"Live the Cover!" Contest: Maldives

Great Travel Moment

The afternoon this picture was taken, my friend and I spent the day snorkeling around the reef, talking about the simple and grand things in life, and listening to and watching seagulls. We had a picnic on the beach, and for most of the time we had the“whole island” to ourselves. Only once did another boat pass by; only once did a sea plane fly over. After about four hours, two families approached in sailboats, abruptly interrupting our solitude. But it was the right time. It was time to leave. We were sunburned, and we were ready to move along. What I love about this picture is that it reminds me that as we pulled away, my friend said:“they will think there were turtles on the beach.” This memory is rich with the sound of his voice, the gentleness of his tone, and the warmth of his smile.