The Maldives coral island atolls are located in the tropics, are influenced by monsoons but enjoy a lovely sunny climate and are warm all year round.

The islands of the Maldives host some of the most diverse marine life to be seen on our planet, and it is therefore no wonder that they have become a center of excellence for snorkeling and diving alike.

Resorts like the Bandos Island resort are both a PADI Gold Palm Resort and a Platinum Facility of the International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers. If you do not wish to get too involved with the technical side of things then the snorkeling at resorts like Bandos and Filitheyo is amazing and trips are scheduled each day to local reefs if you wish to see more than the house reef.

The beaches on most Maldives islands are some of the most amazing in the world. At the Filitheyo island resort for example, the superb beaches are unbroken on each side of the island offering great walks and views and furthermore these beaches are definately not crowded.

Many of the island resorts are equipped with modern conveniences such as internet hotspots, and conference rooms but the tropical beauty of the islands are mostly unspoilt, this is what most people come to experience after all. Private accommodation and beach areas are shaded by tall palms and other vegetation.

Most, if not all, resorts offer the luxury water villa accomodation as well as other comfortable beach-side rooms. The resort of Bandos offers superior two storey Beach villas with bathrooms that are half inside and half outside the villa that come with an outside thatched jacuzzi. Other accomodation suites are generally along the water front and are designed to give you the feeling of tranquility and solitude.

Many Maldives resorts also cater specially for getting married during your holiday with wedding parties that can be pre-arranged in advance. Bandos island resort pushes the boat out, so to speak, by offering the “Kuda Bandos Sunset Wedding” featuring a traditional island ceremony complete with a private cruise for the newlyweds on a Dhoni (Maldivian boat).

James is a freelance writer and writes about the Bandos island resort and about Holidays in the Maldives.

Australia is a great choice for anyone who wants a little adventure. However, if you don’t want to give up your comforts, you can still enjoy all the wilderness and amazing sights that Australia has to offer. Consider an Australian luxury cruise.

Have you ever thought about a cruise that would let you enjoy the most luxurious surroundings while encountering unusual wildlife, SCUBA diving, fishing, hiking and even seeing sharks in their natural habitat?

If you want to go on a great adventure vacation without losing your little luxuries, an Australian cruise is an excellent choice.

The facilities you’ll encounter on board the ship are easily as comfortable and attractive as what you’ll find at the very best hotels. Enjoy beautiful decor, large cabins, and more, as well as the ship’s lounge, forward viewing deck, bar, and world class dining facilities.

Most of the native bushland of the island has been undisturbed, and more than a third of it is set aside for conservation purposes. You’ll see goannas, platypi, echidnas, wallabies and kangaroos, koalas, warm water penguins and sea lions, as well as beautiful beaches and rugged cliffs.

There’s plenty to do on Kangaroo Island, including wildlife walks, night excursions, and tours. You can ask the cruise director for advice about the best activities for you. Then, move on to a great adventure!

Cruises are famous for their food, and most Australian lines are no exception. You’ll enjoy amazing and exotic dishes you’d never encounter anywhere else, including fantastic local wines and seafood from several of the ports you’ll visit.

Expect a smart casual dress standard that allows you to be comfortable. However, remember to bring some clothes for adventuring! Fishing and other activities are more appropriate to casual T-shirts, shorts, and similar clothes.

Since many places in Australia aren’t accessible by ship, even a purpose built one that can navigate shallow rivers, guided tours are available before and after the cruise. You can also choose to take a heli-trip if you’re on board one of the ships that carries its own helicopter, or use the expedition boats, which let you do what you want at the time you want to do it.

Anglers will enjoy the many fishing options available on board Australian cruises. Many delicious species of fish can be caught in these waters, and guides are available with the expertise to help anyone on a fishing excursion. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner or an old hand – there’s someone to help you catch your fish.

For non-anglers, snorkeling, diving, nature walks and more are available. There are miles of national forests and nature preserves to explore, fascinating native animals to see, and lots of breathtaking scenery. Or, take a break to enjoy a picnic with the crew on the beach side.

Every day on an Australian cruise is a new experience. There’s lots to do – you’ll never be bored, and you might not have time for it all. If you’re looking for a memorable trip, an Australian cruise is the perfect choice for you.