The ultimate destination for pure joy, relaxation, and nature’s finest shades of blue.

I had always heard about the beauty of the Maldives — the dreamy overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons, and picture-perfect beaches. But nothing prepared me for how deeply it would move me when I finally saw it with my own eyes.

From the moment the islands came into view from my airplane window, I couldn’t stop smiling. I was literally screaming with joy, cheek to cheek, filled with excitement before even landing. That’s the kind of emotion the Maldives brings out in you — it’s love at first sight.

Arrival was smooth, even with a quick hiccup at immigration. I hadn’t filled out the Maldives Traveller Declaration via the IMUGA portal (you’re supposed to do it 24–48 hours before arrival), but thankfully it was fast and easy to complete on the spot. As a Cameroonian passport holder coming from Dubai, I didn’t need a visa — and after a quick yellow fever clearance, I was on my way.

A hotel representative greeted me and escorted us straight to a private speedboat. Just ten minutes later, we were docking at Villa Nautica Paradise Island Resort, our home for the first six nights. We had found an all-inclusive deal online, and from the second we arrived at the pier — watching the water shift from deep blue to brilliant turquoise — I knew it was going to be special.

The resort had a great setup: a beautiful infinity pool that truly merged with the sea, an outdoor gym, indoor gym, and crystal-clear waters all around. Our beach villa was basic and a little dated, but I’d recommend upgrading to one of the sunset beach pool villas if you visit — they’re modern and stunning. The staff was fantastic, the food hit the spot, and evenings spent by the bridge watching stingrays and baby sharks swim beneath my feet were pure magic. The sunsets? Unreal.

After six nights, we decided to extend our stay for two more nights — but this time at a different resort, to try something new and experience a touch more luxury. That’s when Velassaru Maldives completely wowed us.

From the moment we stepped onto the sleek, WiFi-equipped yacht, we knew we were in for something different. The ride was smooth and scenic, and when we arrived, the view took our breath away. The water was one of the most beautiful I had ever seen, instantly bringing back pleasant memories of Constance Tsarabanjina in Madagascar. It was everything I had imagined Maldivian waters to be — crystal-clear, vibrant, and unreal in every way.

Velassaru felt calm, well-designed, and beautifully maintained. We stayed in a beach villa — not upgraded, but fresh, modern, and up to standard. Clean interiors, a stylish indoor-outdoor bathroom, and my favorite feature: the open-air shower. Seriously, outdoor showers need to be a global hotel requirement!

The food was another level — from breakfast to dinner, the variety and quality were excellent. On our final day, the hotel treated us to a complimentary massage. We spent the whole afternoon at the spa, relaxing by the infinity pool with ocean views, enjoying the steam room, and getting one of the best massages I’ve had in a long time.

Velassaru delivered everything I had dreamed of when thinking about the Maldives: stunning nature, luxurious comfort, and that feeling of total peace.

The people of Iceland were extremely welcoming and kind, as well as very eager to introduce me to their healthy cuisine.