We just spent the most wonderful vacation in Maldives, a string of pearls scattered over the deep blue Indian Ocean. The first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll-formation confirms two unique aspects of the Republic of Maldives. Not only does it consist of the most beautiful tropical islands, but most of its 90.000 km² is covered by the sea. 1190 islands are spread over 26 major atolls, ringlike coral formations enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like appearance. They stretch 820 kilometres north to south and 120 kilometres east to west, 202 are inhabited and 87 are exclusive resort islands!

We flew to the Maldives via Qatar Airways non-stop service Washington to Doha with direct connections to Male'. At Male' Int'l Airport we were met by Four Seasons Resorts staff and transferred to Trans-Maldivian Airways seaplane base. Four Seasons Resorts has a separate lounge here for guests staying at their 2 resorts. A 30-minute seaplane transfer and we arrived at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. This place is spectacular and serene. Deluxe beach villas and over-water villas, most with private pools overlooking the beautiful Indian Ocean. Daytime activities include The Landaa Spa and Ayurvedic Retreat, all water sports and evening dining offers a choice of 4 restaurant experiences. We enjoyed 2 snorkelling excursions with Marine Biologist "Evelyn" to view tropical fish, sea turtles and manta rays and I also enjoyed water-skiing over the very calm waters of Baa Atoll. Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru is so awesome I wish we could have stayed the entire week!

After too short a stay we travelled by seaplane back to Male' and transferred directly by 15 minute speedboat to the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. Taj Exotica is the closest resort to the airport and is excellent for beginning or ending your Maldives vacation. A choice of deluxe beach villas and over-water villas, many with private pools. Water sports include scuba, snorkelling, swimming, water-skiing or experience a range of treatments at the Jiva Grande Spa. We took in the Yoga classes, went snorkelling daily and water-skied in the largest lagoon in Maldives. Entertainment in the Equator Bar and wonderful dining over the water at the Deep End. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is a great experience and is included in the Virtuoso Best of the Best Hotels for 2009!