Tembea Dunia:
The Maldives.

Happy to announce that my Tembea Dunia Travel Blog Series has officially started!

This means my normal content and posting schedule are officially disrupted. Eunice the travel blogger has been activated! I will be documenting this trip extensively and posting at random times of the day, literally from anywhere.

Follow along if you want some travel therapy. I will be sharing plenty of content, especially for those who are new to travelling or have been manifesting their travel dreams for years.

But the project manager still has to do her job, right?

How long did it take to plan this trip, Eunice? Six months!

Are you planning a trip or preparing to fly internationally for the first time? This post is for you!

First things first, have an objective for your travel. Know your why. Understanding why you want to travel will help you narrow down your destination. If you travel for work, you are lucky, but that does not mean you should sit back and let someone else do all the planning. Get involved!

Do thorough research on your preferred destination and the tour companies offering packages there. Consider visa-free destinations or countries where obtaining a visa is relatively easy. You don't want your first international travel experience to begin with a visa-denied situation.

Arrange a meeting with your preferred reputable tour company. Take advantage of the free travel advice and support they offer to help you settle on your final destination. Be clear about the activities you would like to experience, especially those that are not included in the tour package. Use Tripadvisor to explore things to do, and don't ignore Instagram packages if you love beautiful photographs.

Once you understand the cost of your tour package, create a separate budget for additional activities, meals, shopping and other expenses. You could have a $1,000 package only to discover that your extra activities require another $1,000. So, if your package costs $1,000, plan for a total budget of $2,000. Start saving early or paying in small instalments. Yes, travel needs attention too! Remember to set aside some extra cash if you intend to buy gifts for people back home.

Work closely with your travel agent to ensure all your paperwork is in order. However, don't just sit pretty and leave everything to your agent. Read about your activities, airline, customs regulations and destination requirements. You are the one travelling, so you need to have the facts. Understand the dos and don'ts before departure.

Pack appropriately, taking into consideration the weather and cultural norms of your destination. If you intend to buy outfits specifically for the trip, include that expense in your budget.

On your travel date, wear something comfortable. Ladies, please, no heels! Avoid short dresses or skirts when travelling through airports, and dress decently. Avoid unnecessary accessories such as belts that may slow you down during security checks.

Visit your airline's website and familiarise yourself with its luggage requirements. Understand which items should go into your hand luggage and which belong in checked baggage. Pay close attention to the weight allowance per bag.

At the airport, arrive early. Three hours before departure is generally recommended for international flights. Answer all the questions you are asked, be polite and follow instructions. If you don't know something, ask. Don't be rude, and above all, don't miss your flight!

Finally, please sit in your allocated seat. Great if you manage to get a window seat! Your holiday begins the moment you settle into that seat. Enjoy the views and embrace the experience.

Happy travelling!

A small designer bag costs $10,000. Dere shukisha!

My five-hour layover as an economy-class passenger at the world's busiest airport turned into a masterclass in budget management.

After gathering all my confidence, I began my masterclasses with the designer shops. Today, I was determined! I started by greeting the attendants and making one declaration: I was not there to buy anything. I was simply there to manifest that my wallet would behave better in the future. That turned out to be the best decision of the day!

I was welcomed with a warm smile and given a tour of the designer shops, including the stories behind their products. Of course, I asked about the prices of my future, when-I-grow-up items.

Guys who shop in these stores, please teach me your ways!

My findings were quite interesting. Chanel gave me the best masterclass. My dream bag there requires approximately $20,000. MaiLawd! Dior informed me that my dream bag would cost $6,000. Jesus! Louis Vuitton's classic bag requires $10,000. Mwathani! At Gucci, my dream small belt costs $550, while the bag goes for $2,700.

After that experience, I decided it would be much easier to lock in 10,000 steps instead. So, I walked slowly past the other shops, admiring small small.

Then I spotted McDonald's and briefly considered cheating on KFC. But I remembered it was a new month!

Next, I visited Fix, the original manufacturer of Dubai chocolate. Aki, a chocolate bar for $23? Why am I already seeing Pepe?

I decided to kill more time at Gifts from Dubai. Now, it is always good to let your body tell you who your friends are. I am actually not doing badly! I left the same way I entered. No gifts bought!

My next stop was another masterclass at the duty-free shop. This is important because you get to learn about all the latest perfumes and makeup products in the world. Who said you must buy anything? You are in class, please! Learn. Focus!

After all the deliberations about not cheating on KFC, I eventually found a restaurant serving amazing soup. Please, the notice on the door won!

It was then time to walk another five kilometres to find my departure gate. Lakini, this airport ensures you keep fit by force, by fire! Along the way, I spotted a lift labelled Business Class Lounge and was tempted to be bold enough to enter. But then I remembered that peace is mandatory!

Oh, I also discovered a free dispenser for hot drinking water and immediately regretted not carrying a water bottle.

Anyway, that is how I survived my layover. To be sincere, I don't stress too much about layovers. Find a comfortable spot, read a book, work on your school assignments, write an article or simply do something productive.

Five hours can be quite useful when managed well!

Destination reveal! It is the Maldives, finally! The dream has come true.

More than 18 hours after leaving my palace in Kenya, I have safely landed in the Maldives.

This airport is beautiful! Kenya, please come and benchmark our immigration counters here. Gosh, it is beautiful! We need to upgrade, buana!

A big thank you to FlyDubai for flying us from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Dubai International Airport and finally to Velana International Airport in Malé.

With the trending news on Wednesday, we were understandably tense at one point, wondering whether the flights would be affected. Thankfully, the journey proceeded smoothly, and we arrived safely.

Planning to visit the Maldives? Follow yours truly for some travel therapy. If you haven't caught up with my previous posts, please do so before we officially begin the adventure!

Are you planning a trip, or perhaps manifesting one as I did for years, to the Maldives? Here are a few tips from me, your dedicated project manager and travel blogger.

First things first, think of the Maldives like Lamu, Kenya. I will explain that correlation in a later post!

For this particular post, I will address Kenyans and the travel requirements they should know. The other tips apply to everyone.

The Maldives is beautiful. Absolutely beautiful! However, there are no direct flights from Kenya to the Maldives, so prepare for connecting flights.

Kenyans receive a visa on arrival. However, you must complete an online traveller declaration within 96 hours before travelling. Yellow fever vaccination is also mandatory, so ensure you have the necessary documentation.

Carry documents that can demonstrate your intention to return home. Immigration questions can be random and sometimes surprising, so be prepared.

Please, leave your English nose at home. The smaller, the better!

Remember that the Maldives is a Muslim destination. Do not carry alcohol into the country. You can enjoy all the alcohol you want at your private island resort, but respect the restrictions elsewhere.

The famous overwater villas are real, and they genuinely feel like something out of a movie. However, remove the myth that you must stay in a water villa to experience the Maldives. I will dedicate another post to accommodation options.

Transport between islands is mainly by boat and seaplane. On land, bicycles are common. The island resorts also feel like enormous forests. They are therapeutic, beautiful and biiiiiiiiig! Sometimes, even the aerial views can be confusing.

You will walk a lot, so prepare yourself for some exercise. Fortunately, resorts have carts to supplement walking.

Here, wait to be guided and project-managed. You will quickly realise that your internal compass might confuse you! There are love vibes everywhere. My lavu, my mans, my wo-man, apply!

The Maldives absolutely deserves its reputation as a honeymoon destination.

Solo travellers, carry your tripod. Utaona pepe hapa! Excuse me!

Above all, carry the spirit of adventure. Finally, coordinate your arrival time with your hotel because transfers are not necessarily available 24 hours a day.

We continue tomorrow!

Is $250 a night in the Maldives really budget travel? Noooo! Stop calling a room costing $250 a night in the Maldives budget accommodation!

You don't need a $2,000 overwater villa to experience the Maldives. Hear me out.

Here is your project manager's very honest take on accommodation in the Maldives. It is possible to enjoy this destination without spending a fortune, provided you plan properly.

The Maldives offers two main accommodation experiences: private resort islands and local inhabited islands.

People often describe staying on a local island as budget travel in the Maldives. But when hotels on these islands can charge up to $250 per night, is that really budget travel?

Well, yes, relatively speaking! Why? Because when you compare those prices with private island resorts, you begin to understand the difference. My research showed that overwater villas can average between $900 and $5,000 per night, all-inclusive. Some cost even more!

So, when you compare your public island accommodation with those private resort prices, you are technically travelling on a budget, mama!

However, remember that meals and drinks at resorts can be very expensive. Dining at their fine-dining restaurants will cost you extra. On local islands, you can find kibandaskis where the prices are much friendlier.

If your wallet is happy, go for the private resorts. If your wallet isn't smiling right now, start with hotels on local islands.

The interesting thing is that you will eventually visit many of the same excursion destinations regardless of where you stay.

Make a wise decision. I am here as your project manager to share what I have learnt!

My best spa experience! I handed my stress wahalas to the ocean for 90 minutes. Just me, the ocean and my Sir God.

But clearly, this is what happens when you tell a project manager to relax. She ends up writing a project report!

Let's get to the adventure part. The Maldives activities! Yeeeeees!

We begin with the spa experience. I always recommend adding this to your itinerary. You have travelled all that way to relax, so why not sample their magic?

When visiting the Maldives, look for an ocean spa. Yes, the kind where you surrender your stress directly to the skies and the ocean.

Visualise this: a beautiful space with an infinity hydro pool, where you can choose between cold and warm water, all facing the ocean. Open skies, an open shower and nothing but peace. Just you and your God. Imagine that!

You also get access to facilities such as a sauna and steam room. And when you are done, you move to a dedicated overwater villa where the ocean becomes your entire view.

Imagine lying down for a massage while looking directly at the ocean, almost as though a glass window connects you to the sea. Aiiiiiiii!

Honestly, sleeping becomes difficult because you don't want to miss a moment of that view.

Enjoy your time, relax and allow yourself to be uplifted.

Why do I insist on an ocean spa? Because when planning your travels, you should deliberately look for unique activities. Try something you have never experienced before.

Couples, you will love this session. Singles, you might enjoy it even more! Ninety minutes of you, the ocean and God. The enemy has no space!

If spa experiences are your thing, remember to budget for them. Unplanned activities are one of the biggest reasons people overspend on their travel budgets.

Sharks surrounded me, and I was completely calm!

Spending the day with the sharks has been one of the most magical activities in the Maldives so far. Whaaaaat!

Yes, that is me. That is your project manager with the sharks! Minding my own business, I essentially allowed another project manager to take control.

For this activity, you don't need to know how to swim. The crew provides a special floating shell that you can sit or lie on as they guide you through the experience. They handle everything while capturing drone videos and photographs.

Your responsibility is simply to listen to the team's instructions. Be easy, they say!

To be sincere, it was one of the most peaceful experiences. While lying on your back, you have absolutely no idea how many sharks are swimming around you. The photographs and videos tell the whole story afterwards!

This experience taught me the importance of following instructions, staying within the frame and remaining focused.

However, the most important lesson was learning to stay calm, even when a Jonah moment seems inevitable!

I looooooove this! It was absolutely amazing.

This experience will influence how I approach projects from now on. Sometimes, you need to trust the people guiding you, follow the agreed procedures and remain calm even when you cannot see the entire picture.

Swimming with the sharks! I did it! Yeeeeees!

That is me. That is your project manager, swimming with the sharks!

My instructors put me in the water with the sharks, and I chose to trust them. I was simply too afraid of becoming Jonah!

Initially, I had refused to participate in this activity because I was genuinely frightened. But the team understood the power of good leadership and persuasion.

"Eunice, get into the water. Look at the camera and relax. We are here to create your memories."

Their operating procedures were very clear. The instructor explained that when he closed his fingers, it meant there was a shark near me. I was supposed to close my fingers too, relax and focus on the camera.

When he opened his fingers, it meant there was no shark nearby. I could then open mine and enjoy the experience.

Mama, I did it! Yeeeeeeees!

It was too awesome!

My biggest lesson? When leading projects, I will remember to use clear signals to communicate with my team, especially in situations where verbal communication may not be practical.

I also need to learn how to remain calm during a crisis because the cameraman received several unnecessary hugs courtesy of my fear!

Remember, that cameraman was surrounded by sharks too, yet he remained completely unbothered. Meanwhile, I was busy making friends with him!

I went to see the stingrays; the sharks had other plans!

Chilling with the stingrays of the Maldives. This destination is seriously challenging its position in my top-three travel destinations!

Maldives, wewe! You are overworking!

So, this was your project manager being project-managed once again. It is official: I am a student of life.

We stopped at this beautiful location to say hello to the stingrays. And guess what? A few sharks also decided to come and welcome us!

I am genuinely in awe of the experiences and memories I am collecting here. Even more amazing is the courage I am discovering within myself. To be sincere, the word BOLD is officially engraved in my travel diary.

This is a lovely photo-op stop and an amazing experience for tourists. The scenery is beautiful, and the opportunity to observe these marine animals in their natural environment is something special.

One important reminder: please do not touch the stingrays or the sharks. Admire them, appreciate them and give them their space.

The team can also assist with taking videos and photographs at a minimal fee.

Very, very waaaaaaaaooo!

A beautiful sandbank! We had to leave before the ocean took it back. Time's up! Pack your things kind of situation.

Standing on one of the most magical sandbanks in the Maldives reminded me that some places are meant to be temporary. Moments later, the ocean would reclaim its space.

We enjoyed lunch here, took photographs and videos, swam, snorkelled and even spotted dolphins along the way. Before we knew it, the ocean was telling us to leave faster than we had arrived!

Waooooooooo! There is something incredibly beautiful about white sand, blue water and a clear sky.

I remember standing on this sandbank and committing to my 47th-year plan. I said a prayer, participated in a little race and simply enjoyed the peaceful surroundings.

It was one of those moments when you stop everything, appreciate where you are and remind yourself how beautiful life can be.

Maldives, you are nicely confusing me!

No Bikini Beaches!

Please, when packing for the Maldives, remember to include some proper deras and modest dresses.

You will come across plenty of "No Bikini" beach signs, and they are there to guide you. You are only allowed to wear your beachwear in designated bikini beach areas or hotel swimming pools. On local islands, please cover up.

It is not that they don't want you to enjoy your life. They simply expect visitors to respect their culture and traditions.

Just like their alcohol regulations, the bikini restrictions are part of the country's cultural and religious expectations. Private resorts have their own rules and facilities where visitors can enjoy beachwear and alcoholic drinks.

Alternatively, you can visit a certain boat club and enjoy yourself there, much like the floating restaurant experience in Lamu.

Travel is not just about seeing the world. It is also about learning how to respect the world you are visiting.

And while we are still discussing no-bikini beaches, please enjoy the ocean and leave the bikini for places where it is allowed.

Listen to your project managers, also known as your trip instructors. They will always guide you on when to change into your bikini and when to cover up.

You see, the Maldives attracts so many tourists, models and Instagrammers. People are genuinely challenging my understanding of beachwear, but let me think with mine!

I am almost tempted to give some of them my Kenyan leso, but then I remember that focus is my portion.

Weuh! Their photographs are 99% bikinis. Is it okay to say that I am seated in the front row of a beachwear fashion show?

Ati I focus? Okay!

The designers behind these swimwear collections, please talk to me. I need a few classes. I would love to borrow your creative minds for a day.

Anyway, let me return to my deras and remind you once again: when you see or hear "No Bikini Beach", please cover up.

Still taking notes for you!

Ziplining on what might be the most beautiful zipline in the world! Yes, you heard that right.

The photographs honestly don't do this experience justice. I promise to share video clips later because I have so many!

This zipline is also incredibly fast. The entire experience takes approximately 40 to 60 seconds, and before you know it, you are done.

Imagine travelling from one island to another, high above the ocean. Waooooo! Maldives, why are you like this?

This is definitely another adventure you must consider booking.

I thought the Sentosa zipline experience was amazing, but the Maldives has won so far!

What I am most proud of, however, is the boldness I have demonstrated throughout this trip. I am genuinely amazed by how much I have grown and how many fears I have challenged.

Sometimes, all you need is to say yes to an experience and allow yourself to discover what you are capable of!

47 looked at me and said, "Madam Project Manager, we are not eating an ordinary dinner!"

And that is how I ended up celebrating my 47th birthday with a perfect romantic beach dinner in the Maldives.

Here is a very short summary of how I celebrated this special milestone.

When travelling to the Maldives, consider booking a romantic private beach dinner with your my lavu. Please!

It is one of the most requested experiences, and honestly, it is worth every moment.

Arrange the entire setup with your hotel or resort in advance. Discuss the location, decorations, menu and any additional arrangements you would like.

And please, do not forget to organise professional photographs and drone shots. These are memories worth preserving!

I have witnessed so many beautiful engagements, birthdays, anniversaries and honeymoon celebrations through these romantic dinner setups. They are genuinely lovely.

Surprise someone you love. Your Bae will never forget the gesture!

So apparently, this is how special-occasion breakfast is served in the Maldives!

A floating breakfast basket, an infinity pool and me trying to behave as though this is completely normal.

Why? Because I have admired those floating breakfast photographs for years, and I am so happy that I finally got to experience one in the Maldives during my birthday celebrations.

A girl is happy! My heart is full. Another bucket-list experience ticked!

Interestingly, wearing my Maasai pieces has attracted quite a lot of attention, and I am genuinely happy to represent Kenya and share our story through these beautiful cultural accessories.

When checking into your hotel, remember to ask about arranging this experience if you love floating breakfasts and beautiful photographs.

The infinity pool is temporarily closed to other guests during your photoshoot, ensuring that you have enough privacy and space to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Sometimes, the little things we admire from a distance become the memories we treasure most.

I said yes to parasailing, paid for it, and that one experience took me higher than I was ready for!

The view was absolutely breathtaking. Totally amazing!

I watched the team set everything up, but things did not go exactly as expected. The first parasail canopy malfunctioned, and they had to prepare a second one.

That was when my heart started questioning my newfound courage and decision!

Eventually, they secured me into the harness and sent me soaring into the sky.

WOW! Magical. Beautiful. Unreal!

But let me tell you something: fear was very committed to its job!

The moment I looked down, I started calculating all my life choices. Yes, the rope was attached to the moving boat, but seriously, what if something malfunctioned? Would I survive?

I kept reminding myself, "Eunice, you will be okay."

The drone operator must have noticed my fear because the drone kept coming my way. Another way for the ground team to monitor me, I suppose!

My project manager had already given me clear instructions on what to do whenever I wanted to end the adventure.

Eventually, I waved at the team, and they successfully brought me down to the boat safely and peacefully.

Phew!

Another adventure completed, another fear challenged and another beautiful memory created.

What does a $900-a-night overwater villa in the Maldives look like inside? #TheGirlFromMbeere FAQ

So, I have five social media pages, and depending on where you follow me, you may have already seen the videos.

However, if you follow me only on LinkedIn, here are some photographs of an overwater villa in the Maldives.

Please, it is even more beautiful in real life. Totally!

If you would like to see more of these villas, TikTok and YouTube will do them much more justice because videos capture the experience better.

I must clarify something: I am not an influencer, and I don't document every little detail like the professionals do.

I am simply a project manager documenting her projects in preparation for a future documentary.

For now, enjoy the photographs and imagine yourself waking up to that beautiful ocean view!

Eunice, where can we stay affordably in the Maldives?

My DMs are full of this question. Ask no more! I have got you covered, as always.

First, note down this name: Maafushi. Google it. Read about it. Go to YouTube and search for Maafushi. This local island is a global village. The world meets here!

This is where people talk about travelling to the Maldives on a budget. But let's be honest, forget that line for a moment.

If you want sea-view rooms, some establishments will charge you prices comparable to Kempinski, Radisson, Serena and their sisters. Actually, think of your Whitesands! Please don't throw those stones my way!

Being in the Maldives for $250 a night might sound like a budget option, but hear me out.

Do your research and choose what works for your pocket. Maafushi has different types of rooms to suit different budgets. If the main hotels are too expensive, consider staying further inside the island, commonly referred to as Back Street. That is where you are more likely to find cheaper rates.

The beauty of staying here is that you still have access to the various activities and excursions available in the Maldives.

Do not allow the high cost of overwater villas and private resorts to discourage you from visiting. The Maldives is for everyone!

Lastly, if you can afford Dubai, you can afford the Maldives. Start planning!

I visited Maafushi Prison, also known as the Maldives Correctional Service.

While researching places to visit in the Maldives, I kept coming across recommendations to visit the prison. Not to go inside, of course, but to see it as a local landmark.

First things first, I absolutely loved their mission statement. It reads:

"To instill in inmates the ability to distinguish right from wrong while providing academic and vocational training. Furthermore, it aims to reform inmates before release, with a resolve to avoid crime and prevent recidivism."

Waooooooooo!

Simply being there, looking at the gate and having a very serious meeting with myself was a grounding experience.

I mean, prisons are institutions that remind us of the importance of making good decisions and becoming better people.

Maafushi Prison is the largest maximum-security correctional facility in the Maldives. Its notable inmates have included prominent political figures, including former presidents.

According to official data and historical reports from the Maldives Correctional Service, approximately 66% to 70% of the inmate population has been incarcerated under strict anti-narcotics laws.

It was an interesting stop during my walking and sightseeing experiences. Sometimes, travelling takes you beyond beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts. It also introduces you to places that make you reflect on life, choices and society.

Is the Maldives' reputation as a magical destination for love justified?

Well, in my opinion, absolutely yes!

The Maldives has so much love. Everywhere you look, there is a love-your-neighbour kind of atmosphere.

Sometimes, it almost feels "kriminoo" to be a solo traveller. People actually asked me several times, "Why are you alone?" Lol!

From activities to excursions, so many experiences seem intentionally designed for couples.

Romantic dinner setups and floating breakfasts in infinity pools are particularly popular with couples. They also make a deliberate effort to have their photographs taken together.

Hotels offer numerous lovely packages specifically designed for couples, making it an ideal destination for celebrating special moments.

Personally, I witnessed engagements, weddings, honeymoons, baby moons, anniversaries and family get-togethers. Bestie-bestie trips are also very common!

And to be sincere, 99% of the couples appeared extremely happy. Apart from two who seemed to be constantly fighting. Aki woie!

My recommendation? Try the destination. It is a beautiful place to reconnect, bond and celebrate one another.

However, make sure you take that love back home with you. Don't wait until holidays to demonstrate love and appreciation. Let the love continue long after the holiday ends!

The Maldives is huge on water sports!

Literally, there is an entire street dedicated to water sports companies, and your project manager has been learning something new since day one.

I have been very intentional about choosing activities I have never experienced before. So, this time, the jet car was the activity of choice.

And let me tell you, this was fuuuuuuuuuuun!

I found it easier to handle than a jet ski, and personally, it felt safer too.

So yes, team, don't sell me fear. Let me lease you fear!

The good thing was that a drone was following me throughout the experience, documenting my every move.

My documentary is building up nicely!

My English instructor was small, but we communicated surprisingly well through his left-and-right turning instructions.

The moral of the story? You will not always have everything figured out before starting something new. Sometimes, you simply learn on the job.

And that is perfectly okay!

A day trip to a luxury resort in the Maldives! This must be the best news I am sharing today.

Maldives resorts are not as inaccessible as many people imagine. They understand that many travellers would love to experience their facilities but may not have the budget to spend several nights there.

That is why some resorts have partnered with hotels on Maafushi to offer tourists a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience luxury resorts through day trips.

Simply ask your hotel about this activity. They will usually provide a list of participating resorts with different prices, allowing you to select the option that works best for your budget.

One important thing to remember is that not all resorts offer full access to their facilities. Therefore, be very clear about what you want included in your package before making payment.

Some packages are all-inclusive. Please, choose that one if it suits your budget! Ideally, select a package that includes swimming pool access and a beautiful beach. I mean, you will be spending an entire day there!

The secret, as always, is in how well you research.

These resorts understand that you may return one day for a longer stay. They also know that you are likely to recommend them to other travellers. So, these day trips provide an opportunity for them to market their facilities.

And considering that some resorts receive tens, if not hundreds, of visitors in a single day, the business model makes sense.

Do the maths!

Luxury is not always about spending several nights at a resort. Sometimes, a well-planned day trip is all you need to experience it.

The Maldives you don't see, courtesy of my walking tour in Maafushi!

My dear Kamba people, I found your brothers in the Maldives! Tell me why their one minute is your no vaaa!

You see, I decided to organise a walking tour for myself because GuruWalks does not offer walking tours in the Maldives. Very sad!

This place felt safe, and my confidence was at 120%. Well, my internal compass eventually failed me in the back streets, and I had to ask people for directions.

Their response was always the same: "One minute."

That one minute somehow turned into ten minutes of walking!

Please, this place is beautiful.

Four hours later, I had covered almost the entire island on foot. I discovered beautiful streets, interesting local spaces and places that you would probably miss if you only followed the usual tourist routes.

At one point, I even walked into a diving school to learn a few things about diving.

Well, if I were willing to dive, I could probably give you a good story in three hours. But no! I am not diving. Not yet!

And yes, I have not forgotten about the sharks!

One thing I have learnt is that walking tours allow you to discover the unmarketed side of a destination. You get to see places that are not necessarily featured in brochures or social media advertisements.

Sometimes, the most beautiful travel experiences are found when you simply step outside and explore.

Visiting the President's residence: Discovering the other side of the Maldives through a tour of Malé City.

Yes, I know that 99 of us come to the Maldives for the overwater villas, turquoise waters, sandbanks, snorkelling, sharks, stingrays and breathtaking sunsets.

But hear me out, please!

Ensure that your itinerary includes a tour of Malé City. You need to experience another side of the Maldives, where people live, work and go about their everyday lives.

You can walk through the streets, ride motorbikes, visit local markets, enjoy the waterfront, explore historic sites and get a glimpse of everyday Maldivian life.

I had a tour guide who gave me a wonderful experience, and these are some of the places I visited.

First was the President's Office, where you can take photographs. I also got to see the official presidential residence. No intimidating military personnel standing around looking like they were about to interrogate everyone!

Next was the Victory Monument, a visit that genuinely brought tears to my eyes.

I also visited the Malé Fish Market, where I saw a fish almost my size! At the Local Market, I sampled different varieties of local chocolates and snacks.

Another stop was Hukuru Miskiy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque, one of the city's most important historical landmarks.

We also visited Sultan Park and the National Museum, both lovely places for couples and families to explore.

The King Salman Mosque was another highlight. It is an impressive religious landmark with a reported capacity of more than 10,000 worshippers.

Finally, we visited Republic Square and the waterfront, which provide an ideal place to relax and appreciate the surroundings.

I also got to enjoy some delicious local Maldivian food!

Guys, please don't spend your entire Maldives holiday inside a resort. Get out there. Explore the capital. Meet the people. Visit the markets. Learn about their history and experience how people actually live.

Travel is about more than beautiful photographs. It is about understanding the places we visit.

Sawa?

IT'S A WRAP! Lessons Learned from the Maldives Trip 2026 – The Girl from Mbeere

After six months of planning, a journey spanning more than 50 hours, 28 posts, a 47th birthday, countless new experiences, unexpected lessons and beautiful memories, our Maldives chapter has finally come to an end.

And somewhere along the way, a project manager kept finding herself back in the classroom of life!

What an adventure it has been!

From swimming with sharks and stingrays to exploring beautiful sandbanks, experiencing luxury resorts, enjoying ocean spas, ziplining, parasailing and discovering the local culture, this trip has been full of unforgettable moments.

But beyond the photographs, videos and beautiful destinations, this journey has taught me so much about life, planning, courage, leadership, budgeting, relationships and personal growth.

So, what are we taking home from this adventure?

Twenty-seven lessons from the 28 posts! And yes, I didn't post ten of them. The Maldives simply had too much content!

One thing I want you to remember is that your travel story does not have to look like anyone else's. You do not need to follow someone else's itinerary, budget or definition of a perfect holiday.

Plan according to your resources, explore according to your interests and embrace experiences that challenge you to grow.

Most importantly, don't just travel to collect photographs. Travel to learn, discover, appreciate, reflect and create memories.

Your story is different. Write it your way.

TRAVEL IS THERAPY!

THE END OF THE MALDIVES CHAPTER. THE BEGINNING OF MANY MORE ADVENTURES.

Tembea Dunia – Explore, Experience, Learn and Grow.

Lessons Learned from the Maldives Trip 2026 by The Girl from Mbeere

1. Don’t just budget for the flight and hotel; budget for the entire trip.
2. Choose your experiences with intention.
3. Select your activities before you go.
4. Communication must work in the conditions you are in.
5. Think of a day trip to a luxury resort.
6. Courage is the absence of fear.
7. Don’t wait to live until everything is perfect.
8. Don’t spend all your holiday in a resort.
9. Enjoy what you can afford and don’t compare your journey to another’s.
10. Every project needs a response mechanism when things don’t go your way.
11. Allow yourself to be a beginner.
12. Good leadership understands when to lead and when to follow.
13. Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone.
14. Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans.
15. Schedule your transfers.
16. The getting ready is the adventure.
17. Don't just study the sights; study the culture.
18. Do your homework on accommodations.
19. Respect the culture and pack accordingly.
20. Rest is part of the plan.
21. Arrange your travel papers early.
22. The Maldives is not just for the rich.
23. Travel for your own enjoyment, not to impress other people.
24. Travel to experience, not to take pictures.
25. Travel on your budget.
26. Trust competent people, follow instructions, and know the procedures.
27. Holidays need a plan and a sensible budget.