The Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and vibrant marine life. Private island resorts ringed with white sand beaches and stunning coral reef dive sites, Maldives holidays offer year-round sun and all-inclusive luxury in an exclusive tropical paradise. Whether you're seeking honeymoon romance or unforgettable family adventures, the Maldives has a wide range of hotels equipped with every comfort and facility imaginable. Picture overwater villas with private pools, shoreline reefs visited by majestic rays, and watersports that cater to both relaxation and thrill-seeking. The culinary scene is equally impressive, with incredible food served in spectacular restaurants. And let's not forget the breathtaking sunsets. While these are the hallmarks of the Maldives, there's so much more to discover beyond the surface.

1. UNIQUE GEOGRAPHY

The Maldives consists of 26 atolls, which are made up of more than 1,190 coral islands. Only about 200 of these islands are inhabited, with around 150 dedicated to resorts. The country spans approximately 90,000 square kilometers, making it one of the world's most dispersed countries. The total population is less than that of Manchester. How is this possible? It becomes clearer when you realize that only about 200 of these stunning volcanic islands are inhabited. The rest are so well-protected that, until 2009, visitors were prohibited from stepping foot on them. The regulations have since been relaxed, offering modern travelers a chance to explore these pristine, untouched islands.

2. PEOPLE HAVEN'T LIVED THERE FOR LONG

The Maldives' closest neighbors are Sri Lanka and India, where archaeological evidence indicates human habitation for tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of years. In comparison, the first settlers of the Maldives arrived just over 3,000 years ago. Historians believe that Buddhists from Sri Lanka began settling in the Maldives around 1,500 BC. This Buddhist culture remained dominant until the 12th century AD when many island residents converted to Islam, which remains the majority religion today.

3. THE MALDIVES WERE ONCE KNOWN AS THE ‘MONEY ISLES’

While most modern transactions now occur in the digital realm, cash has been the primary medium for exchanging wealth for goods and services across much of the world for centuries. Before the advent of intricately designed notes and metal coins, civilizations often used natural objects as currency. In Africa, India, and parts of Ancient China, lightweight and unforgeable cowry shells were a favored form of money, and the beaches of the Maldives were abundant with them. These natural 'coins' became so significant to the Maldives that their image remains a symbol for the Maldives Monetary Authority today.

4. TOURISM IS A RELATIVELY RECENT DEVELOPMENT

Today, it's difficult to imagine the Maldives as anything other than a tourist paradise. However, 50 years ago, most travel agents might have struggled to locate it on a map. Despite the archipelago's timeless beauty, it was known only to the most adventurous explorers and avid divers until the first resorts opened in the mid-1970s. Even then, it was the dedicated work of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who served from 1978 to 2008, that helped the nation attract the millions of tourists who flock to it today.

5. YOU'LL NEVER SLEEP CLOSER TO THE SEA

No landscape in the world is closer to the waves than the Maldives. With an average elevation of just five feet above sea level, this Indian Ocean archipelago is officially the lowest nation on Earth. For perspective, the UK is over 100 times higher, and the global average elevation is 2,756 feet above sea level. The Maldives relies on natural coral reef barriers to shield its islands from seasonal swells. Unfortunately, these reefs may not withstand the rising sea levels driven by climate change. If current trends continue, scientists predict that nearly 80% of the region could become uninhabitable by 2050.

6. THE SAND IS UNIQUE COMPARED TO OTHER BEACHES

Here's a bit of science that’s actually quite fascinating: sand forms from the gradual erosion of larger materials over millions of years, eventually breaking down into the fine granules you feel beneath your toes by the ocean. Most of the world's sand comes from rocks like quartz, granite, or feldspar. However, the Maldives stands out because its sand is made from the coral surrounding the atolls. This coral, which creates the incredible diving sites, also breaks down to form the island’s pristine beaches. While only 5% of the world's beaches are made from coral, those that are boast some of the most beautiful, pure white sands you can find.

7. YOU CAN SWIM WITH THE LARGEST FISH

It might be the shoals of tiny colourful fish that fill the brochure pages or the graceful rays and adorable sea turtles, but the Maldives have another star when it comes to size. Growing over 20 feet long, whale sharks are the biggest fish in any ocean, and they spend all year swimming in the equatorial waters around the South Ari Atoll, Rangali Island and Hanifaru Bay. Stay at LUX* South Ari Atoll, Lily Beach Resort & Spa, Constance Moofushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, or any other nearby resorts, and you can swim with these huge but harmless sea creatures or stay dry and take a cruise to spot them as you sail.

8. YOU DON'T NEED TO LEARN THE LANGUAGE, BUT YOU CAN

In the Maldives, most islands are staffed by teams selected to ensure international travelers feel welcome. Consequently, you'll find that nearly everyone you speak to communicates fluently in English and various other global languages. The local language, Dhivehi, is unique to the Maldives and bears similarities to Sinhalese, spoken in Sri Lanka. Depending on which island you visit, you may also hear different dialects. If you'd like to make an effort during your Maldives holiday, some useful phrases to know are 'assalaamu alaikum,' meaning 'hello,' and 'shukuriyyaa,' meaning 'thank you.'

9. IMPORTANT DECISIONS ARE MADE IN UNCONVENTIONAL PLACES

Parliament buildings around the world come in various shapes, but they typically provide a comfortable and dry environment for politicians. The Maldives is no exception—except for one day in 2009. On that occasion, President Mohamed Nasheed invited his cabinet to a unique venue: underwater. To raise global awareness about the threat of climate change to the Maldives, President Nasheed and ten of his ministers held a full cabinet meeting beneath the sea. During this event, they signed a document urging international efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Their wetsuits were later autographed and auctioned to raise funds for reef protection, crucial for the islands' survival.

10. WORLD'S FIRST UNDERWATER RESTAURANT

Opened in 2005, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the world’s first underwater restaurant. Diners can enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by panoramic views of the vibrant underwater world.

11. THE WEEKEND IS DIFFERENT—AND IT’S NOT JUST THE GUARANTEED SUN

In the Maldives, the weekend differs from what you might be used to at home, as is common in many Islamic countries. Here, the weekend begins a full 24 hours earlier and includes Friday. However, it also ends a day sooner, with Sunday being a regular working day for locals. Fortunately, this won’t impact your holiday experience. At an all-inclusive paradise resort in the Indian Ocean, every day feels like a weekend, no matter how long you stay.

12. LUXURY TOURISM

The Maldives is synonymous with luxury tourism. Many resorts occupy their own private islands, offering overwater villas, world-class spas, and personalized services. The Maldives is a favorite destination for honeymooners and celebrities seeking an exclusive getaway.

The Maldives is truly a remarkable destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and luxurious experiences. Whether you're exploring its vibrant coral reefs or relaxing in a private villa, the Maldives trip promises an unforgettable experience. As you plan your Maldives holiday, make sure to include these top cities on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience. Contact our experts at +44 20 3890 3669 and make your bookings in advance. Our travel experts would be happy to help you enjoy your holiday fully. Happy travels!