Vacation in the Maldives: Everything About the ITB Partner Country

This year's ITB partner country not only lures with postcard-perfect scenery and picturesque sandy beaches. On the more than 100 islands used as vacation destinations, there are some of the most unusual and luxurious hotels. The situation is different on the islands inhabited by Maldivians. Especially on the predominantly Islamic Malé, a power struggle has been raging for years between supporters of the former regime and the democratic opposition. We introduce you to this dream destination in the Indian Ocean.

In fact, the mini-islands of the Maldives are especially known for their luxury resorts by or even in the turquoise sea. White sandy beaches and tropical temperatures make the picture-perfect backdrop complete. Few places in the world offer relaxation as easily as here. Thus, the Maldives are considered an ideal getaway for those seeking rest and newlyweds. Over 1,200 islands stretch near the southern tip of India in the Indian Ocean. Many of these are privately used or exclusively serve tourism, by far the most important economic sector in the state. In addition to simple huts built on stilts in the water, more and more luxurious 5-star vacation resorts are emerging. Celebrities settle on the smaller private islands, and vacationers from all over the world pamper themselves in wellness hotels.

With more than a million visitors each year, the many sunny days and temperatures around 95 degrees Fahrenheit contribute to the appeal. For the first time in 40 years, one of the local islands now has a lodge where islanders meet tourists. The blending of everyday culture and tourism could also stimulate development on the other Maldivian islands. A stay at Baros Maldives on the eponymous small coral island promises relaxation and luxury. Beach villas with private pools and private cabins overlooking the sea make the vacation perfect. The visit to the underwater restaurant Itaah in Conrad Maldives Rangali is also impressive. Only 12.5 cm separate guests from the surrounding water and marine life. In recent years, sustainability and environmental awareness have also become increasingly important in relation to the hospitality industry. Self-sufficient accommodations in the luxury segment are also available on the many Maldivian islands.

As beautiful as a vacation in the Maldives may be, there is also another side that remains hidden from most tourists. On 200 islands, Maldivians live in densely populated areas, like the main island of Malé. Away from the tourist spots, the idyll crumbles. Here, high-rise buildings line up next to each other, scooters and cars clog the narrow island streets. It's no wonder that tourists usually do not stray into this part of the country. However, here, not only is there the hustle and bustle typical of large cities, since the democratic opening of the Maldives in 2008, the former regime and opposition still dispute power over the Islamic state. Additionally, ISIS continues to attract more residents of this religiously influenced country. Life on the main island could not be more different from the everyday life on the idyllic small islands. At ITB, the country showcases more of its diversity, which is worth discovering. Sandy beaches and turquoise waters included.