Must Do Things On A Maldives Holiday
By Eleanor Ramsay
When you arrive for a Maldives holiday in the Indian Ocean, the
rest of the world seems very far away. Tiny islands and atolls
are home to stunning hideaway hotels, often with accommodation
built out over the water on stilts. This is the perfect
destination for a romantic honeymoon, a luxury scuba diving
experience, or simply as an escape from the stresses of everyday
life.
The Maldives are a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean. There
are a total of 26 atolls stretching out into the Ocean, made up
from a total of 1192 tiny islands. Only about 200 of these are
inhabited. The name ‘Maldives’ is said to be derived from the
Sanskrit phrase ‘Maale Dhivehi Raajje’. This translates as ‘The
island kingdom of Male’.
The islands are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that are
ideal for diving in. Scuba diving and snorkelling rank amongst
the finest in the world here and each resort has its own dive
school offering courses for first timers as well as experienced
divers. The waters around the Maldives are home to over 1000
different types of marine life and they provide a truly
spectacular sight! Watersports abound with windsurfing, sailing
and water skiing all on hand, while the surrounding seas boast
some of the world’s best big game fishing year round.
This is a Muslin country, and Ramadan is observed here.
Throughout the year alcohol is readily available at all the
hotels, but you are not permitted to bring duty free liquor into
the country. Any bottles you do bring will be confiscated upon
arrival and returned on your departure. No restrictions are
placed on what you are allowed to wear on any of the tourist
islands, however when visiting inhabited islands such as Male’,
visitors are asked to dress in a modest manner.
For a truly luxurious holiday, a holiday to the Maldives is
simply perfect!
