Addu Atoll surprised me completely on this trip to Maldives

I went to Maldives with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Addu Atoll. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for saagu bondibai on day two and went back every day after that.

coral reefs was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was bioluminescent beaches that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 10 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.