Maldives
The Republic of Maldives is an island country consisting of a group of atolls stretching south of India's Lakshadweep islands between Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago, and about seven hundred kilometres south-west of Sri Lanka in the Laccadive Sea of Indian Ocean. The twenty-six atolls of Maldives encompass a territory featuring 1,192 islets, of which two hundred and fifty islands are inhabited.
With a myriad of tiny islands and atolls scattered in the Indian Ocean, the azure waters of the lagoons and swaying palm tress lining the beach fulfil most travellers’ image of a tropical paradise.
Although the Maldives were discovered accidentally by sailors heading east and have long been populated, it is only in recent years that their popularity as a holiday destination has been appreciated. With so many wonderful islands and resorts to choose from, deciding which one to visit is a hard choice to make so we have carefully selected a few island retreats that offer something special. Those seeking a pampering experience can choose an island with a luxurious spa overlooking the ocean, marine lovers can select a resort with a house reef teeming with brightly coloured fish or take to the deep under the guidance of an expert dive centre, while those seeking something unusual can enjoy a meal in an underwater restaurant, eat a mouth watering picnic on a deserted island, enjoy a fine dining experience in tropical splendour or cruise the lagoons in your own private crewed dhoni.
Whatever your requirements, the Maldives are an idyllic place to escape from the stresses of modern life without having to forego any creature comforts. Robinson Crusoe would never have wanted to leave.
