Thanks Bruce for the response. Answers to your questions below:

- We are mainly looking for beautiful waters/lagoon, white sand, palms, you know the postcard pictures of Maldives that make it so famous. We are picking Maldives, and not some other destinations such as Hawaii which probably have more activities, to experience the unique natural beauty of Maldives. We are therefore not aiming for historical/cultural sights, shopping, museums etc.

- Regarding size of the island, our activities will likely be limited to beaches and resort. However an island that is so small that it is just a mound of sand and we are the only people might feel a bit too lonely. It would be good if the resort has some activities after the sunset to keep us occupied (such as some music, lively restaurant perhaps).

- We have 2 daughters of age 5 and 8

- We have never tried snorkeling so not too passionate about it. However, we wouldn't mind trying some snorkeling just to experience it. Note that I am only one in the family who can swim A friend of mine who visited Maldives and tried snorkeling for the first time tells me he almost drowned which makes me worried too

- The quality of resort/accommodation is also a consideration (within $250 - $300 per night range). We are not looking for a youth hostel or a guest house Some luxury/pampering would be nice

- Someone mentioned that being too close to Male might taint the experience with commercial activities such as sight of cranes at the port, being next to a shipping lane with oil tankers passing by or being right under the flight path of landing jets. So that something to keep in mind.

- Given that above, if you can still suggest destinations that be reached by boat then sure that would save us the money! Otherwise we might treat ourselves to a ride on seaplane


Thanks for your help!