Maldives is a group of one thousand two hundred islands of which only two hundred are currently inhabited, and of all these islands, none rises eight feet above sea level. Maldives gained independence in 1965 from the United Kingdom and has since then been on the path of democratizing its governing institutions, although initially it was not a popular tourist destination latter years has seen it change to become one of the hot spots in the world. The first tourists to arrive in these islands was in 1972 after the development of the first resort, since then there has been massive projects in the economy, which has led to development of Maldives Tourism Industry.
At the turn of the twentieth century, tourism in Maldives started to flourish with the increased economic activities in the islands, in fact tourism and fisheries are the main pillars of the islands economy. The total population of Maldives is approximately four hundred thousand people, while the coastline is about four hundred miles with expansive beaches these has been base for its fast development. When the population density is small, it gives ample time planning on a larger scale and long term. Despite having setbacks during the tsunami period, tourism in Maldives has recovered and essentially many resorts have come up where tourist visiting the country can stay.
Another important and detailed aspect that economic statics show is that, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is highly inclined on the tourism sector that presently stands at 28% and FOREX receipts over 60% in BoP (Balance of Payments). On other hand revenues collected from tourist related activities earns the government well over 90% of the total government revenues. Fishing industry that seconds the tourism sector has been adversely affected by global warming phenomenon, the amount of fish harvested has tremendously dropped crippling the entire sector. While the agricultural and manufacturing industry exists its impact to the economy is minimal, limited by land factor and lack of trained personnel. In this case tourism in Maldives still remain the most important government income generation sector. This has seen to it that Maldives government introduce programs to bolsterthe industry.
The two thousand and nine worldwide economic crunch had a devastating effect on the tourism sector, however the bail out by IMF was a relief to the country economy which is dependent on the highly volatile industry. The numbers of tourist visiting the country at this particular time sharply declined leading to a financial crisis in the country, therefore the government found itself in precarious situation spending more on its employees and social needs. This has necessitated more plans to diversify the countrys economy, and particularly increase the tax base to revamp economic activities. Although these challenges exists Maldives has the best spots where tourist can go surfing, scuba diving and stay at excellent hotels as they enjoy their vacation.
Tourism in Maldives encompasses the natives unique culture, their sweet music and craftsmanship as proved by the carvings at remote Hukuru Miskiiy. There are major surfing areas where one can go and enjoy the sea waves as the monsoon winds blow. One of the best is North Male Atoll a place where you can vehemently have fun. The history of the country, its traditions, and culture are archived in the national museum you will understand the sultan rule and other dynamics of ancient leadership when you visit the sultan park. The Mulee-aage Palace stands out to be the place where ancient aristocracy blend with modernity, its the home of fallen religious heroes. The islands have several entertainment spots that offer quality services, and are located strategically where one easily do shopping at any time.
The Maldives resorts are splendid and offer unmatched amenities where you can stay and enjoy your vacations, most of them offer local and exotic cuisines with Indian spices to add flavor made by highly trained staff. The climatic condition of the area is favorable for eco tourism, and you can go fishing any of the time of the year. The warm seas are clear and you will enjoy seeing fish in their natural surrounding up to fifty meters away. Tourism in Maldives offers the visitor an opportunity to experience sun and sea environment, different sizes of lagoons and underwater gardens that are unique with a tropical climate. With what nature has endowed this country, it is without doubt that tourism in Maldives will continue to be central economically.