The Maldives is a cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean serving as a tropical haven to sun worshippers, divers and old fashioned romantics. 
 
Go Diving…
 
The atolls are all coral reefs hundreds of kilometres away from any major landmass, meaning that the warm seas of the Maldives have high visibility year-round providing the perfect location to go scuba diving.  There are over a thousand species of fish and underwater creatures from tiny shrimp to the marvellous Manta rays and sharks inhabiting the Maldivian waters.  The best time of the year for diving is from January to April, when the sea is usually calm.  When the sun is shining, visibility can reach up to 50 metres.
 
Banana Reef…
 
Banana Reef is a great spot to go diving with every visit completely different from the last.  Enjoy the varied, constantly changing scenery and the impressive profusion of fish-life on offer here.  The protected marine area has a bit of everything:
 
This protected marine area has a bit of everything: dramatic cliffs, caves and overhangs, brilliant coral growths, big predators such as sharks, barracuda and groper, and prolific reef fish including jackfish, morays and bluestriped snapper.
 
Go Surfing…
 
The recent O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives has firmly placed Maldives on the world’s surf map.  The southwest monsoon brings with it massive swells ranging from 3 to 8 feet while the turquoise waters and perfect waves makes it an ideal and uncrowded destination for surfers looking for smooth conditions.  While most of the recognised surf breaks lie in Male Atoll, there are a number of specialised companies offering tailored multi-day boat trips allowing you to discover some of the more hidden gems.  The best time to visit for surfing is usually between March and October, with the biggest waves usually occurring between June and August. 
 
Explore Inhabited Islands…
 
The best way to experience the life of the Maldivian people is by exploring the local inhabited Islands.  Some of these islands are relatively modern with brightly painted house walls and harbour areas.  You will also find quiet fishing villages with lots of tree-shade, swings and the traditional wooden holhuashi conveniently set up on beach fronts.  Sit back and relax as boats bring islanders over to wind down and relax after a hard day’s work. 
 
Explore Uninhabited Islands…
 
Even though there are over 1,000 islands to choose from in the Maldives only a few hundred are actually being utilised making it incredibly easy to find an uninhabited island to enjoy peace and tranquillity amongst raw, unspoilt vegetation surrounded by blinding beaches and dazzling sunbeam-lined waters.  Many of these deserted lands do not have electricity so you can fully enjoy the night sky with its abundance of stars. 
 
 
WHERE TO STAY: Huyafen Fushi
An overwater bungalow on this iconic luxury island perched above the turquoise water in the middle of the Indian Ocean.  This boutique refinement boasts underwater spa rooms, underground wine and an incredible view that even includes glass floors.  All bungalows boast private plunge pools, chic décor and the services of your very own butler.
 
WHAT TO DO: Cruise Yacht
The Tropic Breeze is a deluxe class five cabin cruise yacht catering for the diving, surfing, fishing, snorkelling and cruising market.  Accommodating up to 12 guests in its four triple bed cabins the yacht can also be exclusively chartered for honeymoon, big game fishing and surf holidays too. 
 
WHERE TO EAT: Taj Exotica
This casual open air restaurant specialises in Pan-Asian and international cuisine, but may also serve a wide variety of food on request.  Private dining on an Ocean Pavilion or an unforgettable candlelit dinner in a Yoga Pavilion completes the whole culinary experience.

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