This year we had a hard time deciding what to do for Spring Break. When one has a week off, suddenly the possibilities widen significantly. So many trips in Asia can be comfortably done in 3-4 days. But a week...hmmmm. We finally settled on the Maldives. The Maldives is an island nation just south of India in the Indian Ocean. It's basically in the middle of nowhere. We decided that this would be a splurgy, relaxing jaunt. And given that we booked very far in advance, we had been eagerly anticipating the trip. We had heard from so many people how it is the best trip they have ever taken (both with and without kids).
With advanced booking, we thought we had reserved exactly what we wanted - a small bungalow on the beach - sunrise side. However, the day before our arrival, the resort called to inform us that there had been a mistake and our selection was already booked. WHAT???? They kindly offered an 'upgrade' over the water. I'm skeptical whenever someone says that word 'upgrade' because sometimes it's not. Furthermore, we intentionally booked 'beach' as opposed to an 'over-the-water' option because Sadie sleep-walks from time to time. I was too afraid of hearing a dreaded 'splash' in the middle of the night. So I impressed upon the resort that it was important to have the beach option and they said they would try. But no promises, of course.
So we departed the next day via Tiger Air. It's only a 4-1/2 hour flight to Male, the capital, from Singapore. The airport is a tiny 'developing world' type building pretty much right on the dock. To get to any of the other islands, one must then board a sea plane or a speed boat (depending on how far you're going). We had a 30 minute speed boat ride to our destination. Talk about Fantasy Island. The Asian travel industry loves the welcome. We were officially welcomed by a small crew with drums and local dress. Then the obligatory 'welcome drink' (always something local and refreshing plus a cold towel that has been doused in Lavender or Lemongrass. The local drink is the Lomi Lomi which is a heavenly mix of ginger, lime and honey.
Upon arrival, however, the situation had not improved and the word 'upgrade' was once again being offered. While I accepted, I gently let them know that it was not acceptable. But I had no choice and paradise awaited to we let them drive us to the bungalow. I should have kept my mouth shut. The upgrade was indeed an UPGRADE (capital letters used intentionally and joyfully). An awe-inspiring, beautiful, luxurious upgrade unlike I have ever had the pleasure of receiving (well except for the time Singapore Air upgraded me to a First Class cabin). This 'bungalow' was nearly 1,000 sq feet of sheer ocean beauty. And over the water? Ha - we were completely surrounded by water. We decided we would gladly lock the doors up high to keep Sadie safely on the inside. A huge bedroom. A huge living room. Two decks BOTH with access directly down to the water if one decided on a morning snorkel. And plenty of gorgeous sea life to keep you busy for hours. The morning is the best time for seeing the scary stuff - Eels, tiger sharks, rays, oh my. And enough other coral life that you feel like screaming "Nemo" every minute. And being a family of early risers, the sunrise side was the perfect choice. Gary was in heaven with his Nespresso machine a mere four steps to the deck. We accepted the 'upgrade' and unpacked quickly. It felt like moving in!