Exploring the Maldives Before They're Lost to the Ocean. A special celebration vacation

How did we find ourselves in this idyllic destination? As the primary organizer of our family trips, I typically curate our travel itineraries while everyone else simply follows along with my plans. However, this occasion was notably different. With my husband celebrating his 50th birthday, I posed him the ultimate question: if you could select any destination for a holiday, where would your ideal getaway be? Without hesitation, he responded: the Maldives. Following two flights and a seaplane journey, we arrived at our destination. We appreciated the opportunity to pause midway through our travels, allowing us to explore Doha Airport before boarding our connecting flight. While awaiting our seaplane, we enjoyed a moment on the balcony, watching the graceful landings and takeoffs of the seaplanes. The Maldives is renowned for its myriad islands and resorts, each offering a unique experience. As a family, we prefer tranquil resorts, where our children require little entertainment beyond the joy of exploring the sea. For us, snorkeling and all-inclusive dining equate to a perfect paradise for the kids. Our small island provided us with a beachfront hut, giving us the sensation of having a private beach. The same applied to our snorkeling in the sea. We were fortunate to experience excellent weather throughout our stay—though humid, the warm sea provided a refreshing respite. As an adventurous family, we booked several excursions, including sunset sea fishing, local fishing experiences, turtle snorkeling trips, and encounters with nurse sharks. One of the highlights was having the restaurant prepare the fish we caught for our lunch—a truly unforgettable experience. Travel Tips: Tip 1: Sunscreen alone is insufficient while snorkeling. It is advisable to invest in UV-protective clothing. We had to purchase some at the resort after several of us suffered sunburn on our shoulders and calves, and the prices were rather steep. Tip 2: Water shoes are essential. While some areas feature soft sand, others contain rocks and coral, making protective footwear a necessity.