Maldives
ESCAPISM: crystal clear waters
Lying off the southern tip of India, this slender chain of coral islands is strewn like a magical necklace across the shimmering azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
A thousand ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands are scattered through massive lagoons with infinite shades of blue and turquoise and dazzling underwater coral gardens, providing a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination. Here you will enter a world of pure escapism, a world where time stands still in a land of powdery white sands and aquamarine lagoons.
The Maldives is famed for its rare underwater beauty. The profusion of psychedelic colours and the abundance and variety of life underwater, have fascinated divers and snorkellers since the Maldives was discovered as a diving destination. The highest level of visibility that one could expect - sometimes exceeding 50 metres - and warm temperatures throughout the year, make diving in the Maldives a delight you would want to experience over and over again. Many of the resorts have excellent house reefs, just a short swim from the beach. Snorkellers too can experience the same pleasures from the surface.
Resorts in the Maldives have been called 'the last paradise on earth' and if your idea of paradise is a pristine tropical island with swaying palm trees, pure white beaches and brilliant turquoise lagoons, then the Maldives will not disappoint.
FLIGHTS & FACTS
Fly to: Male (Emirates, Qatar, Sri Lankan)
Flying Time: 10 1/2 hrs non-stop, 13 hrs including transit
Time Difference: GMT + 5hrs
Visas: Not required for UK passport holders
Health Requirements: Yellow fever if arriving from endemic area
Best time to travel: Nov-Apr
WEATHER
The best time to travel to the Maldives is during our winter months when the humidity is lower and the temperature more comfortable. However, the monsoon season of May to September should not be discounted for travel as the resorts have fantastic offers on accommodation. The heavier showers tend to occur in the mornings or the late afternoons; a perfect time to visit the spa.
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