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Malé, the coral-fringed capital of Maldives on the Indian Ocean, used to intrigue tourists with its tales of old fishing villages, koi royalties and troves of precious gems and stones. Today, Malés seams are bursting not only with onion-domed mosques, multi-colored buildings, and buzzing thoroughfares but also with its 104,403 inhabitants who comprise the biggest population in any Maldives' city.

Blessed with thousands of low-lying coral islands, brilliant waters and immaculate sand, Malé's face is being altered as new resorts, restaurants and other tourist facilities crop up in the capital city. Its marine topography remains unchanged, spellbinding tourists with aquatic plants amid the coral reefs that serve as a protective barrier from tumultuous waves and tides.

Frequent divers are awestruck by the reef formation on the seafloor, housing a staggering number of marine species such as dogtooth tuna, butterfly fish, fusiliers, whales and more. Photographers, on the other hand, are beguiled with eagle and manta rays that frequent Malé's islands, making them click their shutters more than the usual.

After rummaging the seafloor, visitors can laze around the sandy shore, island hop to Hulhumale (which is just a boat ride away) or simply arrange a tour around the city to see the Old Friday Mosque, famous for the complex Arabic writings and ornamental patterns carved on its walls. The National Museum and Sultan's Park are interesting additions to the itinerary for their collection of royal regalia and Maldivian relics.

Non-divers can check out the Whale Submarine or meander around the Artificial Beach to marvel at the tetra pod monuments peppered along the sea defenses and old cannons tucked on the southern rim of the island. Down south, a panoramic view of Malé surf scene unfurls. After cooling off, visitors can have the taste of the everyday life at Malé by taking trip to the market which sells all sort of fresh fish which can be feasted on for lunch or dinner by the beach.

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