My husband and I visited Bathala Island for the fourth consecutive time to the Maldives. We've been mesmerized by this cozy, small island, with wonderful staff, picturesque scenery, breathtaking views, and delicious food.

I don't remember ever having any troubles there, but this time, there was a problem at the seaplane check-in counter. After weighing our suitcases and carry-on luggage, the staff gave us a paper stating that our luggage is "overweight" instead of a boarding pass. I tried to remember what to say in English in this situation, but while I hesitated, my husband tried to explain to the counter staff, by showing the paper and pointing to it, saying only two words in English: "Mistake" and "No.3". That was my husband's carry-on bag. It said that it was 30 kg. There's no way his carry-on luggage could be that heavy, right? The paper said it was 17 kg over the allowed limit, so we had to pay 97 dollars. Luckily, a manager at the airline helped us redo the check-in process, and we were finally able to get our boarding passes.The staff member who made the mistake mumbled something; I only heard "my apology." … Anyway, good job! my darling husband saved the day!

Just when we thought we were in the clear, the flight was delayed. Normally, it takes 30 minutes to reach the island from the airport, but we waited for over 3 hours! They gave us a voucher for a sandwich and a bottle of water, and eventually a representative came to explain that they would be sending guests to their destinations via several other islands, and then deliver our luggage later. They asked us to sign an acknowledgment form to that effect. The weather was sunny and beautiful, so I was really disappointed that my luggage wouldn't arrive until the evening because my swimsuit was in it!

Needless to say, it was a bit of a bumpy start, but this trip brought me some wonderful encounters. I met a beautiful, friendly, and kind Italian family: a mother with a lovely smile, a father with a cool voice, and a clever and handsome son, and an energetic, cute, and sweet daughter. We had an amazing time on the "Manta Safari" together. Then one evening, the father and I sang "Fly Me to the Moon," together at the karaoke event, and now it is stuck in my head!