I have been a swimmer since I was 4 years of age, have been swimming in my local club, swam at national level, lifesaving, scuba diving, rescue diving, cox-sin for driving boats but the love of the sea and the love of water has always been my main ambition & my reason to visit The Maldives.
When I arrived in the Maldives, the heat hits me and I realised that I was in need of a shower, as Ireland does not have this core temperature.
The speed boat was special, as you are unaware of what lies ahead and the anticipation is exhilarating.
At the pier, I was greeted by locals who placed a organic necklace over my head with a beautiful flower attached. I really didn’t know what was about to happen next.
We were brought from the pier to the main island by buggy, I sat at the back of the buggy, and could see the dive centre drift in the distance, these were my first pictures of paradise.
On arriving at the island, I was greeted by Rifadh , who was a complete gentleman and explained everything to me regarding the island and how to navigate around the amenities and the special places within the island, he grounded me after a long journey and the excitement of visiting the place of my dreams.
I was shown my home for the period of my stay and I must say I was left without words, a shower was had in complete luxury & I ordered food to restore my energy and a good night sleep was the ultimate finish to a long day.
I awoke to the sound and sights of the glorious Indian Ocean. I headed for breakfast and the stroll was extraordinary, the white sandy sand, the baby lemon sharks in the water below me, the sunrise and the people I met, I knew I was in paradise.
Shaun greeted me at the entrance to breakfast & gave me a wonderful seat to enjoy my breakfast, I must say he was extraordinary every morning and greeted me with happiness and warmth every day. Shaun, I am truly grateful to you ❤️
All the staff made sure I was comfortable & also that I never was without anything.
The following mornings I was greeted by staff that were outstandingly professional but also showed great empathy towards other guests and all guests wore a beautiful smile to brighten the day.
I went to the Dhoni Bar and asked for a coffee, Dasun was the bar man and we instantly became friends, he is a warm hearted man with chubby cheeks 😉 and a great sense of humour. Dasun, I will always call you a friend as you treated me like a person and not as a customer, so many places can attempt this but you can always tell when someone is being false. I went to this bar every morning for a coffee and to be greeted by the resident cockatoo’s on my shoulder. They love things that are shiny(my neglace) but I believe it was just my soul that shone😜
His colleagues within the bar, were always kind to me and we sang Happy Birthday to Sashika who got embarrassed when everyone outside joined in, I wish you many more happy years Sashika ❤️
Sanjeewa was very defined but occasionally showed his humours manner, bring it out more Sanjeewa, your a funny and kind person and always put a smile on my face, even when not trying.
The head chef at Namaste "Satya", cooks the most wonderful food with a presentation that would shame a 3 star Michelin Chef. Outstanding Satya 🙏🏻
Assadh’s humour reminded me of when I was younger (a year younger 😏) and we giggled like school boys, don’t ever change Assadh.
Sadhin shines while working and is the ultimate professional with outstanding knowledge of his his duties, he will be manager at a later stage, he really is that good and he deserves the best.
Sam had just started her position but already showed the potential within herself, you will go far.
In the evening, The Lagoon bar was a joy to finish off a beautiful day, the manager Assad would always greet you, chat with you and even have a joke with you, even the following day he greeted you with a smile and a chat, he was like an "older" 😉 brother that always looked out for you. Kadeek is a hard working gentleman who was easily made laugh and would easily show his bright personality, Kadeek you are true gentleman and it was an honour to have met you.
Sameraa, was always busy but always gave a few minutes to talk to you, big eyes and a big heart.
Rony, always tried to get me to have another drink but not in a pushy way, in a "we’ll have a laugh way", I always smiled at his use of the tongue. You have a gift Rony.
This was truly a magical experience, both nature and people will have you talking and remembering your exceptional experiences in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
I know I haven’t said much about the island but these have to be experienced to be believed. If a place has good people like they have here, you can rest assured that you will have an unforgettable experience.
I thank each of you with my heartfelt gratitude, I will remember each and everyone of you.
My kindest regards,
Nick.
