Largely unexplored by Americans due to the lack of direct flights to the Maldives, the islands have long been the playground of Europeans seeking the awesome beaches and tranquil lagoons. But that's probably why the Maldives and the Seychelles remain unspoiled for the most part.
Take a dip below the surface, and you'll be rewarded with an amazing variety of breathtaking colorful fish. And some of the world's best dive sites are here, too. But don't think the resorts just happened. The government planned and has a master tourism plan in place.
The Maldives (pronounced MAHL-deeves) are now a part of a great master plan - after the overwhelming tourist boom of the 70's and 80's. The idea here was to emphasize quality over quantity. And they did just that. Granted, you can't go just anywhere in the some 1190 islands - and luxury doesn't come cheap - but... well worth it, we feel. Just find a traveler who came home from here unhappy.
Okay - so where is this place?
Officially known as the Republic of Maldives, a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean about 417 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. The best time to visit any of the beach resorts is November to Easter.
You land in Male and are transferred by air or boat to your resort. Depending on the sea, it may be better to transfer by air. We have heard reports of visitors getting sea sick on the transfer vessel, (this after a 12 hour flight - you get the picture.)
Where else can you find local women caring for the beaches by hand? That same care is displayed to every visitor to their country. In fact, the people are so friendly here, we guarantee you will make friends. The country prides itself on how warm the people are. And they love to tell of their beautiful islands - ask many questions and you'll soon consider moving here! Enough dreaming - So now we're off to our First Beach.
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