Salty Tang

During the recent Eid break, I suddenly decided to go on a spontaneous yet totally relaxing trip with my friends who came up with the plan. I was always curious about what Maldives had in store and wanted to explore it, yet the unexplainable connotation attached to it, that it is strictly enjoyable for "couples only," somewhat held me back. However, I did manage to go, and I not only beheld the beauty of nature but also explored the simple life in Malé, the capital city. I wouldn't say that my Maldivian experience matched my initial expectations, yet it was definitely worth it all. Why didn't it match my expectations? I was looking forward to a mind-blowing scenery, an over-the-top hospitality, a sunny sky and clear sea, unprecedented water activities, and an exceptional resort experience. Yet, the weather was extremely changeable, not all activities were available, services were good but not the best, the scenery was, however, mind-blowing, yet not something I haven't witnessed before. I blame it on the over-exaggerated reviews, to be quite honest. On the other hand, it was a really good way to unplug and unwind. What was actually the best? The spa and the food. I also recommend everyone planning to go to the Maldives to pay the capital a visit. If you want different, Malé is different, especially if you come from a metropolis (you also have to go to their fruits and vegs market). Also, something to keep in mind: The Maldives is nowhere near cheap. Food, spa treatments, souvenirs and whatnot, are all fairly expensive (even compared to Dubai). Yet, you won't regret a cent.

Water Bungalows

Bathtub overlooking nature

Private villa w/ pool

Private villa w/ pool overlooking the sea

Maldivian passion fruit

Anise gelato

The best mocktails I've ever had (Innocent Mojito and Maldivian Feel)

Rainy day at Furanafushi Island

fresh catch at Sea Salt - Furanafushi Island

School at Malé

Sultan Mohd Grand Mosque - Malé

Friday Prayer - Malé

Sultan Mohd Grand Mosque - Malé

A list of all the martyrs' names who have died during a terrorist attack on Nov 3, 1988 (the darkest day of the Maldivian history)

An masterpiece dedicated to the martyrs

A public park with artificial trees and flowers that light up during certain occasions

A colorful preschool - Malé

The president's official office

Carvings on the wall of the oldest (300+ yrs old) mosque in Malé

Graveyard (you'll notice that all names are Turkish)

This mosque was built with corals and shells - Malé

The queen's grave in the hut

The oldest mosque - Malé

Relaxing in the post-massage lounge

The massage bed

If you're hitting the Maldivian spa, you won't be getting the usual hotel slippers. You'll be getting flip-flops!

A not-so-clear rainbow

The tree I was extremely fond of (took a picture of it every time I passed by it)

Vienna, again! I'm not going to go through how I feel about this (most wonderful) historical and cultural city, but I'll simply share pictures with you all of new places I've discovered this summer, food I have tired, and of some events that were going on!

Anker bakes with love!

Spices and more spices.. (Naschmarkt)

Indian Pavilion (Naschmarkt)

Greek food at Sokrates

Belvedere (A MUST)

Hundertwasser Village: literally means "the hundred waters," yet it is named after Friedensreich Hundertwasser who has renovated a factory and transformed it into a simple yet artistic village

Sushi at Unkai

Indian shop in Naschmarkt

Nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices.. everything, from Jordan and Israel (other places too) at Naschmarkt

A very satisfying Turkish dish at Levante

Prawns with buttermilk rice (salivating right now!) at Plachutta

Awiwa (pronounced Aviva) - Israeli shop. This area is mainly occupied by Jews with an amazing man-made beach with its sand shipped straight from Tel Aviv

Sparkling bar at Gerstner

Exclusively at Gerstner: sparkling elderflower and rose juice

This pizza and these fries have reminded me of my childhood. If Fun Time Pizza (Dubai) was part of your childhood, Family Fun's food in Vienna should be your nostalgia