Maldives: Why go

With its 1200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are most people’s idea of a tropical paradise; almost every island could front an envy-arousing postcard. And only 200 are inhabited - which makes for a lot of deliciously remote hideaways. From the air, most are tiny splashes of sand, seemingly afloat in the turquoise rings of their encircling lagoons.

Powdery beaches, tranquil shallows perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and an incredible underwater world offering world-class diving are the obvious attractions - all remaining incredibly pristine thanks to strongly-enforced environmental policies. (All resorts are confined to uninhabited islands with only one development per island, and each has to meet a stringent set of environmental standards).

Although there are distinct monsoon seasons, the sun shines most of the time and it is balmy year-round. Holidaying here is a hassle-free experience; the airport is efficient, and you are invariably whisked straight off to your resort by boat or seaplane. Once here, you can do as much or as little as you like, revelling in the surroundings and in the sybaritic pampering.

A few things to note:

  • Don't expect much nightlife: evenings in the resorts are usually quiet.
  • Most products are imported so prices are high. If staying on a one-resort island, book your meals in advance, or be prepared to spend a small fortune.
  • Nudity (including going topless) is illegal; and alcohol cannot be brought in by visitors (the hotels sell it, of course).

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22:09 | GMT + 5 Hours

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See

Male Atoll

With the country's capital, Malé, in its south-eastern corner, North Malé was somewhat unsurprisingly the first atoll to be developed for tourists. Malé's international airport, a huge reclamation project, joined two deserted islands to form a runway able to cater to large jets, whilst sitting only 1m above sea level at its highest point (making for an interesting sensation when landing).

The south-western side of the Malé Atoll is home to most of its locally inhabited islands. As is the case throughout the Maldives, fishing is the mainstay here, and the islanders' deeply rooted way of life is still strongly upheld - although western influences, such as technological and linguistic skills, are also evident around the capital, especially in the younger generation.

Many of the Malé Atoll's resorts - approximately 30 - are also situated here, within easy (but also suitably distant!) reach of the airport, via boat. As the most developed atoll, Kaafu offers the greatest number and range of resorts, but generally bigger and more mainstream than the i-escape mould.

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Baa Atoll

Despite also being a designated part of the tourist zone, for many years the Baa Atoll (or South Maalhosmadulu) remained undeveloped. Today it has a total population of 10,000+ spread across its islands, including its capital, Eydafushi, complete with man-made harbour. The majority of the Baa Atoll's islands are found on the eastern side, including Soneva Fushi, the first island resort to be built here. A delightfully unspoiled atoll, it still has relatively few resorts, and many uninhabited islands.

Fishing is once again central to the islanders' way of life, with fish traded on a weekly basis in Malé for building materials. There is also a small agricultural trade, including coconuts, bananas, water melon and papaya - while slightly more unexpected specialities of the region include lacquer boxes and a troupe of dancing girls who travel throughout the country.

Also worth noting, for divers, is the large number of mantas that visit the Baa Atoll during the rainy months of May-July.

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Do

What to do

As the Maldives are 90% water, your holiday activities are naturally based around the sea.

Swimming, snorkelling & scuba diving
With most islands set in a lagoon, there are plenty of safe swimming areas with soft, sandy bottoms. They also offer great snorkelling or, in their submerged outer reefs, diving. There are over 700 common fish species, thousands of invertebrates, plus sharks, manta rays, morays, groupers, etc.

Sailing & windsurfing
Many resorts provide one- and two-man boats for sailing; or travel by traditional dhoani - wonderful for peaceful sunset-gazing. For the more active, strong winds, especially in the monsoon, create ideal conditions for windsurfing.

Deep-sea fishing
The oceanic waters offer fantastic opportunities year-round: wahoo, sailfish, yellow-fin tuna and dolphin fish.

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