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Maldives Holidays
Book one of our many Maldives holidays and save £££'s off high street prices
The Maldives is a group of low-lying coral islands, forming an archipelago of 26 major atolls, situated south west of Sri Lanka. A small percentage of the islands are inhabited and 87 are exclusively resorts, boasting tropical landscapes hugged by picture-perfect beaches festooned with palm trees. The myriad islands are surrounded by coral reefs enclosing shallow lagoons.
The Dhivehin people of the Maldives are descended from an ethnic mix of Aryan, Negroid, Sinhalese, Dravidian and Arab cultures. The history of the area was dominated by a succession of bids for control that began with Muslim rule in the 12th century. The Arabs were later supplanted by Portuguese then the British, until 1965 when the Maldives finally achieved full independence as a sultanate. All Maldivians are Sunni Muslims and their lifestyle follows the traditions of Islam. Traces of ancient beliefs have endured in the form of superstitions centred on evil spirits.
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Maldives Holidays Couple
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Beaches
With some of the world’s finest deserted beaches, white sand and the brilliant blue Indian Ocean are the norm on every island resort, a picture-postcard view not to take for granted, with crystal clear lagoons teeming with tropical fishes.
Sports
A haven for snorkelling and diving, the Indian Ocean is filled with multi-coloured fishes and soft coral. The islands are a surf hotspot and kite surfing, sailing and canoeing are also favourites.
Local tastes
Most of the food here is imported so there’s something to suit all tastes. The locals enjoy fish curry or soup with a hot and spicy kick; meat is saved for special occasions. Finger food is popular including chilli coated fish pieces; battered fish rolls and curried vegetable samosas. Despite being Muslim islands, alcohol is freely available; try Raa, a spirit made from coconut palm sap.
Evening flavour
Most of the larger resorts offer live music, Maldivian dancing, folklore shows, fire dancers and even crab racing. People spend the evening watching the sunset with a cocktail or enjoying a beach barbecue. In Male, the capital island, you’ll find a great evening atmosphere with outdoor concerts by New Harbour, late-night shopping and night cafés.
