Sri Lanka > On the way to the Maldives

The alarm goes off at half past three. Outside, it’s still dark. Ajbriy drives me to the airport for the last time. There’s hardly any traffic on the streets. What a difference compared to last night. In about an hour, I arrive at the international airport near Negombo, where I also started two weeks ago. In front of the airport building, I say goodbye to Ajbriy. He is going home to his wife today and has a new tour scheduled for Monday. At ten minutes to seven forty, flight UL101 takes off toward the Maldives.

Sri Lanka - Ready to depart for the Maldives

The flight lasts one hour and ten minutes. As I approach the capital, Malé, I can already see several islands in the Indian Ocean. During the landing, it almost looks like the plane will touch down on the water. Land only appears at the last moment. In the distance, I can also see the capital itself. Malé is located on a neighboring island, which is completely built up. After clearing customs, I check in with the agent from Paradise Island. I have to wait until all passengers bound for this island are present. In front of the airport building, I board a speedboat, and in about half an hour, I arrive at the holiday island. In the reception building, a steward welcomes me. She explains how everything works. I think it’s nice that she does this personally and not all at once for the entire group of newcomers. She escorts me to a golf cart. The driver takes me and my luggage to my water villa. When he stops on the jetty in front of my villa, I see a beautiful, spacious villa before me. On the outdoor terrace, there’s a lounge mattress, sunbeds, and an outdoor bath. There’s also a small ladder to enter the sea. What a stunning setting. It’s only half past ten in the morning, but since I got up at half past three last night, it already feels like I’ve had a full day. I take a nap on the outdoor terrace. Nothing is required here. Perfect. In the afternoon, I explore the island. The island isn’t very large, but it can accommodate up to 700 guests. At the bar, I order a fruit juice. The waiter tells me that roughly half of all the villas are occupied. Later, I order a sandwich at the restaurant. The prices here are different than in Sri Lanka. Everything has to be flown in. I’ll see the total cost later on my credit card bill. The water in front of the villa is perfect for swimming. It’s relatively shallow. There’s no coral here anymore. I lie down on the shore to dry off. What a wonderful view. As it gets dark, the island becomes even more magical. I walk along the jetty to the restaurant, which also stands over the water. A very extensive buffet awaits. While eating, I notice that my room has been cleaned again. Fresh towels, the minibar replenished, and the bed neatly prepared and inviting.