The Maldives, consisting of 1,190 coral islands, grouped across a chain of 27 atolls is the depiction of any imagined island paradise. I have shared some perspectives and images from our recent stay on one of these amazing islands – Veligandu Island resort.

We had a superbly located water villa which was beautifully appointed and spacious, with a deck from which you literally stepped down the ladder into the turquoise colored sea. We loved snorkelling around the nearby reef – we saw white tipped sharks and eagle rays in addition to hundreds of different fish of all colours and size, including Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish and Parrotfish amongst the coral reefs in the incredibly clear waters.

The days were relaxed in this tiny, remote island with palm tree-lined, glistening white beaches and indigenous gardens amongst the thatched roofed resort amenities. But the main attraction was the diving and snorkeling opportunities. One could swim straight out to the wide reefs surrounding the island which fell away into the dark depths beyond. We marveled at the exotic marine life and had some special sightings. Apart from the teeming numbers of richly coloured reef fish, we encountered two colossal manta rays, swam with a huge pod of dolphins and came across a number of hawksbill sea turtles swimming alongside us. I also had an unfortunate mishap as well… after being attacked and bitten on the hand by an aggressive Titan Trigger fish guarding its eggs, which required five stitches. Put it down to occupational hazards in the deep blue…!