Trip Overview
Sometimes, the stars align—and in this case, so did the flight deals. After watching Qatar Airways business class prices drop day after day, I finally hit book on a trip to the Maldives. It became a celebration of Katie’s graduation and one of the most romantic, relaxing getaways we’ve ever taken.
We stayed at the Centara Collection Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, surrounded by turquoise water, soft sand, and the kind of ocean life that feels straight out of a documentary. Everything was designed to slow you down and soak it all in.
Most Memorable Moments
Snorkeling off the bar porch – No tour needed. Just steps from the bar, we dropped into the most alive reef I’ve ever seen—teeming with color, movement, and wonder. We snorkeled for hours, just us and the fish.
Hand-line fishing, island-style – One afternoon we went fishing with nothing but a line wrapped around a plastic spool. You’d feel a tiny nibble and yank up as fast as possible. I actually caught a few! A fun, simple throwback to what fishing might’ve looked like before reels.
The Thai restaurant surprise – On our last night, the staff surprised us with a special, flower-adorned table. They’d made gifts, showed us a sweet video they put together, and treated us like royalty. I still have the palm frond fish they gave me—it’s framed in my office now.
Living over the water – Waking up to the ocean under your feet, watching the reef ripple from your deck, and showering with the sound of waves all around. It’s hard to go back after that.
Logistics & Practical Information
Accommodation
- Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives – We split our time between an island room and one of their overwater villas. Crystal-clear water right outside the door, spa-level amenities, and private decks that feel like your own slice of the sea.
Transportation
- The flights were long—but made totally worth it by the Qatar Airways experience. Business class made it feel like the trip started before we even landed.
- Once we landed in the Maldives, we switched to a small sea plan to get the rest of the way to the hotel. The plane made a few stops at different islands before we got to ours.
Notable Food
- Multiple on-site restaurants, but the Thai restaurant stole our hearts.
- All-inclusive options made it easy to indulge.
- Pro tip: get to know the staff. The more they get to know you, the more magic they create.
Activities
- Snorkeling directly off the resort
- Fishing using traditional hand-line methods
- Sunset strolls, swimming, and pure relaxation
- Spa treatments and long lazy meals
Tips for Travelers
- Invest in good snorkel gear—you’ll want to use it every day.
- Don’t over-plan. The joy of the Maldives is in doing less.
- Book seats early if you’re flying long haul. Qatar’s business class is worth it.
- Bring a waterproof phone case or GoPro-type camera for reef videos.
Reflections & Final Thoughts
This was one of those trips that doesn’t feel real even when you’re living it. Everything moved slower, deeper, and more beautifully. From snorkeling through vibrant reefs to sharing an ocean-view dinner with handmade gifts, it was a reminder that sometimes the best decisions come from gut instinct… and a good flight deal.
Expedition Hamilton 