Despite the Maldives being one of the most popular tropical holiday destinations in the world, it can be considered rather fleeting because climate change and rising sea levels are slowly swallowing up the islands. Visit this magical land before it disappears completely.
1. The Islands
The series of archipelagos that are strung together to make up the country of Maldives are called atolls. They are very unique coral formations that are almost exclusively based around the Maldives islands.
2. The People
Ethnic Maldivians are said to have descended from their neighbours India and Sri Lanka as well as Arab traders, Malays, Chinese and Africans among others. They are predominantly Muslim and speak Dhivehi.
3. The Economy
Since the economy depends almost 100% on tourism you will find many 5 star hotels in Maldives. The tourist approach has been a resounding success especially in keeping the coral reefs safe from exploitation. Most resorts like Saii Lagoon Maldives, take up an entire island.
4. A Quick History
The Maldives is said to have been occupied since the 5th century BC by a royal dynasty that practised Buddhism and may have come to the islands from neighbouring Sri Lanka. The islands began practising Islam since 1153 BC. Afterwards, it was often colonised by western maritime powers and finally gained independence from the British in 1965.
