The Maldivian archipelago is a long string of islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It's the lowest country in the world, with an average elevation of 1.5m above the sea. And although the Maldives have come to be known as a luxurious honeymoon destination, there are many budget-friendly ways to discover this tropical paradise - and we want to show you how.

The landscapes of the Maldives are postcard-perfect: 26 atolls made up of 1,000 coral islands with endless white-sand beaches surrounded by an impossibly beautiful blue. As we descend, we encounter some of the most spectacular underwater landscapes on the planet. And since the nation was declared a shark sanctuary in 2010, it became possibly the sharkiest diving destination in the world. This, combined with its consistent warm water, excellent visibility all-year round, and an abundance of marine life, makes the Maldives an easy choice for an unforgettable diving holiday.

Salted Trips goes to various destinations in the Maldives throughout the year.

• Fuvahmulah and Hulhumale: 20-28 April, 2024.

• NEXT TRIP: Fuvahmulah: 16-23 November, 2024. More info here!