The Maldives in Winter

<p>We were not sure it would be a good idea to cruise the Indian Ocean in January. Would the temperature at the equator contrast too much with a cold winter's day in England? Then there was the invitation to swim with stingrays. Would they be friendly and, if not, how bad was their sting? In fact the fish were the most amiable we have encountered. It was windy enough to keep cool in the shade and the air conditioning aboard ship compensated for the heat outside.</p><p>We had booked a week on the 75 cabin Island Explorer. The cabins varied in size, we had a twin bedded one with a picture window and usual facilities with shower and sufficient space for storage and moving around.</p><p>Our ship sailed from Male up to the Roa Atoll. After a six-hour journey we arrived at lunchtime, ready to explore Ilfuru our first uninhabited island. It had clear sandy stretches and a section of coral for snorkeling. The main question was whether to put the insect repellent on before or after the sun cream. The resemblance to a dream island was remarkable. The blue of the sea ranged from cerulean, through turquoise to pastel green surrounded by a fringe of sparkling white surf as the waves broke over the coral. Before reaching the shade of the palm trees it is hot because the white sand reflects the sun's rays but not so hot underfoot - unlike darker sands which absorb the heat. Lunch was prepared under the cover of palm trees. Barbecued fish fresh from the sea was served with jacket potatoes and mixed vegetables, which were imported. It was one of many islands we were to visit.</p><p>More details on <a target="_new" href="http://www.trv.demon.co.uk/maldives.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.trv.demon.co.uk/maldives.htm</a></p><p>Derrick Grover has travelled extensively. In addition to his various published articles he is also an experienced photographer and supplies high quality images to support his writing. He has had 39 photographs published to date.</p>