The Maldives is a nation of coral islands
scattered across the Indian Ocean. Geographically,
it is located between 72o 32' 30" E 73o
45' 54" E and 7o 06' 30" N to 0o 41' 48"
S, which puts her just north of the Equator
and southwest of the Indian peninsular.
|click here to see a map|
The Maldivian
archipelago consists of about 1190 small
low-lying coral islands of which few of
them are, just a meter above sea level.
These islands stretch more than 800 km
from north to south covering a total area
of about 90,000 square km of which about
99% is water. 200 islands are inhabited
while 87 islands are developed as resort
islands. The fragile house reefs of these
islands act as a barrier of protection
from tides and waves. These reefs also
contribute to the formation of sand and
continuation of the life cycle of the marine
species. It also acts as a habitat to thousands
of tiny and large organisms.
The former
British protectorate that gained independence
in 1965 is famous for its splendid white
beaches, crystal clear lagoons and peaceful
tranquillity of nature's blessing. This
unique creation of nature naturally forms
26 atolls, which for administrative purposes
are made into 20 by the government. This
small republic was a kingdom before it
was declared a republic. The population
is estimated 265,000 in 1999. The ethnic
origin of the natives is still in debate
among scholars and researchers, but it
is evident that there is a close resemblance
with the South Asian, Southeast Asian,
Arabic and African cultures and influence.
Maldivians speak in a unique language called
dhivehi and have their own transcript thaana
for writing.
The tropical
climate, white beaches and rich marine
environment have made the country a tourist
magnet for the past 32 years. The Maldives
as the 14th century Moroccan traveller
described as "one of the wonders of the
world" today is said to be second to none
for sun lovers, beach wanderers, scuba
divers and those who seek peace in its
simplest form. |