Maldives

Only one in five of the more than 12,000 islands of the Maldives is inhabited. This leaves nearly 10,000 deserted beaches to discover.
White sand beaches circle the private island resorts and atolls of the Maldives, shot from above. Photo: Firushan Numaan/Shutterstock

Overview

The sparkling waters and scenic islands of the Maldives have lured travelers for more than 2,000 years. Sitting at the crossroads of Asian and African trade routes, these islands are home to one of the world’s oldest and most welcoming maritime cultures. Today that spirit of hospitality lives on in a collection of more than 100 exceptional beach resorts scattered across small and often private islands.

Reached only by boat or seaplane, these islands sequester guests in tropical oases of luxury and tranquility. Properties affiliated with many of the world’s top resort brands provide five-star amenities, fine dining, and bespoke services. Shores are lined with dazzling white sands, the sparkling waters of surrounding lagoons become playgrounds for every manner of water sport, and coral reefs provide endless hours of snorkeling.

Size

115 square miles (298 square kilometers)

Population

521,000

Int'l Dialing Code

960

Time

Maldives Time (MVT, UTC+05:00)

Capital

Male

Driving Side

Left

Currency

Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)

Voltage

230V, 50Hz

Government

Presidential republic

Visa/Entry

Language

Dhivehi

Airport

Velana International Airport (MLE)

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