Maldives

At a Glance

The Maldives is an Indian Ocean archipelago of low coral atolls with some of the clearest, most turquoise water and finest diving and snorkelling conditions in the world. The overwater bungalow experience here is the original and still among the most extraordinary, and the marine life, from manta rays to whale sharks, is exceptional. Those seeking cultural depth or budget travel will find it limited, but for a pure oceanic escape it remains world-class.