Maldives Holidays

The Republic of Maldives is a chain of twenty-six atolls south west of India and Sri Lanka. A former British colony until independence in 1965, the Maldives is an Islamic country with sharia law. Almost two thousand coral islands form the low lying atolls that reach a maximum height of a little under eight feet. The colourful reefs support an abundance of marine life with over a thousand species of fish. The climate is tropical monsoon with a wet and dry season. Day time temperatures rarely dip below thirty at any time of year. Tourism is a valuable part of the economy as it accounts for almost thirty percent of the GDP. So every effort has been made to ensure visitors are entirely satisfied. Maldive beaches are beyond compare. White sands and turquoise water, welcome you to some of the best beaches in the world. The Maldives is without a doubt, a paradise for beach lovers. It is a destination favoured by honeymooners, and couples who wish to relax in the lap of luxury. Maldives holidays also appeal to scuba divers and snorkellers. With such fertile waters the rewards for divers is incredible. Apart from tropical fish, there are two hundred species of coral, four hundred species of molluscs and almost two hundred crab and shrimp species. The waters also provide for water sports including fishing, water skiing and kite surfing.

If your idea of holiday bliss is to relax under swaying palms on a soft, sun-bleached sandy beach, cocktail in hand, listening to the gentle lapping of waves, then a Maldive holiday would certainly fit the bill. Holidaymakers arrive at the international airport at Male, the capital. To get to your chosen destination, you can take a sea plane or go by speed boat. There are locally run ferries which are a cheaper, though slower, option. Whichever resort you choose, you'll be delighted by the luxury of your surroundings. Everything is first class and service is excellent. Nothing is too much trouble. One of the most popular is Vilamendo Island resort, which is great for snorkelling. Gangehi island with its overwater bungalows is another favourite. Wherever you go, you'll be welcomed with warm and generous hospitality. Traditional island food uses tuna, coconut and starches such as rice or sweet potatoes to make curries. Mas Riha is the most popular tuna curry. Unless you are staying in the capital, you should bring with you all your holiday essentials as there are few shops on the smaller islands. Nightlife in the Maldives is mainly provided by the hotels and is low key.