100 stays from heart: Yamaguchi Shinichiro’s love affair with Maldives, Kurumba

For many travellers, a vacation in the Maldives is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—an escape to a postcard-perfect paradise of turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and luxury hospitality. But for Japanese national Yamaguchi Shinichiro, it’s been a recurring love story, one that spans over four decades and a remarkable 100 visits to the same resort: Kurumba Maldives.

Hotelier Maldives had the opportunity to meet Shinichiro during his recent milestone 100th stay at Kurumba. His relationship with the Maldives began in the early 1980s—at a time when the country was largely unknown to the wider world, especially in Japan. “About 40 years ago, I started diving,” he recalled. “Some of my diving friends told me about the Maldives, but back then, nobody knew the place. Even in Japan, people were asking, ‘Where is Maldives?’”

Shinichiro’s first trip to the Maldives was between 1982 and 1986. He remembers being stunned by the untouched beauty and simplicity of the islands. “I was very surprised,” he said. “At the airport, from the jetty, I could directly see so many fish. Now not as much, but before, it was full of marine life.” That moment—his first glimpse of the underwater world from the shoreline—was the beginning of a deep connection with the country and, in particular, Kurumba Maldives.

Kurumba was the first resort to open in the Maldives in 1972 and remains one of the most iconic. For Shinichiro, Kurumba offered the perfect balance between natural beauty and comfort. “Kurumba was very natural, but inside, it felt like a city,” he explained. “It was simple but had everything I needed.” Over the years, even as more resorts opened and the Maldives became a global tourism hotspot, Shinichiro continued to return to Kurumba. Why?

“The staff,” he said simply. “Before, it was only Maldivian staff. Very friendly, very welcoming. That hasn’t changed.” It is this consistent warmth and familiarity that has made Kurumba feel like a second home. “It’s not just about diving or the beach—it’s the people. The culture. The food. Everything,” he said with a smile.

Shinichiro’s passion for diving has taken him across the region to famed underwater destinations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Yet, none compare to the Maldives in his eyes. “This is best,” he affirmed. “Not only for sharks or manta rays, but also small fish. Many, many, many fish. I love diving here.” Even though marine biodiversity has changed over time, he still finds the experience exhilarating and spiritually fulfilling.

In a typical year, Shinichiro visits the Maldives two to four times. His travel calendar is carefully planned, with trips usually in April and October. “I already booked for this October,” he shared. “It’s part of my routine now.” When he arrives, he spends most of his time diving around the islands near Kurumba, reconnecting with the sea and its endless wonders.

His loyalty to Kurumba isn’t only about familiarity—it’s also a reflection of how well the resort has maintained its charm and hospitality over the years. “Some things are different now,” he acknowledged, “but it’s still very good. The beach bungalows, for example, are excellent. Even the inside of the bungalows is the same quality as the pool villas. No problem.”

For Shinichiro, the Maldives is more than a travel destination—it is a place of healing, reflection, and joy. “I had trouble in Japan back then,” he mentioned. “A diving friend told me about Maldives and scuba diving. That helped me.” His early trips to the islands were not just about exploration, but also recovery.

Asked about what makes the Maldives so unique, he pointed to its slow pace, natural beauty, and the opportunity to fully disconnect from everyday stress. “If possible, stay more than two or three days,” he advised fellow travellers. “I know good hotels are expensive, but staying longer helps you really understand the real Maldives. One day, two days—maybe you get rain or wind. But if you stay for a week or 10 days, you can see the clear sky, the calm sea.”

Today, as the Maldives continues to welcome tourists from around the globe, Shinichiro is somewhat of an unofficial ambassador for the destination in Japan. “Before, it was mainly divers who knew Maldives. Now, more couples and honeymooners go,” he said. “My friends ask me for advice. I tell them Kurumba is very good—beach bungalow or pool villa, both are great.”

When asked what the industry can do to preserve the Maldives’ charm for future generations, he paused thoughtfully. “It’s a very difficult question,” he admitted. “But I think maintaining the natural beauty is important. That’s what people come for.”

At a time when many travellers are constantly chasing new experiences, Shinichiro’s story is a testament to the depth of connection that a place can inspire. His journey is not about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about returning to a place that feels like home, again and again.

“I will come back, of course,” he said, without hesitation. His 101st trip is already planned, and the 102nd likely not far behind. “It’s part of my life now,” he added. “Kurumba, Maldives—it’s in my heart.”

Yamaguchi Shinichiro’s enduring love affair with Kurumba Maldives is a celebration of the timeless allure of the islands, of human connection, and of the quiet power of nature. His story is also a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come not from going somewhere new, but from returning—again and again—to a place that knows you, welcomes you, and fills your spirit.