Excerpts from a traveller’s diary: The enchanting weather of the Indian Ocean (Part 2)

• Sri Lanka

My expedition of the Indian Ocean consisted visiting all the islands. I remember booking my ticket for Sri Lanka halfheartedly for the island had not the same splendor as the other ones. However my prejudiced perception of the island changed when I started touring the island. In April, the Sri Lankan weather is undeniably hot and dry. The glowing medallion stands proud and bright in the spotless blue sky the whole day. Clouds were not that visible. With the temperature at 30°C and above, I just could not resist splashing into the coolness of the mighty sea. Really relaxing! The outer hotness is nothing compared to the freshness of the water that covers your body. Needless to say, the sea is just perfected according to climatic changes and I think that’s the best part of the weather influencing the Sea-Goddess, as believed in Sri Lanka. The weather changes in April also provided me with some unforgettable memories. I could witness the epic gathering of more than a hundred elephants. I was graced by the presence of majestic whales and was privileged enough to swim in the company of friendly dolphins. Now, I really look forward to unlock more of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems under a different weather.

• Comoros Islands

Comoros Islands! What can I say about it? Being an adventurer takes me places where I never imagined myself going. I’m not to be entirely blamed. Comoros Islands is a group of small islands located in the most secluded point in the Indian Ocean. Sure, it is sandwiched between Madagascar and the African continent, but it still is not that popular. Yet, one visit can alter our opinion. Under the fiery sun in the hot and dry month of July, tourists have many choices: Going sightseeing (after applying sun cream) is a great thing to do. The beauty of the nature and of the people can be appreciated under the protection of the sun. However, the best thing to do is swimming in the crystal clear and cool waters of the sea. In the waters, you feel as though the outer high temperature drops instantaneously. A pleasurable and enjoyable swim can be enjoyed.

• Pulau Weh

Set as a tiny tropical rock near Sumatra, Pulau Weh or Weh Island, is an exotic place for independent adventures or bonding couples. This remote and beautiful island welcomed me in September, the summer season of the Indonesian tropical climate. Unlike other islands, Weh Island’s escalating temperatures are not unbearable. The humid atmosphere has me anticipating my visits across the island. Diving being a remarkable feature of this island, converted me into a pro. The coolness of the sea had me exploring the depths of the sea again and again and its lush coral gardens. Rainfall could be considered as an ominous hindrance to your tours across this paradise island. So without the heavy drops of rain and strong wind, I could spend time discovering the marvelous marine life, the various species of sharks(from a distant), and its unique wildlife.

• Pemba Island

Much people have not yet discovered the wonders of this island located in the Zanzibar archipelago. Green Island, or as called Pemba Island in Arabic, holds true to its name. It is covered in lush green forests that attract people to admire its beauty. Heavily influenced by rain in July, the island is not what you can call the prefect bling bling place for illusionary enjoyment and party. The island disconnects you from every other disturbance. It is as though I’ve entered a new world with no pollution, no advance technology, no noise and no hypocrisy. The clove producing island is a myth to many as because of its remote location and unpublicized beauty, it has rarely a place in our ‘bucket list’. Despite the rain drops and cool temperature, the island still allows you to explore the rich cultural history and landscape. Who says swimming is not pleasurable in rainfall? For me, it had been a whole new experience where I let Mother Nature take things in control and guide me…sometimes I just get carried away by my emotions.. I mean when Mother Nature is not menacing and frightening.

• Havelock Island

Travelling offers you a spectrum of gifts and memories. One such is allowing you to discover the undiscovered virtues of Havelock Island. Being the largest island in the Ritchie’s Archipelago and situated in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar, the Havelock Island is a distinguished and glorious island welcoming many tourists, be it honeymoon couples, friends, families or me. While water sports, marine life, the flora and fauna, and the mysterious tribes, people and cultures have conquered the hearts of many people, including mine, the exceptional climate still remains my favorite. It seems to me, like most of the islands of the Indian Ocean, the Havelock Island too has its climate molded into perfection. As I have visited the island in January, in my opinion it is the only best time to book your trip. Though winter, it is not that cold not to go out uncover the enigmas of the island. Actually, the cool temperature makes it all incredible great. Going out in the day, walking alongside elephants on the beach, swimming in an unusual condition, trekking in the fog, scuba diving, snorkeling, and plunging into the deep beautiful natural structures of the marine parks and marveling the exquisites of them, are all a total winter package. My coat was just an extra precaution. But I am glad that my winter trip was a real success, where I would have freezed to death in the European winter climate.

Sometimes, it is best to go with the flow and not be worried with small technicalities like the climate. The best of the things are demystified when we are not in control. What’s the use of going into an adventure when afraid of taking risks! It is better to be surprised by Nature, rather than planning it all out. Believe me, it is euphoric.