Hello Worldmappin fam! I will share another journey with you all. From the simple joys to wonderful moments, there are always times worth capturing. Thankful for this community where we can explore the world together, one post at a time.
Three months ago, we set out on a journey that had been sitting at the very top of our bucket list. Our most awaited adventure. It was a dream come true. Ever since we got married, my husband and I have shared one big thing in common, we're obsessed with beaches. Our kids grew up with these getaways. We've explored countless shores across the Philippines and even ventured abroad, like Phuket. But seasons change. Our eldest son moved abroad, and our youngest is now married too, caught up in the beautiful hustle of life. After moving to Dubai, we finally had a chance to turn that dream into reality. Just the two of us this time, marking off the number one place on our bucket list. It was the escapade we had been dreaming of for years, and it did not fail us. I'm beyond happy to take that unforgettable trip with you finally. Let's plunge into the MALDIVES!
We're immediately welcomed by the sight of vibrant blue water tempting us to dive in the moment we walk outside the Maldives airport. Speedboats from various hotels are waiting to move guests away to their island retreats. We're lucky that we spotted our hotel's speedboat waiting for us, ready to take us to the island, and it was a 45-minute ride. The trip was a breathtaking one, the sea's big waves making a bumpy, thrilling journey. I didn't manage to capture pictures or videos during the ride because I was holding on tight, trying to stay steady. The waves made the boat bounce up and down. It was a wild ride, but we're having have. But as we neared the island, the sea began to calm and the waves softened. We felt the sea was welcoming us.
When we arrived at Maafushi Island, the hotel staff got us away on their E-bike, giving us a breezy, fun ride through the charming streets toward our hotel. Allowing us to see the scenic beauty and the lively island life.
We stayed at a beachfront hotel where the beach was just steps away. The room they gave us was a perfect spot, with a balcony that opened up to an amazing view of the beach. Ideal for sipping coffee or unwinding while watching the beach.
We wasted no time, as soon as we settled in. We just changed into our OOTDs, excited to soak up our island vibes. We couldn't refuse to take a photo of the nature that surrounds us, the white sand under our feet, the glowing turquoise water expanding into the horizon, and the heat of the sun embracing our skin.
After exploring and soaking up the charm of the island. We headed straight to our water activities. First up. The jet skiing, speeding across the water with the breeze hitting our faces and the splashes of salty water, just added the thrill. Every twist, turn, and jump over the small waves was unforgettable. Right after the thrill, we slowed things down with a peaceful kayak ride. My husband was the one who was paddling over the calm waters. Every stroke of the paddle brought us deeper into the serenity of the sea. Next up was fun tubing. We held tight as the jet ski pulled us across the waves, bouncing and skimming over the water at full speed. I was screaming and laughing the whole time during the fun tubing. Every sharp turn and sudden bump had me yelling at the top of my lungs. My husband was just laughing and enjoying. Sometimes we thought we'd fly right off the tube. It was chaotic, and one of the most fun things I've ever done.
Every time we went to the beach, my husband and kids were always thrilled about parasailing, it was their thing. On the other hand, I was more than happy to stay on the ground. But this time, I had no choice. My husband, with his usual charm and persistence, finally convinced me to give it a try. It pushed me out of my comfort zone. I felt very nervous the moment they put a strap on me into the harness. My heart beat faster, as the parachute raised us off the boat, and I felt my stomach was in reverse. I hold the ropes tightly, unsure of what to expect. But as we fly up higher, something shifted. The nervousness disappears and was replaced with wonder. I found myself immersed in the peaceful and stunning view. It began with shaky hands and ended with the biggest smile on my face.
We also went sunset fishing. The boat crew provides insight into fishing art. This boat not only provides an opportunity to witness the enchanting sunset but also guarantees an enjoyable fishing experience. They provided the fishing gear and bait. We used the traditional method of fishing. Handline fishing using a line with a baited hook. I didn't catch a fish, but my husband did. I tried my best, but I guess luck wasn't on my side that day. The only thing I've missed, I didn't take a photo of the fish he caught. It was really an exciting experience.
After our buffet dinner, we took a walk around the resort because we're so full, to ease the heaviness. We snapped a few photos of the pool and some glowing structures full of lights. Then we called it a night and went straight to rest.
We headed to Fulidhoo Island for the stingray encounter. The island itself was serene and picture-perfect. The stingrays smoothly swam in the shallow waters. They move gently like they are dancing through the water. While strolling around, we noticed a school of fish swimming nearby. It was a beautiful sight, hundreds of tiny fish moving in harmony as they blend through the clear water. This moment made us pause, embracing the beauty of nature around us.
Vaavu atoll was our next stop. This time, we will swim with the sharks, something we never imagined that we would do in our entire lives. We could see the sharks moving around. My husband was so eager to swim with the sharks. Even though he's a little bit nervous. But when he was in the water, he enjoyed his swim with the sharks. I decided not to swim because I'm scared. Watching him enjoy the moment so fearlessly made me feel that experience too, even though I don't swim with the sharks.
Next, we visited the Heart Sandbank. As our speedboat approached, the perfectly outlined by crystal clear turquoise waters. It was so stunning.. The sand was soft, the entire place was peaceful, untouched, and cool. We walked barefoot and stood there in wonder.
We managed to take a quick drone video and snapped some shots at the heart sandbank, but everything was done in a rush. The weather shifted suddenly. from clear blue skies to a gloomy, windy atmosphere in just minutes. We barely enjoyed the view when the wind picked up and the clouds rolled in. The ride back to the island was rough, with big waves, heavy downpours, followed by. It was intense, but honestly, it's just added another wild story to our adventure.
Thank you, MALDIVES! for making our long-time dream come true. Every second we spent in your amazing islands was pure magic. To the once-in-a-lifetime adventure we'll never forget. You gave us beauty, thrill, peace and joy all in one. We will treasure it for a lifetime. Until we meet again, island paradise!
Photos taken using Samsung S24 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Edited through Canva