At 35,000 square miles, Maldives is one of the world’s most geographically diverse countries, yet is Asia’s smallest country in both land size and population. The archipelago of 1,192 islands is grouped into 26 atolls, spread north to south, and located on the top of the vast submarine mountain range of the Chagos-Maldives-Laccadive Ridge. The coral islands sit at around five feet above sea level, making it the world’s lowest country on earth.

Maldives’ capital city, Malé, is located on what was historically the royal seat of the Maldive Royal dynasties. Heavily influenced by India and Sri Lanka, the country’s history and culture has also been touched by Portuguese, British, and Asian settlers and traders over the centuries. Unbelievable blue waters, peaceful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle are all waiting to be discovered on the islands.