Maldive Islands

The Maldives' Islands include a vast territory in the Indian Ocean with very little dry land area. The islands, almost 1200, are low lying, perhaps 6-8 feet above sea level. Many of the islands are uninhabited, but it was odd appearing to see tall buildings on the major islands, almost at sea level.  It seemed like all commerce had to go through Male Island, the capital.  Maldives are known for their over-water bungalow resorts.  The government-mandated religion is Islam.  Several of our cruise ship crew were from the Maldives.  They described living in a household of seventeen persons which apparently is not unusual. As well as snorkeling, we were able to tour one island of about 1200 persons where everyone knows everyone. Standing in the center of the island, you could see the beach to the left and right and the palm trees ahead and behind, marking those beaches.

Main street on one of the smaller Maldives, about 1200 residents.

Banyan tree in the town square.  They are considered to be religious points of worship, also the most substantial structure on the island.

Typical beach on an inhabited island, but many of the islands have no permanent residents.

Variable weather, but we were able to get some snorkeling in.  No shade, no bathrooms.  I am sure that there are better locations, you just need to pick the right island.

They told the story that, until a few years ago, there was a single telephone booth on the island. When that telephone rang, the nearest person would answer it, and then someone would run and find the call recipient.  The telephone booth is still there.  For higher education or good medical care, people need to leave their island and perhaps travel to India or beyond.

Tourist shops.  On the left is our guide, Pico, who lives in the Maldives.

We experienced snorkeling on two different islands.  At one location, we needed to wade out at least fifty yards to find deep enough water for snorkeling.  I do not like snorkeling in shallow areas.  The coral in such places is usually bleached (dead) from the hot sun, and the area is only inhabited by the smaller creatures.  Once we reached deeper water, the snorkeling was fairly good, but then the bottom dropped off rather rapidly.  Perhaps more ideal for scuba diving.