Disappointed by the tourist experience around overwater bungalows

overwater bungalows in Maldives is extraordinary — the scale and history hit you immediately. But the experience around it has been thoroughly commercialised. Getting there, navigating the crowds, and dealing with persistent sellers around Thulusdhoo centre made it more stressful than it should be.

Away from the main sites the country improves dramatically. The food (saagu bondibai especially) is excellent and total relaxation and luxury was genuinely memorable. But I'd wish for a smoother experience at the headline attractions. It's still worth the trip — just lower your expectations around the big sights.