Bicycling and the Maldives: not perhaps the most obvious of combinations. Who would have thought these exotic islands had this in store for me? Usually we think of beach huts and crystal-clear waters stretching into infinity, but this was a trip with a difference. An opportunity to travel to the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Thailand with trustworthy and efficient Sri Lankan Airlines was something not to be missed. The four-hour flight from Bahrain to Colombo was on time to the easily reached destination. Then a connection on to the Maldives for one and a half hours and you are on the island of Gan. Being able to travel with Bahraini, Indian and Sri Lankan nationals (all residing in Bahrain and equally up for the challenge) only added to the fun and excitement of the journey. Cycling in the Maldives is an instant de-stresser: instead of cars honking their horns and emitting exhaust fumes, I was surrounded by tropical beauty and the sound of the waves in stereo. The tarmac and traffic was replaced by simple roads worn down by the daily rhythms of the locals. The five-and-a-half-hour flight from Bahrain (via Colombo) to the Maldives passes easily with attentive stewards and good company. Sri Lankan Airlines is the only international airline to land in Gan, so this is a unique opportunity to see a hidden treasure. Stepping out of the two-gate airport we looked straight onto the beautiful water of the Maldives, before taking a speedy and entertaining boat taxi to Canareef Resort. There we were met by the green, quiet beauty of the island and the serenity of our villas. It really is a different world out here and the cares of day-to-day life fall away like autumn leaves. The walk from the bedroom to the beach was practically non-existent, and bicycles lay at our doorstep for our convenience. Since there are no cars, either bicycle or a small open bus will take you where you want to go. Riding into the local village and A SERENE CONNECTION Faye Sharabi shares her experience with Sri Lankan Airlines and her delightful trip to three exotic destinations. Bike to your special beach Walk from your villa to the beach Try to let the fish tickle your feet! The water villas in Gan, Maldives Enjoy the waves of the Indian Ocean travel 98 May 2018 www.bahrainthismonth.com
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