Discover Why the Maldives Should Be Your Next Travel Destination: An Exclusive Interview with Katarzyna Bober from Resortlife Travel

The Maldives, an iconic tropical paradise, has long been a dream destination for travellers seeking luxury, beauty, and tranquility. However, recent developments and innovations have made this Indian Ocean destination more attractive than ever, with a growing variety of experiences and resorts for travellers. We sat down with Katarzyna Bober, the EU representative for Grizzla Travel, to explore what makes the Maldives stand out from other travel hotspots and why it remains an unparalleled destination for North American travellers.

Why North American Travellers Should Visit the Maldives: A Conversation with Dennis from Grizzla Travel

During the DC Travel Show, Dennis from Grizzla Travel discussed why the Maldives is a must-visit destination for North American travellers. She described the Maldives as “the par ultimate paradise on the earth,” noting how the abundance of travel destinations today makes it hard to match the Maldives’ allure. For Dennis, the most unique feature of the Maldives is how it “forces you in a very nice way to relax,” offering a perfect escape from the daily grind. She highlighted that visitors to the Maldives are not distracted by phones or social media; instead, the only reason one might use their phone is to “take footage of what you see because you want to share it with somebody else.”

When asked about her top recommendations, Dennis shared his unforgettable experience swimming with sharks, saying the nature underwater was “way beyond what I imagined.” She also emphasized that the Maldives offers much more than just relaxation, with plenty of activities like golfing and windsurfing. She continued, “there’s a lot being built, lots of new resorts… there’s still over 400 islands without a habitat.” For Dennis, the Maldives offers not just a paradise but a chance to immerse in the “original culture” of the region, beyond the typical resort experience.

The Maldives: A True Paradise Like No Other

When asked what sets the Maldives apart from other destinations, Katarzyna didn’t hold back “Maldives, without a word of a lie, is the par ultimate paradise on the earth.” While travel options around the globe are abundant, Katarzyna emphasized that the Maldives offers something truly unique that other places simply cannot match. With its pristine natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, the Maldives is a true representation of paradise on earth.

Relax and Disconnect: A Digital Detox Like No Other

One of the key features of the Maldives is its ability to promote a genuine escape from the demands of daily life. As Katarzyna points out, “You’re basically being forced in a very nice way to relax.” In an age where constant connectivity and digital distractions are the norm, the Maldives provides a sanctuary where visitors can disconnect from technology. Katarzyna insists that when you’re in the Maldives, you won’t find yourself scrolling through Instagram or texting “The only reason you use your phone is taking footage of what you see because you want to share it with somebody else.” This digital detox not only helps travelers unwind but also encourages them to engage more fully with the surrounding natural beauty.

Swimming with Sharks: An Unforgettable Underwater Experience

For Katarzyna, one of the highlights of her trip to the Maldives was the chance to experience the vibrant marine life firsthand. “I fulfilled my dream of swimming with sharks,” she recalls, describing the experience as “way beyond what I imagined.” The underwater world of the Maldives is home to an incredible range of marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Katarzyna’s experience emphasizes just how immersive and awe-inspiring the Maldives’ marine ecosystem is, and how it appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

More Than Just Beaches: The Maldives Now Offers a Variety of Activities

Contrary to the outdated stereotype of the Maldives as merely a beach destination, Katarzyna highlights how much the region has evolved over the years. “The number of activities is way beyond what we imagine,” she says, noting that the Maldives has much more to offer than just relaxation by the beach. In fact, the destination has expanded its offerings to include activities such as golfing and windsurfing. “It’s not just paradise, there’s a lot to do,” Katarzyna adds. This diversification of activities caters to travellers looking for more than a peaceful retreat, including families and adventure lovers.

The Growing Appeal of the Maldives: Ongoing Development and New Resorts

As a sign of its growing popularity, the Maldives continues to expand its offerings with more resorts and infrastructure developments. With over 400 uninhabited islands still awaiting development, the market in the Maldives is vibrant and evolving. Katarzyna points out that “there’s still over 400 islands without a habitat, and it’s being built,” which indicates both the growing competition among resorts and the ongoing evolution of the destination. With this increase in development, travelers can expect even more luxurious options and activities that will cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

A Cultural Experience Like No Other: Grizzla Travel’s New Resort

While the Maldives is often associated with luxury resorts and breathtaking beaches, Katarzyna highlights that Grizzla Travel is focused on bringing back an authentic Maldivian experience for travellers. “We are building our own one from which the first one should be ready this year,” she shares, explaining that the resort is located on the northwest island, the furthest in the Maldives. The goal is to offer visitors the chance to escape the typical resort life and immerse themselves in the traditional culture of the Maldives. By focusing on authentic experiences, Grizzla Travel aims to provide a deeper connection to the destination, beyond just luxury relaxation.

The Maldives: A Destination for All Types of Travelers

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, thrilling underwater adventures, or a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, the Maldives offers something for everyone. With its continuous development, growing activity options, and commitment to preserving its unique culture, the Maldives is an ideal destination for North American travellers seeking a multifaceted experience.

As Katarzyna concludes, “We want to bring the unique Maldivian experience back to show people the culture, the original culture of Maldives beyond just the resort life and everything.” This evolving destination promises not only to meet the needs of today’s travelers but also to exceed their expectations, making it one of the most compelling places to visit in the world.

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Trevi Fountain In Rome Now Charges for Front Row Views, Major Shift in Visitor Experience

In a move aimed at preserving its cultural heritage, Rome has introduced a paid-entry system for those seeking to visit the famous Trevi Fountain up close. The city’s authorities have linked this new fee to the ongoing efforts to maintain and restore the historic monument, which attracts millions of visitors each year.

New System at the Trevi Fountain: Paying for Closer Access

As of February 2026, visitors to the iconic Trevi Fountain will need to pay a €2 entrance fee if they wish to step into the area directly in front of the landmark. The fee will apply from Monday to Friday between 11:30 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. local time, with access on weekends running from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Outside of these hours, the fountain will remain visible to the public free of charge.

The decision to implement a fee comes as a response to the overwhelming number of tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain, with figures indicating that over 10 million people visited the site in the previous year alone. At its busiest, the fountain sees around 70,000 visitors in a single day.

The authorities have framed this new charge as an essential step in the preservation of the Trevi Fountain, which is a cornerstone of Rome’s architectural and cultural history. Designed by Nicola Salvi during the papacy of Clement XII, the fountain represents the city’s rich papal-era heritage, which continues to draw people from around the world.

Who Is Exempt from Paying?

While tourists are now required to pay to access the immediate area in front of the fountain, several groups will still be allowed free access. Residents of Rome and its surrounding metropolitan areas, children under six years old, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and licensed tour guides will all continue to enter the fountain’s viewing area at no charge.

These exemptions ensure that the new fee system does not pose undue burdens on local residents or visitors with special needs, while still helping manage the large influx of tourists.

A Year of Record Visits and Strain on Resources

The decision to introduce the ticketing system follows a year-long trial that highlighted the significant strain on the city’s infrastructure. Over 10 million tourists visited the Trevi Fountain during this trial period, with daily averages around 30,000 visitors. This high level of traffic placed pressure on both the fountain and the surrounding areas, particularly when peak tourist days saw the number of visitors surge to 70,000.

With tourism playing a central role in Rome’s economy, the city has been exploring sustainable ways to manage the growing number of visitors. The introduction of the ticketing system is one of several measures designed to both protect the city’s cultural assets and enhance the visitor experience.

Rome Expands Ticketing to Other Cultural Sites

The Trevi Fountain is not the only cultural landmark in Rome now subject to entrance fees. From February 3, 2026, the city also began charging for access to five other previously free-to-enter sites. These include the Villa of Maxentius, the Napoleonic Museum, the Giovanni Barracco Museum of Ancient Sculpture, the Carlo Bilotti Museum, and the Pietro Canonica Museum. Visitors to these sites will be charged a €5 entry fee.

The new fees are part of a wider effort to address the growing number of tourists visiting Rome’s historic sites. As more cultural landmarks begin charging for entry, the city hopes to ensure that its iconic monuments and museums remain in good condition for future generations.

The Challenge of Balancing Tourism and Heritage Preservation

Rome’s decision to introduce paid access to the Trevi Fountain and other landmarks comes amid increasing concerns about the impact of mass tourism on cultural heritage sites. While tourism is vital to Rome’s economy, excessive foot traffic can cause significant wear and tear on historic sites, leading to expensive restoration work.

In this context, the city’s decision to charge for entry is seen as a proactive step in protecting its treasures. By generating revenue through ticket sales, Rome hopes to fund ongoing conservation efforts and reduce the burden on public resources. These efforts are essential for preserving the beauty and history of landmarks like the Trevi Fountain, ensuring that they remain accessible to future generations.

A Necessary Step in Heritage Conservation

The introduction of a €2 entrance fee for the Trevi Fountain marks a significant shift in how Rome manages its cultural heritage. While some may view the fee as a hindrance, it is a crucial step towards safeguarding the city’s most beloved monuments. By balancing the demands of tourism with the need for preservation, Rome is taking important strides in ensuring that its cultural treasures remain intact for years to come.

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