A group of small islands dotted around the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, about 450 kilometers southwest of Sri Lanka.

The Maldives is home to a community of just 341,000 people.

The Maldivian economy evolves around two main business sectors: Tourism and fishing.

Tourism is the main source of income in the Maldives.

And with average temperatures of around 29 degrees Celsius—that's about 85 degrees Fahrenheit—the holiday season never ends.

Maldivian society remains firmly rooted in local traditions and Muslim faith.

The major language is Dhivehi, although English is spoken at all hotels and most shops.

30 percent of Maldivians live in the capital city Malé, a bustling metropolis with busy markets and shops.

A far cry from the tranquility of local fishing villages and resort islands.

But the Maldives are not only famous for lavish resorts; they're also one of the world's top destinations for scuba diving.

Sprawling labyrinths of coral reefs teem with a myriad marine species; for many, the highlight of their trip is an encounter with whale sharks and mantas, the gentle giants of the ocean.

Seafaring and exploration are part of the country's DNA, so it comes as little surprise that live-aboard cruises are a big attraction in the Maldives.

The sense of adventure, freedom, and pure relaxation found aboard such cruises is unique.

Anchoring at a different lagoon every day and having access to the country's top dive sites offers a brilliant holiday experience.

Spending a week or more cruising around the atolls is the best way to get to know the country.

A holiday in the Maldives will leave you convinced that paradise truly is a place on earth.

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See you there.