The Maldives Travel Blog: The Perfect Sand, Water, & Diving

The Maldives travel blog

The Maldives is a chain of nearly 1,200 picture perfect small islands and arguably the most beautiful place in the world. Each island consists of white powder sand beaches, turquoise water, palm trees, and easy access to great diving. A over-water bungalow in the Maldives is arguably the most relaxing, romantic, and luxurious places to stay in the world.

The Maldives is also one of the best scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Nearly every time I glanced at the water, I saw dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, baby sharks, and/or hundreds of colorful fish. There is fresh seafood, Thai massages, sea planes and boats for transportation, beach cocktails, Sri Lankan beer, radiant sunsets, palm trees, and coconuts: what more could one want in their island paradise?

While no longer officially restricted, tourists are generally isolated from local life. You are taken directly to your island getaway by seaplane or speedboat, and usually only experience luxury resorts, spa treatments, fine-dining, beach time, and water activities. The Maldives, an Islamic republic, has a population of 300,000 spread out among approximately 200 different islands. It is generally poor and very conservative. Non-resort islands restrict both alcohol and revealing bathing suits like most conservative Muslim countries.

Global warming and rising sea levels are of principle concern to the country’s security since none of the islands are more than 6 ft. above sea level. Many scientists believe that the Maldives are at risk of disappearing by the end of the century.

The Maldives is not cheap or easy to get to, but it is worth it if you ever get the chance. It is true paradise and I find it hard to believe that a place this like this actually exists.