I recently returned from my dream vacation to the Maldives. When I began researching and planning, I was quickly overwhelmed by the sheer number of resorts (over 200!) and the complexity of coordinating flights and transfers to the islands. That's when I reached out to Karla Atkins at Open Book Travel Company. After a wonderful video chat where I shared my desires and needs, Karla efficiently narrowed down my resort options. Once I chose dates and a resort, Karla managed all the coordination. She took all the stress off my shoulders, and I am forever grateful. Traveling to the Maldives was an adventure in itself. We flew Qatar Airways, and their customer service was top-notch. We had a smooth transfer in Doha, Qatar, with plenty of time to shop in the most elaborate duty-free stores I've ever seen. Upon arrival at Velana International Airport in Male, I worried things would become hectic, and I might miss my seaplane to the resort. However, I needn't have worried. Open Book Travel Company partners with Hummingbird Travel for on-the-ground assistance. As soon as I cleared customs, I was greeted by a representative from my resort, the Hurawalhi, and a Hummingbird representative. They whisked me from the airport terminal to the Sea Plane VIP Lounge, where I was able to shower, enjoy refreshments, and relax until my plane arrived. When it was time to depart, my representatives took care of all the ticketing and baggage transportation. The Hurawalhi resort exceeded every expectation. First, I visited during their monsoon season, which meant a little rain on three of the seven days. The rain didn't impede my plans and even helped keep the heat down. Second, their hospitality is unparalleled. I was expecting the equivalent of a Disney resort, where excellent customer service is available upon request. But Hurawalhi went above and beyond. Upon arrival, a team greeted us with cold, refreshing towels, drinks, a guide, and a cart to whisk me to my hut. I even had my own personal concierge named Akan, who was friendly, informative, and available at all hours. What surprised me even more than the personal concierge was the rest of the staff. Everyone, from the restaurant servers to the bartenders, knew my name. They were all welcoming and friendly, and their customer service was incredible. I chose the all-inclusive package at the resort for unlimited food and alcohol at certain restaurants. The portions were generous, rich, and flavorful. I also opted for two special meals for reasonable prices. The first was at their 5.8 Restaurant, a restaurant with limited seating and set menus located 5.8 meters underwater. The entire seating area is within a plexiglass tube, allowing me to dine and watch the live coral sway in the current. There was a constant stream of fish and other sea life to watch! I enjoyed a superb five-course meal with matching wine pairings. The other dining option I chose was a private dinner on the beach. I had a personal waiter and chef, with the most romantic, movie-ready scenery imaginable – a wonderful memory I will always cherish. I spent my days partaking in the resort's numerous activities, including spa treatments, snorkeling, and various other water activities. It was a truly relaxing paradise. The day of my departure was bittersweet. I didn't want to leave. Akan and the resort made the entire transfer process as seamless as my arrival. At noon, Akan came to my room and handled our final bill and check-out. Then, he had our bags transferred to the reception villa. We were able to eat, drink, and relax by the pool until our boat was ready. Akan accompanied us on the boat to our seaplane to ensure a smooth send-off. At the sea plane terminal, Hummingbird Travel greeted us again and took us back to the VIP lounge until we were able to check in for our flight. They took us to the airport and stayed with us until we were checked in and through security. After that, Qatar Airways ensured we had a pleasant flight home. This was my dream vacation. I am truly grateful to Open Book Travel Company, Hummingbird Travel, and the Hurawalhi resort. I will return to the Maldives one day, and when I do, I'll book it the same way and stay at the same resort.