The Maldives isn't just another Indian Ocean island nation. It's full of fascinating facts and history, nature and culture across its 26 atolls.
Here are just four things that you would learn on a holiday adventure to the Maldives.
1. The Maldives is the lowest nation on earth
You won't have any problems with altitude sickness in this low-lying nation, as no matter where you go the highest point is just 2.4 metres above sea level. As well as this, 80 per cent of the land in the Maldives is just 1 metre or less above sea level.
The bonus of this is that you will never be too far from digging your toes into the sand and enjoying the beach lifestyle of a holiday in the Maldives. Unfortunately however, this also means there is a real concern in regards to climate changes, as rising sea levels could devour this beach paradise before future generations get to enjoy all it has to offer.
2. The Maldives is home to more than 3,000 coral reefs
With this many reefs, the Maldives is one of the best spots in the world to head underwater for various forms of diving.
These reefs are home of over a thousand species of water inhabitants - from bright colourful fish and miniscule shrimp to impressive sharks and mantas. See it all on your Maldives adventure with a tour, or under the instruction of a helpful professional.
You only need the basic equipment and a keen eye to get out and enjoy this visual display that's unlike any other. One particularly good activity to try is a night dive, which is a completely different experience and will let you see all sorts of creatures you won't see during the day.
3. There are only two seasons in the Maldives
The busiest time of year for this spot if from December to March, which is the dry northeast monsoon season. From May through to November you will be more likely to encounter wind and rain - although there is never a bad time to visit! Even when there are occasional rains, the temperature remains warm with more humidity, meaning it's less busy for those looking for a quiet getaway.
Surfers flock to the impressive swells from March to October and the resorts are usually fully booked in the hottest months of February to April, when average temperatures soaring to the high 20s.
4. People have been living on the Maldives for more than 3,000 years
For such a tiny country, the Maldives certainly has an impressively long history.
Historians believe the nation has been inhabited for thousands of years, even though much of this time has not been properly documented. There are plenty of myths and legends to enjoy, including one about the Rannamaari - a terrifying seamonster who demands a virgin sacrifice every full moon.
In reality, the nation is believed to have been a place for trading between ancient civilisations such as the Romans and Egyptians. It has long been an Islamic nation and has struggled with invasions from various groups, yet became independent in 1965 and has been welcoming tourists to its luxurious shores since not long after that.
There is so much to see, enjoy and do in this archipelago of 1,1921 coral islands dotted across 400km of ocean. Ask your local Travel Associates consultant and they won't hesitate to tell you of the beauty, serenity and culture of these gorgeous islands.
