I was able to learn a lot about the Islands, get up close with some ocean predators and find the best spots for Mosaic travellers.

Flying into the capital Male puts you just 465km’s from the equator which explains the strong sun from morning until late afternoon. Expect blue skies, over 10 hours of sunshine per day and temperatures in the low 30’s. It also puts you in close proximity to the 1100+ picture perfect Islands.

To transfer to your chosen Island, step out of the airport to find speed boats lined up like taxis at the airport dock, or fly via sea plane.

Yes, the water really is like this!

At first I couldn’t believe it. From the moment we set off from Male, passing local and resort Islands on our speed boat, I asked “is this real?? It looks like a swimming pool!”

Once settled on the Island, a swim was first on the agenda. Again, I was left standing in disbelief but this time on the shore where the water is so clear, a baby black tip shark and manta ray could be seen swimming in the shallows.

The sand is almost pure white and the water, a clear but vibrant turquoise. It really is as good as it looks in the (unedited and unfiltered) photos!

Whether you prefer a relaxing, slow paced holiday or an action packed experience, unique to the Maldives, there’s something for you here:

• Epic beach days
• Half and full day trips
• Sunset dolphin tours
• Island hopping
• PADI dive courses
• Big game fishing
• Reef snorkelling – these waters are said to contain two-thirds of the world’s species of reef fish!

Up close with wildlife:

Once I arrived in the Maldives, I was quick to notice “shark snorkelling tours” being promoted and booked myself a spot!

I’ve always been an animal lover and growing up by the beach, I’ve had an interest in sharks from a young age.

The day started with a gentle introduction to sea creatures as our speed boat neared a pod of dolphins swimming close to a near by island. The boat quickly came to a stop and we were told to jump in, I couldn’t believe what happened next: after 2 minutes of snorkelling over coral reefs full of tropical fish, a pod of 6 dolphins (with baby!) passed by directly underneath me! To observe them so naturally and close up was mind blowing to me.

Next up was the a stop at “shark point”! From our seats in the speed boat, we could see hundreds of giant trevally swimming close to the surface and after a few minutes, a large grey nurse shark appeared. Our guide gave us some instructions for these animals and assured us that it was safe to swim here – no one on his boat had ever been bitten. 

I was one of the first in the water and not long after, a nurse shark swam by not bothered by my presence at all. For me, I was a bit scared by his at first!

Soon, we were swimming among half a dozen 3 meter sharks all in close proximity to us. There were so many animals around our boat that it was hard to avoid being “bumped into” by one of these beauties before they continued to swim along unfazed.

The fear quickly diminished as we felt very safe swimming with these animals and loved to be able to see them in their natural environment.

Sting, eagle and manta rays were the last animals on our list to see. Although reassured that it was safe to be in the water with them, my memories of Steve Irwin kept me on land!

Best time to travel:

The dry season from November until April brings calm seas, clear skies with less frequent rains. During these months, few showers and winds are expected and the sea is extremely flat.

Beach days are perfect during this season with the water temperature sitting between 28°C to 30°C and drying off takes no time with the light sea breeze.

To find out where to stay and to book your trip, call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

The post Holly’s time in the Maldives appeared first on Mosaic Travel.

Shortly after boarding in Fethiye (southern Turkey), we were shown our private double cabin with ensuite. This was used mainly as a storage room and the weather was so hot, it was more comfortable to sleep under the stars on the front deck!

We set off for our 4 day, 3 night adventure with 5 other guests and I couldn’t believe my eyes once we’d reached our first stop: Crystal clear turquoise water perfect for swimming.

The day was spent diving off the deck, reading books, playing chess and jumping into the water again once you’d become too hot. Our only interruptions were from the captain and his deckhand ringing the bell for “breakfast!!”, “lunch!!” and “dinner!!!”

At each meal time we were treated to a feast of fresh, organic Turkish food. From freshly caught seafood, to breakfast buffets, salads and (my favourite) BBQ night where we were served freshly made kofta and marinated steak.

Everyone’s dietary needs were catered for with the majority of guests being vegetarian and I was even treated with freshly baked brownies on my birthday!

Someone remarked “how is it possible that 2 men on a boat have served us with food more spectacular than our hotels!!?”

The whole boat has such a laid back feel with an honesty system for drinks, and all meals and snacks included in the boat fare, your wallet stays in the cabin the whole time.

The following days were spent swimming, swimming and swimming – I couldn’t get enough!

I was able to finish a book (a rare luxury) and learnt how to play chess again.

Living on the Ocean is very calming and spending so much time on the water gives you no distractions or worries.

Having no wifi adds to this by forcing you to literally disconnect – this was the ultimate way to relax.

On our last day we were surprised by a treat from the main land: A small speed boat was zipping from yacht to yacht shouting “ice cream”, “ice cream”!

I couldn’t believe it!

I instantly ran to find some coins and wave down my new best friend. His ice cream was protected from the blazing sun by liquid nitrogen and was popular with all the guests on board.

When it was time to disembark, I was sadly greeted with the reality of every day life: bustling streets, shops and internet. But mainly, the realisation of just how relaxing my time on the boat had been.

With my sea legs and sunburn, I arrived at my next hotel hoping the ice cream man would visit here as well.

To book yourself on this heavenly cruise in Southern Turkey, call Rosie on (03) 5275 4583!

The post My time cruising the Mediterranean appeared first on Mosaic Travel.

I recently returned from the Greek Islands – not Mykonos or Santorini, but a couple of islands in the Saronic archipelago which I had previously never heard of!

Click on the link below to listen to me chatting to Tim Webster on 2UE radio, about these authentic Greek islands.

https://omny.fm/shows/talking-travel/talking-travel-rosie-richardson-on-the-greek-islan

Spending 10 days on these relaxed Greek islands was just a dream. We spent our days swimming, reading, exploring on walking tracks, and eating fresh seafood and produce. Just heaven!

Agistri Beach

The post Off the beaten track Greek Islands that no one knows about! appeared first on Mosaic Travel.