Visit this String of Pearls in the Indian Ocean – Maldives a Place to be Mesmerized

article by Muditha Premarathne Thebuwana

If you are looking for a beach holiday that spells tranquility, peace and wondrous beauty, book your seats to the Maldives. It’s a string of islands, formed as two rows of atolls in the Indian Ocean, below India and Sri Lanka. With 1,190 islands that range from small islands to tiny islets, Maldives is like a string of pearls in the Indian Ocean with its two row formation. Only around 200 of these islands are inhabited while around 100 islands are operating as resorts. The sharp ridge, which rises from the ocean upon which the atolls are placed, creates secluded beaches where there is hardly any breaking of surf. The white sandy beaches are picturesque and bluish white, sparkling like crystals in the sun. As you land in Male, you will see the islands scattered across over 90,000 sq km, invitingly beguiling you with the mystery and seclusion of hidden away islands.

Marine Eco Beauty of Maldives
Maldives is rich with an amazing bounty of marine eco-system, supported and sustained by the surrounding reefs, the warm waters of the ocean currents, and the deep channels around the atolls. With deep sea lagoons and bay areas as Hanifaru, this is truly a place of magical beauty that can mesmerize any traveler. From whale sharks to dolphins, turtles and thousands of marine specimens, the surrounding shallow and deep seas of Maldives offer an extravaganza of natural beauty to gaze upon. Schools of multi-colored fish roam the natural coral reefs that looks like an underwater flower garden.

Maldives and Water Sports
If you enjoy swimming, deep sea diving, snorkeling or fishing, this is your holiday paradise. The reef area offers spectacular underwater scenes which can take the diver’s breath away. The surrounding shallow waters offer crystal clear shallow water that is calm enough for even a child to snorkel. If you want to ride the waves, there are perfect spots for catching the surf. Any whale or dolphin watchers will rarely be disappointed of having a chance to have encounters with these magnificent marine animals.

Spectacular Resorts and Star Class Accommodation

There are over 90 resorts in the Maldives and each of them operate separately in islands as self contained facilities. Serviced by sea planes, these resorts are world class and will provide excellent accommodation with all amenities. You have a choice from water villas to beach villas and standard rooms to deluxe and superior suites. The concept of over the water bungalows and villas is a unique feature you would encounter commonly in Maldivian resorts. Such accommodation offers breathtaking views of the dawn and the sun set as well as the sense of living in the sea.

Lose Yourself in Luxury
If you have been in the Maldives, then a Spa treatment is definitely something on the agenda. Maldivian resorts boasts of Spas that are of international standard, yet incorporating traditional methods of healing and rejuvenating one’s body and soul. You can cocoon yourself in idyllic relaxation, secluded from the real world. These spas which are tucked away in obscurity will give peaceful yet pampered experiences which will remain as life time memories of the visitors. The green palms and the lush vegetation set the perfect backdrop to the luxurious spas of the islands.
Next time you wish for a beach holiday, yet want something different from the conventional commercial beach front tourist experiences, consider Maldives, which is indeed a crown jewel in world tourism.