Idyllic Resorts

Among the 1190 islands that make up the Maldives, more than 90 are full-fledged resorts offering a variety of first class services to rival the best in the world.

The first resort in the Maldives was opened in 1972. Since then, tourism has developed into one of the most important industries in the country. A unique feature of the resorts is that each has its own island and is allowed to take up no more then 20 percent of the total land mass, or to reach any higher then the tallest palm tree on the island.

Enclosed by their own private beaches, each island has an encircling house reef which serves as a coral garden and natural aquarium. The shallow water enveloping the house reef serves as a large natural swimming pool.

Each resort is carefully landscaped and natural vegetation is judiciously preserved. The only manmade edifices of atypical resort are the rooms and suites reserved for use by guests, the building housing restaurants, cafes, shops, lounges, bars, discos, and diving school, in addition to staff lodgings and housing for support Services.

Given this micro-environment, it is amazing what most resorts have to offer. Air-conditioning, hot and cold fresh water round the clock, mini bar and private telephone in the guests' rooms is more the norm than the exception. Restaurants and coffee shops cater to the most demanding palate. Bars are well stocked and provide a convivial atmosphere while on-island shops offer a wide range of products, especially souvenirs and artifacts.

Diving and snorkeling in the Maldives is a specialty common to all the resorts and each has a diving base and experienced fully qualified instructors. All equipment required for diving is available at the resort, and there is no need for guests to bring anything with them. However, enthusiasts preferring to bring their own kit are welcome to do so.