5 Amazing Reasons to Visit the Maldives—Surreal Tropical Paradise

In the Maldives, dining is redefined. Not only is the archipelago located on the Indian Ocean, a great hub for savouring fresh seafood, but it's also an innovative place that takes dining to whole new levels—below the waves. The archipelago boasts five underwater restaurants to offer guests the ultimate experience. Placed on the ocean floor, the all-glass dining rooms offer 360˚ views of the ocean so you can enjoy your meal to sights of the sealife, and pretty coral. It's almost unreal and will certainly be an experience to remember. Each restaurant is unique and is placed from 15 feet to 20 feet below the ocean's surface. Some offer 180˚ views while others up the wow factor with glass ceilings for the complete look, and some even recreate a seabed with furniture and decor to match the coral formations, sea anemones, and more. 

Whale sharks are the largest fish species on the planet; they are gentle giants that are pretty awesome to meet. Diving in the Maldives will reward you with the rare sights of these shy creatures as they seem to love hanging around the waters surrounding the archipelago. But they are not the only giants you will meet diving in the Maldives; there are lots of graceful manta rays swimming around the atolls. If you are a sun, sand, and surf kind of person, the Maldives is the ultimate holiday destination for you. Make it even more awesome by choosing accommodation at luxurious and popular Maldives villas; known for their strategic location right on the beach, surrounded by lush foliage, or out on the water. Villas in the Maldives are the popular choice for most tourists seeking accommodation at top hotels like the Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort.

Have you ever seen a glowing surf? Head over to Vaadhoo Island after sunset, which is easily accessible from your Maldives resort, and witness this enchanting natural phenomenon. The luminous glow of the waves is caused by bioluminescent plankton known as dinoflagellates. These tiny organisms emit light when disturbed by the movement of the waves, creating a sparkling, star-like effect on the water. What you'll see is a breathtaking scene that looks like millions of stars shimmering across the ocean. Be sure to bring your camera—this magical sight is something you’ll want to capture, as no one back home will believe it otherwise!

If you choose to stay at a water villa in Maldives, or one that's located right on the beach, snorkelling is a piece of cake. Since all luxury resorts in the Maldives are located on private islands surrounded by a house reef, snorkelling is simply a case of getting your gear on and swimming out to the verdant reef; the water is crystal clear and teeming with a variety of marine life from colourful reef fish to crabs, the occasional curious dolphin who drops by to say "hi" or the lazy turtle chilling around the coral formations. The pretty coral formations themselves, are a sight to admire while the simplicity of snorkelling makes it accessible to everyone in the family with basic swimming skills. An underwater camera will be a plus point for documenting your experience.

The Maldivian culture is unique and ancient, and you will enjoy exploring the history of the all-Muslim nation by visiting old mosques and also the museum on the capital island Male. While there isn't a great bevy of shops to explore in the Maldives, you must visit Majeedhee Magu, which is a street bazaar with a unique allure. Located centrally in Male, the huge market is a treat to explore for unique souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts and a chance to learn more about the people, traditions, and culture of the Maldives.