Harold.Casapao: Maldives 2014

Yep, some atolls are submerged. Maybe its a low tide - high tide thing

I never thought that I would get the chance to visit this paradise so soon. Lavinia and I tried our luck looking for the best deals in the NATAS Travel Fair but unfortunately all available flights were scheduled at night and some deals were still expensive. We decided we better try in the next few years (which means a decade) but just the next day, Tiger Airways offered a seat sale and on a morning flight too! So we thought it was the universe telling us that this is the best time; no more just dreaming of going there, just go YOLO tripping (and spending). Anyway, it was for our second year wedding anniversary / 11th year dating anniversary so our wallets can cry later (and they still are up to now).

As tourism is the primary income drawer of Maldives, I was impressed with how they take care of the tourists by providing great service and a clean environment. People are very friendly, ensuring you are having a pleasant, no-hassle experience. It's sad how in other countries they charge you for even the most basic things, and still you don't receive quality service.

This airport is more decent compared to some countries with bigger GDP and tourism

We stayed at Kurumba Maldives and booked directly on their website. It is the first and oldest resort in Maldives. It was built in 1972 and even though it has been around for 40+ years, the resort didn't look that old (they did go through some renovations recently). The rustic and green design set a good ambiance combining local and international resort look. What impressed me the most was their waste management system. They recycle the waste and use it for cementing, sell to recycling companies, and they have their own composter that they use for their gardens and distribute to other partner resorts. It's only too bad that even though they are trying their best to avoid carbon footprint, Maldives is endangered to be totally submerged in water due to rising sea levels. The entire Maldives does not rise more than 2.5 meters above sea level (yes, that low). We may be living hundreds or thousands of miles away, but we can do our part to save this paradise by practicing the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).

A 15-minute speedboat ride from the airport brings you to the real deal

Kurumba is coconut in the Dhevi language

and this is just the view from the reception - baby sharks included.

Two excited girls

We were greeted with cold towels with a hint of coconut oil and two scoops of their famous coconut ice cream. What a way to cool down the tropical heat!

Nifty entrance

Best coconut ice cream I have tasted so far

Welcome messages and information inside

One checkbox that i need to tick every time I travel is to eat good food. Well it wasn't hard to find here in Maldives because all, I mean ALL, the food here was DELICIOUS! From the buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, the 3 restaurants (out of 8) we tried were all outstanding!

Nasi Goreng with Shrimp Satay

Pad Thai

Grilled Chicken in Mushroom Risotto

Kurumba Cheese Burger - 100% Beef with Bacon and Egg in brioche bun. NOW THIS IS A BURGER!

Sri Lankan Prawn Curry

Maldivian Style Mussels Curry with Chapati

We were not able to take pictures of the rest of the food that we had as we were busy gobbling it. From here on out, I will bombard you with my favorite sights of Maldives. Enjoy!