THE MALDIVES - YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY STARTS HERE

If you yearn for the ultimate holiday adventure in a blissful sun-kissed paradise destination, look no further than the magical Maldives.

The Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation message: 'Your dream holiday starts here' is perfect – this awe-inspiring Indian Ocean escape really is a dream come true for couples, families and groups of friends yearning for an unforgettable getaway of a lifetime.

The mesmerising Maldives are ideal for a truly unique experience in a blissful setting, surrounded by powdery white sands, swaying palms, inviting turquoise waters and enchanting coral reefs.

The Maldives nation comprises around 1,200 enchanting coral islands in the Indian Ocean, with many of its luxury hotels occupying their own exclusive island.

Let's take a look at some of the main attractions that make the Maldives a great choice for a sensational holiday to remember.

Fun in the sun

Invigorating Golden sunshine can play a key part in any fabulous holiday – and the Maldives have plenty of it, with temperatures averaging between and appealing 23ºC and 31ºC all year round.

This makes conditions perfect for a feast of blissful outdoor life, from swimming, snorkelling and water sports action to beach barbecues, atoll-hopping trips or simply catching some rays beside the pool.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the ideal resort for your holiday adventure. The Maldives have a plethora of luxurious hideaways boasting lavish accommodation, fine dining restaurants, private beaches, sumptuous spas and plenty of lively evening entertainment.

Many also operate superb all-inclusive programmes – with all your meals, drinks and other extras already paid for – so you can forget about watching what you spend and get on with having a fun-filled time.

Thrills on the waves

Hours of enthralling entertainment awaits on the glistening Indian Ocean, with so much to see and do

You can have a fun time with the family on a trusty pedal boat, marvel at the sea creature below you on a glass-bottomed boat or set off aboard a catamaran on an exciting whale and dolphin-watching adventure.

Couples can also enjoy a romantic sunset sailing trip on a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat, followed by an intimate meal under the stars, attended by a personal waiter on the beach.

If you fancy some energetic water sports action, the Maldives can easily meet your needs. An extensive range of pursuits include parasailing, waterskiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, flyboarding, fun tubes, jet blading, mono skiing, windsurfing and kneeboarding.

There’s even more adventure when you opt to scuba dive or snorkel beneath the waves to discover a world of wonder among the beautiful coral reefs and azure lagoons which are teeming with marine life.

These stunning natural wonders are home to more than 2,000 species of fish, with manta rays, stingrays, reef sharks, moray eels, octopuses and turtles among the amazing creatures there.

Many resorts have their own PADI-approved diving centres where you’ll be provided with all the gear you need for supervised dives to the depths.

Amazing attractions

There are many magnificent attractions to explore in the Maldives if you opt to venture beyond your own resort by seaplane, helicopter, speedboat or traditional dhoni boat.

The Addu Nature Park on Addu Atoll is home to the beautiful Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands and features exotic mangroves, lakes and scenic cycling routes through the lush vegetation.

Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is the place to encounter some of the largest gatherings of manta rays anywhere in the world.

The Shipyard in Lhaviyani Atoll is a must-see dive attraction where you'll discover two fascinating wrecks which are covered in corals and attract many marine creatures including butterfly fish, yellow sweeper, damsels and humphead wrasse.

The Old Mosque in the island of Isdhoo is a site of great historical significance where the oldest written records in the Maldives - a copper plate book written in 1194 - was discovered. The building is the finest surviving example of a small coral stone mosque.

Beauty and the beach

The jawdropping beaches in the Maldives will take your breath away with their white powdery sands and incredible beauty.

These pristine expanses provide the ideal setting for an array of pursuits, from sandcastle-building sessions with children to volleyball and other beach games.

Beach barbecues and parties, yoga sessions, traditional Boduberu dancing and outdoor movies under the stars are just some of the other delightful activities which take place on the sands in the Maldives.

Savour the flavours

You’ll discover gastronomic delights in this glorious destination which will send your taste buds into raptures of delights – from scrumptious seafood dishes and delicious fresh fruit to fragrant curries and barbecued favourites

Maldivian food is a unique fusion of Indian Arabic, Sri Lankan and oriental flavours, with a multitude of dishes to tantalise the most discerning palate.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to dine including gourmet venues at the luxury resorts, romantic dinners for two on the beach, street food stalls and fashionable cafes and beach bars in Malé. The Maldives is even home to the world’s largest all-glass underwater restaurant in the Hurawalhi Island Resort.

Popular dishes you’re likely to come across during your holiday include Garuhhiya (fish soup), Boshi Mashuni (banana flower salad), fried yams, Mas Huni (shredded smoked tuna), Bis Keemiya (samosas) and Kukulku riha (chicken curry).

Much-loved desserts include Aluvi Boakibaa (cassava coconut cake) and Saagu Bondibai, a tasty sago pudding featuring coconut milk, condenser milk, and essence of cardamom and rose.

A Maldivian Lady is a must-try drink made with white rum, grenadine, apricot brandy, orange and pineapple juice. Kalhu sai (black tea) and kiru sai (milk tea) are popular hot beverages.

Magical Malé

It’s definitely worth visiting Malé, the capital city of The Maldives, to experience the warm hospitality of the locals and get a taste of Maldivian history and culture during your holiday.

The city is home to imposing mosques, colourful buildings, a bustling fish market, fine dining restaurants and an abundance of shops selling everything from traditional mats to high-end clothing.

Key attractions in Malé include Old Friday Mosque, Hulhumalé Beach, National Art Gallery, Sultan Park, SinaMalé Bridge, the Tomb of Mohammed Thakurufaanu, Republic Square and Muleeaage, the official palace of the President of the Maldives.

Time to relax

After an active day in the Maldives, you’ll welcome the chance to simply relax and unwind, surrounded by peace and tranquillity, blissful scenery and gently-lapping waves.

Chill out in a comfortable lounger, hammock or cabana on the sands, with a good book and refreshing cocktail, or gaze in awe at a magical Maldivian sunset.

In the evenings there’s no shortage of entertainment for people who like to party. Live music, karaoke, traditional dancing and discos are among the delights in many of the resorts, while Male is home to cinemas, nightclubs and lively bars.

Your dream holiday really does start in the Maldives – and when this paradise destination begins to work its magic, it will become a holiday you’ll never want to end!

Jet off to the spellbinding Maldives for an awe-inspiring holiday of a lifetime. Book your dream escape today with Destination2.co.uk.