After finally deciding to trade the mountains for the beach, I booked a last-minute flight to Port Blair via Chennai airport, spending around Rs. 20,000 for the return journey. Though I could have snagged a cheaper deal with more planning, this was the best option on short notice.

Arriving in Port Blair on the morning of the 28th, I quickly secured tickets for the Makruzz ferry to Havelock Island, costing Rs. 1,500. My friend Ishan was eagerly awaiting my arrival there.

Upon reaching Havelock around 3 PM, we headed straight to Dolphin Resort, our accommodation, which I had booked through a recommendation. Though it lacked in services, its spaciousness and location compensated well.

Our first day was dedicated to exploring Radhanagar Beach and unwinding at the charming Full Moon Cafe in the evening, known for its delightful shakes and juices.

Day two dawned with plans to catch the sunrise at Kalapathar Beach, though we missed it due to a late wake-up call. Undeterred, we embarked on an adventurous hike to Elephanta Beach, trekking through dense mangrove forests. Despite the challenging terrain, the experience was unforgettable.

Day three was reserved for scuba diving, an exhilarating activity facilitated by a local group near The Full Moon Cafe. Overcoming my fear of deep waters, I was rewarded with mesmerizing glimpses of marine life.

On day four, we set sail for Neil Island, opting to stay at Silver Sand Resort for its serene ambiance and private beach. Exploring Laxmanpur Beach on rented scooters offered a perfect end to the day.

Returning to Port Blair for the final leg of our trip, we opted for a budget-friendly stay at the Government Circuit House. Exploring the city's attractions, including the Navy Museum, Ross Island, and Cellular Jail, provided a fitting conclusion to our Andaman adventure.