Scattered throughout the north-central Indian Ocean are the 1200 sandbanks and coral reefs that comprise the Republic of Maldives. Grouped in clusters, or atolls, around 200 of these oasis are inhabited, and home to some of the most beautiful holiday resorts the world has to offer.

The islands are a series of coral atolls, and are formed from the uppermost tips of a volcanic mountain range, submerged beneath tropical waters. Barrier reefs protect the islands from the seas and create natural lagoons around the sandy shores, showing turquoise against the many-hued blue seas. The waves that lap the white-sand beaches are crystal clear and warmed by the sun that bathes the islands almost all year round.

The centre of the islands is a glorious display of tropical jungle, coconut palms and lush vegetation, in a hue of green, red and gold. The land is home to birds and fruit bats, or mega-bats, and geckos while the sea teams with more than 2,000 species of fish. Rays, turtles and sharks inhabit the warm waters which cover some of the world’s most beautiful coral.Maldives

This truly is Paradise.

The sun rises early in the Maldives, and immediately it shines, the heat of the day sets in. The tropical atmosphere has very high UV rays, and you are wise to seek shade and keep cool with regular swims in the inviting sea. The Maldives has a reputation for excellent scuba diving and most resort islands have a resident diving school, enabling you to learn and explore the deeper waters. However, with an abundance of coral and sea life within the lagoons around the islands, snorkelling will enable you to experience the beauty beneath the waves as easily.

The coral here is suffering as a result of pollution and rising sea temperatures, and it’s imperative to observe preservation methods. It is illegal to collect coral, and the beautiful shells that are washed onto the shoreline. Never touch, hold on to, or walk on coral reefs. Aside from the potential damage you can cause, it is home to sea creatures, some of which will react badly to a perceived threat. And if that’s not enough to convince you, by treating this natural phenomenon with respect, you are contributing to the conservation of this beautiful area for future generations.Maldives

Water sports feature heavily on the list of things to do in the Maldives. Kayaking, windsurfing and canoeing are widely available at resorts, and there will probably be the opportunity to rent items. However, it’s wise to do your research before you go: with everything imported by boat or seaplane, including guests, items for sale in your resort are likely to be very expensive.

Some of the larger island resorts may also offer additional sport facilities: badminton, tennis, football and even golf. Tourism is important to the Maldives, and the service you receive from your resort is likely to be as outstanding as the surroundings.Maldives

Several resorts are adult-only, but most welcome families, perhaps designating an area of the island to those who wish to experience a child-free holiday. Accommodation varies, as does price, but due to the size of the islands, many villas and bungalows are within sight and a few steps of the beach. Other resorts offer water villas, which extend into the lagoon and have glazed or open viewing areas set into the floor, so you can watch the sea below your room, as well as open-air bathrooms. With ambient air temperatures around 10 degrees above the temperature, you will probably want to opt for accommodation that has air conditioning.

The major religion of the Maldives islands is Islam, and while your resort will have a relaxed approach to swimwear, it is important to observe the dress code at meals, and particularly when visiting another island, or passing through the airport. Many resort buildings will have a “no shoes, no news” policy, but ladies should cover bathing costumes when inside, and men must not have bare chests. When travelling further afield, and under stricter conditions, ladies should cover their shoulders.Maldives

If the cost of your holiday includes a surcharge, there is no obligation to tip the staff, but if the service you experience is exemplary, and it probably will be, you are best to do so in either local currency or US dollars.

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