Cocos (Keeling) Islands_

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are an Australian territory of 27 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, home to around 600 people. These remote atolls were granted to a Scottish family by Queen Victoria and developed as a coconut plantation; descendants of Malay workers brought as laborers form the main population today. The islands offer pristine beaches, excellent diving, and genuine remoteness. Direction Island's lagoon is considered one of Australia's most beautiful beaches, while kite surfing draws enthusiasts to reliable trade winds. The predominantly Muslim Malay community maintains unique traditions. The Cocos (Keeling) Islands offer tropical paradise far from crowds in one of the Indian Ocean's most isolated settings.