MALDIVES - THE LAST PARADISE ON EARTH

Resorts in the Maldives woo tourists with promises of `The last Paradise on Earth', and if your idea of paradise is a pristine tropical island with swaying palm trees, pure white beachesand brilliant turquoise lagoons, then the Maldives will not disappoint.

It's also a major destination for scuba divers, who come for the fabulous coral reefs and the wealth of marine life. Tourism in the Maldives is carefully managed. The country's tourism master plan identifies both the underwater environment and ' the Robinson Crusoe factor ' as major attractions.

When to go: The best time to visit Maldives is between December & April, but bookings are high during this period hence it is advisable to make bookings well in advance.