Maldives

Most wanted island chain in the great Indian Ocean. It consists of about 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks (some 200 of which are inhabited), grouped in clusters, or atolls. The Maldives Islands are a series of coral atolls built up from the crowns of a submerged ancient volcanic mountain range. All the islands are low-lying, none rising to more than 6 feet (1.8 metres) above sea level. Barrier reefs protect the islands from the destructive effects of monsoons. Most enjoyable is from December to March when the northeast monsoon brings dry and mild winds.