TRAVELERS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN FASCINATED WITH THE MALDIVES.

Even as a concept, it is one of the most interesting holiday destinations. This tiny island nation packs quite a punch when it comes to unique holiday experiences.

Even getting there is an experience as the Maldives is among the few places in the world where your mode of transport is the highlight of your trip. Zippy seaplanes function like taxis and taking off from water is an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Maldives’ beautiful coral atolls and blue lagoons from above. The National Museum will help you trace back the bizarre history of the Maldives. The highlight of the museum is the six-meter-long skeleton of the very rare Longman’s Beaked Whale. This creature has never been sighted live.

The other cultural highlight of almost any trip to the Maldives is seeing an incredible dance and drum performance known as Bodu Beru, a traditional all-male performance. Some of the best experiences with water can be had while diving underwater at Shark Point. Don’t let the name deceive you. Be prepared to be mesmerized by Morays, Lion Fish and even some Eagle Rays. If you get lucky, you can also spot a beautiful white-tip shark.

This piece of paradise in the Indian Ocean, although fighting the rising sea levels, remains the preferred luxury vacation for many.