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Since
very ancient times foreign travelers have visited
the Maldives. In earlier times the islands were
encouraged for travelers from the East as well as
the West. |
MAP
OF MALDIVES |
Nowadays
the natural beauty, the never-ending view of Blue
Ocean, the undisturbed seascapes and the serene
natural environment make the Maldives a special
place for the many visitors who come here.
The sun, sea, and white coral sand are abundant
in the Maldives; and the little tiny islets give
a glorious sense of happiness and of being far away
from the world and its troubles. Hence, the Maldives
has become known to many as the place to learn "the
art of doing nothing". |
Overview of a tropical resort
A
tourist resort, by the Maldivian definition, is an island
all by itself It is dedicated specifically to the enjoyment
of its own client. Most of the well-reputed hotels in
the country fall under the definition of the tourist resort.
In
addition to its own private beach, which goes all the
way round the island, each island has its own encircling
house reef which serves as a coral garden and natural
aquarium. The shallow waters enclosed by the house reef
serves as a large natural swimming pool.
Each
resort is carefully landscaped with the natural vegetation
judiciously preserved. The only manmade edifices on
the typical resort would be the rooms and suites reserved
for use by its guests, the buildings housing restaurants,
cafe's, shops, lounges, bars, discos, diving schools
and the like, in addition to staff lodgings and housing
for support services in the nature of power generation,
laundry, catering, etc.
Given
this micro environment, it is amazing what most resorts
have on offer. Air conditioning, hot and cold fresh
water round the clock in the toilets, mini bar and private
telephone in the guests' rooms is more the norm than
the exception. Restaurants and coffee shops cater to
the most demanding palate. Bars are well stocked and
provide a convivial atmosphere. On-island shops offer
a wide range of products, especially souvenirs and artifacts.
A
wide variety of activities ranging from aerobics to
volleyball and table tennis are on offer for the conventional
sports enthusiast. Aquatic activities starting from
the more conventional wind surfing and water skiing
to parasailng are also on offer.
In
short, a tourist resort offers everything one needs
when on a tropical island holiday!
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