Maldives is a tourist hotspot that has continuously been named by many travel sites and world travel magazines as one of the topmost holiday destinations. Therefore it is of no surprise that tourists continue to flock to this tropical paradise. They sit by the pristine beaches, dive through crystal clear waters, discover a whole new world of marine life and go back having had the vacation of a lifetime.

The kind of hospitality that Maldives provides is centred on experiencing and appreciating the natural beauty that the various islands offer. In fact this is what most tourists come here for. Therefore shopping in Maldives has never really achieved the status the likes of Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, India and even Sri Lanka have got going for them. However, the country does offer shopping opportunities too that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Most of the shopping has to be done in the capital city of Male as this is the place that features the most shopping haunts and has the best prices. Ranging from souvenirs that include replica dhonis, reed mats, lacquer ware, tee shirts and ethnic jewellery, the offerings here are quite unique.

When it comes to jewellery most shops and boutiques do have interesting collections. The items are mostly brought from neighbouring India and Sri Lanka and are beautiful pieces of antique silver jewellery. However one might also stumble upon pieces that are unique to the island. You can check out the Majeedhee Magu and Chandanee Magu for stores that sell jewellery. When picking jewellery that is not made from metal make sure that your choice does not include trinkets made from turtle shell, pearl oyster shell, black coral or red coral as these are prohibited items of sale.

Almost all Maldives resorts have their own boutiques where you can buy jewellery, clothing and souvenirs.Maldives spa resorts also sell various spa products like bath oils, incense candles, scrubs, and massage oils that have been made from natural products. Another element that Maldives is known for are its spas. Mainly targeted at the large number of tourists who come here for relaxing getaways, the spa techniques used are similar to Thailand and Indonesia. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has a superb spa where one can indulge in such holistic healing after a long day of shopping.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+