Lying 180 miles off the Southern tip of India, is a necklace of 1,190 Islands, over 500 miles long from north to south of the Equator, referred to as the Maldives. Of which 202 are inhabited. With the Islands laced in a ring like shape forming a lagoon and average temperatures of 29 to 32* C, this truly is a Sailors paradise.
Famous worldwide for its diving and the psychedelic beauty of its colours have held divers and snorkelor's in awe, since the destination was first discovered. With some of the worlds best dive sites and a history rich in culture from the very first melting pot of settlers from all parts of the world. Local music and dance have African influences, with songs in a language that is not known but certainly represents that of East African countries.
There is a great South Asian influence in the traditional food of the Maldives. Women play an important role in society whilst the Men spend the entire day at sea fishing. Many of the native traditions are strongly connected with the seas and the dependency of the life within.
Dhivehi is the local language spoken all over the Maldives. English is largely spoken and visitors can easily communicate around the capital island. In the resorts, a variety of languages are spoken by the staff including English, German, French, Italian and Japanese.
