The Maldives – we’ve all heard about this exotic and fabulous destination. But how much do you really know about these breathtaking islands? Here is some information that will surely change your vacation plans, this summer.

The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,190 islands, of which just 280 are populated with locals and resorts. The islands of the archipelago form 26 Atolls, formations of corals and fragmented islands that stretch over hundreds of thousands of square kilometers. The Maldives holds the record for the lowest country in the world, since the highest natural ground level reaches only 2.3 meters above sea level.

There are more than 2,000 coral formations around the islands, a heaven for the scuba divers and all the marine life lovers. The living coral and coral debris form a natural wall against the sea, forming lagoons. The coral reefs are a heat buffer, since they absorb, keep and release the tropical heat from the sea currents. On the land, there are thin layers of humus and sandstones, therefore the vegetation of the island is limited to some shrubs, flowering plants and small hedges.

There are major differences between the Northern Atolls and the Southern Atolls, since the last have more rainfall. The Northern Atolls have also higher temperatures and less showers. But the general climate in Maldives depends on the monsoons. The northeast monsoon, from November to April, brings a small amount of showers and calm winds. The southwest monsoon brings heavy storms from June to August. Therefore you can have a pleasant and sunny experience in the months of the year that are unaffected by monsoons.

You can only get to Maldives by plane, since there are no regular boat routes to the seaports in the archipelago. Once arrived in the main airport, next to the capital – Male, one can get around by sea planes, boats or private yachts. Note that the Maldives is a Muslim country and it is strictly forbidden to import alcohol, pork or pornography. Also, they have strict laws about the export of sand or seashells.

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