OF SEA, SAND, AND SERENITY

Thrilling encounters with the ocean's unknown, wandering in paradise, and chasing sunsets defines a getaway at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

- MUSKAAN GUPTA

The water's quite choppy." I familiarise myself with the adjective as soon as I find myself in the Maldives during peak monsoon. The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is a 15-minute speed boat ride from Malé's Velana International Airport; but my ensemble for the commute isn't a beach hat and a sarong, instead it's a windcheater and a flimsy raincoat that accompany me.

My arrival at the Sheraton feels like I've finally sought shelter on a dimly-lit, deserted island. I hold onto my plastic-wrapped phone and passport, all drenched and shivering. Respite comes in the form of a warm towel, hot tea, and an umbrella.

My misfortune, as I am told, is just an unpleasant spell. I find that believable as the following day blossoms with sunshine peeking past a light forecast, sporting three shades of blue-a chlorinated infinity pool, a turquoise ocean bed, and an ultramarine shade that announces the presence of a continental shelf.

I'm at Furanafushi, one of the Maldives' oldest resort islands. The Sheraton Maldives' upkeep is as recent as 2018, but the legacy address preserves an old Maldivian charm. My abode is a strawroofed overwater bungalow, but a step inside the accommodation reveals a private infinity pool and a timber deck descending into the ocean. A plush minibar, a workspace, and a flatscreen are here for company, but the glass doors overlooking the expansive blue always garner my attention.