The Maldivian island locals don’t want resort chains to discover – 4,471 residents guard this $30/night paradise
The speedboat cuts through turquoise waters as we approach Maafushi, and I notice something unusual. Local residents are actively managing who visits their island, carefully balancing tourism income with cultural preservation. This isn’t your typical Maldivian resort experience. What strikes me most is how 4,471 residents have created a tourism model that serves their community … Lire plus