Marvelous Maldives

Sun, sand and sea, a thousand ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands, massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination. However, there is more to the Maldives than just that. A string of pearls scattered over the deep blue Indian Ocean, the first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll-formation confirms two unique aspects of the Republic of Maldives. Not only does it consist of the most beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of its 1190 islands are spread over 26 atolls, ring-like coral formations enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like appearance.

Male would certainly count as one of the smallest capitals in the world in terms of its physical size. Different from any other island in the country, Male is a city of high-rise buildings and paved roads. While the government offices are located in one area, the main streets are lined with shops and offices. In the old bazaar area which still houses the country’s hub of wholesale and retail trade, the lanes are so narrow that a single vehicle would find it difficult to navigate through, especially with its throngs of busy people.

The Maldives is famed for its rare underwater beauty. The profusion of psychedelic colours and the abundance and variety of life underwater have fascinated divers and snorkellers since Maldives was discovered as a diving destination. The Maldives has some of the best dive sites in the world and many visit the Maldives repeatedly for the sole purpose of diving. Many of the resorts have excellent house reefs. Just a short swim from the beach and snorkellers too can experience the same pleasures from the surface.

Did you know that Maldives ranks among the top five places on the planet for watching whales and dolphins? Over 20 different species (a quarter of the world’s total) call the Maldives home. These range from the mighty Blue Whale (the largest animal alive) to the diminutive but highly acrobatic Spinner Dolphin. Alternatively, if you would like to see even more dolphins, and whales too, go on a cruise on one of the many comfortable safari boats.

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