The Maldives Stay That Lets You Take Home Immersive Memories, Not Shells

One snorkelling session won't make you a marine conservation enthusiast. But it will definitely make you fall in love with the sea, and in time, perhaps an ally to the cause of coral reef protection.

OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO resort has a dedicated team of marine biologists who are tasked with taking care of the coral reefs.

The best part about OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is that everyone gets a chance to try snorkelling, even if they have never tried swimming before that. The reefs are just off the beach, barely underwater, and one doesn't need to take a boat and go to the middle of the water to watch the corals. But this also means you cannot swim off the coast as you could casually do at many other beaches — stepping on the reefs is bad for them, and, without proper foot protection, for you too.

No need to worry, though. Experts in all matters snorkelling are there to train and assist you. My trainer was named Blue, no less, and we swam over the corals, hand in hand. He showed me a blob with eyes on a rock, only for me to realise later that it was an octopus. It quickly went under the rock upon seeing us — tired of seeing too many "hoomans," I'm sure.

You're not allowed to collect or take away shells you find on the ground. Quick history lesson: sea shells were, at one point, the coins widely accepted in trade and otherwise. Where did you think the phrase "phoothi kauri nahi hai" (not even a broken shell I have) came from, when you wanted to express just how broke you are?

But that's not the reason you can't pick up the shells from the white sands. If you look closer, some of the shells are running. On the sand, hundreds of patterns are made from this shell-running. In truth, it's the land hermit crabs who make homes in random shells they find on the sand. The poor tiny things don't have shells of their own, but no matter — sea shells are found in abundance on Maldivian islands.

OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO's true worth lies in the convergence of all these tiny details: the reefs, the crabs, calm waves, serene walkways shaded by trees, cool wind, and, best of all, earnest staff who are genuinely happy to help you.

Eid in Maldives

It was Eid when I landed in OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO in Maldives. Every Eid, the Malayali in me must have dal and meat curry with pappadam and white rice. Thankfully, THE SPICE — the all-day restaurant — had everything at their Indian station, along with dishes from many other cuisines. Set against the backdrop of turquoise waters, the Eid day lunch was splendid on the outdoor deck. There were also quite a few Maldivian dishes to try, with chefs preparing dishes live.

The Raa Bandhi Bar is right next to it, offering the bar experience and much beyond. Along with a variety of drinks to spoil us, the bohemian-vibed space has a pool, water hammocks, an indoor games area (table tennis, billiards, dart board, chess), and a dance floor with a DJ station.

There is also an adults-only pool nearby, perfect for couples and parents looking for a kid-free poolside escape — complete with a self-service bar and private cabanas. Meanwhile, the kids could have parent-free leisure time at the KIDS NATURE CENTRE. The interactive learning centre is much more than a mere kids' club, where young guests can learn about nature. Train 'em young!

As we stepped out after the amazing Eid breakfast, the resort staff had begun their celebrations with the traditional Maali Neshun. They had dressed up in many colours to appear as mythical ghost and demon characters, dancing in circles to the beat of Boduberu drums. Their costumes were made from coconut leaves, paper, and other natural materials. Ask the locals and they'll tell you the folklore of Bodu Mas (a big fish) and Maali (ghosts) who emerged from the sea, sparking a struggle to catch the fish. After a long struggle, the villagers are said to have succeeded with the help of a holy man.

The Boduberu performance is a weekly custom at the resort, they said, and I wasn't surprised. OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO doesn't exist removed from the realities of where it's located — the staff, their culture, their cuisine are all part of the experience you receive there. Even in the services offered, locally sourced elements are given due prominence and celebrated with respect. At the ELENA Spa, you're assured a relaxing time and offered a variety of products, with locally sourced coconut oil specially highlighted.

Even outside the spa, the campus is relaxing in its serenity. The walking routes are shadowed by thick tropical foliage, with a breeze constantly caressing you as you step onto the winding jungle paths.

9-Hands Dinner

Our visit perfectly coincided with the 9-Hands Dinner event, a multi-sensory experience that introduced us to the warm community at the resort. The evening showcased a curated menu crafted by three expert chefs from Egypt, Madeira, and the Maldives, who presented their interpretations of flavours and techniques along with the stories that led them there. The result was a dynamic and interactive dining concept.

"Each plate is a story of roots and horizons — where nature's bounty meets human imagination, and sustainability becomes the soul of indulgence," said Anupam Banerjee, Vice President of Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core and host of the evening — at a time when one would think the extraordinary dishes would leave us lost for words.

We had our farewell dinner at Raga Route with General Manager Alain Trefois. Aside from mouthwatering contemporary Indian dishes, the evening held a mirror to understanding the soul of the island.

"The Maldives is often viewed through the lens of its beaches, lagoons and overwater beauty, but its identity is also shaped by island life, food, community, and the warmth of its people," Mr. Trefois said.

If nothing else, that is what the two days showed me. OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO strikes a perfect balance between everything authentic about the island and its local community, along with all the goodness of a relaxing vacation.