The population of the Maldives is around 390,000 (2010 estimate) and the nation spans a territorial area of a whopping 90,000km2. However, a majority (99%!) of that is water, bringing the total land mass to just under 300km2. This unique geographical constellation is one of the greatest attractions for Maldives holidays; Drifting lazily around the islands will bring you face to face with the raw nature of the tropics – for instance when you land on a tiny unexplored sand bank or explore the astounding coral formations while diving in the Maldives. The highest point in the Maldives is a mere 2.3 meters above sea level, the average at around 1.5 meters, which makes the nation the lowest country on planet earth!