08 August 2022

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25 February 2022

It’s often the case that heavily photographed places don’t live up to expectations in real life. However, the Maldives truly took my breath away. From first glimpse through the seaplane window, white sand beaches nestled in crystal clear waters, I was struck by the world’s natural beauty. Upon arrival at Sun Siyam Iru Veli we were instantly encouraged to embrace the Maldivian way of life. With sand between our toes, cold towel and drink in hand, the staff welcomed us in song and dance. It was barefoot luxury and indulgence from the moment we stepped off the seaplane. I’d best describe Iru Veli as intimate, Instagramable luxury. The island is small enough to stroll from one end to the other with ease, and the staff know your cocktail of choice. Each modern villa has its own private pool with sweeping sea views. Our stay was enhanced by an afternoon at a nearby sandbank, snorkelling on the most spectacular reef which was brimming with marine life. Both the hotel and its surroundings are picture perfect. The next stop was Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and it was such a contrast to Iru Veli. I came to realise that each island is distinct and offers something unique and different. Iru Fushi, traditional and tropical, is bigger and buzzing with nature. It feels like you’re in the jungle, outlined by beautiful beaches. Families would feel at home at Iru Fushi, and couples completely content that the service, food and facilities are outstanding. I went scuba diving as a birthday treat and all I can say is that Iru Fushi is unforgettable. It was a short hop via speedboat on to Siyam World, a brand new resort on one of the Maldives’ largest islands. It’s a combination of the lush surroundings at Iru Fushi, and the fresh, modern feel at Iru Veli. What sets it apart, is that from most of the villas you can slide straight into the turquoise waters below. My inner child could not stop smiling and it became clear that “fun” was the focus here. A paradise playground for all ages. Our final and my favourite stay was at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. As three islands connected via bridges, it offers something for everyone, and features the very best of the other resorts all rolled into one. Watching the rich marine life from my water villa was a personal highlight, alongside the delicious food, attentive staff, great entertainment and stunning views. An excursion to swim with sharks and turtles topped off a week better than I could have ever imagined. My only complaint? That I couldn’t stay forever.

29 September 2021

I was lucky enough to spend four complimentary nights aboard the Norwegian Getaway, as she sailed her first post-Covid voyage. The ship departed from Rome, sailed past the isle of Sardinia, and docked in Palma, Majorca two days later before returning to Rome. This was a shortened version of one of the many trips, which range from 7-17 nights across the Europe and the Americas. I stayed in a balcony cabin. The balcony was a great addition to the room which precluded it feeling too confined. I took advantage of the in-room dining option and enjoyed a continental breakfast on my balcony, watching the sun rise over the Mediterranean sea. There was also a breakfast buffet option for those who wished for greater choice, plus another couple of a la carte outlets. The dining options were plentiful. Inclusive of the package was a dinner buffet, three dining rooms, and a few other restaurants. There were also fine dining restaurants on board at additional cost, which were well worth it. I ate at the Brazilian Steakhouse, Seafood and Italian speciality dining restaurants, all of which I would highly recommend. During the day guests could take advantage of the pools on offer. I spent most of my time sunbathing at the adults only pool bar ‘H2O’ at the rear of the ship, which boasts a panoramic sea view. Those wanting more luxury could book a cabin within the “Haven”, which offered an exclusive lounge, restaurant and pool deck and access to fine dining at no extra cost. There was a whole host of entertainment options on offer throughout the day and the schedule was updated daily on the NCL app. I attended three shows; ‘Burn the Floor’ which was a Latino dance show, Syd Norman’s Pour House Band, who on the night I attended, played 80s hits, and ‘Duelling Pianos’ which saw two professional pianists take audience requests and perform together. The entertainment was amazing and a highlight of my trip. For those who wanted even more entertainment, there were events hosted on the deck and other areas around the ship each day. Parents can rest assured that children would be spoilt for choice. The kids club* affords parents time to unwind, whilst shopping, at the casino, or relaxing in the spa. This was my first cruise experience, and I was not sure what to expect. Overall I had a really enjoyable time, and would definitely recommend it to those who want a stress-free, social and varied holiday. There is no better time to cruise, with lower prices, reduced capacity and the ability to visit many destinations without having to adhere to covid flying restrictions. Get in touch if you’re interested in booking your own. *currently not operating due to covid vaccination restrictions Covid FAQs What do you need to have in order to board the ship? - Full vaccination status (at present there are no exemptions for children) - if you want an adults only cruise, now is the time to do it! - A negative Covid test (this is done at the port and took 15 minutes or so) - Covid pass from the NHS app - Online check-in via NCL app (the Norwegian cruise line app) - As the cruise departed from Italy, I also had to satisfy the Italian entry requirements. This will vary depending on which country your cruise departs from. What were the restrictions onboard? - Currently all ships are operating at reduced capacity, so it felt extremely spacious - Masks to be worn in all indoor spaces except when eating and drinking - Hand sanitising stations are available all over the ship - Hand washing station before entering the buffet area - The buffet is not currently self-serve - Reservations were required for all speciality dining and most shows What do I need in order to disembark the ship? - Entry requirements for the country of disembarkation. For most port stops the rules are often relaxed for those entering via cruise ship as opposed to flight, which is a huge benefit during covid times (no forms or tests were required for me to Disembark in Palma). You can go off and do your own thing, opt into an organised excursion, or remain on the ship at your leisure. - Covid tests were offered onboard and included in the price for those who required them.