The Maldives

​​ Some people dream of a white Christmas that involves crisp, sparkling snowflakes. My ideal Christmas, on the other hand, does not. It involves warm, white, sandy beaches and I'll travel just about anywhere to find them. The Reethi Faru resort in the Maldives made my Christmas dream come true for a solid week of sunshine, gentle breaking wave sounds, excellent food, turquoise water right out of Monet's paint pallet, and white beaches all the way around. I'm certain this was the place the original spa sound "Soothing Ocean Waves" was recorded. No wake up alarms were set, cellphone reception was non-existent, the only mode of transportation was my feet and shoes were optional everywhere because the paths were sand. I wanted to share pictures from this trip because burn-out is real people! Jason and I were exhausted from months of constant life change to the point that we weren't really looking forward to the hustle and bustle the holidays would undoubtedly bring.

Instead, we booked this trip to an island barely half a mile around, hundreds of miles off the coast of India, and packed nothing but floral prints, bathing suits, and flip flops. I'll stop typing for a bit and let the pictures do the talking.

The staff went above and beyond decorating the island for Christmas. They held a Christmas Eve Gala for all of the guests complete with every food imaginable, live music, and dessert options that went on for THREE tables.

How can you resist such beautiful water?!?! We spent time everyday snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. My good ol'GoPro Hero3 came in handy but it may be time for an upgrade.

We also made this our honeymoon trip and the staff was sure to make it special with flowers, treats, and a private cabana on the beach for a candle lit dinner.

Be good to yourself this year everyone and travel. Life's too short not to explore the furthest reaches of our world. I did take a book to read with me on this trip and it will be our next topic of discussion beginning January 18th. Happy New Year!