The Magic of the Maldives

The Maldives is one of the world’s best exotic island destinations. More and more visitors are realizing the perfect trip entails flying to Dubai for a few days, then hopping over to the Maldives from there.   You can make whatever you want to make out of a Maldives vacation. It is perfect for peace and tranquility, a romantic honeymoon or getaway, or an active snorkeling and diving vacation.  Whether you are a seasoned diver or want to learn, or if you love to snorkel, the varied and colorful underwater world in the Maldives is breath-taking. Look for manta rays, barracuda, turtles and sharks – and thousands of other brightly-colored fish.
The Maldives, located off the south-west coast of India, consists of almost 1200 islands of which 185 are inhabited.  Depending on the distance, these islands are reached either by seaplane or speedboat from the city of Male,  the main island and point of international arrival.  Every resort in the Maldives is its own private island with over 100 to choose from.  The only problem could be selecting where you want to stay. The world’s most exclusive hotel brands compete to attain ever-greater heights of luxury, from personal butlers and private lap pools to in-room massages and pillow menus.
I recently visited Dubai and the Maldives for a site inspection trip of a lifetime.  While in the Maldives I was lucky enough to stay in my own private slice of paradise on stilts above turquoise water. My overwater bungalow had bottom views of crystal-clear waters where colorful reefs awaited at the bottom of my ladder at the base of my private infinity pool.   Nothing is better than an outdoor shower and bath tub with glass bottomed underwater views set to the gentle sound of surrounding waves. 
In the Maldives couples are able to dine underneath the stars or enjoy a picnic for two alongside an aquamarine lagoon in picture-postcard perfection.  Because these islands are so remote the stars are all completely visible.  What a treat it was to look out at night, especially when the full moon was shining over the ocean.  This is the most romantic setting one could imagine.
Traditional Maldivian cuisine is based on fresh fish from the ocean and coconuts from the national tree. Influences from neighboring countries of India and Sri Lanka can be tasted in the curries, and various spices are added to the already flavorful dishes.  One of the resorts we stayed in had an underwater restaurant. 
Each resort has a very special spa experience.  The treatment rooms’ transparent floor panels allowed views of incredible sea life during soothing massages and to add to the senses I could also hear the sound of waves in the background. They would always end with a cup of ginger tea.  Ooh la la…… Maldives- take me away!