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| Golden Days In The Maldives | ||||
| In most beautiful countryside, about 30 minutes' drive from Sigiriya, this is the location of the attractive Habarana Lodge. Set amid acres of exotic woodland and flower-garlanded gardens, this 150-room hotel offers an ideal 'up-country' base for those wanting to explore the ancient sites and stunning scenery of Sri Lanka's interior without the need for moving on each night. Designed and appointed in authentic Sri Lankan style, it also has a wealth of leisure facilities, including a swimming pool - and from here boating, elephant safaris and bird-watching can all be arranged. | ||||
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| THE MALDIVES - THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE | ||||
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| The thousand or more little islands of the Maldives islands (nowhere more than 5ft above sea level!) lie scattered in dazzlingly beautiful clusters across the turquoise seas of the Indian Ocean like a giant necklace of emerald, gold and sapphire. These are some of the clearest and cleanest reef-protected lagoon waters in the world, with |
wonderful snorkelling and scuba-diving amid an underwater paradise where the real treasure of the islands is hidden - over 1,300 different species of fish and coral! Inhabited for over 3,000 years, and long a calling-point on ancient trade routes, the islands have imported |
many external influences over the centuries - primarily Arabic, Asian and African - and the Maldivians of today enjoy a simple and laid-back lifestyle, ever-ready to greet the visitor with a welcoming smile. Small wonder, you might think, in the idyllic surroundings of this unique country that is over 99% ocean. | ||
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The Maldives are a perfect tropical beach destination for those who want simply to 'crash out', to enjoy total relaxation, be it with a book under a shady palm or enjoying the islands' matchless watersports conditions. For romantics and watersports-lovers, and those who enjoy peace and nature, they offer a simple magic and an idyllic made-to-measure holiday prescription.
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They are not a destination for visitors who seek a wealth of entertainment or organised activities. Though increasingly sophisticated in their number and amenities, many of the hotels remain the only buildings on their individual islands and travel to and from other locations is only by boat (perhaps a local dhoni), helicopter or seaplane. | All of the resorts promise white sandy beaches and translucent seas - and a charm, character and ambience of their own, with accommodation choices ranging from individual garden or beach cottages to luxurious overwater bungalows reminiscent of the South Seas. | ||
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