Friendships - The Maldives (II)
the adventure
"We're glad to be your friends!"
The prospect of spending time on the beautifully rustic island of Maalhos, and getting to know its small community of only 600 islanders was simply too enticing to pass up. Maalhos was also just 10 speedboat minutes away from the famous Hanifaru Bay, home to the majestic manta rays.
On this adventure, we had the privilege of living among the small island community, and to enjoy the uncomplicated and unhurried island life. My simple but tastefully furnished guesthouse was situated in the middle of the island, with local Muslim families as neighbours. Like other small islands, all the houses on Maalhos were simple, single-level abodes. As a small community, everything and everyone was within easy strolling distance.
The beach was a natural activity space for us and the islanders. Every day, we would gather at the white powdery beach to fish, swim, snorkel or kayak. Every afternoon, the kids would be found making sand castles, swimming or just having fun chasing each other around. Some of the men would be line fishing at the beach, hoping to get lucky. Twice a week, the women folk would organise themselves into work teams to sweep the beach. Otherwise, they could be found playing a serious game of rounders in the sand, or just gathering in small groups under the trees to chit-chat. And, there would always be a constant, cooling breeze blowing.
The beach was also where the island's social life took place. For the women folk, their daily gathering provided a way to de-stress. For the kids playing together, they would learn the important social and emotional skills of getting along, negotiation, co-operation and taking turns. And, of course, they would also learn how to make up after the ocassional fights.
For me, the beach allowed me to gain intimate insights and authentically experience the local life. More importantly, it allowed me to make many new friends and have many meaningful conversations.
