The Maldives are situated in the Indian Ocean about 600km south-west of Sri Lanka. Flying time is around 11 hours from the UK and the time difference is +5 hours.The Maldives consist of a chain of around 1,192 small, low lying coral islands grouped in clusters, or atolls. None of the islands are more than a couple of km across. There are 26 atolls stretched across the equator with a total land area of only 298 sq km. Local people inhabit 202 of these islands. In addition, around 97 islands have been developed into resorts, each following the same concept of one resort to one island.

The coral reefs surrounding the islands are home to a vast array of marine life including turtles, rays, octopus, dolphins and most tropical marine fish. Infact, over three-quarters of the world’s reef-fish species can be found in the Maldives. In many resorts, the ‘house’ reef is just a short distance from the beach, making snorkelling safe for children. For divers, the options are even greater and all resorts have a professional dive school.

The beaches are true picture postcard. White talcum powder sand and turqouise lagoons with palm trees and tropical vegetation forming the backdrop. On land, a variety of wildlife can be found including the perpetually fascinating hermit crabs and numerous fruit bats.