Sun, Sand, and Sunshine: My Dream Trip to the Maldives

A dream trip isn’t just about the destination, it’s about the memories you create along the way

A trip to the Maldives had been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. When the opportunity finally came up—for a dear friend’s 50th birthday celebration—I knew it was going to be unforgettable. The excitement was palpable from the moment we boarded our flight to Malé.

The journey was an adventure in itself. After landing in Malé, we were whisked away on a seaplane—my very first time! Let me tell you, there is no better way to be initiated into the beauty of the Maldives. As the seaplane soared over turquoise waters dotted with lush, green islands, I felt like I was watching a scene from a dream. The breathtaking views from above set the tone for what lay ahead.

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From the seaplane, we took a short but exhilarating speedboat ride to our destination—Soneva Fushi. As soon as I stepped off the boat and onto the soft sand, I was awestruck. The vibrant blues of the ocean, the welcoming smiles, and the refreshing welcome drink in hand—everything felt surreal. I couldn’t resist slipping off my shoes immediately to feel the sand beneath my feet.

After a warm welcome, we were shown to our rooms—a slice of heaven on earth. Our beachfront villa was nothing short of a masterpiece. We had a private pool, an expansive deck perfect for lounging, an upstairs sun deck, and cozy daybeds tucked away in peaceful corners. There was even a charming little library and private access to the beach. I’ll never forget how magical it felt to open the doors and hear the waves crashing softly just a few steps away.

One of the things I loved most about Soneva Fushi was its “no shoes” policy. They encourage guests to walk barefoot to feel grounded and connected to nature. At first, it felt novel, but soon it became second nature—a simple joy that added to the tranquility of our stay.

The resort is a paradise for food lovers. We spent our days exploring their eleven dining destinations, each offering a unique culinary experience. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table dishes using ingredients grown in their organic gardens, every meal was an adventure. And let’s not forget the indulgent treats—there was an entire parlor dedicated to complimentary chocolate, ice cream, and a cheese and charcuterie selection! It’s safe to say my inner foodie was in heaven.

Beyond the incredible food, there were countless activities to enjoy—diving, dolphin cruises, and peaceful strolls along the beach. One evening, we visited the resort’s observatory, an experience I will treasure forever. Gazing at Saturn through the telescope, with its rings vividly visible, felt like witnessing the universe’s wonders up close. The open-air meals at the resort were another unexpected treat—festive evenings filled with music, delicious food, and a sense of celebration under the stars.

We also took advantage of the spa, which felt like an oasis of calm. Soneva Soul, the resort’s wellness sanctuary, seamlessly blends ancient healing practices with modern science. The therapists and wellness specialists there curated personalised treatments for us that left us feeling rejuvenated in every way.

Even downtime felt special. The resort has a delightful little bookshop where I spent time browsing while soaking in the serene atmosphere. There’s something so comforting about flipping through the pages of a book with the sound of waves in the background.

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Soneva Fushi was founded by the husband-and-wife duo Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malmström Shivdasani, and their philosophy of sustainability and luxury living was evident in every detail. From the organic gardens where they grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs to the eco-friendly design of the villas, the entire experience felt mindful and purposeful.

We laughed, indulged, and immersed ourselves in every moment. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a journey of connection—with nature, with friends, and with myself. The Maldives had been a dream for so long, and living it was everything I had hoped for and more.

As I boarded the flight back home, barefoot and blissed out, I promised myself I’d return someday. Because some places don’t just leave footprints on the sand—they leave imprints on your heart.