The Maldives Islands lie South West of India. Scattered across the equator in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the gem-like islands of the Maldives depict the rare vision of a tropical paradise. Palm fringed islands with sparkling white beaches, tourquoise lagoons, clear warm waters and coral reefs teeming with aboundant varieties of marine flora and fauna, fascinates visitors as it has for thousands of years.

Truly a natural wonder, the height of the islands rarely reaches above 6 feet higher than the water. The 1196 islands consist of 19 atoll formations spread over an area of 56.000 square miles.

The islands are surrounded by shallow crystal clear lagoons enclosed by coral reefs. These unique islands provide visitors with one of the most breathtaking views of underwater life in the world. Formed above peaks emerging from the depths of the ocean, upon layers of both living and dead coral as well as remnants of other marine life, the islands are generally covered with dense tropical vegetation. Coconut palms tower above dense undergrowth that protect the shores from erosion. The smaller islands are sand banks under formation.

The climate is warm year round, determined by the monsoons. However, being on the equator, the monsoons are mild and not as defined as in neighboring countries. Of the two monsoons, the South West monsoon from May to October, brings more rain and wind. The Nord East monsoon, from November to April, is the dry season. The air temperature varies little with an annual average daily maximum of 94F and minimum of 75F, while the water temperature ranges from 82F to 86F. The annual rainfalls run around 12 inches with a total of over 2.700 hours of sunshine each year.

The Maldives are know for its enchanted underwater world. The translation of the word "Maldives" means "Realm of the thousand islands". Of the about 1.200 islands, only 200 are inhabited by a population of mainly fishermen. Another 80 islands are set aside exclusively for tourism resort development.