Mélange Sustainable Travel + Lifestyle Winter 2022 | Page 35

COVER STORY | THE MALDIVES
as family businesses .
Unfortunately , due to rapid industrialization and the opening of markets housing cheap , foreignproduced handicrafts , their past craftsmanship reputation of excellence fell out of favor . Studies have shown the causes most likely involve the region ’ s comparative disadvantages from high transportation costs to the fragmented geography of an island state , scarcity of raw materials and a limited workforce . Nevertheless ,
those working in this sector see significant potential for locally produced items , especially to the demand of tourists and once again with the focus on sustainable tourism local artisans are coming to the forefront .
The Maldivians have built and preserved a sole cultural identity from the many elements that have helped shape it during its lifetime . It is something to be proud of . And what better way to experience it than to visit and see it first hand ?

Maldivians are hospitable and friendly people with a casual and relaxed lifestyle attached to the sea

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Photo Credit : Enterprise Development Unit Maldives Ministry of Economic Development & Trade