The islands are geographically grouped into a number of atolls, which really means a coral island ringed with a reef surrounded by water.

The islands vary in size and character, some are sandbanks while others are real tropical islands. The gently swaying palm trees, white sandy beaches, the crystal clear blue lagoons make the Maldives one of the most beartiful places on earth. One other attraction for visitor, is the picturesque and kaleidoscopic marine life. Thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, varieties of shells and coral make the reefs and seas of the Maldives an underwaterpark.

The maldives covers an area of 104,000 square kilometres and lies near the equator. It lies outside the cyclone belt and enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year. The temperature varies between 32 C (90 F) by day to 24 C (75 F) at night.

The country has had a long and eventful history. It has been an independant sovereign state except for a brief occupation by the Portuguese during the Sixteenth Century. In December 1887 Maldives became a British Protectorate and gained full independance in July 1965. That same year Maldives became a member of the United Nations; and a member of the Commonwealth in 1985.

The country has a Republican form of government with an elected President as Head of State. The people are of the Indo Aryan rae with much over-mixing.

The population of the country at the moment is about 182,000 with about 45,000 living in Male' the capital island.

All Maldivians are Muslims. Before the people were converted to Islam in the 12th Century AD, other religions were followed, mainly Bhuddhism. The people speak their own native language called "Dhivehi". The main industries are fishing, tourism and shipping. Life in the islands is relaxed and simple.

BEACH RESORTS
Hotels
Travel agents
Leisure activities

For further information on Maldives, please contact:

MINISTRY OF TOURISM                   MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRIES
Male, Republic of Maldives            Government of Maldives
Tel: (960) 323224                     Male
Fax: (960) 322512                     Republic of Maldives
Txl: 66019 TOURISM MF