a long reef, it is an
easy site to dive, and is one of the best sites to encounter
both pelagic and schools of reef fishes. Chances of spotting a
whale shark are extremely high and you may encounter one
at any time of the year. In fact, it is best that you snorkel if
you wish to seek that aesthetic pleasure of encountering with
this magnificent creature.
Other dwellers of the reef include mobula rays, manta rays,
napoleon fishes, turtles and dogtooth tunas. Descend 15
metres deeper and you get to see moray eels and lobsters
peeping though the holes.
German magazine Tauchen listed Maamigili Beyru as one of
the top 100 sites in the world because of the chances to spot a
whale shark while Unterwasser, also a German magazine listed
it as the 77th best dive site in the world.
Rangali Manta Point
From January through May, manta rays come around here for
cleaning. Watch them cleanse with the help of small cleaner
fishes at cleaning stations, but never pursue them. 50 minutes
from Sun Island Resort & Spa, this site has a shallow top reef
at 7 meters – ideal for beginners as well. Although mantas are
seasonal, myriads of marine creatures such as napoleon fish,
moray eels, dogtooth tuna, eagle rays, giant groupers and
turtles are found here throughout the year.
PHOTO BY SHAAHINA ALI
Apart from these areas, there are more than 50 designated dive
sites in South Ari Atoll alone. From caves to underwater cliffs,
canyons to ship wrecks; each site is unique. For many travellers
Maldives is a once in a life time dream destination while
diving enthusiasts frequent the country as much as once or
twice a year, seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable dive
experience each time.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Belle
Amie
Bistro
by Nashiu Zahir
Huddled on the busy Keneree Road, just a stone’s
throw from the National Museum is a small bistro
operated by The Somerset Hotel. The entrance is paved,
populated by a few marble-capped tables, a refuge for
smokers. Inside the air-conditioned interior you are spared
the day’s heat. The tall glass windows and glass panelled
doors keep the sounds of the street at bay.
The cosy, cream and wood interior of the bistro compliments
the décor of the hotel; it seems a natural extension of it.
Fareesha Hawwa, The Somerset’s general manager, describes
it as a boutique bistro. “It’s a different kind of place, you won’t
usually find youngsters who come for a coffee and a smoke
here,” she explains. The bistro’s muted setting is more suited
for families and business types. Inside seating is limited to 42
and on this particular afternoon, the place is tranquil but for
the click of cutlery and the faint hum of the kitchen.
Apart from the guests who stay at the hotel, the bistro
attracts different kinds of clients. “We get many locals for our
[English] high tea,” says Hawwa. “Quite a number of working
foreigners frequent the place for lunch and dinner, especially
the Thursday night dinner buffet. It’s a unique place. Our
cuisine is quite different from what you’d get elsewhere in the
city.”
31
The food served at the restaurant is a mixture of Asian and
Western cuisine; its menu was put together under the
guidance of a German consultant back in 2013. “It was he
who suggested that we have the English high tea in the
afternoon,” reveals Ganesh Kumara, the restaurant manager.
The high tea has proved to be popular. Served between three
and six in the afternoon, it features a selection of pastries
and savouries, all prepared at the bistro. Unlimited refills
of tea and coffee is part of the high tea experience. The
restaurant also hosts a daily executive lunch buffet where
diners can enjoy a three course meal, with mains made à-la
minute, for a reasonable rate.
The authenticity of its fare is almost a non-issue when
it comes to Belle Amie bistro’s approach to food. “We
don’t intend to serve food of a particular country that
is exactly the same as what you might have there,” says
Hawwa. “We like to add our own touches [to dishes].
For instance, you won’t get a Russian salad that tastes
exactly like it does in Russia. We might mix it up with
some local herbs, get our signature on it.” The bistro’s executive chef, Sathish Kumar is fond of mixing it up. “It
would be boring to serve the same food,” he says. “A
chef needs to experiment, to create new things, it is an
art like any other.” Kumar is a man with over ten years of
experience in F & B and is confident in the ability of his
team to deliver. The bistro’s Nandur rolls and Kung Pao
chicken are particular favourites of his.
“We’re very
flexible and offer
tailor-made
services that meet
the clients’ needs.
We always try
to exceed
expectations.”
When it comes to theme nights, however, the bistro is more
guarded and conservative. The restaurant rotates Sri Lankan,
Chinese, Indian and international themes over the month.
“Each month’s Thursday begins with a Sri Lankan themed
night,” says Kumara. “We cook Sri Lankan fare, like curries
in clay pots, just like they do it in the villages. And the meals
are served on banana leaves.” Chinese nights feature a
variety of Chinese cuisine. “Any Chinese customer would
immediately feel at home because of the variety of Chinese
meals on offer,” he asserts.
In addition to buffets and à la carte dining, the bistro has
a few more services on offer. They undertake catering
projects, and host small parties and wedding receptions.
Private dining options are also provided and the
bistro is able to accommodate special requests in terms
of food and ambience. “We recommend things, such as a
particular cuisine, to clients and make proposals based on
their guidelines,” says Kumara. “We’re very flexible and
offer tailor-made services that meet the clients’ needs. We
always try to exceed expectations.”
Despite its relatively recent opening, the restaurant has
managed to foster a loyal customer base, according to
Hawwa. It has also garnered rave reviews on Tripadvisor
and often holds the number one spot in restaurants
in the city and never goes below number two. “We’ve
managed to build a great reputation,” she says. “We’ve been
really well received by our customers. And we’ve received
lots of new customers based on comments that we’ve got
online.” Hawwa is confident that the bistro will continue
to perform as it has, not least because it is paired
with a sought after city hotel. “I don’t think that
there is any looking back for us,” she says.
BOTTOM Upperdeck Restaurant, MIDDLE Whale Shark & Hussain Ozgur, Feb 2014, TOP Carpe Diem Birdseye / IMAGES BY CARPE DIEM
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
LIFE ON A
LUXURY
SAFARI
BOAT
The other side of
SUNNY MALDIVES
by Iselle McCalman
When I first heard the term ‘safari boat’ I was not quite sure
what it meant. Where I come from, ‘safari’ and ‘boats’ don’t
quite mix. A safari meant searching for wild animals in the
bush. However, I soon learnt this is the local terminology for a
liveaboard. I guess it involves the same kind of action - in this
case one would be searching for marine life!
Although the Maldives is known for luxury 5-star resorts,
liveaboards represent another side to the tourist market in
the country, adding an increasing number of tourists to the
sunny shores every year.
To understand the attraction of this kind of holiday one has
to understand a diver’s addiction - the moment they step
off the boat the next trip has already been booked. The only
question seems to be which dive site and which boat. Some
divers travel the world in search of yet another dive site,
while others prefer to do the same sites for many years
in a row. I know of divers returning to the Maldives for 15
consecutive years, always staying on liveaboards. It is
therefore understandable that the boat charter industry has
grown substantially during the past 10 years as a specialised
provider for serious divers. With over a 100 registered
liveaboards in the Maldives, it is a tough and very competitive
market, so only the best survive. It is also a seasonal market
dictated by the two main monsoon seasons, which means
operators have to make the most of the approximately 7
months - from November to May - of drier, more stable
weather. Some operate year round, where others prefer to
utilize the peak season only.
However, being the best does not necessarily mean being
the most luxurious. Boats range in size and facilities and
vary to suit all tastes - from laid back dhoni style, to
5-star cabins. And not all boats are exclusively for divers.
Many welcome families and often stop at local islands for
excursions. So when searching for that perfect dive holiday it
will require some research to find your match.
33
Carpe Diem Maldives –
well-respected operator in
the Maldives
Agnes van Linden, the Operations/Marketing Director along
with her business partner and owner of the boats Amir
Mansoor, manage the day-to-day operations from the Head
Office in Male’.
Passengers are met at the airport and transferred to the boat.
Depending on where the boat is anchored, it might involve a
domestic flight to a neighbouring atoll airport.
On arrival at the boat, all guests are briefed and the boat
operations explained.
This also includes diver-specific
information. Strong emphasis is placed on safe, yet enjoyable,
diving. Both Carpe Diem and Carpe Vita are very wellequipped with large cabins and ensuite bathrooms, great
meals and well-trained crew.
Dive packages cover mostly the central Atolls like North and
South Ari atoll, Meemu and Vaavu, but the boats also cater for
special, longer itineraries to the deep south to Gaafu Dhaalu,
Gaafu Alifu and Gan as well as to the north covering dive
regions such as Baa, Raa, Noonu and Lhaviyani.
During their 7 or 10 night liveaboard cruises, you will be
assured to see and experience more than you could wish
for. Both their vessels are accompanied by spacious diving
dhonis (tenders) which are equipped with the latest gear and
equipment to meet the ever growing demands of divers. Both
dhonis have Nitrox membrane systems, a hot water shower
and toilet, two fresh water showers, a camera rinsing tank,
aluminium tanks (11.5 liter and 13.5 liters) free of charge and 15
liter steel tanks at extra charge upon request.
And if diving is not your thing, you can always try surfing.
In summer, starting end of April, the Maldives becomes a
paradise for wave surfers. The Carpe Vita had her first surf
charters in 2012 year. In 2013 both of the vessels catered for
special surf charters during this period, offering itineraries
especially chosen for an excellent surfing experience. Surf
charters alternate with dive charters, but surfers are welcome
to try their hand at diving.
For more detailed information on the boats, scuba diving and
surfing trips, schedules and itineraries check the Carpe Diem
Maldives website: carpediemmaldives.com
Tel: +(960) 3300883 | Fax: +(960) 3306747
Skype: mvcarpediem
Facebook: fb.com/Carpe.Diem.Maldives.Fleet
BOTTOM Sun deck, MIDDLE Observing Mantas at Sunlight Thila, North Ari Atoll, TOP Carpe Vita Room / IMAGES BY CARPE DIEM
One boat operator that has made a name for itself in the
Maldives is Carpe Diem Maldives. Now in its 7th year of
operation it has served the local dive market with distinction.
Divers can choose one of two boats: Carpe Diem or Carpe Vita
with Carpe Novo due to start in 2016. You will be cruising in
style, pampered by their crew, while scuba diving 3/4 times a
day, guided by their experienced Maldivian dive guides.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
ADVERTORIAL
35
AIRPORT BEACH
MUNICH RESIDENCE
by Nashiu Zahir
On the beachfront in Hulhumale’ stands the Airport Beach
Munich Residencies; a striking, four-storeyed white building
with blue tinted windows peering out at the road. The hotel
has been in service for a little over a year, and the
freshness of its construction is immediately apparent.
Through its glass panelled ground floor, its restaurant and
lobby are clearly visible from the outside as you approach
it. Tables populate the sidewalk by the hotel, around which
are seated guests, some sipping tea or having a smoke,
enjoying the late afternoon. The beach is only a few feet from
the hotel, a luxury enjoyed by most establishments nearby.
The hotel is accessible, easy to get to if you have planned
ahead. You may opt for a five minute ‘Express’ ferry from the
Hulhumale’ terminal in Male’ for a speedy, scenic trip. The
hotel will have the driver ready to pick you up in the company
vehicle near the arrival terminal.
The lobby is cosy and inviting with grey sofas and a soft blue
rug. The staff too are welcoming, ready to greet the guest
with smiles, a cold towel and a zesty welcome drink.
“It’s unmatched in terms of service,” says Hugo Mendis, the
hotel’s general manager. Mendis has been in the hotel trade
for close to three decades and has worked at properties
in Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia. “We are very lucky to have a
well-trained team with us,” he says. “We’re all about putting
the customer first.”
The place was built as a residential dwelling, and this is evident
in the layout of the rooms. It lends a certain quirkiness to the
hotel; rooms on each floor open out to a main seating and
dining area, as you would expect in an apartment. These
communal areas have sofas and big, high-definition
televisions and are further enhanced by kitchenettes. “It’s
notwhat is usually expected of a place like this,” says Mendis.
“But it does make us stand out from the rest and it works well
for groups of people travelling together. They have a bit of
space to hang out and have fun.”
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
The rooms themselves are compact and exhibit a white, grey
and wood theme. They are well furnished, with luxurious
beds, a small desk, and little white end tables. They all have
small balconies. Their restrooms come with rain-showers, and,
in two rooms on the VIP lounge on the third floor, spa bath
features and bathtubs.
The crown jewel among the rooms is dubbed ‘the owner’s
suite’ and is situated on the third floor. It is considerably
larger than the rest of the rooms and its balcony overlooks
the beach and the sea, affording occupants an unobstructed
view of magnificent sunrises. If money is no objection, this is
undboutedly the room to go for.
Upstairs on the terrace is a small, perfectly kept pool. “We’re
the only hotel in Hulhumale’ with one,” says Mendis with a
note of pride. The terrace also houses a little spa; a cosy affair,
with wooden slats keeping out the sun, and floors made of
little wooden blocks. Its two treatment rooms can each
accommodate a single guest. The two Philippino therapists
deliver a range of treatments including Balinese and Swedish
massages. The spa is owned and run by the hotel.
The terrace also features a small sauna, which guests can
access for a small fee. The terrace is the highest point of
the hotel, and because of Hulhumale’s building regulations,
all buildings in the area are permitted to be built up to four
storeys. This is fine; it does not impede guests from
enjoying the sweeping views of the sea. Guests can recline on
comfortable deckchairs and soak up the sun. And on evenings
this area can easily be converted into a romantic spot, where
couples may enjoy each other’s company over private dinners.
Dining is a pleasant experience at the hotel; its in house
restaurant, Piquente, offers guests specialties from across
the globe. “Our chefs are quite experienced,” says Mendis.
“They’ve worked in food and beverage for years, and in various
establishments around the world.” The chefs, according to
Mendis, will be more than happy to accommodate special
requests, even going so far as to make items that are not
included in the menu. “Our lobster dinner is a particular
favourite with guests,” enthuses Mendis. “We can prepare
them in several ways to suit their taste.”
37
Like most hotels in the country, Airport Beach also conducts
excursions. “We have sandbank, snorkelling and fishing
excursions,” explains Mendis. “We also take guests to visit
nearby [inhabited] islands where they can get a taste of local
culture.” The excursions are conducted by representatives of
the hotel, unlike most establishments where such tours and
excursions are outsourced. “Outsourcing them would be easier for us,” Mendis admits. “But it might compromise quality.
We need to be sure that each of our guests is satisfied.” Most
excursions managed by the hotel close with a five course
dinner, which Mendis believes is great for customer relations.
“They really enjoy those dinners,” he says. “Even if they don’t
catch any fish on the trip, we will have fish ready for them
here.”
With great service and its superb location, it is unsurprising
that the hotel has garnered great reviews online, on booking
sites and Tripadvisor. Mendis is visibly pleased with the
ratings; he considers them rewards for his work. “They
matter a lot to me,” he says. “It’s an honest indication of our
performance. My goal is to exceed this level of excellence and
go that extra mile for our customers.”
CONTACT US
Airport Beach Hotel, Hulhumale’ Lot 10969, Maldives
Tel: +960 3354949, Fax: +960 3353949
Email: info@airportbeach.mv, reservations@airportbeach.mv
Website: www.airportbeach.mv
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
ADVERTORIAL
ARUGAM BAY
Redefining Beachwear
It’s a universal truth that great
fulfillment comes with great risks.
Who can know this better than surfers?
Indulging in daring watersports whilst
enjoying the picturesque view of the East
Coast of Sri Lanka, a unique idea struck
Ajay Vir Singh, the surfing and scuba
diving enthusiast with a fashion
background. He realized the potential
of the geography with its exotic tropical
touch and envisioned the fusion of design
and style with the beach lifestyle.
Far from being a novice to the fashion industry, Ajai Vir Singh
is an Indian living in Sri Lanka who founded Colombo Fashion
Week, the Sri Lankan annual fashion event in 2003. Coming
from such a strong background in fashion, he noticed a gap
in the market for beachwear and footwear, seeing the usual
trends in Sri Lankan fashion to be batik, sarees, and cocktail
dresses. Eventually, Arugam Bay was born.
“Arugam Bay started in 2008 because I felt Sri Lanka
deserved a beach brand which was Sri Lankan yet very
international, stylish and fashionable. I believe in Sri Lanka and
Sri Lankan brands, and so even the name represents that,”
said Ajai Vir Singh, CEO and Director of Arugam Bay. It was the
idyllic middle ground to fuse fashion into surf and beachwear
by creating a unique brand with a design philosophy rooted in
the sceneries, colours and music of Sri Lankan culture.
With the lack of authentic local beachwear and surf wear
brands previously in Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay successfully
became the pioneers in the industry. Arugam Bay products
are different from other international beachwear brands like
Billabong and Quiksilver in offering fashionable styles. The
latter are more technical in range with little to no priority given to fashion, whilst a few other fashionable brands do not
cater a range of surf wear. The rest are fashion brands which
don’t offer beachwear; hence Arugam Bay arose as the unique
brand with the perfect balance of fashion and technical details
in Sri Lanka. Having already established its presence in India
as well, Arugam Bay is now venturing into Maldives with great
optimism.
39
Ajai Vir Singh
CEO & Director of Arugam Bay
Products range from footwear, resortwear, accessories, beach
and swimwear offering a wide array of choices to men, women
and kids. “Our beachwear brands are enjoyed on the beach
with innovative footwear and accessories such as trendy bags,
and our surfwear brands can also be enjoyed in the water,”
elaborated Ajai Vir Singh. Other footwear brands don’t design
beachwear while most international beachwear brands don’t
include footwear. Hence, Arugam Bay again has the balanced
advantage of catering to tourists and surfers alike and was
created with the intention to expand internationally,
and never to be limited in Sri Lanka. Hence, being a
contemporary stylish brand catering for the international
market, Arugam Bay products can be enjoyed on any beach
inter-continentally. “
Arugam Bay designs, colours and themes are not by the books.
Each colour has its own unique name which often evolve from
everyday objects and nature like Rainforest, Gauva, Coconut,
Green Chillie, Coffee Brown, Angel Fish, etc. Bubble Gum
coloured flip-flops are the trend amongst teenagers
in Colombo since their launch in 2009 which revolutionized
flip-flops into fashionable options.
Tying up with Agatha Ruiz De La Prada, the number one
European designer from Spain, was a groundbreaking
collaboration for Arugam Bay in 2011 which strongly catapulted
the maverick brand into international markets. The first
collaboration was a footwear collection, followed by
beachwear and a swimwear collection as well. Arugam Bay
maintains its international standards with its choice of models.
The face of Arugam Bay is Adam Flamer Caldera, currently
New York’s hottest model from Ford Models, New York.
Challenges Arugam Bay faced have so far been in its logistics;
namely production, marketing and sourcing and never involving
any compromising on the quality of the products which
always prioritized international standards from the very
inception. Ajai Vir Singh was glad to add, “We are very
confident by God’s grace that our designs are very
contemporary in the world. You can wear it in Paris and feel
this is well-designed by international standards. So that
always holds us in a good position. So we are very excited
to venture into the Maldives as it’s a hub for holidays on the
beach.”
As for the greatest accomplishment of Arugam Bay so far,
Ajai Vir Singh is pleased to reveal, “I’ve never seen a brand
rise and establish itself so soon within its first year.” The
future looks promising with a wide range of variety to be
added to the women’s wear and footwear. Ambitiously, Ajai Vir
Singh envisions 500 stores to house this fun brand around
the world traversing Paris, Milan and New York with no
limitation to any single beach and intends to make it to New York
Fashion Week as well.
Arugam Bay beachwear and accessories are exclusively distributed
in the Maldives by Perspective Private Limited
Tel: +960 7910858
Email: sales@perspective.mv
Webiste: www.perspective.mv
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
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100+ CHANNELS
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To subscribe call 779 4918
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ISLAND PLAYLIST
41
by Mariyam Athiza Athif
DHAALU RAA
by Ahmed
Legendary Maldivian musician Ahmed’s Dhaalu Raa, released by Asasi Records in 2012, can
be described as a transcendental union of local rhythms and western rock music, especially
that of the 60s and the 70s. Tracks such as “Sihuru”, “Bakari” and “Rasge” blend rock electric
guitars and drums with local elements such as traditional boduberu and dhandi. The mellower
“Dhiyaanaage Huvafen” has slight hints of a Maldivian raivaru, the unhurried grunge like track
“Fihivalhu” is rich with urgency, and the last track of the album “Sheyvaa” is reminiscent of Indian
classical music, chant like and sublime. Dhaalu Raa is available for purchase from Amazon, iTunes,
and other major online music stores. It’s also available from various outlets in Male’ including
Island Music, Jazz Cafe’, Le Cute, SeaHouse Cafe’, and SeaHouse Brasserie. The album also streams
on Spotify. The tracks “Bakari” and “Rasge” can be freely downloaded via SoundCloud.
NOTHNEGAL
by Nothnegal
The Maldivian melodic metal band Nothnegal explores the mystical, mythical and
spiritual in this self-titled 4-track EP, released in 2013 via independent record label Season
of Mist. The EP seems to be a departure from Nothnegal’s melodic death metal past. It’s still
dark and sullen, with plenty of electric guitar magic, moody keys, and heavy drumming, but
it looks like elements from Maldivian traditional music are at the roots of this one. The opening
track “Actuality” sets the tone for the EP with slithering hypnotic guitars, clean but powerful
vocals and Maldivian traditional boduberu drums, which are featured on every track of the EP,
creeping seamlessly in and out of the track. The boduberu groove plays a much more
dominant role in the second track “Rannamaari”, a song exploring the Maldivian
folktale about a sea demon while “Viha”, the only song in Dhivehi, could easily be the most potent one from the EP with some
powerpacked, raivaru-like singing. The EP is available from iTunes and Amazon and can be listened to on Spotify as well.
ODIHANU
by Haisham
Haisham’s Odihanu released in 2013 by Dinba Music features some contagiously groovy
tracks and potent Dhivehi poetry. The tracks are predominantly rooted down in reggae, but
comes with subtle touches of jazz, blues and Indian music. The album was recorded at
Klangkantine Studio in Darmstadt, Germany, and was produced by German producer Chris
Kling “Nurahka” which means ‘danger’ in the local language is probably the most dangerous
track on the album, while “Furadhathuru” and “My Mistake” are easy going sunny affairs.
Odihanu is available from iTunes, Amazon, and from outlets in Male’ such as Island Music, Jade
Bistro, Jazz Café’ Lecute, SeaHouse, and SeaHouse Brasserie.
MALDIVIAN TRADITIONAL MUSIC FROM V.KEYODHOO
Vaavu Keyodhoo Rahvehi Club
This 3-CD set released in September 2014 by Asasi Records packs in some of the
most iconic forms of Maldivian traditional music; boduberu, thaara and raivaru. It
sounds raw and live, and seems to have captured the ambience and energy of Vaavu
Keyodhoo, the island on which the album was recorded. “Ishqi Haalathu” and “Ey
Folheymaa” are two of the most energetic tracks from the album. They start off slow as most
boduberu songs do, with slow drums and a lead singer leading his group of
accompanying chorus singers, and gradually get intensified into a frenzy of singing and
boduberu drumming. This gradual escalation is also mirrored on the thaara tracks, where
thaara, a tambourine-like traditional instrument accompanies choral singing. The thaara track
“Bismi Rabbi” is almost eerie, reminiscent of Indian chants and Arabic melodies, and the almost dissonant vocals could
probably send some listeners into a trance like state of mind. The track “Maama” on which Mariyam Hassan, who was a
hundred years old at the time of the recording, sings a Raivaru, a type of Maldivian traditional song sung to a certain
melody without any accompaniment, is both evocative and beautiful. The album is available from Amazon, iTunes and all
major online music stores. It can also be bought from various outlets in Male’ including Island Music, Jazz Cafe’, Le Cute,
SeaHouse Cafe’, and SeaHouse Brasserie.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
It was during the early 1980s that Mezzo Mohamed got his
first chance to perform at Olhuveli resort and he was also
booked the same week to perform at a venue which was then
known as Club 33. “Even back then I was leading the band. I
was playing the drums. I asked my lead vocalist if we could
play a particular Indian song which was very loud and involved
lots of shouting and screaming. By the end of the song, quite
a few tables had left because they didn’t like it, so we packed
up our stuff and left” says Mezzo Mohamed while recalling the
early days of his career.
After this somewhat rocky introduction to the world of
Maldivian resorts, Mezzo Mohamed decided to spend the next
six months learning to sing English songs, as he realised that
most resort guests preferred songs they already knew. Mezzo
Mohamed learned the songs by ear, after buying LP records
by the likes of Cliff Richard, Elvis Presley and The Shadows.
ARTIST PROFILE
MEZZO
MOHAMED
Mohamed Majid, popularly known as Mezzo Mohamed, is one
of the most famous musicians in the Maldives, with a career
spanning four decades. His talent has propelled him beyond
performing in the tropical archipelago to gigs around the
world. He was the first Maldivian musician to have his music
played on MTV.
We caught up with Mezzo Mohamed as he was preparing to
play a gig at the Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa in North
Male’ Atoll.
Mezzo Mohamed, 49, tells us he got his first job as a musician
at the tender age of nine. He taught himself to play drums,
guitar and keyboard, and also to speak and read English,
since his parents didn’t want him to go to school. “When I was
young, education wasn’t so necessary in the Maldives and
my parents didn’t want me to go to school to study,” recalls
Mezzo Mohamed.
“My brother used to take me with him when he travelled. He
played across the Maldives and introduced Western-style
music in the Maldives. I started out playing the tambourine
and singing female songs, because I didn’t have a ‘male’ voice
at that time, because I was young. We also used to play at
houses during Eid from 1977 to 1979”.
“After that, we were playing at resorts five nights a week until today” says Mezzo Mohamed. “It was nice, because there
were not many bands in the Maldives at that time so we got
lots of work”, he says. “I would do anything for music. Even
during the times when I didn’t have my own band, I never
stayed jobless – I would work as a roadie, I’d play drums, I’d
play guitar – anything to do with music”.
Mezzo Mohamed has been performing for the last 21 years
under the name ‘Mezzo’, both while playing solo and with his
band. He has also appeared as part of the line-up for bands
including Club Cobras, Born in Maldives, Quicksand, 20th
Century BC and Cream of Acid.
So far, he has released four albums which focus solely on his original music. “I sing in any language, according to the clientele,”
says Mezzo Mohamed. “I can’t sing Robbie Williams for 150
Russians, they just don’t care,” he jokes.
Mezzo Mohamed is keen to encourage young Maldivian
musicians to try to follow in his footsteps. “Going to resort
hotels is one of the greatest treats a local can have because
they are not allowed to go to the resorts usually, and they
can also attract international interest at the resorts” he says.
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Mezzo Mohamed also expressed happiness regarding the fact
that his children have followed his footsteps and have become
acceptable musicians by the Maldivian standard.
“I’m so happy now in this period of my life. I took my career
seriously because a career as a musician looked to me like a
beautiful life. The musicians were always the best dressed
people in Male’. Their clothes looked good, their hair looked
good – everything looked good, and that’s why I decided that
their life was the best”.
Mezzo Mohamed admits not everyone approved of his choice
of career, which sometimes caused some obstacles. But he is
adamant that talented musicians should pursue their dreams.
“My first girlfriend was told ‘He’s a musician – he’ll go to hell!’
but I don’t think music could hurt you” he says.
“Some people also think that if you go to resorts then it means
you drink, but I’ve never drunk or done drugs in my life. I’ve
had dreadlocks, long hair, bleached white hair, crazy clothes
– but I was always me, I never changed inside. It’s not your
clothes or your hairstyle that makes you. I always knew who I
was. I’m a Muslim and I am proud to be Maldivian”.
His career continues to go from strength
to strength. In recent years, one of his
biggest gigs was playing to a crowd of
approximately 2,000 in South Africa.
Mezzo Mohamed was also presented
with a national award in recognition
of his contribution to the Arts.
“I still believe I am the luckiest person
in the music industry in the Maldives,
because I have so many gigs offered
to me,” says Mezzo Mohamed. “I have
requests from the best bookers in
the Maldives. I’ve played at different
locations around the world with
my band Mezzo including South
Africa, Europe, and the Seychelles. It’s
a beautiful experience to be able to
perform in so many amazing places.
Every gig I did abroad will stay with
me forever.” When asked about his
upcoming plans, Mezzo Mohamed,
who is about to turn 50, says that he is
trying to come up with a special 50th
birthday gift for his fans.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
TURTLES
OF
MALDIVES
Turtles are a large part of the Maldivian marine life, and have
been known to dwell in our seas since ancient times. However,
the uncontrolled hunting, killing and exploitation of turtles for
their shells and meat have led to a drastic decrease in the turtle population worldwide. The dwindling numbers are seen in
the Maldivian seas as well, where five of the seven known turtle
species can be found.
Out of the five turtle species found in Maldives, the hawksbill
and green sea turtle are the most common. The other three are
olive ridley, loggerhead and leatherback sea turtle, the last is
noted as an occasional visitor to the Maldivian seas as it doesn’t
nest here as the rest of them do. Unfortunately all the turtles
found in Maldives, and the rest of the world as well, are classified
as either ‘endangered’, ‘critically endangered’ or ‘vulnerable’.
by Fathimath Lamya Abdullah
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
This is one of the most common turtle species found in the Maldives
and it’s known to live up to about 80 years. The green sea turtle is a
large, weighty sea turtle that can weigh up to 317.5 kg and be as long
as 1.5 metres. It has a wide smooth carapace or shell, and inhabits the
tropical and subtropical coastal areas around the world. Unlike most sea
turtles, adult green turtles are herbivorous, feeding on sea grasses and
algae while juvenile green turtles feed on invertebrates, crabs, jellyfish,
and sponges. These graceful swimmers are the only species in the
turtle family unable to retract their heads into their shells. Mating occurs
every two to four years and normally takes place in shallow waters,
closer to shore. To nest, females leave the sea and choose an area,
often the same beaches used by their mothers to lay eggs. They dig
a pit in the sand and fill it with a clutch of 100 to 200 eggs, cover the
pit and return to the sea, leaving the eggs to hatch after about two
months. Green turtles are an endangered species.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Loggerhead sea turtles are another turtle species that frequent the
beaches of the Maldives and they are now also threatened due to
pollution, shrimp trawling and developments in their coastal nesting
habitats. Loggerheads have massive heads, strong jaws, and a
reddish-brown shell. They are primarily carnivores munching on
jellyfish, conches, crabs and even fish but will eat seaweed and
sargassum occasionally. Mature females will often return to the beach
they were hatched on to lay their eggs, sometimes thousands of miles
away.
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Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
Olive ridleys are named for their heart shaped shell, which starts out
grey but turns olive green as they become adults. Olive ridleys are
one of the turtles that nest on the Maldivian beaches. Known to live
up to fifty years, these turtles are considered to be vulnerable to being
endangered. These are solitary turtles that prefer the open ocean.
They migrate as much as a thousand miles every year, and only come
together for the ‘arribada’ or mass nesting. Females lay about a
thousand eggs, and may nest up to three times a year during their
nesting season, from June to December.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate)
The hawksbill turtle is the second most commonly found turtle species
in Maldives. Named for their tapered heads that end in a sharp point
resembling a bird’s beak, they are a turtle species that’s comparatively
smaller than other sea turtles. While young, their carapace or upper
shell is heart-shaped and it elongates as the turtle matures. They are
found abundantly in the Maldives as our reefs are rich with the sponges
they prefer to feed on. Like other sea turtles, they make incredible
migrations from nesting grounds to feeding sites, and mate every two
to three years, in shallow waters where a beach is close at hand. The
hawksbill is classified as critically endangered, mostly due to human
impact. However, their eggs are still eaten worldwide despite their
international protected status.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Leatherback sea turtles are the largest sea turtles in the whole world,
and hold the title of being the fourth heaviest reptile, after three other
crocodilians. These reptilian giants are the only turtle species found in
Maldives that does not nest on our beaches. Leatherback sea turtles
are the only remaining representatives of a family of turtles that traces
its evolutionary roots back more than 100 million years. Leatherbacks
have the widest global distribution of all reptile species, and possibly of
any vertebrate, once prevalent in all the oceans except the Arctic and
the Antarctic, though their numbers are now dwindling. Leatherbacks
have an inky blue carapace which is somewhat flexible and almost
rubbery to touch.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Holistic Approach
to Wellness
by Duniye Spa
by Fathimath Lamya Abdullah
Duniye Spa was founded by a group of international hotel
owners with the intention of providing their customers with
the most memorable spa and wellbeing experience. Since its
inception in 2002, Duniye Spa has become a prominent spa
management and consultancy company in the Indian Ocean
region with spas located in the Maldives and the Seychelles.
Meeru Island Resort, located in North Male’ Atoll provides a
tropical spa experience at the two Duniye Spa outlets located
on the resort. The Land Spa, located on the island is built
around a banyan tree. It gives a spiritual vibe and makes you
feel connected with nature. It houses four treatment rooms,
one of which is a double room.
The Over-Water Spa, as the name suggests, is built overwater. Surrounded by the pristine lagoon on every side,
the Over-Water Spa offers the opportunity to embark on a
journey of self-wellness surrounded by the sound of gentle
whoosh of the splashing waves and the smell of salty wind.
The five of the six treatment rooms on the Over-Water Spa
are double rooms, while only one is single.
Group Spa Director of Duniye Spa, Ms Renate Hermes hopes
to make both Meeru Island and the Maldives a spa destination
one day, one that is more than just a luxury honeymoon
destination. “Internationally the concept has already been well
established in certain places. It started out in the late 70’s in
the US and there are some pioneers in the field,” says Hermes.
“Since then, it has been copied and fit into different variations,
though not yet in the Maldives. I strongly believe the potential
for such a market is there.”
47
Hermes further points out that as the global spa and wellness
industry moves in that direction, the Maldivian industry will
have to fall in line as well. “’Duniye literally means the universe
or the world in Dhivehi (the local language) and here at D.S,
we aspire to approach providing wellness services in a very
holistic way.”
“Holistic is a word that is very over used in the spa and wellness
industry, and I think as a company and a spa operator, you
need to define what ‘holistic’ means. For us, holistic means the
whole, considering the many dimensions of a person. We have
the body, the soul, the spirit, and we are social creatures that
interact with other human beings. These are the four things
that are generally defined as holistic.”
Duniye Spa’s treatment menu is constructed upon this
concept. “The receptionists, therapists and the front office
staff are trained to follow the holistic approach,” adds Hermes.
“Each and every guest is looked after under this method,
treated as a whole person rather than a room number.”
Some of the most popular treatments on Duniye Spa’s menu
are their signature treatments. One such treatment is Sense of
Touch, which seduces you to escape from your daily life. “It is a
beautiful massage where we use something called rain sticks
to create a soothing sound.” The other signature treatments
include Heaven on Earth and Maldivian Island Paradise, both
popular for their uniqueness. Heaven on Earth is considered
to be the ultimate body and face ritual.
In addition to the signature treatments offered at Duniye
Spa, the couples’ treatments are amongst the most popular.
“Couples’ treatments are expected to be popular in Maldives,
which is a famous honeymoon destination.” Full Moon Magic
is an enchanting ritual that captivates a couple’s senses as
they experience a Balinese massage, a body polish with an
indulgent head and foot massage. The Full Moon Magic Spa
experience is completed with a tropical Marula bath fusion,
champagne and fruits, and a Healing Earth mini facial.
Additionally, you get a complimentary spa gift along with this
treatment to help enhance you spa experience at home.
Other treatment categories include Massages of the World,
which incorporates different proven techniques from around
the globe. Some of them include hot stones, reflexology and
reiki. Other important segments include Body Care, Facial
Care, Beauty Care and Optional Enhancements. “Body care
provides everything that helps to exfoliate and to stimulate
the skin, from wraps to packs, to soften the skin or prepare it
for sun tanning, its here,” says Hermes.
Duniye Spa is a wellness provider that focuses largely on
making the spa experience an enjoyable, luxurious and
educational experience. “We want the spa goers to think, ‘Ah,
I’ve done something that is good for my body’, than simply go,
‘Well, that felt good.’ With the developing spa industry, feel
good massage is simply just not good enough,” says Hermes.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
FLYING YOU IN STYLE
OPERATED BY
Flyme is a privately owned Maldivian Airline
which is part of the Villa Group. Our objective is to
provide an exceptional service to all passengers on
our airline and to sustainably contribute to the
economic growth of the Maldives.
Although the airline operates from Ibrahim Nasir International
Airport in Male’, Flyme boasts its own airport, Villa
International Airport Maamigili, where passengers are
received in style before being transported to the various
resorts. All technical facilities are also located here.
The flexibility and reliability presented by the airlines’s
flight schedules afford passengers a unique and convenient
service. Since air travel is a major means of getting around,
you might as well do it in style!
Our passengers can expect a safe, comfortable, quality
air-travel experience, with the added benefit of frequency,
including night flights, and reliability. Our aim is to provide
on-time departures as much as we can.
Launched in 2011, Flyme is now comfortably in its third year,
with a vision to become a world-class regional airline through
excellent service and innovation.
As of January 2015 Flyme is also offering excursions and
Sightseeing flights on the ‘Flying Whale Shark’ SEEPLANE,
based in South Ari Atoll.
PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ATTENTION
All passengers in wheelchairs or requiring assistance can be accommodated by forwarding a request to the Customer Service
Department at least 3 days before the flight arrival. Patients with medical conditions must be able to provide a clearance
certificate by a doctor stating the passenger is safe to travel.
BAGGAGE LIABILITY
We take the utmost care with your baggage. To assist us, please remove all valuable/fragile items from your checked baggage.
We will make every reasonable attempt to return mishandled baggage within 24 hours, and to compensate passengers for
reasonable expenses associated with delayed delivery as required. Verified baggage claims are settled on the basis adopted
by IATA (International Airlines Transport Association). Although there is no obligation to replace damaged bags, Flyme will
evaluate such claims on a per-case basis. Refer to the Customer Information leaflet you received before boarding. If for some
reason you did not receive it, please ask your cabin crew for a copy.
LIQUOR LAWS
No alcohol is allowed outside the resorts in the Maldives. So, when departing your resort please ensure that you have no
alcoholic beverages in your bags, as these will be confiscated at the airport.
WATER
The water in the Maldives is desalinated, so please use sparingly. Bottled water for drinking is available at all resorts.
For any information or queries, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Department at customer.services@flyme.mv
49
OUR FLEET
Flyme uses a technologically-advanced fleet of aircraft that
are among the best for short-haul air travel. The ATR 72-500
and ATR 72-600 turbo propelled aircraft is the latest
evolution of the ATR family. This type of aircraft is ideal for the
domestic air transport service in Maldives due to its excellent
performance, optimum passenger comfort and outstanding
reliability.
It is also ideal for use in the Maldives because of its high
maneuverability in shorter air strips such as those in some of
the Maldives domestic airports.
The configuration and seat capacity planning in our fleet
provide very comfortable legroom. Additionally, the high
capacity air-conditioning system, soft cushion leather seats
and the seat fitting, ensuring sufficient elbow room provide
passengers with comfortable levels equivalent to those of jet
aircrafts. All aircrafts are fitted with night flying instruments
which means your transfer can take place regardless of the
time you arrive.
Flyme SEEPLANE is a Cessna Caravan C208 amphibious
aircraft. This type is extremely popular in America and
Africa for various applications. Fitted with the latest
technology avionics, air-conditioning and leather seats, it
guarantees the best sightseeing experience.
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
SPOTLIGHT
51
MATATO TRAVEL AWARDS 2014
Flyme MD Mr Riluwan Shareef presents the award to Kurumba Maldives, winner of the Leading
CSR Programme, during the MATATO (Maldives Association of Tour Agents and Operators) Travel Awards
Ceremony. Flyme was one of the main sponsors of the 2014 Annual MATATO Travel Awards.
Captain Shamin hands over the key of 8Q-VAV to
the Chairman of Villa Group, Mr Gasim.
8Q-VAW, the 2nd ATR 72-500 touches down at
Villa International Airport Maamigili for the first time.
Our first seaplane floating platform installed
between Sun Island and Holiday Island, South Ari Atoll.
Special event held to mark the 21st Anniversary of
Kaadehdhoo Airport, G.Dh. Villa Air now manages this airport.
FLYME INFLIGHT
IMAGE
INMAGAZINE
FOCUS
Meemu Dhiggaru - a small fishing community where all members of the family are involved in fishing and processing.
When fishing is good - the whole island including the streets are lined with drying cooked and smoked fish.
Photo Shaahina Ali
TECHNOLOGY REVIEW
53
FLYME INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
KANIFUSHI
MALDIVES
55
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experience with a premium All-inclusive holiday plan – Platinum Plus. Platinum Plus offers a fine collection
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