Ari Atoll is one of the largest natural atolls in the Maldives and it situated on the western side of the archipelago. Its separation into Northern Ari Atoll and Southern Ari Atoll was done of course, for administrative purposes. Ari Atoll, like its neighbors is formed from coral and debris, separated by lagoons and both sections consist of 150 low lying islands, 20 of which are selected tourist resorts.

The Maldives, as its Sanskrit name suggests is quite literally a “garland” of 26 atolls consisting over a thousand coral islands. Any atoll in the Maldives comes with a cornucopia of crystalline lagoons with coral reefs populated by exotic and tropical fish. (Two-thirds of the world’s species of reef fish are said to be found in the Maldives!) Most of these idyllic islands offer top notch beaches for some quality unwinding and a range of water-based activities. All the islands, however are not open to visitors – a result of President Gayoom’s tourism laws which safeguard the islands and minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and local culture. These laws also saw to rise of a series of high quality tourist resorts, none of which though, are very cheap. Any ‘wonderful, low priced’ resort stay offered at the airport is most probably a scam. In order to avoid paying a lot more for con artists, it would be wise to prearrange accommodation.

Entertainment though, doesn’t need any planning and can be had stress free. The sea, which makes up at least 95% of the country, is thus not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the adventurous soul, offering snorkeling, scuba diving and even whale watching. A favorite activity among tourists is masa-ing (or night fishing) and it’s easy to see why. The splendor of the night sea is said to be breathtaking and its clarity allows people to see phosphorescent fish just below the surface. If you’re fishing for bigger game such as blue marlin or barracuda, the catch can be taken to, and prepared by a local chef for that very night!