Endless stretches of white sanded shores, swaying palms and sparkling waters, enchanting worlds underneath the ocean surface, dots of islands each with its own treasure-trove of surprises; all this and more makes one wonder if Maldives is actually on earth or if it is a part of heaven itself!
The Maldives is actually an archipelago of 1200 coral islands that have been clustered into atolls that are beautifully placed in a necklace like structure. As if it is the artwork of God, it is mere perfection in everything natural. The atolls are actually formed by prehistoric volcanoes that have erupted in the ocean. What it has turned out to become is nothing short of unfathomable beauty, set amidst pristine natural landscapes
All this is only what is apparent above water; underneath the ocean there is a whole new story; schools of fish of varying colours and sizes make their home here alongside dolphins, sharks, rays and others. Different shades of multi coloured sponges ornament these waters giving you a feel of swimming in an underwater Eden. The clear water with absolutely perfect visibility is one of the many reasons diving and snorkelling is so remarkable in the Maldives and quite unlike any other place in the world in fact.
The combination of perfection in land and under the sea was one of the reasons that Maldive’s took part in the Seven Wonders competition. They did emerge winners at second place but everyone who stepped onto this amazing island would tell you without doubt that you do not need a prize to label this as a natural wonder; if you simply bask in its ambience you would know that this country is indeed a paradise where nature transports you to a magical world where peace and tranquillity are all around you.