The government of the Maldives officially launches Homestay Tourism, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of  Maldives Tourism Ministry. Moorithi, a house in M. Dhiggaru, is the first to be registered for homestay tourism. Tourism Minister Dr. Abdulla Mausoom handed Moorithi house owners with a registration document for the three rooms assigned in their homes for homestay purposes at a special event held Saturday in Dhiggaru. Speaking at the event, Dr. Mausoom stated that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s efforts culminated in the development of homestay tourism in Dhiggaru.

The first visitors to stay at the property were an American couple and the UN’s Special Representative to the Maldives, Kathryn Haswell. The ceremony was attended by FENAKA Managing Director Ahmed Saeed, MATATO President Abdulla Suood, Guesthouse Association President Abdulla Nasheed, and senior Tourism Ministry officials.

Despite community worries over the introduction of the homestay idea in the Maldives, Dhiggaru Council stated that despite the island’s small land area, the homestay company was expected to be profitable. The council would collaborate with necessary authorities to ensure that the initiative is properly controlled. It also stated that the homestay concept is unlikely to produce social problems.

5 unique things about homestay:

• Tourists will get to experience the Maldivian Cuisine at its best. The hosts may cook traditional local dishes, which the tourists can also get the chance to personally witness the making of some of the local food.

• For budget traveler’s homestay is the best way to explore the local islands whilst staying at a cheap rate.

• It is a good opportunity for the tourist to get familiar with the Maldivian culture and learn the Maldivians way of living too. When tourists stay in a family house, they will have an accommodation that offers the way of living of regular locals, and personally experience it. Thus, homestay allows tourists to have an experience of their destination to the fullest.

• A positive direct impact on the locals since the income generated from the tourists will be going directly to the local community.

• The travelers staying with the local’s house will be able to get insider trips allowing them to have the best authentic experience. The traveler will have the opportunity to participate in the host’s everyday activities.