Day 14 the last one...
A great evening yesterday with the most surreal kareoke I had ever seen. Russian, chinese and spaniards all singing english pop songs (well they were 25 years ago) to a backing video of Maldivian wild life with a randon group of penguins thrown in.
BBC World News reported the rioting in Birmingham, Wolverhampton and West Bromwich this morning. Fame for the wrong reasons yet again. Hope everyone at home is okay and no one has got caught up in the nonsense.
A little disappointing as our final day is a little overcast, at least we shouldn't burn today if we're careful. Meals are always entertaining particularly with the Chinese he are a law unto themselves and just sit anywhere causing chaos for the pre-arranged seating plans. They are continually being moved and reseated by the waiters, it's a bit like musical chairs! Today we had a Chinese guy walk into lunch wearing just swim shorts, soaking wet and carrying a rubber ring - he was soon shown the door!
The amazing thing about the weather is that when it's slightly overcast people don't go on the beach and today is classic, 28 degrees and the beach virtually to ourselves. I think I'll go for a last snorkel and then dry the mask etc out.
Well I think this has been a successful holiday, relaxing, entertaining and one of the most unique places I have visited. The negatives are undoubtedly the insect bites and the very limited evening entertainment although the positives far outweigh these.
Kathie has just started reading Michael McIntyre's book and so now I have continuous giggling from the sun bed to the left of me with numerous explanations of. Which bit was funny.
New neighbours have just moved in, chinese and the loud sort not the quiet pleasant groups we have met. They're already shouting from bungalow to bungalow across us and so it's probably as well we are heading home in the morning. Would I come back, yes although to another resort to see somewhere different. Would I recommend Hudhuran Fushi? Undoubtedly, beautiful island and beautiful people, I suppose that's why we fit in so well!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Day 13 The final Tuesday
Day 13 Tuesday
Last night was quiet as we were both tired and so headed back to the bungalow trying to beat the incoming storm. Just about did it and decided to watch a film, although didn't appreciate that the storm would take out the signal. Managed to catch a snippet about rioting in London on the world news.
A little cloudy to start off with today but very warm. Checked phone for texts and found two from Spook letting us no at the riots are spreading and have hit Birmingham. Hope everyone is okay looks like a summer of discontent....
The plan today is to get lots of photo's and some video of the island so I hope the weather holds. Well it did... Had a great day mixing swimming, snorkelling and just generally wandering around the island. Thursday will be a very early start and so technically this is our last night in the bar. The one thing I've struggled with is continually taking glasses on and off for different activities, I may have to look into lenses when I get back.
Just had half an hour or so in the gym and then it will be back for showers etc and dinner this evening. The wind is getting and so I wouldn't be surprised if we don't have rain before the evening is out.
Last night was quiet as we were both tired and so headed back to the bungalow trying to beat the incoming storm. Just about did it and decided to watch a film, although didn't appreciate that the storm would take out the signal. Managed to catch a snippet about rioting in London on the world news.
A little cloudy to start off with today but very warm. Checked phone for texts and found two from Spook letting us no at the riots are spreading and have hit Birmingham. Hope everyone is okay looks like a summer of discontent....
The plan today is to get lots of photo's and some video of the island so I hope the weather holds. Well it did... Had a great day mixing swimming, snorkelling and just generally wandering around the island. Thursday will be a very early start and so technically this is our last night in the bar. The one thing I've struggled with is continually taking glasses on and off for different activities, I may have to look into lenses when I get back.
Just had half an hour or so in the gym and then it will be back for showers etc and dinner this evening. The wind is getting and so I wouldn't be surprised if we don't have rain before the evening is out.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Day 12 The last Monday
Day 12 The last Monday
Last night was a real quality evening spent with a great group of holiday friends. Kerry and Steve are from Perth and along with there neighbour, Ace are part of the Ozzie surf crowd. When I say neighbours they are just the 2 1/2 hours apart. They have weekend homes in a place called Bunburra. Marie and Peter are from the east coast near Syndney. What started as an after dinner drink went on quite late and many drinks later! The irony of last night was that the were two films on that hadn't seen - never mind Jay will probably have them somewhere...
We awoke early this morning and headed off to breakfast, still not been able to face cold curry yet, beef bacon is like leather and the chicken sausage just isn't. The sun was back and by 9:00 it was baking. It's been hard getting Kathie back into the water since the attack of the Trigger fish. Fortunately there were no after effects and the fish is still quite well! By mid- day Kathie had ventured back into the sea a few time although is still wary. The variety of fish in the lagoon seems to change on a daily basis, although the are the regulars there are lots of new comers. It's hard to get pictures unless the sun is at the right angle to the water. This morning two huge turquoise fish swam past me each at least 40 cm in length. Mid morning brought a downpour although within half an hour we were back outside on the beach again and this afternoon has again been glorious. I had a wander around the quay and while out there saw a pod of dolphins out in the bay. The nearest island to us probably half a mile although I understand that the channel between us is just over 2 km deep. I think I'll pas on that swim. By 5:00 the rain had returned although again is doesn't look like lasting long - watch this space! Kathie has found that a crab lives under the decking and has called it Krusty. If the rain doesn't stop it could be boiled in the kettle for dinner!
I also found out that when the tsunami in 2004 hit the island there were two wave that hit at the same time from opposite side of the island. The sea levels dropped quickly because it was right on the extreme edge of the tsunami effects but all guests were evacuated while the staff remained to clear up the mess. The rain is stopping already and looking at the waves the surfers will be having a ball, blue skies are returning and so it looks like Krusty will live for another day.
Last night was a real quality evening spent with a great group of holiday friends. Kerry and Steve are from Perth and along with there neighbour, Ace are part of the Ozzie surf crowd. When I say neighbours they are just the 2 1/2 hours apart. They have weekend homes in a place called Bunburra. Marie and Peter are from the east coast near Syndney. What started as an after dinner drink went on quite late and many drinks later! The irony of last night was that the were two films on that hadn't seen - never mind Jay will probably have them somewhere...
We awoke early this morning and headed off to breakfast, still not been able to face cold curry yet, beef bacon is like leather and the chicken sausage just isn't. The sun was back and by 9:00 it was baking. It's been hard getting Kathie back into the water since the attack of the Trigger fish. Fortunately there were no after effects and the fish is still quite well! By mid- day Kathie had ventured back into the sea a few time although is still wary. The variety of fish in the lagoon seems to change on a daily basis, although the are the regulars there are lots of new comers. It's hard to get pictures unless the sun is at the right angle to the water. This morning two huge turquoise fish swam past me each at least 40 cm in length. Mid morning brought a downpour although within half an hour we were back outside on the beach again and this afternoon has again been glorious. I had a wander around the quay and while out there saw a pod of dolphins out in the bay. The nearest island to us probably half a mile although I understand that the channel between us is just over 2 km deep. I think I'll pas on that swim. By 5:00 the rain had returned although again is doesn't look like lasting long - watch this space! Kathie has found that a crab lives under the decking and has called it Krusty. If the rain doesn't stop it could be boiled in the kettle for dinner!
I also found out that when the tsunami in 2004 hit the island there were two wave that hit at the same time from opposite side of the island. The sea levels dropped quickly because it was right on the extreme edge of the tsunami effects but all guests were evacuated while the staff remained to clear up the mess. The rain is stopping already and looking at the waves the surfers will be having a ball, blue skies are returning and so it looks like Krusty will live for another day.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Day 11 Sunday
Day 11 Sunday
The weather was again stunning when we awoke this morning and not a breeze across the lagoon and so after breakfast it was back down to the beach for swimming and snorkelling. We were having a great time until a Picasso fish took a liking to Kathie and had a few nibbles! The one on her arm left quite a bruise and left her a little apprehensive about going back in the water. However after a little time for reflection and with no permanent damage we both ventured back in although a little further up the beach.
Lunch was roast lamb, complete with mint sauce, potatoes, peas and carrots, although you could have had everything from salad to curry. After lunch we decided to go to the pool and made our way the full 400 meters across tHe island. Within minutes of settling down the wind blew up and we realised we were in for another squall. Just enough time to grab our stuff and get back across to our bungalow. Within an hour the sun was back out and it was just like our quiet morning and so back to the pool for a leisurely afternoon.
The days are flying by and so we mean to make the most of our last few days here.
The weather was again stunning when we awoke this morning and not a breeze across the lagoon and so after breakfast it was back down to the beach for swimming and snorkelling. We were having a great time until a Picasso fish took a liking to Kathie and had a few nibbles! The one on her arm left quite a bruise and left her a little apprehensive about going back in the water. However after a little time for reflection and with no permanent damage we both ventured back in although a little further up the beach.
Lunch was roast lamb, complete with mint sauce, potatoes, peas and carrots, although you could have had everything from salad to curry. After lunch we decided to go to the pool and made our way the full 400 meters across tHe island. Within minutes of settling down the wind blew up and we realised we were in for another squall. Just enough time to grab our stuff and get back across to our bungalow. Within an hour the sun was back out and it was just like our quiet morning and so back to the pool for a leisurely afternoon.
The days are flying by and so we mean to make the most of our last few days here.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Day 10 A different Saturday
Day 10 A different Saturday
Well a nice surprise, when we got to the restaurant for dinner the table was decorated with flowers and a 25th Wedding Anniversary message. The weather had deteriorated even further... Our down pour had turned into a tropical storm and didn't give up through the night. By morning the was a slight letup but the dark clouds on the horizon were a give away for more down pours to follow and when it come down there is no letting up! The islands and reefs suddenly disappear from view as the curtain of rain moves in. The beach in front of our bungalow is covered with fruits from the trees and a coconut has just landed on the decking next door. We expected a couple of days like this so hopefully the sun will be back later today or tomorrow.
Well the day improved slightly although by 4:00 it was getting very dark in the distance again and sure enough within minutes the wind blew up and the rain came back with a real tropical squall. So another slightly overcast day starting of wet and ending the same way. A least the rain has stopped for dinner but I think we'll take the brolly just in case.
Well a nice surprise, when we got to the restaurant for dinner the table was decorated with flowers and a 25th Wedding Anniversary message. The weather had deteriorated even further... Our down pour had turned into a tropical storm and didn't give up through the night. By morning the was a slight letup but the dark clouds on the horizon were a give away for more down pours to follow and when it come down there is no letting up! The islands and reefs suddenly disappear from view as the curtain of rain moves in. The beach in front of our bungalow is covered with fruits from the trees and a coconut has just landed on the decking next door. We expected a couple of days like this so hopefully the sun will be back later today or tomorrow.
Well the day improved slightly although by 4:00 it was getting very dark in the distance again and sure enough within minutes the wind blew up and the rain came back with a real tropical squall. So another slightly overcast day starting of wet and ending the same way. A least the rain has stopped for dinner but I think we'll take the brolly just in case.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Day 9 Another Friday
Day 9 another Friday
Yesterday evening had a Maldivian theme from the food in the restaurant to the evening entertainment. For dinner I stated with salad and then moved on to The the local food. Steamed green banana, sweet potato chips, fish pieces, what looked like mince pie but had meat inside the pastry and sweet chilli sauce. Evening entertainment was Maldivian dancers although Kathie and myself went and sat for half hour in the wrong beach bar and missed the start. In the whole time we have been here we have only seen two female members of staff. The gardeners, of which the are many, the house boys, the waiters and bar staff are all male.
Breakfast was the same as normal, how can it appear to be the same each day when the is so much choice? The morning has been pretty overcast although still very warm although as the morning went on there was a distinct increase in cloud cover. While eating lunch it was noticeable that it was going dark and as we moved onto coffee we noticed shutters being pulled down. We decided to leave coffee and head back to our bungalow, no sooner thought about and the wind whipped up and the heavens opened. Suddenly everyone is racing about and the Chinese sun shades have become soggy umbrella's. Back at the room what could be more fun than a quick dip in a tropical storm. The Aussies are optimistic that the passing of the storm will bring a change in weather and the surf will be back up with the wind in the right direction. We would have been lucky to get away without any rain at this time of the year and already the air feels fresher and less clammy.
At the moment I'm sitting on the decking in just a pair of shorts watching the rain hammer down but with an unbelievable view of the Indian Ocean, can't believe it there is even a puddle on the beach in front on me. The one thing for certain is that the waves are now huge and so the surfers look like being content when it stops.
Would you believe it! It hasn't stopped all afternoon another hour in the gym and then the unusual.... Having a shower in the rain. As our bathroom is outside it will be quite unique having a shower in the rain.
Yesterday evening had a Maldivian theme from the food in the restaurant to the evening entertainment. For dinner I stated with salad and then moved on to The the local food. Steamed green banana, sweet potato chips, fish pieces, what looked like mince pie but had meat inside the pastry and sweet chilli sauce. Evening entertainment was Maldivian dancers although Kathie and myself went and sat for half hour in the wrong beach bar and missed the start. In the whole time we have been here we have only seen two female members of staff. The gardeners, of which the are many, the house boys, the waiters and bar staff are all male.
Breakfast was the same as normal, how can it appear to be the same each day when the is so much choice? The morning has been pretty overcast although still very warm although as the morning went on there was a distinct increase in cloud cover. While eating lunch it was noticeable that it was going dark and as we moved onto coffee we noticed shutters being pulled down. We decided to leave coffee and head back to our bungalow, no sooner thought about and the wind whipped up and the heavens opened. Suddenly everyone is racing about and the Chinese sun shades have become soggy umbrella's. Back at the room what could be more fun than a quick dip in a tropical storm. The Aussies are optimistic that the passing of the storm will bring a change in weather and the surf will be back up with the wind in the right direction. We would have been lucky to get away without any rain at this time of the year and already the air feels fresher and less clammy.
At the moment I'm sitting on the decking in just a pair of shorts watching the rain hammer down but with an unbelievable view of the Indian Ocean, can't believe it there is even a puddle on the beach in front on me. The one thing for certain is that the waves are now huge and so the surfers look like being content when it stops.
Would you believe it! It hasn't stopped all afternoon another hour in the gym and then the unusual.... Having a shower in the rain. As our bathroom is outside it will be quite unique having a shower in the rain.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Day 8 Thursday
Day 8 Thursday
Last night we met a lovely couple, Maria and Peter, from just outside Sydney and spent part of the evening having a great chat. It's amazing that just as we would love to go to Australia the australians would love to come to Europe. I couldn't believe that Maria and Kathie could chat about Escape to the Country! Apparently it's a big hit in Australia.
Well it's a week since we got here and exactly amonth to Kathie's 50th! As I walked through reception this was reinforced with the arrival of new couples from England, looking even more pale than when we arrived.
Had a great morning snorkelling and now the parrot fish with it's ugly teeth turns up prompt each day at 12:15 for nibbles, proves all fish are not like Dory.
Meals are always great although breakfast can be a bit repetitive. The deserts are to die for! The choice today ranged from fresh fruit, pineapple, apples, oranges, mini bananas, mixed fruit passion fruit and then went on to ice cream, apple pudding, at least half a dozen different mousses and light meringues, panecota, and biscuits. I am doing my best to work my way through all of them although not in one sitting. Kathie was greatly amused at seeing a young Chinese girl who had for her lunch, a variety of salad, sweet and sour beef, pasta with cheese sauce, a variety of fruit, strawberry ice cream and sweet biscuits - all on the same plate at the same time!
Just taking half hour out of the sun in the relief of our air conditioned room before going back to hit the beach. Unfortunately the wind is onshore today and sits flattening the surf so literally just pipe dreams today.
Finished my second book, The Lost Symbol is a good read but the plot is a little too predictable after reading previous books. Michael McIntyre's autobiography is a great easy read, very funny and well written and allowing you a real insight into the man behind the laughter.
Another quality afternoon switching between the surf and the lagoon. I've done so much swimming and running I could be at a health farm (if you ignore the food and alcohol). Kathie has gone for Chinese massage while I'm sitting in the bar watching the sunset over a nearby island and I really am drinking apple juice! The giant fruit bats are still swooping down and entertaining the Chinese tourists who all have cameras pointed skyward. Nearly time to go a shower and dress up a little for dinner.
Last night we met a lovely couple, Maria and Peter, from just outside Sydney and spent part of the evening having a great chat. It's amazing that just as we would love to go to Australia the australians would love to come to Europe. I couldn't believe that Maria and Kathie could chat about Escape to the Country! Apparently it's a big hit in Australia.
Well it's a week since we got here and exactly amonth to Kathie's 50th! As I walked through reception this was reinforced with the arrival of new couples from England, looking even more pale than when we arrived.
Had a great morning snorkelling and now the parrot fish with it's ugly teeth turns up prompt each day at 12:15 for nibbles, proves all fish are not like Dory.
Meals are always great although breakfast can be a bit repetitive. The deserts are to die for! The choice today ranged from fresh fruit, pineapple, apples, oranges, mini bananas, mixed fruit passion fruit and then went on to ice cream, apple pudding, at least half a dozen different mousses and light meringues, panecota, and biscuits. I am doing my best to work my way through all of them although not in one sitting. Kathie was greatly amused at seeing a young Chinese girl who had for her lunch, a variety of salad, sweet and sour beef, pasta with cheese sauce, a variety of fruit, strawberry ice cream and sweet biscuits - all on the same plate at the same time!
Just taking half hour out of the sun in the relief of our air conditioned room before going back to hit the beach. Unfortunately the wind is onshore today and sits flattening the surf so literally just pipe dreams today.
Finished my second book, The Lost Symbol is a good read but the plot is a little too predictable after reading previous books. Michael McIntyre's autobiography is a great easy read, very funny and well written and allowing you a real insight into the man behind the laughter.
Another quality afternoon switching between the surf and the lagoon. I've done so much swimming and running I could be at a health farm (if you ignore the food and alcohol). Kathie has gone for Chinese massage while I'm sitting in the bar watching the sunset over a nearby island and I really am drinking apple juice! The giant fruit bats are still swooping down and entertaining the Chinese tourists who all have cameras pointed skyward. Nearly time to go a shower and dress up a little for dinner.
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