The Maldives - the Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Via: Dan James

The Republic of Maldives has been described as the ultimate haven for divers all over the world who are drawn to over one thousand sandy beaches and coral reefs. There are hundreds of islands that are not touched by humans but serve as places for wildlife and beautiful reefs. Between the tropical waters and all of the marine life that is present in the Maldives, anyone who has a love for diving will surely find what they are looking for half way around the world.

The Maldives were formed when there was a geological breaking of land masses between the countries of India and Africa. When the land masses broke apart, it causes India to move upward and become aligned with Asia. The reaction to these land masses colliding produced a formation of a range of volcanoes that rose out of the Indian Ocean. When the volcanoes collapsed it resulted in a line of small islands that now are the Maldives.

The Maldives became a resting spot from travelers and explorers that were traveling between the trade routes from China and Rome. The Maldives became famous for the money shells that were abundant and used for trade. The fishing in the Maldives led to the discovery of the Maldive fish, which is still a delicacy in India.

The people of the Maldives come from mixed ethnic backgrounds but are primarily Sunni Muslims. The language that is most commonly spoken in the Maldives is Dhivehi and English is also widely used. One of the many jewels of the Maldives is the climate. Because of its location to the equator, the temperatures generally remain between eighty to eighty-five degrees which makes is very comfortable and tropical.

The Maldives lay claim to nearly 187 different forms of coral and almost 1100 different species of wildlife. This draws divers from all around the world to see the beautiful and amazing marine life. There are resorts that are a haven for divers who want to stay and enjoy the beautiful scenery and experience the many wonders of the Maldives. The corals that adorn the reefs are colorful and are home to many forms of life such as moray eels, lobsters and shrimp.

To navigate through the Maldives generally requires a boat called the dhoni. These unique and specially crafted boats come in a range of sizes including large boats that are used to transport fish and smaller boats for little voyages in and around the Islands. Water taxis are also available to carry divers from one location to another. Since the majority of the inhabitants of the Maldives are fisherman, the boats serve the best way to move around from place to place.

With all of the beautiful wildlife and scenery, it is no wonder that the Maldives are truly a paradise lost. Anyone who is an avid diver is sure to find many jewels and treasures of wonder in the colorful reefs, corals and marine fish. The unique and distinct culture of the Maldives makes it a wonderful place to visit and experience the true essence of the Islands.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-maldives-the-jewel-of-the-indian-ocean-931893.html

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Mallorca and its Varied Coastline

Via: Maria Hepple

Pure, unadulterated beaches are what the southern coastline of Mallorca is all about. Here are several sandy beach areas that cater for the majority of the tourists that come to the island to enjoy the endless hours of sunshine. {Move further west and you willl find the younger resorts of Palmanova and Magaluf, popular resorts for younger people where gently sloping sandy beaches are surrounded by cafes and various restaurants and, in the evening, thriving nightclubs and bars. Similar beaches can be found on the opposite side of Palma where the the bay of Arenal provides a home to hundreds of hotels that enjoy a prime location opposite a perfect sandy beach.

A similar beach resort can also be found in the North of the island where the custom built resort of Alcudia is joined to the town of Can Picafort by another sweeping bay of perfect sandy beach. Alcudia also has a upmarket marina area where a small selection of restaurants and a bewidering array of huge yachts provide something to look at as you stroll along the promenade. For the ultimate in promenades Puerte Pollensa along the coast has a wide, two mile footpath alongside its sandy beach.

More dramatic coastlines can be found near there are the towns of Soller, Deia and Valldemossa. These towns link to each other on the west coast along a steep cliff-lined stretch where beaches are few and far between, with the sea almost inaccessible except by water. As you might expect, the location provides some amazing views. The port at Soller is home to several cruise companies, some of which head south along the eastern coast and others which head north, travelling for a stop-off point at sa Colobra. The small harbour here can be reached either by boat or along a steep 5 mile road that climbs out of the bay back up to the main road that crosses the peaks of the Tramuntana mountains. Switch across to the east coast and you will find a mix of coastal resorts to satisfy all tastes.

Midway along the coast is the famous resort of Portocristo, which, as you enter the town, appears to be a semi-rural town supporting a mix of light industry. However that perception alters as you stumble across the jewel in this town's crown, a fantastic waterfront and harbour area providing a home to an array of luxury yachts and cruisers. You could be forgiven for thinking you had arrived somewhere on the Cote d'Azur as you stroll past what looks like a thriving cafe culture. It is only a small resort but possesses a unique charm that only a few places in the world can offer. Further up the coast from Portocristo and quieter beach resorts like Cala Morlanda and Cala Millor can be found. These are perfect family holiday areas providing less in the way of commercial attractions but are perfect for family groups who are happy to spend their days on the beach and in the sea.

New resorts are still being developed on Mallorca and one such place is the marina and beach at Colonia de Sant Pere. There is still plenty of scope for further development here with building works scattered across the hillsides putting up new villas. The marina is fully operational already and is home to a selection of fishing boats and yachts while the small beach is man-made and is carefully re-instated at the start of each season. This is a really relaxing place and perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful and stress-free holiday. The town is however fairly remote and for people hoping to explore the rest of Majorca hiring a car would be a good idea.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/mallorca-and-its-varied-coastline-826356.html

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The island of Mallorca has been a busy holiday island for many years now. Travel writers like Mark Bartley are spoilt for choice when reporting on Mallorca.

The report provided here alongside other information about finding cheap flights to Mallorca will ensure visitors make the most of their stay on the island.

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