A slice of paradise nested within the Indian Ocean, Maldives packages the coveted trio of sun, sand and sea with generous daubs of green and a vibrant local culture. This Asian nation is composed of 26 coral atolls, each with its own unique selling point. The complete Maldives experience includes sailing to multiple atolls and partaking of the white sandy beaches, the blue lagoons, the coral reefs, the rich marine life waiting to be discovered just beneath the surface of the water, and the indigenous culture of the close-knit communities in the islands. Malé, the Maldivian capital, is also a great place for shopping and sightseeing tours.