Nestled in the azure embrace of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a paradise escape where time itself seems to slow down. This archipelago of over a thousand coral islands unfolds its wonders with crystalline waters sparkling like scattered diamonds in the sun. Each atoll is a sanctuary of unspoilt beauty, where powdery white sands meet a vibrant underwater world teeming with vibrantly coloured fish, majestic manta rays and gentle sea turtles gliding gracefully beneath the surface.
The Maldives offers more than breathtaking scenery; it's a haven of tranquillity where luxurious overwater bungalows invite you to drift off to dreams amidst the gentle lull of the ocean waves. Embrace the island rhythm with serene spa experiences, savour exquisite cuisine and immerse yourself in a culture rich in warmth and tradition. In the Maldives, paradise is not a distant fantasy, but a tangible, living dream.
Tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August)
homogeneous mixture of Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, Australasian, and African resulting from historical changes in regional hegemony over marine trade routes
While beachwear is acceptable in resorts, it is typically frowned upon in other locations.
Garudiya — a clear fish (typically tuna) broth
Upper middle-income Indian Ocean island economy; major tourism, fishing, and shipping industries; high public debt; systemic corruption; crippled by COVID-19; ongoing deflation; poverty has tripled since pandemic began