Swimming in the waters of the Maldives is a spiritually therapeutic experience, nowhere else in the world are there such a awe-inspiring cluster of perfect islands, each boasting pristine white beaches, crystal clear aqua waters and an abundance of pleasurable activities.

The Republic of the Maldives, located to the south-west of Sri Lanka on the equator, consists 99 per cent of water. Inside this 90,000 kilometer paradise lies 1190 individual islands perfectly places amongst atolls teaming with corals and marine life.

No more than 200 of the islands are inhabited, although many others have tourist resorts and retreats built on them. Escaping to the Maldives is extremely popular for honeymooners and couples, as the tranquil surroundings combined with the climate offers the ideal opportunity for a romantic island getaway.

The capital Male is the centre of trade, business and education and is located in the centre of the cluster.

There are only a few hundred Giraavaru people (natives) left, however the culture and influences on the islands have been many, as the islands were used as a stopover point for Chinese, Indian and Arabian traders. Not to mention pirates.

Many tourist resorts in the Maldives speak English however the native tongue is Dhivehi. When visiting it is worthwhile observing Maldivian stone carving or calligraphy. The once popular cowry shells or black coral tourist souvenirs have been banned due to the detrimental effect of removing them to the marine environment. Red mats are also a highly sought after souvenir and are woven throughout the country.

Entertainment for travellers can include typical resort activities such as watersports, bars, spas, massage and boat and fishing tours, however you can also experience Bodu Beru, the most popular form of music and dance in the country. There is a Bodu Beru troupe in almost every inhabited island and the drummers and singers perform at most festivals.

However, activities can be dependant on the weather at the time and being a tropical climate, the Maldives suffers a strong wet season from May to September. During this time rough seas and high winds are common.

If staying in the capital Male you will encounter high-rise buildings and paved roads, there is a newly landscaped artificial beach area, however, predominantly Male is used as for trade and business and is not the most relaxing island in the cluster.

More relaxing tourist atolls include Baa, which contains Reethi Beach, Royal Island, Sonevafushi, and Coco Palm, the North Ari Atoll including Gangehi, Nika, Kuramathi and Fesdu islands, and Seenu, containing the Ocean Reef Club.

The resorts on the majority of the islands are luxury and a trip to the Maldives can be costly, however, for such an injection of sun, culture and luxury it is well worth treating yourself or that special someone in your life. There are literally hundreds of resorts, yet the Maldives have kept the stigma of class, sophistication and relaxation with the distance between the resorts extensive enough to not overpopulate an area.

Keen divers are also encouraged to step off the back of a boat in the area, as the Maldives are believed to be one of the best diving destinations in the world.

Diving safaris will lead you into the most exciting spots ever visited and will also introduce you to some of the world's most dazzling and exotic marine creatures.

The Maldives are a perfect location for any lover of sun kissed beaches, hot days, warm nights, and a thirst for life that takes you into one of the Earths most prized treasure chests. The Maldives really is the most beautiful string of islands on the planet.