Stories from the Maldives

SPACE TRAVEL - Sir Richard Branson has become not only an apostle for the virtues of space (and deep-sea) travel, but also sustainable travel. He also thinks it would be smart to save the world from global warming, starting now, and  he's putting his money and considerable Virgin resources behind these causes. In an exclusive interview, he talks about the future of travel, andfixing the planet.

ISLAND PRESIDENT - Mohamed Nasheed has become one of Asia's firebrands for democracy and human rights, as well as a tireless global advocate for ecological solutions to global warming, which could drown his island nation. But can he manage the tidal wave of Chinese tourism in his patch of paradise?

COUSTEAU'S NEW VOYAGE  - Fabien Cousteau learned to swim soon after walking, so it's no surprise he is following in the footsteps of his famed grandfather, Jacques Cousteau, whose voyages on the Calypso taught the world about the wonders of the oceans. Fabien wants to focus attention on the reefs and marine environment, which he hopes to help repair, one bit at a time. He wants the whole world to Plant A Fish.

PARADISE MAINTAINED - As more and more resorts spread across these gorgeous islands and atolls, the Maldives has shown a remarkable ability to sustain the onslaught not only of the tsunami, but also mass tourism. With some of the world's most luxurious - and expensive resorts - the Maldives seems the very picture of paradise.

SPA-TACULAR RETREAT - Set on its own exclusive island in the Maldives, the Soneva Fushi resort is largely regarded as one of the world's best. Rustic villas and opulent service make this popular with clients who crave uber-relaxation. And lest some tension linger, this outpost in paradise offers the ultimate in spas.

PARADISE PROTECTED A mainstay on the Diver's Hall of Fame, the picturesque atolls of the Maldives offer a satisfying taste of paradise. Yet this fragile ecosystem lacks food, water, even bungalow basics. Still, even without making it a buzzword, eco-tourism is working in the Maldives.

* all pictures, unless otherwise credited, by Ron Gluckman