Among the 1190
islands that make up the Maldives , more than 90 are full-fledged
resorts offering a variety of first class services to rival the best in
the world.
The first resort in
the Maldives was opened in 1972. Since then, tourism has developed into
one of the most important industries in the country. A unique feature
of the resorts is that each has its own island and is allowed to take up
no more then 20 percent of the total land mass, or to reach any higher
then the tallest palm tree on the island.
Enclosed by their own private
beaches, each island has an encircling house reef which serves as a
coral garden and natural aquarium. The shallow water enveloping the
house reef serves as a large natural swimming pool.
Each resort is carefully
landscaped and natural vegetation is judiciously preserved. The only
manmade edifices of atypical resort are the rooms and suites reserved
for use by guests, the building housing restaurants, cafes, shops,
lounges, bars, discos, and diving school, in addition to staff lodgings
and housing for support Services.
Given this micro-environment,
it is amazing what most resorts have to offer. Air-conditioning, hot
and cold fresh water round the clock, mini bar and private telephone in
the guests' rooms is more the norm than the exception. Restaurants and
coffee shops cater to the most demanding palate. Bars are well stocked
and provide a convivial atmosphere while on-island shops offer a wide
range of products, especially souvenirs and artifacts.
Diving and snorkeling in the
Maldives is a specialty common to all the resorts and each has a diving
base and experienced fully qualified instructors. All equipment required
for diving is available at the resort, and there is no need for guests
to bring anything with them. However, enthusiasts preferring to bring
their own kit are welcome to do so.
