A holiday in the Maldives not only provides the ultimate in perfect relaxation, it also introduces guests to the essence of pure nature says, ANKITA SAXENA

The Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is none less than a dreamy holiday destination. With 99 percent of sea and just one percent land, this country is an amalgamation of over 1,190 coral islands ringed by a beautiful landscape of reefs, which makes it the most dispersed country in the world. Its unique geography and breath-taking natural beauty has made the destination one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world. To decide to have a holiday in the Maldives is to choose not just the perfect destination for a vacation, but also to discover the sunny side of life.

Melting pot of culture

From local cuisine to music, the culture of Maldives reflects a rich blend of the many cultural aspects, introduced by seafarers who settled in the country in the ancient times. Enjoy the local cuisine which reflects use of spicy curries and coconut milk and fish as the main staples and either white rice or Roshi (a thin variant of Indian flatbread) as a popular accompaniment.  However, those who want to try something familiar there is a range of world cuisine available. Sway to the music played with the local Boduberu (big drum) and dance to the amalgamation of songs from various countries to truly indulge in the Maldivian spirit.

Experiential stay

Maldives offers accommodations to suit every pocket, where you can choose from a guesthouse, hotel, resort or a liveaboard. The stay itself is an experience in this island country. Of the 1,190 islands, more than 120 have been developed as resorts and are in operation, and at least another 50 are under development.

Since Maldives is popularly known for a ‘one-island one-resort’ concept, each of the registered tourist resorts is on its own uninhabited island with superlative architect-designed accommodation, either in beachside rooms or overwater villas. When staying in overwater villas, be mesmerised with the opulence and exclusivity but don’t miss out to climb down from the room into the ocean at any time—to call a part of the ocean your own.

Satisfy the adrenaline rush

The Maldives are the white-sand, palm-fringed castaway islands of your imagination. The water is so clear you can see the brightly colored fish from your lounger. Dive, snorkel, sail or simply sit back and soak it all in.

If you want the adrenaline of adventure sports, the Maldives has it all. From skimming the Indian Ocean waters on a jet-ski to parasailing, kayaking and surfing, Maldives is the ideal destination for an active beach holiday. Water based activities like canoeing, banana ride, water scooters and parasailing are just some of them. The Maldives underwater offers you a chance to experience bliss like never before as the sun’s rays illuminate the crystal clear waters. Diving and snorkeling are not to be missed when in this country. Most holiday resorts and hotels in Maldives have dive centers with professional guides, instructors or marine biologists who offer different types of diving and snorkeling excursions.

Activities galore

There is no complete description of the boundless beauties of the Maldivian islands and its vibrant and multicolored waters. Although the appeal of these isles is their isolation, there is plenty to do and you can choose to be as active as you wish.

A holiday to the Maldives is incomplete without a dolphin watching trip as this destination is one of the best places on the planet to experience these creatures up close. Many resorts and hotels in Maldives offer dolphin watching excursions to popular sites every day. Get a chance to get particularly close to dolphins, and you may even get to swim with them!

Cruising on a traditional dhoni, which is one of the oldest sea vessels in Maldives, is the best local experience. It is a good idea to experience fishing where you would be able to catch tuna, emperors, snappers, squirrelfish, jacks and other reef fish.