When we talk about the "tropics," we are referring to a specific region on the Earth. In strict geographical terms, the tropics are located between the Tropic of Cancer, which lies at a latitude of 23°27' north, and the Tropic of Capricorn, which lies at the same latitude south of the equator. The equator marks the center of this region.

These tropical lines outline the north-south boundaries where the sun can shine directly on the ground during the seasonal tilt of the Earth's axis. In this sense, the term "tropics" represents the connection between the land and the sky.

The lands within the tropical region include a wide range of countries and regions. In the Americas, it encompasses most of the landmass, extending from central Mexico and the southern Caribbean to just within the northern border of Argentina.

However, it excludes most of the Southern Cone countries. In Africa, the tropics cover most of the continent, with the exception of the northern end of the Mediterranean and the southern tip. Parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and parts of the United Arab Emirates, are also part of the tropical region.

In addition, southern India and Sri Lanka fall within the tropics. Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and the Philippines, the northern third of Australia, and much of Oceania or the South Pacific are also within the tropical zone. Lastly, the tropical region includes large parts of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

On densely populated continents, only Europe is outside the tropics. However, in modern times, the characteristics that define tropicality are not confined to the borders of the tropics. Large areas within these borders, particularly deserts and savanna areas, have shed the tropical label.

Typical features of the tropics include humid lowlands and palm-lined tropical islands. When we think of travel, our minds often conjure up images of white sandy beaches, blue waters, and palm trees in tropical locations. For many people, tropical islands in far-flung corners of the world represent paradise.

One such paradise is the Seychelles Islands, located off the east coast of Africa. These islands offer pure bliss. The Seychelles possess perfect beaches, pristine waters, a myriad of islands to choose from, and ample seclusion.

If there is any place in the world that could convince us to drop everything and stay in a beach hut, it would be Seychelles. It is our dream destination, and it should be yours too.

Spanning the Indian Ocean, southwest India, and Sri Lanka, the Maldives consist of 26 natural atolls that exude an almost surrealistic beauty, thanks in large part to the bright blue waters that surround them.

If your idea of a perfect tropical vacation involves slipping into the clear, soul-warming ocean, then the Maldives is the place to be. In fact, water makes up 99% of the Maldives, providing a paradoxical charm that also threatens the shores of this low-lying island nation.

While Male serves as the capital city, most visitors head directly to a remote atoll where luxury resorts and fine white sand beaches await, surrounded by seawater.

The diving and snorkeling experiences are world-class, and the Maldives is also renowned as a top surfing destination, with the most popular surf spots located in the atolls to the north and south of Male.

The tropics represent a distinct region on Earth, characterized by its geographical boundaries and unique climatic features. From the Seychelles Islands to the Maldives, tropical locations offer idyllic landscapes and unforgettable experiences that embody the essence of paradise.