THE WILD BLUE YONDER

On a milestone birthday, Ambika Muttoo decided to embark on an unforgettable oceanic adventure. If you think you know the Maldives, think again

- Ambika Muttoo

The world has opened up. Digital feeds are full of holiday ’grams. It’s almost like things are back to the way they were. Almost. Deep down, it’s okay to feel changed at a molecular level. Extroverts who now crave solitude? Wanting a more relaxed holiday when a party at a beach was all you wanted in the past? That’s okay too. Especially if you’re turning 40, like this writer was. But, consider this, why would you want your old, ordinary life back? It’s that thought that led me to this adventure in the Maldives.

The Maldives is clearly a favourite destination with Indians. It’s a scant two-anda-half hours by flight from Mumbai, and the country welcomes you with three magic words: visa on arrival. But that’s practical business. The Republic of The Maldives is an archipelago in the Indian ocean, scattered across turquoise waters that lap on white sand. Sunshine, sea creatures… sunsets. I was looking for a luxurious paradise that felt far away from the ebb and flow of the world. And so, I picked a spot I knew would provide the story of a lifetime: Dusit Thani, Maldives.