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In 1972 the first tourists arrived in the Maldives.

They stayed in humble lodgings in three houses, looked after by young Maldivians including Ahmed Naseem, Mohamed Umar Maniku and their friends.

Perfect for sunbathing, swimming and fishing. Tourists loved it.

Italian travel agent George Corbin promised to bring more travellers if they had a place to stay.

On 3 October 1972, the first hotel resort called Kurumba opened, changing the islands forever.

Now, more than 1.5 million visitors enjoy the Maldives every year.

Ahmed Naseem, one of the pioneers of the industry, shares his memories with Nikola Bartosova.

(Photo: Kurumba in the 1970s. Credit: Kurumba)