“Once a year go somewhere you have never been before.” –

Dalai Lama

                                                                                 

After an awesome and freezing holiday in Ladakh in 2013, this year was reserved for some Sun, Sand and Sea. The only question was – Which Sand? and Which Sea?

After a lot of browsing and strained eyes we were set for the destination – Maldives.

Choosing the resort out of the hundreds that operate on each island drained me completely. And yet I was not sure if I had chosen the right one. But then again, who cares, I was going to Maldives.

As we landed at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, I was like a kid who had received a life long of free supply of candies. The image I had in mind looking at all of the photos online was real. Right in front of me. I was awestruck.

A quick visa stamping and we ran out to soak it all in.

 

What follows is a photo heavy post as I fall short of words to describe the beauty of this paradise

 

The airport is situated on Hulhule island just beside the capital city of Male.

As I stepped out of the main building, I was greeted by this stunning view. My immediate thought was to jump into the ocean but refrained myself from doing so. For everyone’s benefit.

We waited at the jetty for our transportation to Club Med Kani, the chosen resort.

 

 

 

A typical tropical island – Blue Water, White Sand and Coconut Trees. Just what we wanted.

 

 

The Gazebo was right outside my room. All I needed was my book and a cocktail.

 

How picture perfect is that!?!

 

 

This was my favourite vacation spot. Taking a dip and starring at the vast Indian Ocean. Truly blessed.

 

 

I love a crossroad when which ever path I decide to take, I know it is going to make me happy.

 

 

Ever seen a tree so close to the sea?

Maybe it couldn’t decide where to be. Quite like a lot of people, choosing the middle path because they are unable to decide.

 

I saw the most clearest and bluest water at Maldives. Something we never get to see at the beaches in India.

 

 

 

That’s a baby shark up there! And a school of fishes! So many of them!

 

 

 

The beach was filled with tiny live shells moving around everywhere. They used to stop once they sensed we were too close to them

 

 

Trans Maldivian is a national airline transporting passengers between islands.

 

 

A must do in any tropical isand destination – live in an Overwater Bungalow. The concept is brilliant and the execution simply mind blowing. An unobstructed view and direct access to the ocean.

 

 

Every trip has a favourite photo. And this is mine. Simply because it has all my favourite elements. And I took a huge risk in bringing my iPhone in the water ;D

 

 

The residents of neighbouring  islands had put up their local product on display at the Flea Market. Very kindly organized by the Club Med Kani staff.

 

The time had come to say goodbye!

 

Like Ladakh, I did not want to leave the place I was in. It was totally opposite but paradise in its own way.

 

I am eagerly waiting to find out what 2015 will bring!

Have you already planned for next year? Share your stories!

 

• Nupur

 

*All opinions and pictures are my own