With 750 km of coral reef south of the Indian subcontinent, the Maldives archipelago is the most impressive coral reef barrier in the world, and one of the most geographically dispersed countries, with its population inhabiting 200 of its 1200 atolls. There are few ferries between the islands, a daily challenge to locals; Affluent tourists visit only the exclusive luxury resort islands. Unlike many Muslim countries, women in the Maldives are not subservient to men.
