On return to Randheli, our Majordome greeted us with chilled towels and iced water. Knowing we had not seen any manta rays, he told us he had slipped a couple into our pool. Amusingly, on return to our villa, we found two inflatable manta rays floating in our swimming pool. Later that evening, Laurent caught up with us in the bar and was eager to hear about our adventures. Good as his word, the drinks were served with his compliments.
On checking out the following morning, the receptionist presented a departure gift in a white branded box. When I mentioned a departure gift had already been presented at turndown, the receptionist explained the box was not from the hotel but from the rangers at Hanifaru Reserve. The box contained an aerial photograph of the Major and me snorkelling next to the whale shark. It was taken from the drone and the picture was smartly presented in a mirrored frame. I was so touched by the genuine gesture of kindness, I became overwhelmed with emotion. The Maldives is a special place and part of me will always be there, admiring the stars at night, the pristine beaches and the high levels of service from the friendly staff in the resorts. I cannot wait to return.
