Maldives is a group of about 1190 tiny coral islands located in the warm Indian Ocean. Out of the incredibly large number of islands only 202 islands are inhabited, with 44 islands adapted as exclusive resort islands. It is popularly known as ‘The Pearls of the Indian Ocean.’
Maldives is the smallest country in terms of population in Asian and smallest predominantly Muslim nation in the world. The capital of the Maldives is Male which is the most densely inhabited island. Almost two third of population resides in the capital island. Each island is surrounded by a shallow lagoon, which is enclosed by a coral reef. Many of the islands are very small and situated no more than two meters above sea level.
The atolls have sandy beaches, lagoons and a luxuriant growth of coconut palms, together with breadfruit trees and tropical bushes. There are a healthy variety of birds inhabiting the islands and there are fewer varieties of land based animals. Common to the islands are flying foxes, geckos and garden lizards. There are over 100 species of birds - expect to see crows, parakeets and water hens as well as koel birds. Also present are herons, seagulls and noddys.
A country, no less than a paradise, the Maldives is exceptionally beautiful and overwhelmingly charming. In the palm-fringed small islands no less than a mile long, and along the white sandy beaches of the Maldives are located many hotels and resorts. Maldives resorts provide international standards of hospitality and guest accommodation.
Maldives was one of the world's poorest countries. But, in recent times, it has improved its economy remarkably in the field of tourism, fishing, boat building and boat repairing. Sparkling white beaches, coral reefs, turquoise lagoons and a variety of flora and fauna are the biggest draws to woo the tourist particularly to the rich and famous, who required escaping the hypes of the stressful work life. The people of the island are naïve and friendly, forming an absolute pleasant milieu for the travelers.
