About Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is a small nation of around 2,70,000 people. The country comprises some 1192 tiny islands stretched out across the equator in a vertical strip, of which 200 are inhabited today. Traditionally a fishing and trading people, the Maldivians have a history, culture and language all of their own.

The idea of developing Maldives' unspoilt , palm- fringed tropical islands with dazzling white beaches and brilliant turquoise lagoons as a tourist destination, began in 1972. Eighty Seven resorts of various standards and tastes have since been built, each on its own uninhabited island and surrounded by one of the best preserved marine environments anywhere in the world.

Tourism development is very well planned and regulated with great attention paid to its sensitive nature. The environmental policy of ecological sustainable tourism development is regarded as an example to the world. As a result, the tourism industry has been enormously successful. Recent years have been characterized by modernization and a very high rate of economic growth, most notably in Male, the capital city which is fully open to visitors. Some island communities close to tourist resorts are accessible for short visits. Resort island, specially built for tourists, are all-inclusive, each coming as a self-sufficient entity in terms of facilities offered and the abounding natural beauty. A few hotels and guest houses are available in Male.