For a long time, the Republic of Maldives was one of the best-kept
secrets in the world; a beautiful string of low-lying coral
islands in the Indian Ocean, a paradise for scuba divers, watersports
enthusiasts and sunseekers alike. All of these attractions are
still very much in evidence, but in recent years the tourism
potential of the country has been developed in the form of a
large number of island resorts. Several tour operators have
added the Maldives to their programmes, and since the introduction
of direct flights from Europe the islands have become an increasingly
popular long-haul destination.
The Maldives consist of 26 natural atolls, approximately 1190
islands in all, most of them uninhabited. Most of the resorts
are to be found in Mal? (Kaafu) Atoll. A few are found in Vaavu,
Baa and Lhaviyani. Alifu (Ari) Atoll has been declared the new
Tourism Zone of the Maldives and work to upgrade and build new
resorts is progressing in this area. All resorts offer night-fishing
trips, superb snorkelling and windsurfing, and most have facilities
for scuba diving, catamaran sailing, para-sailing, banana-boating,
water-skiing and volleyball. Some offer other sporting facilities,
including badminton and tennis.
This guide describes some of the major resort islands in the
Maldives. Further information can be obtained from tour operators
or by contacting the island resort directly. |
Maldives Airport Guide
