In the Maldives, the more leisurely way to swing from the trees is lounging in one of their many swings swaying to the ocean breeze. I remember when I came across the first “birdsnest” swing a decade ago. Now they are common fare across the destination. Recently opened Joali literally does put the “bird” in “birdsnest swing” with its giant Heron head designed by Cape Town-based Porky Hefer. The plaque beside the piece reads, “Very often, birds are the first visitors or residents on the islands. This one migrated from Africa. Kara prefers the Maldivian weather and cuisine. Kara has decided to stay.”
