Jo Ellison, editor of the Financial Times HTSI, wrote about travel in a recent issue of the magazine: “…the whole point of travel is the discovery of the unknown and unexpected, not the endless retreading of someone else’s trip.” This really resonates with me because I often find myself torn between two desires when I travel. On one hand, I want to see and do as much as possible, diving deep into a rabbit hole of online research. But I also yearn for a more carefree approach, one that allows me to be present and open to the unexpected joys that may come my way.
Working in the hospitality industry, I frequently get asked about my favourite hotel or brand. The truth is, there isn’t one. What I do have are a few unforgettable memories, like the following from my visit to Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru back in 2007 or 2008.
During a work trip, I found myself with a brief window of personal time one afternoon. Eager to make the most of it, I borrowed a snorkelling set and a life jacket (as I couldn’t swim) to explore the house reef that encircled the island. Alone and a bit nervous, I waded into the shallow water, the fine sand beneath my toes.
As I began snorkelling, I was initially disorientated, seeing only sand beneath me. “Where are the corals?” I wondered. Fortunately, I soon spotted them in the distance and found a path that let me swim through without damaging anything. The house reef – which was rehabilitated following a global bleaching event – was vibrant and teeming with life. Schools of fish darted by, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at my luck to have this opportunity to explore the water. How magical!
Suddenly, there was a steep drop-off in the seabed. Grateful for the life jacket, I calmed my racing heart. As my eyes adjusted to the darker water, I spotted several larger fish beneath. “Are those reef sharks?” I wondered. I recalled hearing that they usually don’t bother people unless provoked, so I reassured myself everything was fine. After all, they looked like they were just chilling or taking a nap. Filled with awe and excitement from this mini adventure, I slowly made my way back to shore as the sun set.
On another day, a storm rolled in. We could see the dark clouds approaching as the winds picked up. Moments later, they completely cloaked the island in shadow. Then it poured, as if someone had pulled a flush on the clouds and emptied a massive bucket of water. There was nowhere to go, nowhere to hide from the rain. But just as quickly as they arrived, the clouds moved on, leaving behind a cool, fresh atmosphere. Even though it was a fleeting experience, it was impressive, which is why this memory has stayed with me long after the trip is over.
These moments remind me that travel is all about the surprises along the way. It’s those little adventures that make each journey extra memorable. So, here’s to saying “yes” to the unexpected and making the most of every trip!
Angelina Hue 
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