The Maldives, an idyllic tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Beyond its stunning beauty, there are several cool and intriguing aspects of the Maldives that many may not be aware of.

1. Archipelago Wonders: The Maldives is not just a single island but an archipelago consisting of 26 atolls, each comprising numerous coral islands. These atolls are spread across approximately 90,000 square kilometers, making the Maldives one of the world's most dispersed countries.

2. Lowest Country on Earth: The Maldives claims the title of the lowest country on Earth, with an average ground level of just 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches) above sea level. This fact makes the Maldives particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels.

3. Underwater Cabinet Meeting: In 2009, the Maldives made global headlines when its government held an underwater cabinet meeting. The goal was to draw attention to the urgent issue of climate change and the potential threat it poses to low-lying nations like the Maldives.

4. Unique Currency: The Maldivian currency, the Maldivian Rufiyaa, features a fascinating security feature. The banknotes incorporate a windowed security thread that, when held up to the light, reveals a holographic image of the Maldivian monetary authority's logo.

5. Bioluminescent Beaches: The Maldives is home to beaches that light up at night due to the presence of bioluminescent phytoplankton. These microscopic organisms emit a glow when agitated, creating a surreal and enchanting spectacle along the shoreline.

6. Shark Feeding at Fish Head: For thrill-seekers and diving enthusiasts, Fish Head in the Maldives is a legendary dive site. It's known for its impressive underwater scenery and the chance to witness shark-feeding frenzies. Grey reef sharks and white-tip reef sharks are among the species commonly seen in these waters.

7. Dhivehi Script: The Maldivian language, Dhivehi, has its own unique script called Thaana. What sets it apart is its right-to-left writing direction, which is uncommon in the region. Thaana has evolved over the centuries and is an essential part of the Maldivian cultural identity.

8. Local Cuisine Delights: Maldivian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic culinary traditions. One must-try dish is Mas Huni, a traditional Maldivian breakfast featuring tuna, coconut, onion, chili, and flatbread called roshi.

9. Strict Regulations for Tourists: To preserve the natural beauty and ecosystem, the Maldives has implemented strict regulations for tourists. For instance, the import of items such as spear guns, pornography, and religious materials offensive to Islam is prohibited. Additionally, the collection of coral and shells is strictly forbidden.

10. Home to the Oldest Mosque: The Maldives is home to the oldest mosque in the country, the Hukuru Miskiy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque. Constructed in 1656, this architectural marvel is made entirely of coral stone and boasts intricate carvings and designs.

In conclusion, the Maldives, with its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers much more than meets the eye. From its unique geography and marine life to cultural nuances and conservation efforts, the Maldives stands as a fascinating destination with a myriad of cool and lesser-known aspects waiting to be explored.