This time no story, as pictures say it all. Our second stay in Florence, again at Hotel Davanzati. I am sure, one day, we will be back .... .
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Florence (Firenze) - Tartufo
End of year break in Lovely Florence
This time no story, as pictures say it all. Our second stay in Florence, again at Hotel Davanzati. I am sure, one day, we will be back .... .
This time no story, as pictures say it all. Our second stay in Florence, again at Hotel Davanzati. I am sure, one day, we will be back .... .
Monday, October 3, 2011
Port Ghalib - Water Scootering
October 2nd - Port Ghalib
Should we say much about it? Not really. We gambled for a cheaper holiday and now know it can back fire. Three Corners Fayrouz is loved by many, but not our place to be! We therefore very thankfull that after some discussions, some phone calls and a little funding we ended up in the Crown Plaza Sahara Sands. Really super!
It is already noon the next day when all is arranged and we have really moved: holidays can begin - jippie. [Thanks to Laura, Kate and Justin from Neckermann and Patrick from TCF]
October 3rd - Extra Divers
It was nice to meet again with Tino and Nina when signing in. Wide smiles and dive enthousiast - as it should. Tomorrow we will start with a House Reef dive. Just the two of us // and no mask hastle //.
October 4th - Conditioner
After a wonderfull early morning breakfast, we packed our diving gear, called reception and had a quick clubcart ride to the Dive Shop. As we didn't had the shop tour yesterday, it was a little chaotic getting all gear together and set-up. But a quarter of an hour later already we were on the back of another clubcart towards the House Reef. "Where do you want to dive?". As yes, they have several entries. We opted for the last one - at the Crown Plaza, to exit at the next one - at the Intercontinental.
Petra had some trouble descending. Not due to her new suite, making her more buoyant, but she had issues clearing her ears. Once we were down, the House Reef showed to be beautiful - just as Tina reminded us of before leaving the shop. And ... all our 'friends' were at home, even a Green Turtle swimming by!
All of a sudden Petra was starting to swim faster - she felt a little nauseous due to the light swell and her new suite. A good thing .. as the exit jetty was further than anticipated.
Early afternoon. A scream from underneath the shower. I think "O no ..., a flaw discovered in this beautiful hotel?" A cockroach maybe ... ? No .... much worse!!
Petra had forgotten her conditioner. PANIC!
Quickly a clubcart back to Port Ghalib Marina to buy a bottle of conditioner and a Beach Bag (also forgotten). The rest of the afternoon we spend lazy on the beach. Tomorrow we have a boat dive planned .. leave at 8:45.
October 5th - Wind
We are hardly 2 minutes on the boat when the dive guide asks whether we have already been to Marsa Mubarak. "No - why?". Well, that's where we are going. There is simply too much wind to go to another spot, as they lack a bay to park the boat. Also Elphinestone (the other option today) had been cancelled.
The dive spot is okay, but not super. During the 1st dive we pick up one of the 2 German divers. They started off what a buddy team of 3, but had obviously lost eachother. During the 2nd dive we took the lazy appraoch and followed the guide.
Back on the hotel mail from Kate (Neckermann). They had made a mistake, and asked us to pay more. No! It happened to be the upgrade (seafront) we added. Which was cheaper direct from the hotel, so we cancelled the Neckermann request.
After a long stroll over the premases, and a curiosity visit to the Six Sense Spa at the Intercontinental, it was already time for dinner. Tomorrow we planned to search for Dennis ... .
October 6th - Dennis
Today we are heading for Marsa Abu Dabab, on a quest to find the Dugong (nicknamed "Dennis - the Dugong"). As always, we are way too early at the shop. During the waiting we hear Tina explaining to 2 OWD students that much had changed at Marsa Abu Dabab. It's overbuild. A storm destroit part of the reef. And the Dugong has hardly ever been seen for the last 2 years. Why were we going here again ..... ?!
At arrival neither of us reconize where we are. The open space is filled with buidings. At the entrance we get a bracelet - another newish thing according Tina. We decide to follow the guided groupe. Navigating the seagras can be confusing, so this is better.
After seeing about 6 giant Green Turtles (the regulars here), the guide (Hamada) starts to bang and swims away as if there is no tomorrow. Let's follow! Damn, my fin slips off. Petra beats the guide to the dust cloud (he pulls her fin to stop her). The dust cloud is moving and the guide follows it and keeps banging. I switch on the camera when I think I see a tail. OMG ... a Duging!
As the dust cloud clears I can't believe what I see. Two Dugongs! They move away and ascent for air. Leaving us breathless (literal). After a few Guitar Rays a memorable dive had ended.
Back at the Dive Shop our guide asks for a copy of my movie .. he is soo proud (and should)!
The rest of the day we spend doing little (enjoy the sun, read a book, etc). It's a holiday afterall.
October 7th - Snorkelboat
At the dive shop it was confirmed what Nino already predicted yesterday. There was only one boat, and it didn't leave for the planned dive spot. On top of that there were 15 snorkelers joining on the boat (predominantly from the TCF). Italians, Berlgians, Dutch and a Swiss couple. So little divers. Next to us only a Swiss girl from Geneva (with a thick English accent). The ride to the chosen spot, Abu Sail, was quite bumpy. But at arriving the boat could be angored at a relatively calm spot. Time to gear up for the 1st dive.
Abu Sail, was, as predicted, a beautiful coral garden. After, again, a good tasting lunch, we started the second dive. Same spot, but the other side of the bay. The dive started with a nice pinnacle, and a little deeper the site was ever nicer than the moring part! After finishing the round with Hamada, we finished our air underneath the boat and emerged last.
We were harldy on the boat when they already started the return. The sea was even rougher than on our departure. Despite of 'magic pil' from Hamada, Petra felt quit sick ... luckily no 'damage'.
Back at the hotel we had a nice chat with a Dutch couple at the bar. Time to "de-salt" and get ready for dinner. And of course some quick text messages to the home front.
October 8th - Holiday Day
Today, we had planned a lazy day. A Holiday during the Holiday as a way of speaking. As Petra's flipflops were getting dangerous - the sole was coming loose - we 1st bought here a new pair (blue Levi's for 9 euro only).
At the dive shop we are getting ready for a House Reef dive: Crown Plaza - Crown Plaza. So to the North and back. A nice and relaxing dive.
Back at the dive shop we see the dive scooters and ask Nino for an explanation. We decide to give it a try .... tomorrow afternoon. The rest of the day is a relaxing day. After lunch and a siesta, we spend some time at the beach (I read the 1st 100 pages in my book). At sunset we go for a stroll, via the beach, through the Intercontinental and back. Time for dinner ... a lovely day had ended.
October 9th - Scooter
The day starts a little confusing. Our guide (Kimo) wonders why we want to go to El Egla. It is an hours drive, he has never been there and it is similar to several dive sites much closer. We explain it was the only Mini Bus dive on the plan, so we entered. But honestly, we don't care where we are going as long as it is nice. "No problem, let's go to Haig El Shunee". On arrival it showed we were not the only ones here .... so quickly gear up before the herd gets in. It showed to be beautiful, easy and relaxing dive.
A good choice as now we had plenty of time for lunch. After lunch back to the dive shop for the "Adventure of the Day" ... Water Scootering. Everybody was surprised we were going with the 2 of us, without guide. And not without reason - looking back!
As a "Jack in a Box" Mo popped up after about ten minutes. "You are Petra and Jos?" "Okay, I am Mo". Mo explained over water as well as under water how the Scooter needed to be operated - very calm and very good! And off we went, to the South - across the harbour enterance - where normally nobody dives.
This is SUPER FUN. And how beautifull the reef is, and soo much fish, and trutles, and, and .. . We also saw many small blue (box?) gelly fish. Very nice .. need to check the book later what kind.
And yes ... Scootering. We have to do this again! Really super!
October 10th - Too many Divers
This moring a Mini Bus to Marsa Murena. Next to us "Engelberg (she)" and new French guy are joining. The French first needed to be fitted a suite etc. before we could leave. After a short drive we arrive .... OMG what crowd! The beach was packed with - predominantly Italian - divers. Our guide thinks they will go North.This also what their guide seems to point out. Unfortunately, in the water they went South, like us.
The group in front of seem to have a "who can stir up the most sand competiton". Even the fish, quite used to the mirky waters now and than, seemed to be annoyed. At the turning point I am trying to take some pictures of the Petterson Cleaner Shrimps and an Anemone (owned by a couple of Clown Fish). Constant banging around me. And when I tried to swim further I was almost "helped". Wonder if they saw any of these shrimps?!
Hé, what is that. A boat joining the crowd? When returning it appeared 2 day boats had anchorred in the bay. And one of their tenders was driving up and down the bay, dangerously close to the divers. No, this was not really a good/nice dive.
Back on the dive shop we made the plan for the next day. Scooter in the mornig, and a House Reef in the afternoon. However, according Tino they were short on guides, so he advised me to give them a call around 5 to get confirmation of the final plan (maybe the other way around).
Now a relaxing afternoon ..... .
October 11th - Room Art
As Nino aready confirmed last night, we could go Scootering! Our guide was Mahmud (the husband of Cora, who now runs Extra Divers in Marsa El Arab, but soon will be the new management in Port Ghalib - as Nino and Tina are leaving for Oman / Extra Divers Al Sawadi). Of course the question if we were interested in a Certificat (130 Euro for the "Course" and 50 Euro for the certificat) or just a Fun Dive (25 Euro). Fun Dive it will be.
The visibility wasn't that good starting, as the boats just left and had stirred up the sand. Further on the water cleared and the reef was again beautiful. Mahmud discovered one after the other turtle. In the afternoon we did, as planned, a House Reef dive. From the Crown Plaza Jetty to the Intercontinental Jetty. The same as our first dive. But as Petra didn't feel well than, she hadn't really enjoyed the dive. This time she did! It was a marvellous and enjoyable dive.
In the evening we had a nice chat with the Dutch couple. I with him, "Mandemakers" sanitary. Petra with her, Fysiotherapist 6 weeks on sick leave and devorced 6 years ago.
Back at our room we discovered the next piece of art made by our room boy. A peacock this time!!
October 12th - Never again, or ....
Today, finally, we go to Elphinestone! Our last diving day this holiday, and this year. On arrival at the diving shop we were, once again, way too early. Quickly it is getting busy. Divers were arriving from everywhere: TCF, Marina Lodge and Mövenpick El-Quseir). 24 in total! With an hour delay we leave the marina. And as we had already soon on the whether forecast at reception: the wind had returned.
Two hour later we arrived at Elphinestone. We enter the water with the 2nd group (guide is Kimo). Eventhough not all divers from the SEVEN boats were in the water .... it was very crowded. So no sharks to be seen. Just walls of bubbles. At the surface the tender was already full. "We will be back in a minute". More than 20 minutes and many tenders later ("Extra Divers?" "Sorry not my boat") they finally returned to pick us up from the waves. The tender was way too full, and the waves were to high for the tender. At arrival at the boat the water in tender waas knee high.
The 'one hour' safety interval took two hours ... without lunch. Was this the "Must Do" dive I was waiting for?
Than the second dive. No negative entry. Not deep. Just enjoy the reef. And yes, than you know you are at maybe the most beautiful reef of Egypte. So full of coral, mainly soft coral. All in all, it still is that "Must Do" dive that completes a diving holiday to Egypte.
Finally, lunch! And now 2 hours back to Port Ghalib. The 2011 dive season has ended for us.
October 13th - Seven7Seas
Arranging a late check out was easier than expected. No extra cost, just "Okay, no problem sir". We could sleep in long that morning. No alarm. But still, we wake up quite early (~6 o'clock, the sun was already out, again a beautiful day!). After breakfast to the diveshop. Picking up our gear and settling the bill.
On our way to the dive shop we passed by the biggest, and according many the best, Liveaboard on the Red Sea. The Seven7Seas. The curiosity was obviously written on our faces, as we were asked whether we wanted to have a look around. O boy, what a beautiful and big boat. Same for the rooms. We had many times, between us, decided it was nothing for us. But now, on this big boat, we doubted that 'decision'. One thing is clear. If we ever decide to go for a Liveaboard, it will be this one or similar. Not a cheap boat, with which the marna was fillled .. none of them close to being an option!
Settling the bill. Not so easy when the Credit Card is refused. Back to the hotel to pick up our other Credit Cards - and take our logbooks for stamping! Petra's Master Card was refused as well. "Luckily" my Visa was accepted by the bank dail-in system.
After a morning of relaxing on the beach it was time take shower, pack our bags and pay the $30/day for our upgrade to SeaView. "Thank you. All is okay" was all .... no bill?! Lucky?
Just before leaving for the airport the receptionist jumped on the bus and looked around ..... (?). No, not looking for us. Looking for "Mandemakers". He hadn't returned his towl card (wasn't asked either), and now had to walk all the way to the beach to return the card. Rediculous, but this is Egypt.
With an hour delay we take off. Tomorrow pick up our cats, and than ... weekend.
Should we say much about it? Not really. We gambled for a cheaper holiday and now know it can back fire. Three Corners Fayrouz is loved by many, but not our place to be! We therefore very thankfull that after some discussions, some phone calls and a little funding we ended up in the Crown Plaza Sahara Sands. Really super!
It is already noon the next day when all is arranged and we have really moved: holidays can begin - jippie. [Thanks to Laura, Kate and Justin from Neckermann and Patrick from TCF]
October 3rd - Extra Divers
It was nice to meet again with Tino and Nina when signing in. Wide smiles and dive enthousiast - as it should. Tomorrow we will start with a House Reef dive. Just the two of us // and no mask hastle //.
October 4th - Conditioner
After a wonderfull early morning breakfast, we packed our diving gear, called reception and had a quick clubcart ride to the Dive Shop. As we didn't had the shop tour yesterday, it was a little chaotic getting all gear together and set-up. But a quarter of an hour later already we were on the back of another clubcart towards the House Reef. "Where do you want to dive?". As yes, they have several entries. We opted for the last one - at the Crown Plaza, to exit at the next one - at the Intercontinental.
Petra had some trouble descending. Not due to her new suite, making her more buoyant, but she had issues clearing her ears. Once we were down, the House Reef showed to be beautiful - just as Tina reminded us of before leaving the shop. And ... all our 'friends' were at home, even a Green Turtle swimming by!
All of a sudden Petra was starting to swim faster - she felt a little nauseous due to the light swell and her new suite. A good thing .. as the exit jetty was further than anticipated.
Jos: 60 [min] / 28.4 [m] | Petra: 59 [min] / 26.9 [m]
Early afternoon. A scream from underneath the shower. I think "O no ..., a flaw discovered in this beautiful hotel?" A cockroach maybe ... ? No .... much worse!!
Petra had forgotten her conditioner. PANIC!
Quickly a clubcart back to Port Ghalib Marina to buy a bottle of conditioner and a Beach Bag (also forgotten). The rest of the afternoon we spend lazy on the beach. Tomorrow we have a boat dive planned .. leave at 8:45.
October 5th - Wind
We are hardly 2 minutes on the boat when the dive guide asks whether we have already been to Marsa Mubarak. "No - why?". Well, that's where we are going. There is simply too much wind to go to another spot, as they lack a bay to park the boat. Also Elphinestone (the other option today) had been cancelled.
The dive spot is okay, but not super. During the 1st dive we pick up one of the 2 German divers. They started off what a buddy team of 3, but had obviously lost eachother. During the 2nd dive we took the lazy appraoch and followed the guide.
Jos: 58 [min] / 21.6 [m] | Petra: 59 [min] / 22 [m]
Jos: 58 [min] / 18.9 [m] | Petra 58 [min] / 17 [m]
Back on the hotel mail from Kate (Neckermann). They had made a mistake, and asked us to pay more. No! It happened to be the upgrade (seafront) we added. Which was cheaper direct from the hotel, so we cancelled the Neckermann request.
After a long stroll over the premases, and a curiosity visit to the Six Sense Spa at the Intercontinental, it was already time for dinner. Tomorrow we planned to search for Dennis ... .
October 6th - Dennis
Today we are heading for Marsa Abu Dabab, on a quest to find the Dugong (nicknamed "Dennis - the Dugong"). As always, we are way too early at the shop. During the waiting we hear Tina explaining to 2 OWD students that much had changed at Marsa Abu Dabab. It's overbuild. A storm destroit part of the reef. And the Dugong has hardly ever been seen for the last 2 years. Why were we going here again ..... ?!
At arrival neither of us reconize where we are. The open space is filled with buidings. At the entrance we get a bracelet - another newish thing according Tina. We decide to follow the guided groupe. Navigating the seagras can be confusing, so this is better.
After seeing about 6 giant Green Turtles (the regulars here), the guide (Hamada) starts to bang and swims away as if there is no tomorrow. Let's follow! Damn, my fin slips off. Petra beats the guide to the dust cloud (he pulls her fin to stop her). The dust cloud is moving and the guide follows it and keeps banging. I switch on the camera when I think I see a tail. OMG ... a Duging!
As the dust cloud clears I can't believe what I see. Two Dugongs! They move away and ascent for air. Leaving us breathless (literal). After a few Guitar Rays a memorable dive had ended.
Back at the Dive Shop our guide asks for a copy of my movie .. he is soo proud (and should)!
Jos: 54 [min] / 13.5 [m] | Petra: 52 [min] / 13.0 [m]
The rest of the day we spend doing little (enjoy the sun, read a book, etc). It's a holiday afterall.
// Finished my "Maarten" a nice magazine //
October 7th - Snorkelboat
At the dive shop it was confirmed what Nino already predicted yesterday. There was only one boat, and it didn't leave for the planned dive spot. On top of that there were 15 snorkelers joining on the boat (predominantly from the TCF). Italians, Berlgians, Dutch and a Swiss couple. So little divers. Next to us only a Swiss girl from Geneva (with a thick English accent). The ride to the chosen spot, Abu Sail, was quite bumpy. But at arriving the boat could be angored at a relatively calm spot. Time to gear up for the 1st dive.
Abu Sail, was, as predicted, a beautiful coral garden. After, again, a good tasting lunch, we started the second dive. Same spot, but the other side of the bay. The dive started with a nice pinnacle, and a little deeper the site was ever nicer than the moring part! After finishing the round with Hamada, we finished our air underneath the boat and emerged last.
We were harldy on the boat when they already started the return. The sea was even rougher than on our departure. Despite of 'magic pil' from Hamada, Petra felt quit sick ... luckily no 'damage'.
Jos: 63 [min] / 27.7 [m] | Petra: 58 [min] / 22 [m]
Jos: 64 [min] / 29.1 [m] | Petra: 63 [min] / 28 [m]
Back at the hotel we had a nice chat with a Dutch couple at the bar. Time to "de-salt" and get ready for dinner. And of course some quick text messages to the home front.
October 8th - Holiday Day
Today, we had planned a lazy day. A Holiday during the Holiday as a way of speaking. As Petra's flipflops were getting dangerous - the sole was coming loose - we 1st bought here a new pair (blue Levi's for 9 euro only).
At the dive shop we are getting ready for a House Reef dive: Crown Plaza - Crown Plaza. So to the North and back. A nice and relaxing dive.
Jos: 58 [min] / 26.5 [m] | Petra: 57 [min] / 26.7 [m]
Back at the dive shop we see the dive scooters and ask Nino for an explanation. We decide to give it a try .... tomorrow afternoon. The rest of the day is a relaxing day. After lunch and a siesta, we spend some time at the beach (I read the 1st 100 pages in my book). At sunset we go for a stroll, via the beach, through the Intercontinental and back. Time for dinner ... a lovely day had ended.
October 9th - Scooter
The day starts a little confusing. Our guide (Kimo) wonders why we want to go to El Egla. It is an hours drive, he has never been there and it is similar to several dive sites much closer. We explain it was the only Mini Bus dive on the plan, so we entered. But honestly, we don't care where we are going as long as it is nice. "No problem, let's go to Haig El Shunee". On arrival it showed we were not the only ones here .... so quickly gear up before the herd gets in. It showed to be beautiful, easy and relaxing dive.
Jos: 61 [min] / 29.0 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 26 [m]
A good choice as now we had plenty of time for lunch. After lunch back to the dive shop for the "Adventure of the Day" ... Water Scootering. Everybody was surprised we were going with the 2 of us, without guide. And not without reason - looking back!
As a "Jack in a Box" Mo popped up after about ten minutes. "You are Petra and Jos?" "Okay, I am Mo". Mo explained over water as well as under water how the Scooter needed to be operated - very calm and very good! And off we went, to the South - across the harbour enterance - where normally nobody dives.
This is SUPER FUN. And how beautifull the reef is, and soo much fish, and trutles, and, and .. . We also saw many small blue (box?) gelly fish. Very nice .. need to check the book later what kind.
Jos: 58 [min] / 22.6 [m] | Petra: 57 [min] / 21.1 [m]
And yes ... Scootering. We have to do this again! Really super!
October 10th - Too many Divers
This moring a Mini Bus to Marsa Murena. Next to us "Engelberg (she)" and new French guy are joining. The French first needed to be fitted a suite etc. before we could leave. After a short drive we arrive .... OMG what crowd! The beach was packed with - predominantly Italian - divers. Our guide thinks they will go North.This also what their guide seems to point out. Unfortunately, in the water they went South, like us.
The group in front of seem to have a "who can stir up the most sand competiton". Even the fish, quite used to the mirky waters now and than, seemed to be annoyed. At the turning point I am trying to take some pictures of the Petterson Cleaner Shrimps and an Anemone (owned by a couple of Clown Fish). Constant banging around me. And when I tried to swim further I was almost "helped". Wonder if they saw any of these shrimps?!
Hé, what is that. A boat joining the crowd? When returning it appeared 2 day boats had anchorred in the bay. And one of their tenders was driving up and down the bay, dangerously close to the divers. No, this was not really a good/nice dive.
Jos: 62 [min] / 28.0 [m] | Petra: 62 [min] / 25.9 [m]
Back on the dive shop we made the plan for the next day. Scooter in the mornig, and a House Reef in the afternoon. However, according Tino they were short on guides, so he advised me to give them a call around 5 to get confirmation of the final plan (maybe the other way around).
Now a relaxing afternoon ..... .
October 11th - Room Art
As Nino aready confirmed last night, we could go Scootering! Our guide was Mahmud (the husband of Cora, who now runs Extra Divers in Marsa El Arab, but soon will be the new management in Port Ghalib - as Nino and Tina are leaving for Oman / Extra Divers Al Sawadi). Of course the question if we were interested in a Certificat (130 Euro for the "Course" and 50 Euro for the certificat) or just a Fun Dive (25 Euro). Fun Dive it will be.
The visibility wasn't that good starting, as the boats just left and had stirred up the sand. Further on the water cleared and the reef was again beautiful. Mahmud discovered one after the other turtle. In the afternoon we did, as planned, a House Reef dive. From the Crown Plaza Jetty to the Intercontinental Jetty. The same as our first dive. But as Petra didn't feel well than, she hadn't really enjoyed the dive. This time she did! It was a marvellous and enjoyable dive.
Jos: 58 [min] / 24.7 [m] | Petra: 58 [min] / 24 [m]
Jos: 60 [min] / 18.6 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 18 [m]
In the evening we had a nice chat with the Dutch couple. I with him, "Mandemakers" sanitary. Petra with her, Fysiotherapist 6 weeks on sick leave and devorced 6 years ago.
Back at our room we discovered the next piece of art made by our room boy. A peacock this time!!
October 12th - Never again, or ....
Today, finally, we go to Elphinestone! Our last diving day this holiday, and this year. On arrival at the diving shop we were, once again, way too early. Quickly it is getting busy. Divers were arriving from everywhere: TCF, Marina Lodge and Mövenpick El-Quseir). 24 in total! With an hour delay we leave the marina. And as we had already soon on the whether forecast at reception: the wind had returned.
Two hour later we arrived at Elphinestone. We enter the water with the 2nd group (guide is Kimo). Eventhough not all divers from the SEVEN boats were in the water .... it was very crowded. So no sharks to be seen. Just walls of bubbles. At the surface the tender was already full. "We will be back in a minute". More than 20 minutes and many tenders later ("Extra Divers?" "Sorry not my boat") they finally returned to pick us up from the waves. The tender was way too full, and the waves were to high for the tender. At arrival at the boat the water in tender waas knee high.
The 'one hour' safety interval took two hours ... without lunch. Was this the "Must Do" dive I was waiting for?
Jos: 47 [min] / 30.8 [m] | Petra: 46 [min] / 29 [m]
Than the second dive. No negative entry. Not deep. Just enjoy the reef. And yes, than you know you are at maybe the most beautiful reef of Egypte. So full of coral, mainly soft coral. All in all, it still is that "Must Do" dive that completes a diving holiday to Egypte.
Jos: 61 [min] / 21.3 [m] | Petra: 61 [min] / 18 [m]
Finally, lunch! And now 2 hours back to Port Ghalib. The 2011 dive season has ended for us.
October 13th - Seven7Seas
Arranging a late check out was easier than expected. No extra cost, just "Okay, no problem sir". We could sleep in long that morning. No alarm. But still, we wake up quite early (~6 o'clock, the sun was already out, again a beautiful day!). After breakfast to the diveshop. Picking up our gear and settling the bill.
On our way to the dive shop we passed by the biggest, and according many the best, Liveaboard on the Red Sea. The Seven7Seas. The curiosity was obviously written on our faces, as we were asked whether we wanted to have a look around. O boy, what a beautiful and big boat. Same for the rooms. We had many times, between us, decided it was nothing for us. But now, on this big boat, we doubted that 'decision'. One thing is clear. If we ever decide to go for a Liveaboard, it will be this one or similar. Not a cheap boat, with which the marna was fillled .. none of them close to being an option!
Settling the bill. Not so easy when the Credit Card is refused. Back to the hotel to pick up our other Credit Cards - and take our logbooks for stamping! Petra's Master Card was refused as well. "Luckily" my Visa was accepted by the bank dail-in system.
After a morning of relaxing on the beach it was time take shower, pack our bags and pay the $30/day for our upgrade to SeaView. "Thank you. All is okay" was all .... no bill?! Lucky?
Just before leaving for the airport the receptionist jumped on the bus and looked around ..... (?). No, not looking for us. Looking for "Mandemakers". He hadn't returned his towl card (wasn't asked either), and now had to walk all the way to the beach to return the card. Rediculous, but this is Egypt.
With an hour delay we take off. Tomorrow pick up our cats, and than ... weekend.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Avant Garde Suites - Santorini
June 8th - Leaving for Santorini
We both hadn't slept well. Get up early (4:20) to be at the airport in time. Little traffic on the road, so we are well in time. We checked in at a Dutch stewardess (Airberlin in Düsseldorf!) and grabbed some breakfast: a nice sandwich and a fresh orange juice.
At the security check no questions what so ever about my medication (so why all the trouble in getting a "Passport" for it?). After checking out the few shops it was already time to board the plane. Hmmm ... no fridge in the plane, despite calling them upfront to assure I could keep my medication cooled! Hopefully the coolpack will do.
In a blink of an eye we are in Nürnberg, where we transfer to our direct flight to Santorini, after about an hour of waiting. On board I ask again to keep my medication cooled, and fortunately this crew knows what to do. Immediately arranges a bag of ice and keeps my medication stored in a locker in the front.
The arrival at Thira and picking up the luggage was very smooth and fast. Outside we see AVIS doesn't have a local office, only a 'guy' with the paperwork. Some quick signatures, and off to our rental car: a Fiat Punto. I have issues opening the car, for sure the backdoor. The AVIS guy, with some effort, can open the backdoor, shrugs his shoulders and says: "it's Italian". And off he goes.
Our little hotel, Avant Garde Suites (AGS), was easy to find. Becasue we are in the "Blue" Suite, we get a blue cocktail on arrival. After some explanation on how this and that works we go to the room: totally blue!! Yes, it looks good.
And there the "complementary Champaign" arrives .... yes, loving it.
We do a small tour of the surroundings, see what it all looks like. And get some bottles of water at the local "Super Market". Back in the room we decide to have diner at the small Taverne, below Avant Garde Suites (AGS), at the beach. It is only 250m to get there, but the road is very steep.
The food is simple, the view is brilliant and the admosphere is 'slow going', as it should be. Very nice.
Back at AGS we sit down at the pool. It doesn't take long before the staff (Reception and Pool Boy) find us, and we have a nice chat about nothing. After finishing the Santorini wine they offered us, it is time to go to bed. It has been a long day ... .
June 9th - Slow Start
"Ding dong" ......... "sorry to wake you sir". Oeps, it is already 10 o'clock and our lovely breakfast (as we ordered it - champaign and all) had already arrived. We quickly check some things on the Notebook (complementary) and our Merian Guide of Santorini. Fira, Oia and a Caldera Cruise are the things to do. But not today. Petra doesn't feel that well (too mych wine yesterday?), and we both are here to relax. And that's exactly what we plan to do.
Doing nothing and enjoying the view was the plan. Mid day we decided to go to Fira anyway, but Petra really feels sick, so we return to AGS and have lunch there: a Ham+Cheese Toast for Petra and a Santorini Salad for me ... yummie.
Later that day we drive to Red Beach, which is pretty close, to make some nice pics. From there we contue to the Light House, where we were told to find a nice restaurant. The restaurant was nowhere to be found, only a nice view. On our way back we stop at a restaurant that adverted "Fresh Fish". But my nose (and the empty terras) told me that fresh is 'somewhat' exaggurated.
We drive on to Panorama, just past AGS. Overlooking the Caldera we enjoy a simple meal, what more do you need? A slow day had ended.
June 10th - Fira
Not good. This morning Jos is feeling a little sick. The plan was either snorkling or Fira. Due the wind it will be Fira! The sea is simply to rough to snorkel. But first things first: at 10 the ticket sale for Prince starts! After some trying with the AGS Notebook we succeed: 2 tickets are ours - yes. After some sms's up and down Jos' colleague Rene V decided to join us for the concert later this year.
And now off to busy Fira. If I didn't have such a blown up feeling I could have enjoyed it better. Fortunately Petra loved it. We first head for the stairs down, where the Donkeys are. The smell however makes us rethinking that plan and turn around towards the Cable Car. Arriving there, and looking down, we decide to stay where we are. No need to go to that small harbour.
We stroll further over the Caldera edge, have a drink an a terrace and take in the scenary. On the way back we have a Pita with Chicken (the place is packed - so no surprice it tasted very good).
Back at AGS we sink in the Jaccuzzi. Aaah .... what a view. At recepion we ask for a nice restaurant to go to. They advise us to try Aeolos. A very good advise (lamb chops are very simple but d e l i c i o u s). The best we had in Santorini until now.
June 11th - Oia
Jos is still not a 100%, but better than yesterday. After again a wonderfull breakfast (and my 2 weekly Humira shot for my Bechterew) we get ready for Oia. And turned out to be a good plan! Oia really is picturesque and cozy. This is where you want to be when visiting Santorini!!
After strolling through the small streets of Oia we decent to the old harbour. Quite a walk down. We had a very good lunch at Sunset Viewpoint (Fishermans Salad and Calimari Friti). And than, with a full stomach, the whole climb back to Oia. Back there we bougth a nice hand painted Icon for my mother and 2 thimbles for Fatima.
Back at AGS we see Sanne posted on FaceBook. She did her internship on Santorini and may know some nice spots not to miss .. . But first a nice Mojito at the bar and than back to Aeolos.
The food at Aeolos was again delicious. Kind of odd though to have The Dead Kennedys, playing California Über Alles, as background music. The sunset was again gorgeous.
June 12th - Snorkling + Sunset
The sea is calmer today, so after breakfast we decide for snorkling. Petra doesn't fancy walking down the steep road again, so we take the car down to 'Caldera Beach of Balos Bay'. Aaahhhgg, the water is cold. We more fish than expected (we were told to expect none). Back in the sun, get warm and dry up on the vulcanic black sand beach. We try again. No no, way too cold. We're done snorkling.
We return to AGS for lunch (a nice sandwich) and chat a little with the Bulgarian Pool/Bar Boy. He asks us to try his new cocktail (Metaxa, Amaretto, Peach and Applejuice). Not bad. Time for a siesta now.
Back to Oia, as we enjoyed it a lot yesterday. Oia is totally empty ..... ? But than all of a sudden ... group 5, 7, 12, 4, 13, 15, 2 and Oia is packed with tourists. We watch the Cruise Boat Passengers walk by, and stroll through busy Oia. And now food: We take the car and drive down to Ammoudi Bay (the harbour) and head for the same restaurant. We pass on the highly promoted 100 Euro a plate Lobster Spagetti, but take a Seafood Salad and an absolutely delicious Sea Food Spagetti. So good!
The Sailboats pass by for the Sunset. A perfect end of a perfect day.
We take the, now dark, narrow and winding road back to AGS. Wat a lovely few days on Σαντορίνη
June 13th - Checking Out
It's 11 o'clock. We already finished our breakfast. Suitecase is packed. A quick shower and than the long trip back home starts. Our flight is at 15:20, so we still have a few hours to look around and have lunch.
// Why I noted October in my little note book in stead of June all the time ... no idea. Wonder what will be so special in October?? //
We decide to go to Firostefani, park near the local church and have a look around. To celebrate the last views on the Caldera we have a too good Chocolate Feast Crepe. Yummie.
The trip back is smooth. Nürnberg is as boring as we remember it from our inbound flight. Luggage handling in Düsseldorf is very very slow ... is it always is here. An hour and a bit drive through the pooring rain and we are back home. It's 21:00 hourse on Whit Sunday (Pentecost), we cuddle Maja and Loeki and fall a sleep.
6 Lovely days are unfortunately ended. Tomorrow back to the 'real' world.
We both hadn't slept well. Get up early (4:20) to be at the airport in time. Little traffic on the road, so we are well in time. We checked in at a Dutch stewardess (Airberlin in Düsseldorf!) and grabbed some breakfast: a nice sandwich and a fresh orange juice.
At the security check no questions what so ever about my medication (so why all the trouble in getting a "Passport" for it?). After checking out the few shops it was already time to board the plane. Hmmm ... no fridge in the plane, despite calling them upfront to assure I could keep my medication cooled! Hopefully the coolpack will do.
In a blink of an eye we are in Nürnberg, where we transfer to our direct flight to Santorini, after about an hour of waiting. On board I ask again to keep my medication cooled, and fortunately this crew knows what to do. Immediately arranges a bag of ice and keeps my medication stored in a locker in the front.
The arrival at Thira and picking up the luggage was very smooth and fast. Outside we see AVIS doesn't have a local office, only a 'guy' with the paperwork. Some quick signatures, and off to our rental car: a Fiat Punto. I have issues opening the car, for sure the backdoor. The AVIS guy, with some effort, can open the backdoor, shrugs his shoulders and says: "it's Italian". And off he goes.
Our little hotel, Avant Garde Suites (AGS), was easy to find. Becasue we are in the "Blue" Suite, we get a blue cocktail on arrival. After some explanation on how this and that works we go to the room: totally blue!! Yes, it looks good.
And there the "complementary Champaign" arrives .... yes, loving it.
We do a small tour of the surroundings, see what it all looks like. And get some bottles of water at the local "Super Market". Back in the room we decide to have diner at the small Taverne, below Avant Garde Suites (AGS), at the beach. It is only 250m to get there, but the road is very steep.
The food is simple, the view is brilliant and the admosphere is 'slow going', as it should be. Very nice.
Back at AGS we sit down at the pool. It doesn't take long before the staff (Reception and Pool Boy) find us, and we have a nice chat about nothing. After finishing the Santorini wine they offered us, it is time to go to bed. It has been a long day ... .
June 9th - Slow Start
"Ding dong" ......... "sorry to wake you sir". Oeps, it is already 10 o'clock and our lovely breakfast (as we ordered it - champaign and all) had already arrived. We quickly check some things on the Notebook (complementary) and our Merian Guide of Santorini. Fira, Oia and a Caldera Cruise are the things to do. But not today. Petra doesn't feel that well (too mych wine yesterday?), and we both are here to relax. And that's exactly what we plan to do.
Doing nothing and enjoying the view was the plan. Mid day we decided to go to Fira anyway, but Petra really feels sick, so we return to AGS and have lunch there: a Ham+Cheese Toast for Petra and a Santorini Salad for me ... yummie.
Later that day we drive to Red Beach, which is pretty close, to make some nice pics. From there we contue to the Light House, where we were told to find a nice restaurant. The restaurant was nowhere to be found, only a nice view. On our way back we stop at a restaurant that adverted "Fresh Fish". But my nose (and the empty terras) told me that fresh is 'somewhat' exaggurated.
We drive on to Panorama, just past AGS. Overlooking the Caldera we enjoy a simple meal, what more do you need? A slow day had ended.
June 10th - Fira
Not good. This morning Jos is feeling a little sick. The plan was either snorkling or Fira. Due the wind it will be Fira! The sea is simply to rough to snorkel. But first things first: at 10 the ticket sale for Prince starts! After some trying with the AGS Notebook we succeed: 2 tickets are ours - yes. After some sms's up and down Jos' colleague Rene V decided to join us for the concert later this year.
And now off to busy Fira. If I didn't have such a blown up feeling I could have enjoyed it better. Fortunately Petra loved it. We first head for the stairs down, where the Donkeys are. The smell however makes us rethinking that plan and turn around towards the Cable Car. Arriving there, and looking down, we decide to stay where we are. No need to go to that small harbour.
We stroll further over the Caldera edge, have a drink an a terrace and take in the scenary. On the way back we have a Pita with Chicken (the place is packed - so no surprice it tasted very good).
Back at AGS we sink in the Jaccuzzi. Aaah .... what a view. At recepion we ask for a nice restaurant to go to. They advise us to try Aeolos. A very good advise (lamb chops are very simple but d e l i c i o u s). The best we had in Santorini until now.
June 11th - Oia
Jos is still not a 100%, but better than yesterday. After again a wonderfull breakfast (and my 2 weekly Humira shot for my Bechterew) we get ready for Oia. And turned out to be a good plan! Oia really is picturesque and cozy. This is where you want to be when visiting Santorini!!
Back at AGS we see Sanne posted on FaceBook. She did her internship on Santorini and may know some nice spots not to miss .. . But first a nice Mojito at the bar and than back to Aeolos.
The food at Aeolos was again delicious. Kind of odd though to have The Dead Kennedys, playing California Über Alles, as background music. The sunset was again gorgeous.
June 12th - Snorkling + Sunset
The sea is calmer today, so after breakfast we decide for snorkling. Petra doesn't fancy walking down the steep road again, so we take the car down to 'Caldera Beach of Balos Bay'. Aaahhhgg, the water is cold. We more fish than expected (we were told to expect none). Back in the sun, get warm and dry up on the vulcanic black sand beach. We try again. No no, way too cold. We're done snorkling.
We return to AGS for lunch (a nice sandwich) and chat a little with the Bulgarian Pool/Bar Boy. He asks us to try his new cocktail (Metaxa, Amaretto, Peach and Applejuice). Not bad. Time for a siesta now.
Back to Oia, as we enjoyed it a lot yesterday. Oia is totally empty ..... ? But than all of a sudden ... group 5, 7, 12, 4, 13, 15, 2 and Oia is packed with tourists. We watch the Cruise Boat Passengers walk by, and stroll through busy Oia. And now food: We take the car and drive down to Ammoudi Bay (the harbour) and head for the same restaurant. We pass on the highly promoted 100 Euro a plate Lobster Spagetti, but take a Seafood Salad and an absolutely delicious Sea Food Spagetti. So good!
The Sailboats pass by for the Sunset. A perfect end of a perfect day.
We take the, now dark, narrow and winding road back to AGS. Wat a lovely few days on Σαντορίνη
June 13th - Checking Out
It's 11 o'clock. We already finished our breakfast. Suitecase is packed. A quick shower and than the long trip back home starts. Our flight is at 15:20, so we still have a few hours to look around and have lunch.
// Why I noted October in my little note book in stead of June all the time ... no idea. Wonder what will be so special in October?? //
We decide to go to Firostefani, park near the local church and have a look around. To celebrate the last views on the Caldera we have a too good Chocolate Feast Crepe. Yummie.
The trip back is smooth. Nürnberg is as boring as we remember it from our inbound flight. Luggage handling in Düsseldorf is very very slow ... is it always is here. An hour and a bit drive through the pooring rain and we are back home. It's 21:00 hourse on Whit Sunday (Pentecost), we cuddle Maja and Loeki and fall a sleep.
6 Lovely days are unfortunately ended. Tomorrow back to the 'real' world.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Vilamendhoo - Manta Paradise
March 6th - Leaving for the Maldives
Our holiday to Vilamendhoo actually started yesterday, when we brought our cats, Maja & Loeki, to the cat hotel - for the first time in their young lives. As always, Maja fearless and Loeki a little scarred, but curiosity took the upper hand quickly. We are sure they will be fine, but miss them already now ...
Pakking the car in the afternoon and heading for Frankfurt Airport. Despite the distance it, again, only takes 2¼ hour. Hopefully we parked in the correct place, as we had prebooked our parking tickets - we'll see in 2 weeks on our return.
Checking in at Condor was fast and as we, as always, are way too early, the boring waiting can start. And omg what is Franfurt Airport a boring place.
20:30 hours, finally, we are in the air. The plane is quite old and not very comfy, but as we both slept quite easily and, given the circumstances, good, there is little to report from the flight itself.
10:something hours we land on Male Airport. It takes some time before our luggage is spotted, but at least all has arrived. A few counters later we are at Trans Maldivian, for the last part of the trip.
Unfortunately they had some delayed planes in the morning, so it took untill 13:30 hours before we boarded the Twinotter Water Plane to leave for our little paradise for the next 2 weeks.
After a short stop at Vakarufalhi we arrived at Vilamendhoo. Looks good! Room 215 was assigned to us, and Petra already knows that that is not the best room ... . Arriving at the room it shows why. The room is great, but the view is not that great - quite blocked by the mangroves. Later that day we checked at reception if we could change rooms. "Sorry, we are fully booked. Maybe 2 days later".
Time for dinner. A beautiful restaurant, free seating and delicious food. Our waiter is Ahmed.
Time to sleep now, as we are both very tired.
March 7th - The first morning
Hmmm .... why is Jos already standing under the shower? And aaaggghhh ..... why did he swtch on the airco? Jos is actually still asleep, and Petra is obviously also not awake yet! Outside it is pooring rain.
After we got up we first checked out the jaccuzzi. Lovely, a warm bubbling tub to wake up in :-) Time for breakfast. After which we round the island to see how it really looks like. Around the corner - the assumed better location - is quite busy, so we decide to stay in 'our' room and not change.
Further down the island the beach is getting smaller and smaller. Concrete blocks and sand bags 'deorate' the view from the Beach Villa's. Yes, we are happy to had decided to upgrade to Jaccuzzi Villa's. Staying at the Beach Villa's would have been less than half the paradise experience.
Around the other corner we return to 'our side' of the island, where the beach and view are perfect again. So these people booked and paid the same Beach Villa as the people at the other side .... quite a difference in experience for the same price! So some are lucky and some less lucky.
On the way back to our room we stop by the Dive Shop to pick up the paper work to sign in. A quick jump in the ocean and lunch time has arrived. In the early afternoon, after a siesta, I did some snorkeling (w/o Petra, who had sun burn). Later in the afternoon to the Dive Shop to sign in. "You have a Yes?" That's correct, and a Doctors Statement confirming that there is no issue and I can dive w/o restiction. We are explained the Check Dive is short, but for free?! We'll see tomorrow what that means.
After a nice cocktail, signing up for the Full Moon Dinner, at the last night of our stay, and a delicious dinner we returned to our room. Looking at the stars from the jacuzzi before we go to sleep ... the first day had come to an end.
March 8th - Check Dive
// Sleepin sleeping sleeping. Unbelievable, after years - especially the last 2 - of sleeping very bad, I seem to be unable to wake up. We used to think it was due to the diving, and that Nitrox would reduce the need for sleep. But now, without even a minute of diving, I keep sleeping sleeping sleeping [actually I hed just started my new medication: Humira, which is very efective!] //
// Daddies ... Vilamendhoo had just been upgraded. New restaurants, improved rooms, you name it. But most of all: new wood! So everything smelled as dad used to smell when we were young, when he returned how from the mill/workshop. Nice and familiar. //
Before we enter the water for the Check Dive we get the usuall dive shop tour. A quick peak on the sign in papers shows that we aren't surrounded by novice divers, all have 100+ to 300+ dives!
In the water I was the first to do the usual routine .... no, the mask needs to be removed completely - not just flooded. And now Petra. Same. The complete mask had to be taken off! Why are Sylvia (Dive Guide) and Petra looking at me like that? Oeps ... we also need to do some Buddy Breathing. No problem.
After another 5 minutes looking at the rest of the groupe performing the same routines, and a small tour over the House Reef, we ended the dive and practiced using the Surface Marker Buoy (SMB). The first time both of us ever used them. I was almost caught in the line (way to long) and Petra lost the Buoy immediately (there was a knot in the line).
Just before we jumped in we already signed up for tomorrow: Brocken Rock & Kuda Thila, a 2-tank dive.
(Lunch was again very good)
March 9th - Brocken Rock & Kuda Thila
We both didn't sleep that well. My back hurted, and that was exactly the issue that had gone.
For the first time we had to hurry a little. 2-Tank dives leave earlier (gather at 7:50, leave at 8:00), so we arrived at the restaurant early. "We open at 7:30 sir". Okay, okay, we'll wait. At 7:25 we entered and after a good, but quick, breakfast we picked up our gear at the room and headed for the Dive Shop. Oeps, forgot to bring our wetsuites. Quickly back to grab them. So afterall the slowest couple on the boat.
And now the 1st, real, dive. Descent was problematic for Petra, so couldn't clear her ears and due to that she had to swim against the current a little longer before she could hide from the current behind the reef. After first catching our breath, we could start for our tour around the small Reef Block. It still looked very pretty, but we were both a little too restless to fully enjoyi it. On the top of the reef at the canyon (the "Brocken" part) we saw many of the other divers nicely hanging in the current, while being hold by their Reef Hooks. For us the dive had ended, as we were out of air.
During the safety stop we both employed our SMB. Petra's regulator was caught in the line, so she shot to the surface after the buoy.
After the hour surface interval our second dive: Kuda Thila. Nice and easy, little current and a beautiful reef. We found a Stingray in a cave and 2 Octopuses. A very nice dive indeed.
After lunch we started the afternoon lazy with a siesta, after which we did some snorkeling and repared Petra's wetsuite. Ending with a cocktail.
March 10th - Chase for Manta's
Fairly early (15 minutes later than yesterday) we leave with the boat (the fast glassfiber one) to the West of the South Ari Atholl, to Rangali Madivaru (used to be known as Hukuru Elhi Faru), the local Manta Point! We arrive after an hour an fifteen minutes, cruising a perfect flat sea.
Under water it looked familiar. Even the group of Blue Striped Yellow Snappers is still there after all these years ... although a little smaller. And what about the Manta's? Are they still there? After an half an hour in the dive, still no Manta ....
And than, out of 'thin water' one flies by. It seemed to be the frontrunner. A beautifull Manta show on the Cleaning Station is what follows!
The second dive is even better. Manta's throughout the complete dive. Even during the safety stop 2 fly by. Fantastic!
The 3rd and last dive of the day is at Angaga Thila. From the boat Angaga Island looks very nice, and under water it still looks good. A White Tip Reef Shark swims past, followed by a Stingray. On the top of the Thila we find an Octopus a Hawksbill Turtle, busy eating. As a bonus we find a sleeping baby WTR Shark. It wakes up due to all the divers on the reef, swims a round and returns underneath its small rock.
A very nice day on the Indian Ocean!
March 11th - Tsunami
After a lovely long night of sleep (no morning boat dive on our program today) we walk over 'our' beach to the sea. The sea is sooo calm and clear today. First a delicious (and big) breakfast and than to the Dive Shop to sign in for a House Reef dive. Just to 2 of us, we are really looking forward to it.
A few minutes past eleven we enter the water at enterance 4, just in front of the dive shop. Omg, what is the water clear today. The group of Jacks, the white sand and the blue water. It is magnificent. Like flying through air.
Descending further we find the current against us and turn left (no point swimming against the current), and the beauty disappears. Still nice things to see though: a school of Batfish, a Giant Moray Eel and an Octopus as bonus. When exiting (exit 3) we are smiled at by the Clownfish. A lovely dive.
Back in our room, we just finished lunch, we get an SMS from Patrick: Heaviest Earthquake in East Japan in over 140 years, 8.9 on the Richter scale, Tsunami Alerts in the Pacific. It's now 6 years that we were in the South Ari Atoll for the first time, just a few months after the horrifing Tsunami of Christmas 2004. The images reapear ... Brrrr. "Luckily" it can't hit the Indian Ocean this time as it is on the otherside of the globe.
While enjoying siting on 'our' beach and staring over the ocean, our neighbour walks out holding his laptop. "It's freezing cold at home and I want to show my sister our beach and view ... ha ha". We had seen them talking to the laptop earlier.
// The tabwater tastes quite good. It is made by reverse osmoses, so should be safe to drink. It is noted somewhere that it's advised to drink bottled water. At $4,00 a bottle that would be my advise as well //
// Decided to keep buying bottles. Better safe than sorry as getting ill is not an option for me due to my medication //
March 12th - Kudu Rah Thila
While walking to the Dive Shop a British couple pops up beside us. "Are you on our boat?". "No idea, we are going to Luck Hell". "I think they changed that". Hmmm, let's check. The Japanese/Chinese (?) Diveguide (Russian we learned later) was holding the list. "Kudu Rah Thila" it said, and we were on as well. So they were right. And no problem, as this is one of my "Really must do this holiday dive sites".
Arriving at the dive site Luba (she, Russian) and Emmanuel (he, German?) had trouble finding the dive site. After sailing a few times up and down they found it. Emmanuel did the current check: "Moderate to strong". It is going to be hard work than!
Descending was quite smooth with little current, so Petra could clear slowly. Once on the reef the current picked up. Hold and crowl it is than. Once we found a good spot, next to eachother, to hold, we saw a giga Guitar Ray cruising by at 45 to 50 meter depth, so far below us. I descent to 29 meter to get as close as possible for a good shot. What a big animal compared to the WTR Shark (~1.5m) swimming by. After that I began to struggle. Mucus in my throat and a beginnig headache (worked to hard obvisouly). Luckily we could hide behind a reef block and catch our breath.
// Next time we go to the Maldives we should make sure to bring a Reef Hook! It must be soo much more relaxing to hang in the current and look around, rather than fight it and hold to the sharp rocks //
We look around for another 20 mintues in the shade of the current, and than drift of in the blue for our safety stop. Another 48 beautiful minutes added to our "Memory Stick".
Back at the Dive Shop we decide for 3 easy dives tomorrow: back to Manta Point!
The day ends as it should on a holiday: Nice food, being lazy, staring over the blue sea, reading a book and sipping a cocktail.
March 13th - Manta's : Lucky again
Today we have to get up early again, as have to be at the Dive Shop at 08:00. Our Dive Guide is Illy. What a relief, a guide that laughs and seems to enjoy his work. This time we use the wooden boat. Slower, but much bigger and due to that more comfortable. Captain's name is Jack (yeah, right). Also the crew is all smiles this time.
The first dive is like immediately hitting the jackpot. Manta's fly by all around us. This never gets boring! Back on the boat Illy cries "who cares about 60 minutes max dive time when you have such a dive", with a big smile on his face. Yes, he is definately not Swiss.
The second dive has a good start as well, but after about 30 minutes the current turnes and the Manta's are gone. A big Napoleon as bonus at the end of the dive though.
The lunch was (too) small, as it was the previous Full Day @ Manta Point. And as last time we will complete the three dives at Angaga Thila. And again it is a good dive: A WTR Shark cruises by, two are sleeping on the sandy bottom below us and 2 Tuna shoot by. On the reef we see 2 Octopuses, some Turtles and at the end I find the sleeping baby WTR Shark .... still under the same rock.
Yes, a fabulous Full Day ..... will we join again next Wednesday?
March 14th - Kudhima Wreck
After a relaxed breakfast, during which our waiter Ahmed explains that many people from the other side of the island want to eat at our side because his colleagues at the other side are somewhat lazy, we leave for Machchafushi Island Resort where in 1999 the MV Kudhima was sunk in its House Reef. Our dive site of the day.
The hoped for Eagle Rays and Nurse Sharks weren't home today. A Stingray and a huge Stone Fish (not seen yet by dive guides Luba and Sylvia) and lots of glass fish were. When heading for the House Reef to end the dive we passed an nice school of Batfish. During the safety stop we hang in the middle of a school of Bannerfish.
// On our way back to Vila Sylvia told us about her previous location: Cocoa Island in the South Male Atoll ("$3000,-- a night .... those people are crazy"). There was little coral over there (best is in the South Ari Atoll, where we are now), but plenty of Sharks (30 - 40 Grey Reef Sharks on Cocoa Thila) and Eagle Rays. Maybe something for a next holiday ..... if we can find an offerdable Island in that Atoll. //
In the early evening we made a nice night dive on the House Reef (exit 4 to 5), after having spend a lazt afternoon on the beach.
March 15th - Vilamendhoo Thila (Eagle Rays)
This morning Illy is joining us again as guide (good). Vilamendhoo Thila lies, as the name already reveals, just off the Resort. So after 5 to 10 (very slow) minutes the boat arrives at the dive site. Dolphines .... would we still see them under water? You never know.
After having checked the current Illy jumps in to join us. We descent to the bottom of the Atoll (appr. 30 meters). At this depth the Channels connect the inside of the Atolls with the open sea, where water flow past the Islands and sandbanks after which it drops for many (100+) meters. Due to the currents at these inlets/outlets these are the places where the big fish action can be expected. While hanging on the Channel edge we see a few WTR Sharks passing by.
From there we follow the Thila inwards the Atoll. And yes .... man it has been a while, but there they are: Eagle Rays. First one, then another four. So elegant and so close. Agghh, pushed the wrong button on the camera, so didn't record anything ... and they were sooo close. Luckily they turn around and this time a can capture one of them quite close up. What a beauty!
The other divers, except Wolfgang, missed all the action. Wolfgang's buddy had finished his air quite early in the dive and surfaced with Illy, while Wolfgang teamed up with us. The rest of the group didn't bother staying deep and were hovering the reef, or already back on the boat.
As we returned early, after hardly a boat ride, Petra suggested to do the House Reef again before lunch. Of course!
So after a quick safety interval in our Jacuzzi we went back to the Dive Shop. Illy advises us to try exit 2. Once in the water we noticed there was quite a lot of current, so after only 10 minutes in the dive we already passed exit 3. At that time the current disappeared, so we could slowly continue to exit 4, right in front of the Dive Ship. On route we saw many nice things, among which a Spinny Lobster and a Boxing Mantis Shrimp.
After that busy morning we decided for a lazy afternoon. Tomorrow we are joining the 2-tank .... who knows what that will bring.
March 16th - AA Thila
Today a 2-tank dive on the menu. Starting with AA Thila (this used to be called Maaya Thila, but as that was very confusing as the world famous dive site in the Northern part of the Ari Atoll has the same name, they changed it to AA Thila), and than Ranveli Thila. Dive Guides are Sylvia, Hussein and 2 newbies (the last part wasn't clear, but as one of them did a current check this was our assumption).
On AA Thila we see our first (and maybe last?) Grey Reef Shark of this holiday. The reef is very beautiful and due to the small current we could nice drift along it.
After the mandatory 1 hour interval we go for Ranveli Thila, Vilamendhoo's neighbouring Island. The Thila is at the other side of the island. After a briefing from Hussein (a little practice can't hurt) we arrive. From the boat we already saw the sea swirl so no surprise there was a lot of current on the dive site. Next that there were many thermoclines, the first from warm to cold .... bbrrrrr. Due to the current there were little options: either hold on or fly away. Due to the depth of the dive site we were using quite some air. After about 45 minutes we called it a day and followed the French couple for the Safety Stop.
Back at the Dive Shop we decided to tomorrow, once again, go play with the Manta's. After a nice afternoon of doing little and reading a book, we wlked back to the Dive Shop to sign up for Fridays 2-tank dive. Oh no, they are going to that wreck ... something we both didn't look forward to. Join to Kuda Rah Thila than ... ? After some discussion between us we decided to try to change the 2-tank to 7th Heaven. Last diving day, haven't been there yet, etc etc. Hussein was already off to make it happen. He checked with Emmanuel, who was also okay with the change (jippie).
So nice, a 2-tank on Friday, maybe backed up with a House Reef. We'll see. But first a cocktail and dinner.
March 17th - The French Boat (Manta's)
While checking in in the morning we were told we were on the "French Boat". The four persons next to us "O, but we are Dutch?!". Midden Limburg we found out later. But okay, there were a lot of French on the boat. Plus the 4 Dutchies, plus 2 Italians, and us. So pretty packed.
Our Dive Guide for the day was French and called Yannick. After he checked the current for the first dive he brought us the bad news: "Small outgoing current, second dive will be incomming". Shit. That means NO Manta's .... . And unfortunately that was true. We stared in the blue the whole dive ..... but NO Manta's.
During the safety interval we saw people snorkeling. I picked up my fins, put on my mask and jumped in. YES! The Manta's are back. So we enter the water with big hopes. I hear a banger in front of me. A WTR Shark. Nice, but not what we are looking for. But, behind the Shark, there it is. The Manta is flying right at us. After that we enjoy an ammazing Manta Show for an hour. 4 -5 of them keep on circling over us. Again and again and again. Yannick was right, the current had turned back to out going .... we were sooo lucky (and happy).
The last dive of the day was themed: Look for the Frogfish. Yannick knew its location, give or take a meter and with a little luck there were still 2 of them. A small Yellow Clown and a Green one. We looked, and looked .... and looked. 15 Divers scanned the Wall up and down, and left to right, but NO Frogfish. We did see 2 Marbles (2 baby Yellow Boxfishes).
Back at the Dive Shop we sign in for tomorrows afternoon dive (our last one): X-Roads .... a Channel Crossing.
March 18th - 7th Heaven
After a warm night - it's never cold here but last night was realy hot, high humidity we guess - we prepare for our last day of diving of this holiday.
Our bag is packed, the tip for the roomboy ($10) lies on the bed, just a few minutes for the restaurant to open. A quick breakfast and than to the Dive Shop as the boat already leaves at 08:00 for the 2-tank dive. And hopefully we are not back too late as our afternoon dive is already at 14:00. But okay, these 2 dives first.
The first dive with Yannick and Luba is a nice one. The visibilty is not that good, and the soft coral is not fully open, but we do see another Grey Reef Shark. We end the dive on the reeftop, hanging in the current, looking at the many fish.
As I asked for a dive site change the second one was quite a distance: Lucky Rock. And lucky it was. Two Guitar Rays, a few WTR Sharks, a few Stingrays, some big Jacks and a lot of small stuff. If we ever come back to the South Ari Atoll, this is a must do again dive site!
We had forgotten that lunch on Fridays start later, so we had to still hurry a bit to be on time for our 3rd and last dive. Hmmm .... 15 minutes later would have been well in time also, so we didn't had to hurry.
This third dive is obviously "The Dive to Do"! Only 7 divers, but 3 Dive Guides to join: Illy, Emmanuel and Mike. So this is their way of having fun.
Under water we followed the Atoll bottom at 30 meter, just at the edge - to be sure not to be "swallowed" and flushed into the Atoll. Emmanuel did the trick with the bottle, and there the Jacks come looking as well as some WTR Sharks. A little later a gigantic Napoleon, a huge Grouper and a Stingray. As we already had 2 deep dives behind us today, we had to start ascending as we were running out of No Deco Time. Little later the current picked us up and pulled is in the Atoll. A short, but beautifull dive had ended. Time for a Kurumba Colada ... we desirved it!
The waiters have nicely decorated a few tables. We pick a table outside. The table in front of us is full of flowers. Happy B'Day it reads. There is our waiter, Ahmed. He askes us, in a strange way, whether we don't want to sit inside. We decide to stay outside and head for the buffet. Ahmed looks a little dazed. He walks towards Petra and takes her to a beautiful decorated table in the corner. Aha, hence the strange behaviour. He smills full of proud when he sits us down. Quickly run to the room for the camera!
A little later the young German couple - they have the B'Day Table - comes passed our table (he looks like Junkie XL). "Also a Birthday?". "No". "Honey Moon?". "No, just a happy waiter". Maybe not my most tacktfull reply. Anyway, they leave and we can go to the buffet.
March 19th - Full Moon
Our last day, so no diving adventures to tell about. Slow breakfast, lazy day at the sea reading a book ..... just waste time. At 17:00 to the Dive Shop. Check the bill, stamp the Logbooks. Chat with the staff. To reception - quickly back, as I had forgotten the tip for the boat crew and tenders - where we found the bill to be slightly higher than anticipated (what's new). But as the Dive Shop bill was transfered to reception yet, we couldn't pay yet, so to the Sunset Bar for a ..... Vilamendhoo Sunrise.
It was almost seventhirty so we headed for the other side of the Island for our Full Moon Dinner at the Wok Restaurant. This really was a perfect end of a perfect holiday. Sitting outside, over the lagune, lovely food and romantice soft live music.
On our way back, passed reception, we did the credit card trick: Close your eyes and sign .... the damage is a worry for later. Strange, all guest say "Thank you" after settling their bill .... surprisingly I find myself doing the same.
A last night on the Island. Tomorrow at 09:10 our Water Plane leaves for Male International Airport.
March 20th - Back Home
During our last breakfast we take in the last views (and last delicious items from the buffet). We say goodbye to our waiter, Ahmed and leave the restaurant.
The flight to Male is a smooth one, same as the check in for our return flight home. Our plane has to wait for another plane that's in our way - Male Airport is too small for Taxi Lanes and it is starting to get a busy place. There we go ... the long flight home has started. Despite a take off delay of 45 minutes we land spot on time in Frankfurt. Three hours later we are home.
The next morning we picked up Maja & Loeki. The sun is shining ... it will be a beautiful spring day in Maastricht.
Our holiday to Vilamendhoo actually started yesterday, when we brought our cats, Maja & Loeki, to the cat hotel - for the first time in their young lives. As always, Maja fearless and Loeki a little scarred, but curiosity took the upper hand quickly. We are sure they will be fine, but miss them already now ...
Pakking the car in the afternoon and heading for Frankfurt Airport. Despite the distance it, again, only takes 2¼ hour. Hopefully we parked in the correct place, as we had prebooked our parking tickets - we'll see in 2 weeks on our return.
Checking in at Condor was fast and as we, as always, are way too early, the boring waiting can start. And omg what is Franfurt Airport a boring place.
20:30 hours, finally, we are in the air. The plane is quite old and not very comfy, but as we both slept quite easily and, given the circumstances, good, there is little to report from the flight itself.
10:something hours we land on Male Airport. It takes some time before our luggage is spotted, but at least all has arrived. A few counters later we are at Trans Maldivian, for the last part of the trip.
Unfortunately they had some delayed planes in the morning, so it took untill 13:30 hours before we boarded the Twinotter Water Plane to leave for our little paradise for the next 2 weeks.
After a short stop at Vakarufalhi we arrived at Vilamendhoo. Looks good! Room 215 was assigned to us, and Petra already knows that that is not the best room ... . Arriving at the room it shows why. The room is great, but the view is not that great - quite blocked by the mangroves. Later that day we checked at reception if we could change rooms. "Sorry, we are fully booked. Maybe 2 days later".
Time for dinner. A beautiful restaurant, free seating and delicious food. Our waiter is Ahmed.
Time to sleep now, as we are both very tired.
March 7th - The first morning
Hmmm .... why is Jos already standing under the shower? And aaaggghhh ..... why did he swtch on the airco? Jos is actually still asleep, and Petra is obviously also not awake yet! Outside it is pooring rain.
After we got up we first checked out the jaccuzzi. Lovely, a warm bubbling tub to wake up in :-) Time for breakfast. After which we round the island to see how it really looks like. Around the corner - the assumed better location - is quite busy, so we decide to stay in 'our' room and not change.
Further down the island the beach is getting smaller and smaller. Concrete blocks and sand bags 'deorate' the view from the Beach Villa's. Yes, we are happy to had decided to upgrade to Jaccuzzi Villa's. Staying at the Beach Villa's would have been less than half the paradise experience.
Around the other corner we return to 'our side' of the island, where the beach and view are perfect again. So these people booked and paid the same Beach Villa as the people at the other side .... quite a difference in experience for the same price! So some are lucky and some less lucky.
On the way back to our room we stop by the Dive Shop to pick up the paper work to sign in. A quick jump in the ocean and lunch time has arrived. In the early afternoon, after a siesta, I did some snorkeling (w/o Petra, who had sun burn). Later in the afternoon to the Dive Shop to sign in. "You have a Yes?" That's correct, and a Doctors Statement confirming that there is no issue and I can dive w/o restiction. We are explained the Check Dive is short, but for free?! We'll see tomorrow what that means.
After a nice cocktail, signing up for the Full Moon Dinner, at the last night of our stay, and a delicious dinner we returned to our room. Looking at the stars from the jacuzzi before we go to sleep ... the first day had come to an end.
March 8th - Check Dive
// Sleepin sleeping sleeping. Unbelievable, after years - especially the last 2 - of sleeping very bad, I seem to be unable to wake up. We used to think it was due to the diving, and that Nitrox would reduce the need for sleep. But now, without even a minute of diving, I keep sleeping sleeping sleeping [actually I hed just started my new medication: Humira, which is very efective!] //
// Daddies ... Vilamendhoo had just been upgraded. New restaurants, improved rooms, you name it. But most of all: new wood! So everything smelled as dad used to smell when we were young, when he returned how from the mill/workshop. Nice and familiar. //
Before we enter the water for the Check Dive we get the usuall dive shop tour. A quick peak on the sign in papers shows that we aren't surrounded by novice divers, all have 100+ to 300+ dives!
In the water I was the first to do the usual routine .... no, the mask needs to be removed completely - not just flooded. And now Petra. Same. The complete mask had to be taken off! Why are Sylvia (Dive Guide) and Petra looking at me like that? Oeps ... we also need to do some Buddy Breathing. No problem.
After another 5 minutes looking at the rest of the groupe performing the same routines, and a small tour over the House Reef, we ended the dive and practiced using the Surface Marker Buoy (SMB). The first time both of us ever used them. I was almost caught in the line (way to long) and Petra lost the Buoy immediately (there was a knot in the line).
Jos: 31 [min] / 16.5 [m] | Petra: 30 [min] / 16.5 [m]
Just before we jumped in we already signed up for tomorrow: Brocken Rock & Kuda Thila, a 2-tank dive.
(Lunch was again very good)
March 9th - Brocken Rock & Kuda Thila
We both didn't sleep that well. My back hurted, and that was exactly the issue that had gone.
For the first time we had to hurry a little. 2-Tank dives leave earlier (gather at 7:50, leave at 8:00), so we arrived at the restaurant early. "We open at 7:30 sir". Okay, okay, we'll wait. At 7:25 we entered and after a good, but quick, breakfast we picked up our gear at the room and headed for the Dive Shop. Oeps, forgot to bring our wetsuites. Quickly back to grab them. So afterall the slowest couple on the boat.
And now the 1st, real, dive. Descent was problematic for Petra, so couldn't clear her ears and due to that she had to swim against the current a little longer before she could hide from the current behind the reef. After first catching our breath, we could start for our tour around the small Reef Block. It still looked very pretty, but we were both a little too restless to fully enjoyi it. On the top of the reef at the canyon (the "Brocken" part) we saw many of the other divers nicely hanging in the current, while being hold by their Reef Hooks. For us the dive had ended, as we were out of air.
During the safety stop we both employed our SMB. Petra's regulator was caught in the line, so she shot to the surface after the buoy.
Jos: 48 [min] / 24.1 [m] | Petra: 45 [min] / 23.2 [m]
After the hour surface interval our second dive: Kuda Thila. Nice and easy, little current and a beautiful reef. We found a Stingray in a cave and 2 Octopuses. A very nice dive indeed.
Jos: 59 [min] / 30.2 [m] / Petra: 58 [min] / 26.5 [m]
After lunch we started the afternoon lazy with a siesta, after which we did some snorkeling and repared Petra's wetsuite. Ending with a cocktail.
March 10th - Chase for Manta's
Fairly early (15 minutes later than yesterday) we leave with the boat (the fast glassfiber one) to the West of the South Ari Atholl, to Rangali Madivaru (used to be known as Hukuru Elhi Faru), the local Manta Point! We arrive after an hour an fifteen minutes, cruising a perfect flat sea.
Under water it looked familiar. Even the group of Blue Striped Yellow Snappers is still there after all these years ... although a little smaller. And what about the Manta's? Are they still there? After an half an hour in the dive, still no Manta ....
And than, out of 'thin water' one flies by. It seemed to be the frontrunner. A beautifull Manta show on the Cleaning Station is what follows!
Jos: 62 [min] / 16.5 [m] / Petra: 61 [min] / 15.5 [m]
Jos: 62 [min] / 14.6 [m] / Petra: 62 [min] / 14.3 [m]
The 3rd and last dive of the day is at Angaga Thila. From the boat Angaga Island looks very nice, and under water it still looks good. A White Tip Reef Shark swims past, followed by a Stingray. On the top of the Thila we find an Octopus a Hawksbill Turtle, busy eating. As a bonus we find a sleeping baby WTR Shark. It wakes up due to all the divers on the reef, swims a round and returns underneath its small rock.
Jos: 61 [min] / 25.9 [m] / Petra: 61 [min] / 24.7 [m]
A very nice day on the Indian Ocean!
March 11th - Tsunami
After a lovely long night of sleep (no morning boat dive on our program today) we walk over 'our' beach to the sea. The sea is sooo calm and clear today. First a delicious (and big) breakfast and than to the Dive Shop to sign in for a House Reef dive. Just to 2 of us, we are really looking forward to it.
A few minutes past eleven we enter the water at enterance 4, just in front of the dive shop. Omg, what is the water clear today. The group of Jacks, the white sand and the blue water. It is magnificent. Like flying through air.
Descending further we find the current against us and turn left (no point swimming against the current), and the beauty disappears. Still nice things to see though: a school of Batfish, a Giant Moray Eel and an Octopus as bonus. When exiting (exit 3) we are smiled at by the Clownfish. A lovely dive.
Jos: 69 [min] / 26.2 [m] / Petra: 69 [min] / 24.4 [m]
Back in our room, we just finished lunch, we get an SMS from Patrick: Heaviest Earthquake in East Japan in over 140 years, 8.9 on the Richter scale, Tsunami Alerts in the Pacific. It's now 6 years that we were in the South Ari Atoll for the first time, just a few months after the horrifing Tsunami of Christmas 2004. The images reapear ... Brrrr. "Luckily" it can't hit the Indian Ocean this time as it is on the otherside of the globe.
While enjoying siting on 'our' beach and staring over the ocean, our neighbour walks out holding his laptop. "It's freezing cold at home and I want to show my sister our beach and view ... ha ha". We had seen them talking to the laptop earlier.
// The tabwater tastes quite good. It is made by reverse osmoses, so should be safe to drink. It is noted somewhere that it's advised to drink bottled water. At $4,00 a bottle that would be my advise as well //
// Finished my 1st book: Martin Bril - Meisjes //
// Decided to keep buying bottles. Better safe than sorry as getting ill is not an option for me due to my medication //
March 12th - Kudu Rah Thila
While walking to the Dive Shop a British couple pops up beside us. "Are you on our boat?". "No idea, we are going to Luck Hell". "I think they changed that". Hmmm, let's check. The Japanese/Chinese (?) Diveguide (Russian we learned later) was holding the list. "Kudu Rah Thila" it said, and we were on as well. So they were right. And no problem, as this is one of my "Really must do this holiday dive sites".
Arriving at the dive site Luba (she, Russian) and Emmanuel (he, German?) had trouble finding the dive site. After sailing a few times up and down they found it. Emmanuel did the current check: "Moderate to strong". It is going to be hard work than!
Descending was quite smooth with little current, so Petra could clear slowly. Once on the reef the current picked up. Hold and crowl it is than. Once we found a good spot, next to eachother, to hold, we saw a giga Guitar Ray cruising by at 45 to 50 meter depth, so far below us. I descent to 29 meter to get as close as possible for a good shot. What a big animal compared to the WTR Shark (~1.5m) swimming by. After that I began to struggle. Mucus in my throat and a beginnig headache (worked to hard obvisouly). Luckily we could hide behind a reef block and catch our breath.
// Next time we go to the Maldives we should make sure to bring a Reef Hook! It must be soo much more relaxing to hang in the current and look around, rather than fight it and hold to the sharp rocks //
We look around for another 20 mintues in the shade of the current, and than drift of in the blue for our safety stop. Another 48 beautiful minutes added to our "Memory Stick".
Jos: 48 [min] / 29.3 [m] | Petra: 47 [min] / 27.2 [m]
Back at the Dive Shop we decide for 3 easy dives tomorrow: back to Manta Point!
The day ends as it should on a holiday: Nice food, being lazy, staring over the blue sea, reading a book and sipping a cocktail.
March 13th - Manta's : Lucky again
Today we have to get up early again, as have to be at the Dive Shop at 08:00. Our Dive Guide is Illy. What a relief, a guide that laughs and seems to enjoy his work. This time we use the wooden boat. Slower, but much bigger and due to that more comfortable. Captain's name is Jack (yeah, right). Also the crew is all smiles this time.
The first dive is like immediately hitting the jackpot. Manta's fly by all around us. This never gets boring! Back on the boat Illy cries "who cares about 60 minutes max dive time when you have such a dive", with a big smile on his face. Yes, he is definately not Swiss.
Jos: 65 [min] / 21.3 [m] | Petra: 65 [min] / 19.2 [m]
The second dive has a good start as well, but after about 30 minutes the current turnes and the Manta's are gone. A big Napoleon as bonus at the end of the dive though.
Jos: 61 [min] / 16.8 [m] | Petra: 62 [min] / 14.3 [m]
The lunch was (too) small, as it was the previous Full Day @ Manta Point. And as last time we will complete the three dives at Angaga Thila. And again it is a good dive: A WTR Shark cruises by, two are sleeping on the sandy bottom below us and 2 Tuna shoot by. On the reef we see 2 Octopuses, some Turtles and at the end I find the sleeping baby WTR Shark .... still under the same rock.
Jos: 60 [min] / 29.9 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 28.0 [m]
Yes, a fabulous Full Day ..... will we join again next Wednesday?
// Finished my 2nd book: Karin Fossum - De Waarschuwer //
March 14th - Kudhima Wreck
After a relaxed breakfast, during which our waiter Ahmed explains that many people from the other side of the island want to eat at our side because his colleagues at the other side are somewhat lazy, we leave for Machchafushi Island Resort where in 1999 the MV Kudhima was sunk in its House Reef. Our dive site of the day.
The hoped for Eagle Rays and Nurse Sharks weren't home today. A Stingray and a huge Stone Fish (not seen yet by dive guides Luba and Sylvia) and lots of glass fish were. When heading for the House Reef to end the dive we passed an nice school of Batfish. During the safety stop we hang in the middle of a school of Bannerfish.
Jos: 60 [min] / 31.2 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 29.9 [m]
// On our way back to Vila Sylvia told us about her previous location: Cocoa Island in the South Male Atoll ("$3000,-- a night .... those people are crazy"). There was little coral over there (best is in the South Ari Atoll, where we are now), but plenty of Sharks (30 - 40 Grey Reef Sharks on Cocoa Thila) and Eagle Rays. Maybe something for a next holiday ..... if we can find an offerdable Island in that Atoll. //
In the early evening we made a nice night dive on the House Reef (exit 4 to 5), after having spend a lazt afternoon on the beach.
Jos: 61 [min] / 15.5 [m] | Petra: 61 [min] / 14.6 [m]
March 15th - Vilamendhoo Thila (Eagle Rays)
This morning Illy is joining us again as guide (good). Vilamendhoo Thila lies, as the name already reveals, just off the Resort. So after 5 to 10 (very slow) minutes the boat arrives at the dive site. Dolphines .... would we still see them under water? You never know.
After having checked the current Illy jumps in to join us. We descent to the bottom of the Atoll (appr. 30 meters). At this depth the Channels connect the inside of the Atolls with the open sea, where water flow past the Islands and sandbanks after which it drops for many (100+) meters. Due to the currents at these inlets/outlets these are the places where the big fish action can be expected. While hanging on the Channel edge we see a few WTR Sharks passing by.
From there we follow the Thila inwards the Atoll. And yes .... man it has been a while, but there they are: Eagle Rays. First one, then another four. So elegant and so close. Agghh, pushed the wrong button on the camera, so didn't record anything ... and they were sooo close. Luckily they turn around and this time a can capture one of them quite close up. What a beauty!
Jos: 52 [min] / 31.7 [m] | Petra: 51 [min] / 30.1 [m]
The other divers, except Wolfgang, missed all the action. Wolfgang's buddy had finished his air quite early in the dive and surfaced with Illy, while Wolfgang teamed up with us. The rest of the group didn't bother staying deep and were hovering the reef, or already back on the boat.
As we returned early, after hardly a boat ride, Petra suggested to do the House Reef again before lunch. Of course!
So after a quick safety interval in our Jacuzzi we went back to the Dive Shop. Illy advises us to try exit 2. Once in the water we noticed there was quite a lot of current, so after only 10 minutes in the dive we already passed exit 3. At that time the current disappeared, so we could slowly continue to exit 4, right in front of the Dive Ship. On route we saw many nice things, among which a Spinny Lobster and a Boxing Mantis Shrimp.
Jos: 62 [min] / 25.0 [m] | Petra: 61 [min] / 23.4 [m]
After that busy morning we decided for a lazy afternoon. Tomorrow we are joining the 2-tank .... who knows what that will bring.
March 16th - AA Thila
Today a 2-tank dive on the menu. Starting with AA Thila (this used to be called Maaya Thila, but as that was very confusing as the world famous dive site in the Northern part of the Ari Atoll has the same name, they changed it to AA Thila), and than Ranveli Thila. Dive Guides are Sylvia, Hussein and 2 newbies (the last part wasn't clear, but as one of them did a current check this was our assumption).
On AA Thila we see our first (and maybe last?) Grey Reef Shark of this holiday. The reef is very beautiful and due to the small current we could nice drift along it.
Jos: 56 [min] / 26.5 [m] | Petra: 55 [min] / 25.0 [m]
After the mandatory 1 hour interval we go for Ranveli Thila, Vilamendhoo's neighbouring Island. The Thila is at the other side of the island. After a briefing from Hussein (a little practice can't hurt) we arrive. From the boat we already saw the sea swirl so no surprise there was a lot of current on the dive site. Next that there were many thermoclines, the first from warm to cold .... bbrrrrr. Due to the current there were little options: either hold on or fly away. Due to the depth of the dive site we were using quite some air. After about 45 minutes we called it a day and followed the French couple for the Safety Stop.
Jos: 49 [min] / 31.7 [m] | Petra: 49 [min] / 30.5 [m]
Back at the Dive Shop we decided to tomorrow, once again, go play with the Manta's. After a nice afternoon of doing little and reading a book, we wlked back to the Dive Shop to sign up for Fridays 2-tank dive. Oh no, they are going to that wreck ... something we both didn't look forward to. Join to Kuda Rah Thila than ... ? After some discussion between us we decided to try to change the 2-tank to 7th Heaven. Last diving day, haven't been there yet, etc etc. Hussein was already off to make it happen. He checked with Emmanuel, who was also okay with the change (jippie).
// Finished my 3rd book: Manon Pauw - Jetset //
So nice, a 2-tank on Friday, maybe backed up with a House Reef. We'll see. But first a cocktail and dinner.
March 17th - The French Boat (Manta's)
While checking in in the morning we were told we were on the "French Boat". The four persons next to us "O, but we are Dutch?!". Midden Limburg we found out later. But okay, there were a lot of French on the boat. Plus the 4 Dutchies, plus 2 Italians, and us. So pretty packed.
Our Dive Guide for the day was French and called Yannick. After he checked the current for the first dive he brought us the bad news: "Small outgoing current, second dive will be incomming". Shit. That means NO Manta's .... . And unfortunately that was true. We stared in the blue the whole dive ..... but NO Manta's.
Jos: 61 [min] / 20.1 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 18.6 [m]
During the safety interval we saw people snorkeling. I picked up my fins, put on my mask and jumped in. YES! The Manta's are back. So we enter the water with big hopes. I hear a banger in front of me. A WTR Shark. Nice, but not what we are looking for. But, behind the Shark, there it is. The Manta is flying right at us. After that we enjoy an ammazing Manta Show for an hour. 4 -5 of them keep on circling over us. Again and again and again. Yannick was right, the current had turned back to out going .... we were sooo lucky (and happy).
Jos: 65 [min] / 15.1 [m] | Petra: 65 [min] / 15.5 [m]
The last dive of the day was themed: Look for the Frogfish. Yannick knew its location, give or take a meter and with a little luck there were still 2 of them. A small Yellow Clown and a Green one. We looked, and looked .... and looked. 15 Divers scanned the Wall up and down, and left to right, but NO Frogfish. We did see 2 Marbles (2 baby Yellow Boxfishes).
Jos: 60 [min] / 26.5 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 24.7 [m]
Back at the Dive Shop we sign in for tomorrows afternoon dive (our last one): X-Roads .... a Channel Crossing.
March 18th - 7th Heaven
After a warm night - it's never cold here but last night was realy hot, high humidity we guess - we prepare for our last day of diving of this holiday.
Our bag is packed, the tip for the roomboy ($10) lies on the bed, just a few minutes for the restaurant to open. A quick breakfast and than to the Dive Shop as the boat already leaves at 08:00 for the 2-tank dive. And hopefully we are not back too late as our afternoon dive is already at 14:00. But okay, these 2 dives first.
The first dive with Yannick and Luba is a nice one. The visibilty is not that good, and the soft coral is not fully open, but we do see another Grey Reef Shark. We end the dive on the reeftop, hanging in the current, looking at the many fish.
Jos: 52 [min] / 28.7 [m] | Petra: 52 [min] / 28.4 [m]
As I asked for a dive site change the second one was quite a distance: Lucky Rock. And lucky it was. Two Guitar Rays, a few WTR Sharks, a few Stingrays, some big Jacks and a lot of small stuff. If we ever come back to the South Ari Atoll, this is a must do again dive site!
Jos: 60 [min] / 29.6 [m] | Petra: 60 [min] / 30.5 [m]
We had forgotten that lunch on Fridays start later, so we had to still hurry a bit to be on time for our 3rd and last dive. Hmmm .... 15 minutes later would have been well in time also, so we didn't had to hurry.
This third dive is obviously "The Dive to Do"! Only 7 divers, but 3 Dive Guides to join: Illy, Emmanuel and Mike. So this is their way of having fun.
Under water we followed the Atoll bottom at 30 meter, just at the edge - to be sure not to be "swallowed" and flushed into the Atoll. Emmanuel did the trick with the bottle, and there the Jacks come looking as well as some WTR Sharks. A little later a gigantic Napoleon, a huge Grouper and a Stingray. As we already had 2 deep dives behind us today, we had to start ascending as we were running out of No Deco Time. Little later the current picked us up and pulled is in the Atoll. A short, but beautifull dive had ended. Time for a Kurumba Colada ... we desirved it!
Jos: 40 [min] / 31.1 [m] | Petra: 40 [min] / 29.9 [m]
The waiters have nicely decorated a few tables. We pick a table outside. The table in front of us is full of flowers. Happy B'Day it reads. There is our waiter, Ahmed. He askes us, in a strange way, whether we don't want to sit inside. We decide to stay outside and head for the buffet. Ahmed looks a little dazed. He walks towards Petra and takes her to a beautiful decorated table in the corner. Aha, hence the strange behaviour. He smills full of proud when he sits us down. Quickly run to the room for the camera!
A little later the young German couple - they have the B'Day Table - comes passed our table (he looks like Junkie XL). "Also a Birthday?". "No". "Honey Moon?". "No, just a happy waiter". Maybe not my most tacktfull reply. Anyway, they leave and we can go to the buffet.
March 19th - Full Moon
Our last day, so no diving adventures to tell about. Slow breakfast, lazy day at the sea reading a book ..... just waste time. At 17:00 to the Dive Shop. Check the bill, stamp the Logbooks. Chat with the staff. To reception - quickly back, as I had forgotten the tip for the boat crew and tenders - where we found the bill to be slightly higher than anticipated (what's new). But as the Dive Shop bill was transfered to reception yet, we couldn't pay yet, so to the Sunset Bar for a ..... Vilamendhoo Sunrise.
It was almost seventhirty so we headed for the other side of the Island for our Full Moon Dinner at the Wok Restaurant. This really was a perfect end of a perfect holiday. Sitting outside, over the lagune, lovely food and romantice soft live music.
On our way back, passed reception, we did the credit card trick: Close your eyes and sign .... the damage is a worry for later. Strange, all guest say "Thank you" after settling their bill .... surprisingly I find myself doing the same.
A last night on the Island. Tomorrow at 09:10 our Water Plane leaves for Male International Airport.
March 20th - Back Home
During our last breakfast we take in the last views (and last delicious items from the buffet). We say goodbye to our waiter, Ahmed and leave the restaurant.
// Finished my 4th book: Tatiana de Rosnay - Die laatste zomer //
The flight to Male is a smooth one, same as the check in for our return flight home. Our plane has to wait for another plane that's in our way - Male Airport is too small for Taxi Lanes and it is starting to get a busy place. There we go ... the long flight home has started. Despite a take off delay of 45 minutes we land spot on time in Frankfurt. Three hours later we are home.
The next morning we picked up Maja & Loeki. The sun is shining ... it will be a beautiful spring day in Maastricht.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)