A South African couple residing in Amsterdam chose the Maldives for their wedding and honeymoon on a paradise island on February 22. A week later, when they returned, the war in the Middle East had transformed this idyllic stay into a golden prison, the newlyweds told CNN.ready to do anything to get out of paradise,” say Dean and Simona, after two weeks of seeing their return flight to the Netherlands rescheduled and then canceled five times in a row.
They were not lucky enough to be repatriated and were unable to reserve seats on a traditional flight. “Everything is happening so fast. Even when you spot the tickets, they disappear in seconds,” emphasizes Dean, while his wife gets up every morning at 6 a.m. to find opportunities.
Environ 6 000 euros supplémentaires
Between the travel time of certain proposed routes – up to 56 hours with stopovers -, the visas required in certain countries, such as India or China and the fairly expensive prices – around 2,500 euros per seat – the couple is distraught. Especially since being stuck in the Maldives generates significant additional costs for accommodation and food there. They spent around 6,000 euros on top of their initial budget, changing hotels for a more affordable room, at 180 euros per night.
Small consolation while waiting to be able to return: Dean, who took his professional computer with him, can telework. On the other hand, Simona, a teacher, will have to be patient.
