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Located just north of the equator and sprinkled across the Indian Ocean, lies the unique country of Maldives. Comprising of over 1,000 low lying coral islands, grouped into atolls, of which only 100 are inhabited and about 90 have been converted into hotels. The word "atoll", in fact, comes from the Maldivian language and refers to a cluster of small islands, protected by an outer reef, whichsurround a lagoon. Renowned for offering some of the best diving in the world (all resorts have Scuba diving schools), the scenery underwater is beautiful as the fine white powder sands and the lush palm trees of the islands themselves. Each resort hotel is on its own island and island hopping is not easy unless hiring one of the local "dhoni" boats or on an organised excursion. Any entertainment in resorts is low key. The capital Male, displays a colorful picture of Muslim life, with a busy harbour, a large mosque and a few shops to explore. |
