Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

Six Senses Laamu Wins Recognition on TIME’s List of the World’s Greatest Places 2026The Six Senses Laamu Resort in the Maldives is one of the distinguished resorts selected by TIME Magazine on its annual World’s Greatest Places of 2026 list. TIME Magazine considers such places which exhibit innovation, unique experience, and significant influence on the global landscape. The award highlights the resort's sustainability and environmental protection efforts made in the Maldives, as per Marteyne van Well. The resort has been praised in the magazine due to its constant environmental protection efforts. A special feature of the sustainability initiatives of the resort includes the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL). This marine research centre combines science and guests. Furthermore, the resort runs an initiative named the Maldives Underwater Restaurants Initiative (MUI). It collaborates with non-governmental organizations in reef and marine protection. After the 2024 event of coral bleaching, researchers at the resort have released nearly three million coral larvae in damaged reefs. The resort conducts coral cloning programs.The resort is also collaborating with some of the top conservation organizations, such as Manta Trust, where more than 150 manta rays have been discovered in the area and an innovative first-ever underwater contactless ultrasound scanner has been designed to study pregnant mantas. The resort also collaborates with Olive Ridley Project to ensure that sea turtles are effectively protected. Seagrass habitats are also being studied in the area, and some unknown species have been identified while highlighting the importance of these habitats as nurseries for reef fish. The guests can actively get involved in such endeavors by visiting SHELL, participating in conservation programs, learning about marine biology through diving and obtaining manta rays and reef certification.  SIX SENSES LAAMU offers luxurious accommodation in the form of sustainably designed overwater and beach villas and still remains the only five-star resort in Laamu Atoll.

30% Discount Offered at Maldives' Grand Park Kodhipparu in Villas for 2026While holidaymakers throughout the globe continue looking for peace of mind while making arrangements for vacation trips, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, which is a popular boutique island resort situated in North Male Atoll, has announced an offer named Spring Savings: Kodhipparu Escapes. This offer provides tourists with amazing discounts and opportunities to tour one of the top destinations in the world. This offer will remain valid from 4th April 2026 to 12th April 2026 and will offer 30% discount in all villas and 15% discount in the food service till 31st October 2026.Traveling to Maldives Made ConvenientIn this increasingly uncertain world, travelers are trying their level best to travel to such places where they can find easy access. One of the best places that offer easy accessibility today is Maldives due to its flights connectivity from major cities in Europe and Asia. Visitors at Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives will have a hassle-free check-in experience with the 20-minute speedboat service provided by the resort directly from the airport, which means no other connecting flight arrangements are needed. The convenience along with the positive reviews received from guests have contributed to making Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives a preferred destination with a high 9/10 rating from satisfied guests.Booking now to experience the best in the MaldivesUnder the Spring Savings offer, visitors will be able to book their next holiday experience and enjoy an array of unique experiences planned during the season:May – Lunar Theme Island ExperienceVisit the resort and experience unique island tours that will make guests feel closer to nature and relax on the island while enjoying a moon-inspired adventure.June – Ninth Anniversary CelebrationsCelebrate nine successful years of the resort with special dinners and exciting experiences planned to commemorate the spirit of the occasion.July to September – Summer Lagoon LifeThis rapidly growing vacation season includes:Shark, turtle, and sting ray encounters at the colorful house reefTravel without crowds when compared to popular destinations around the worldLagoons which provide calm waters for snorkeling and other water activitiesPrivate island villas vibe that revolves around space, privacy, and restConnected Island Luxury ExperienceThe very essence of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives is the Connected Island Luxury experience offered by the hotel which revolves around traveling in a way that is meaningful and immersive:Connection with oneself through wellness and mindful livingConnection with other people through shared experienceConnection with nature through the beautiful surroundingsVacationers can enhance their experience by selecting from personalized options known as Connect Experiences which merge spa sessions and adventures on water into one experience.Special Offer Valid Until October 2026With flexible travel possibilities, this offer, designed to look ahead, offers customers an opportunity not only to save money but also enjoy flexibility, booking their travel dates in advance until October 2026.

The Machchafushi Universe: A Vivid Universe Above and UnderwaterSitting within the South Ari Atoll, the Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa by Centara Collection is not just a destination but a living ecosystem. On the island of Machchafushi, nature takes on its full glory due to the currents of the ocean, coral reefs maldives that thrive here, the local tropical bird life, and the way the rhythm of life of the locals interacts with the environment. Thus, every feature and aspect of nature here combines into one coherent and vivid Machchafushi Universe. The underwater world is very rich and varied. It starts right at the shore with the award-winning house reef where a unique combination of hard and soft corals makes the underwater landscape incredibly diverse. Among them are Blue-tip Acropora corals and the unique Maze Corals. Here, sea fans are found to provide shade and refuge to small fish, seahorses, and crustaceans. The abundance of marine wildlife includes parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, reef sharks, stingrays, manta rays, turtles, as well as the legendary whale sharks.The experience can be further enriched by the presence of Kudhi Maa Shipwreck that used to be a Japanese cargo ship but has been converted into an exciting living ecosystem. With such aquatic creatures as lionfish, batfish, glassfish, and groupers residing there, the place serves as a perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The heart of the whole system resides within the corals that provide the necessary structure for a reef, besides playing an important part in its development and sustainability. There are branching corals that look like trees in water, and the growth of massive corals takes millions of years.Beyond the water, the island offers yet another landscape of natural beauty. Coconut palms that stretch towards the sky, the lush tropical vegetation, and the coastal plants make up the perfect home to several kinds of birds. The morning comes with birds singing around in trees and gentle breezes carrying all the essence of the island's natural charm. One may often observe grey herons at the shore, while white-breasted water hens will be wandering in the shrubbery. Asian koels will be heard in the air, and elegant terns will fly over the lagoon. The bright parrots, such as blue and gold macaw and ringneck parrot, can also be found on the island. One of the special features of the island is an ancient tree – a banyan tree called the Ummeedhu Tree or Wish Fulfillment Tree, which has been around for more than two hundred years. Those who visit the island are offered a chance to participate in the Sacred Thread Ceremony and tie golden leaves to the branches of the tree. As quoted from the management of the resort, “every ripple in the water, every whisper in the palm trees, and every motion in the corals have their stories to tell.” Machchafushi is not only a resort but a voyage to a universe of living things, where nature takes charge, creating memories along the way. By means of sustainable practices and conservation programs, the resort aims at preserving this world for eternity. Not only is it a journey through the Machchafushi Universe; it is also a devotion to it.

Fara Williams Football Sessions at JOALI Maldives & JOALI BEINGJOALI has partnered with Fara Williams, former English footballer and current national hero, who will be visiting JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING this April to conduct various football activities that have been planned for the enjoyment of their guests as well as locals. Famed as one of the finest players in the English female football scene, Williams has managed to secure no less than 172 caps during her successful career, playing for several clubs including Chelsea and Charlton Athletic. Amongst Williams' major achievements are captaincies of Everton which helped win the Premier League Cup in 2008 and the FA Women's Cup in 2010.Under the ambit of this unique project, Fara Williams is going to conduct a football workshop on 11 April 2026 at Dhuvaafaru Island, which will be specifically focused on girls' football development in the Maldives. Furthermore, guests at both resorts can participate in private football classes hosted by Williams. They will be held on 13th April at JOALI Maldives and on 17th April at JOALI BEING, providing children and their families with a rare chance to develop their skills with the help of one of the most influential figures in the sport.Those who want to experience luxury along with something different may book Water Villas with Pool at JOALI Hotel Maldives, with prices starting from USD 3,256 per night for two people on a bed and breakfast basis. Ocean Pool Villas are available at JOALI BEING, with prices starting from USD 3,162 per night for two people on a bed and breakfast basis.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives as a Destination for Couples and HoneymoonersSituated at The Atollia by Centara Hotels and Resorts which is just a speed boat trip away from Malé Island, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives stands out as an island destination which will provide a perfect holiday spot for couples and honeymooners in search of exclusivity and intimacy as well as ultimate experience. Providing spectacular views of the lagoons, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives guarantees guests a completely private getaway where they can have all their moments of pleasure. With all facilities designed to ensure togetherness, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives comprises beautiful beach and over water villas that will provide you with enough privacy and space. Large terraces with a pool or Jacuzzi surrounded by crystal clear lagoon view will serve as an excellent place where you can relax and enjoy your stay with your partner.For newlyweds, each day spent at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives becomes an opportunity for deeper bonding. Experiences such as private dinners overlooking the sea, sunset cruises over endless horizons, and moments of romance created just for you become the source of unforgettable memories. Culinary adventures will make your honeymoon special as well, since there are five different restaurants serving both international cuisines, teppanyaki, and tandoor grills, Asian dishes, as well as modern Mediterranean cuisine. Various meal packages may be chosen by you, and depending on what you have decided on, the couples have the opportunity to indulge into culinary experiences at their adjacent underwater themed sister resort, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives. Wellness and discovery of new things play a major role in the honeymoon at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives. One may opt for holistic wellness experiences offered at SPA Cenvaree Retreat based on traditional Thai healing practices or go diving and surfing along with one’s significant other.Aside from being a place where honeymooners can escape to, the resort presents an ideal venue for couples regardless of their age group. Weddings and renewal of vows take place amid the azure blue waters and under the warm rays of sunlight, resulting in intimate moments that hold special significance for both parties involved. Under the guidance of Thai-based hospitality, everything provided here will be done with care and attention, giving tourists the opportunity to blend in seamlessly with the natural environment.In other words, the Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives provides the perfect venue for any occasion and event, making it easy for tourists to create everlasting memories while staying here.

Eri Maldives concentrates on House Reef Diving and Marine EncountersEri Maldives located in the North Male Atoll provides tourists with an amazing experience where they are allowed to indulge in an exciting underwater expedition thanks to its lively and easily accessible house reef for new and experienced divers. The house reef is one of the important attractions provided by Eri Maldives which offers many opportunities to explore the underwater environment while staying at the resort. There are four entrances from which visitors can access the house reef and one of the entry points is from the shore. This makes the area appropriate for novice snorkelers and experienced divers who want to explore the underwater world.The marine organisms found within the house reef are many and dynamic creating ever-changing underwater environments. Some of the marine species that visitors are likely to encounter include white tip reef shark, black tip reef shark, nurse shark, hawksbill turtle, mobula ray, spotted eagle ray, and large numbers of reef fish. By exploring the house reef regularly, visitors will be able to see how the marine organisms live in their natural environment. The presence of sea turtles also makes Eri Maldives have memorable experiences. According to the resort's staff members, there are about fourteen turtles inhabiting the reef. They can be easily distinguished from each other because of patterns on their bodies. Therefore, it becomes possible to form a database, where several sea turtles are listed. Some of them are named as Rosie, Cara, and Anna. It is exciting to find these turtles once again since returning guests can recognize them because of the previous experience. The staff members encourage clients to find new turtles and give them names.Encountering manta rays at cleaning stations is another great thing in Eri Maldives. They can be seen at Bodu Hithi Thila, situated in the Maldivian archipelago. It will take an hour to swim from Eri Maldives to this place. Cleaning stations normally operate under favorable conditions regarding the current of the ocean. This way, during the period between December and April, manta rays come here to feed on planktons. It is difficult to forget to see such magnificent creatures during the diving. Last but not least is nocturnal swimming. It provides unique opportunities to discover the other side of marine life, since manyExploration of the marine world is still one of the key priorities of a visit to Eri Maldives. The hotel offers various types of diving trips that promote interaction with the undersea world again and again. In addition to marine activities, it is worth mentioning comfortable accommodation services such as studios and beach villas. Moreover, the visitors of the island can use full board packages offered during the reservation.

Michal Zemlicka Joins One&Only Reethi Rah as EAM – Food & BeveragesOne&Only Reethi Rah has announced that Michal Zemlicka has been appointed as the new Executive Assistant Manager of Food and Beverages. The resort has undertaken extensive research on how to increase the operational skills of the resort. In his role as the Executive Assistant Manager of Food and Beverages, he will offer his consulting services to the resort management and the owners to develop concepts, strategies, and maximize profits in food and beverages services. The resort hired him as the Director of Food and Beverages in November 2023. With his visionary leadership qualities, the resort has been able to make various accomplishments in food and beverages services in terms of developing staff members and offering quality food and beverage services to customers.He was an instrumental part of the creation and re-opening of TAPASAKE, the resort’s overwater Japanese Mediterranean restaurant. His efforts have been critical towards enhancing the operational performance and overall customer experience of the resort’s various dining venues while positioning seasonal and festive programs like Easter among others. He has been successful in his efforts of ensuring that the resort achieves its brand standard objectives including those relating to Leading Quality Assurance (LQA). With over a decade of hospitality industry experience, Zemlicka has previously held senior positions in Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa and Furaveri Maldives besides being active in hospitality markets such as Bali, Dubai, Australia, and Slovakia.This appointment underscores the resort’s policy towards nurturing homegrown talents and improving its food and beverages department in light of stiff competition within the luxury hotel market. One&Only Reethi Rah occupies a total of 44 hectares of land and boasts of 118 villas. The resort provides a choice of dining places which include Botanica specializing in garden based cuisine and a host of other restaurants/bars serving diverse international cuisines.

Introducing the 'Secret Garden' Concept at Kuredhivaru Resort & SpaThe Kuredhivaru Resort & Spa comes up with an innovative concept called the 'Secret Garden'. This is a very unique concept as it promises guests a unique dining experience. The idea behind this concept is that the guests would want a dining experience that is not only unique but memorable as well. Situated at one corner of the resort, the 'Secret Garden' offers everything that will make visitors have a memorable stay at this unique place. From drapes to candles and plants, the ambience of this place is made very intimate for having a unique dinner experience.At the core of this experience is a menu consisting of seven courses that is designed to ensure that the experience is balanced and enjoyable for the guests. Each of the seven courses is served in style, with live cooking sessions adding some theatre and interactivity to the process. Meanwhile, the whole experience takes place without being disturbed by anything, as the attention to detail from the staff is both subtle and noticeable. There are two options available for the guest's experience: the Romantic Escape or the Ultimate Romance Experience. While the first option will only include dinner with an elegant setting, the second one will also have the guests be offered champagne upon arrival, a private movie session in the open air, breakfast at the villa the following morning, and bed decoration.In addition, this concept opens up avenues for personalization of flower arrangements, messages, and other decorative touches, enabling one to tailor the evening to suit their own unique celebration, which could range from something as simple as birthday celebrations, to romantic proposal evenings, and even spending intimate time with loved ones. The Secret Garden at Kuredhivaru illustrates the openness of Kuredhivaru to experiment with various types of services offered beyond the ordinary. The idea seems to reflect the philosophy of Kuredhivaru in relation to hospitality and delivery of its services in general.

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives Announces its Limited-Time Offer for Spring SavingsAs the post-COVID world is looking for a destination that provides assurance and ease for tourists, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, a boutique island resort in the Maldives, has announced its limited-time offer for Spring Savings under the name “Kodhipparu Escapes.” It is going to be a “book now, travel later” offer that will provide the unbeatable combination of value and ease for the travel plans of tourists visiting the Maldives. The Spring Savings offer will be available for booking between the 4th and 12th of April 2026. It is going to be a limited-time offer where a 30% discount will be provided on all the villas and a 15% discount will be provided on all the dining experiences for stays until the 31st of October 2026.The world is in a state of uncertainty for travelersThe Maldives also remains one of the most accessible luxury island destinations in the world, with international flights to and from major hubs in Europe and Asia. This makes planning a trip a seamless experience. Upon arrival, guests of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives will be treated to a 20-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport. This eliminates the need for a flight, making it one of the most convenient arrivals in the Maldives. This level of simplicity, combined with consistently high guest feedback, has helped to further entrench a 9/10 guest satisfaction rating. This further solidifies a reputation as a trusted and reliable destination for those visiting the Maldives. The Spring Savings offer allows holidaymakers to book now and plan for a string of unique experiences in the coming months: Spring Savings: Moon-Inspired Island Experiences and Seasonal Celebrations in the Maldives. Spring is a special season for travelers visiting the resort as they have a chance to experience a specially curated selection of experiences that are inspired by the beauty of nature, celebrations, and meaningful connections. Spring Savings at the resort is a special opportunity for travelers to make the most out of their stay at the resort by making advance bookings for their stay at the resort.May: Moon-Inspired Island ExperiencesIn May, the resort is going to celebrate the beauty of the moon by offering travelers a chance to experience a specially curated selection of experiences that are inspired by the beauty of the moon. Travelers have a chance to experience a variety of relaxing experiences in the light of the moon, which encourages them to make meaningful connections with themselves. The beauty of the moon is sure to encourage travelers to take a moment to enjoy the beauty of the sunset while going on a cruise in the lagoon maldives. June: 9th Anniversary CelebrationsJune marks an important milestone as the resort celebrates nine years of warm hospitality and unforgettable guest experiences. The anniversary will be honored with a series of celebratory dining events, themed evenings, and special gatherings that reflect the resort’s philosophy of connection and togetherness. Guests can look forward to curated menus, festive atmospheres, and memorable moments that highlight the spirit of community and shared joy.July to September: A Hidden Gem Travel SeasonThe period between July and September is fast becoming a new trend for travelers who want to experience a relaxing holiday getaway in an island paradise. During this period, travelers can expect an exciting experience with marine life, including sharks, turtles, and stingrays on the vibrant house reef. Travelers can expect a relaxing travel experience with no crowds compared to other summer holiday destinations. The calm waters of the island lagoons are ideal for a variety of water sports and other ocean activities. Travelers can enjoy the serenity of a private island, giving them a sense of exclusivity.Connected Island Luxury ConceptThe main concept of the resort revolves around the Connected Island Luxury concept. This concept revolves around creating moments that matter with three essential connections: connection with self with wellness and slow living, connection with others with activities and celebrations, and connection with nature with experiences in the lagoon, the reef, and the ocean. With the Connected Island Luxury concept, travelers can expect a chance to book special “Connect Experiences,” which will allow them to experience a spa experience, a culinary experience, and an ocean experience all at once.Plan Ahead with Spring SavingsThe Spring Savings offer was designed for forward-thinking travelers who want to take advantage of a chance to book a great island experience while planning ahead with ease. It encourages travelers to seize the moment to enjoy a relaxing, celebratory, or social experience in one of the most stunning destinations on earth.

Milaidhoo Maldives to welcome Thai wellness practitioner in AprilMilaidhoo in the Maldives is all set to receive the visiting Thai wellness practitioner Naphat Theechanthuek from 11th to 30th April 2026. The visiting practitioner will be conducting her sessions at the island resort’s peaceful spa. Naphat has over two decades of experience in the world of luxury wellness and holistic healing. Her approach to healing is highly intuitive. Her treatments combine the ancient techniques of Thai bodywork with energy healing. Her sessions help individuals experience balance, release stress, and experience harmony in body, mind, and spirit. Guests staying at the island resort will be able to experience the carefully selected range of treatments inspired by the ancient wisdom of Thai healing. The treatments include signature therapies such as the ancient techniques of Thai massage, Himalayan crystal salt stone therapy, herbal compress therapy, Tok-Sen rhythmic tapping therapy, reflexology, and crystal singing bowls.Every experience will begin with a personal consultation, which will allow Naphat to tailor the experience to the individual’s needs, such as the release of accumulated muscular tensions in the body, energy alignment, relaxation, and mindfulness. One of the highlights of the residency will be the Thai Energy Balancing Ritual. The individual will be able to indulge in the sensory experience of Thai massage, Tok-Sen, Himalayan salt stones, and the powerful energy of crystal bowls.The individual will be able to indulge in the sensory experience of the Crystal Resonance Sound Healing. It is a highly meditative experience that will allow the individual to soothe their nervous system and reach a deep state of relaxation. The individual will be able to indulge in the sensory experience of the Thai Energy Balancing Ritual in the idyllic settings of the Milaidhoo Maldives. It is one of the most peaceful settings in the world. The residency will be held between the 11th and the 30th of April 2026. It will be necessary to book in advance.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Privé Collection, and House of Sun Siyam, has created a new dimension in the wellness experience, offering a range of treatment options available at Ocean Spa, which combines the heritage of the Maldives, traditional healing arts, and unique spa experiences. Clients can enjoy a range of treatment options, including the Haveeru Harmony – The Iruveli Ritual, a unique couple’s spa experience, which is designed to reflect the twilight hours of the island, Nirvana, an Ayurvedic treatment, which combines Abhyanga and Shirodhara, and Hiyala Head & Scalp Massage, a local spa experience, which draws inspiration from traditional coconut oil therapy.Haveeru Harmony – The Iruveli RitualThis 150-minute experience has been specially designed for couples, ensuring that it coincides with the island’s transition into the evening, thus taking inspiration from the serenity and stillness of a Maldivian sunset. The experience has been specially designed as a private experience for couples, ensuring that all the major elements of a spa experience, including exfoliation, massage, and hydrotherapy, are incorporated into this experience. With only one experience per day, this ritual has been specially designed as one of the most exclusive experiences offered within Ocean Spa.Ayurveda Treatment NirvanaAyurveda therapy has been an integral part of Ocean Spa’s wellness philosophy, ensuring that ancient therapies are incorporated into a wellness experience that aims to restore equilibrium between body and mind. The Nirvana experience has been specially designed as a 90-minute experience, ensuring that equilibrium is maintained in the entire body, including both Abhyanga and Shirodhara therapy. The experience uses warm herbal oils, ensuring circulation, relieving physical tension, and increasing mental clarity.Hiyala Head & Scalp MassageThis treatment is based on local heritage and provides a 50-minute treatment that is inspired by the beauty traditions of the Maldives. The treatment uses homemade coconut oil, which is made on the island, to provide nourishment to the scalp and strengthen the hair. At the same time, it protects against the damaging effects of the sun and saltwater. Guests also have the chance to witness and participate in the coconut oil-making process with the resort’s ‘Maldivian Roots’ experiences.With this latest range of treatments, Ocean Spa at Sun Siyam Iru Veli is continuing to develop and evolve its treatments.

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives Appoints Rai Viany Pande as Director of SalesGrand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has announced the appointment of Rai Viany Pande as Director of Sales, further strengthening Grand Park Kodhipparu’s commercial leadership team as it continues to sharpen its global sales strategy. Rai has over 17 years of commercial experience in luxury hospitality in the Maldives, Bali, and the rest of the region, having worked with globally renowned hospitality brands such as Hyatt and Hard Rock Hotels. She is a well-known figure in the tourism industry in the Maldives for her commercial expertise. She is also widely regarded as a well-respected and well-liked person in the region.She is a well-known and familiar face in the region and has held various commercial roles in some of the best resorts in the Maldives, such as Baros Maldives, Radisson Blu Resort Maldives, Noku Maldives, Ayada Maldives, LUX* South Ari Atoll, Kanuhura Maldives, and recently with the NH Maldives Kuda Rah as part of the Minor Hotels Group. In her illustrious commercial career in the hospitality industry in the region, she has played an important role in driving commercial performance and building sustainable commercial relationships with tour operators and DMCs. She is also known for her collaborative approach to work, which has earned her many contacts in the industry, in addition to her knowledge of the changing face of global travel patterns, which has been made possible by her exposure to working in different markets across the globe. She has also traveled extensively throughout Asia as part of her role, which has enabled her to gain valuable knowledge of both emerging and established source markets.Her role will entail her being in charge of all global sales for the Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, working closely with the trade to further enhance the position of the resort in the luxury island resort market. She will also be the face of the resort at all the major international trade shows, including the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), ITB Shanghai, as well as all the major industry events throughout the year. We are delighted to welcome Rai to the team at Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives. Her experience in the commercial sector, as well as her knowledge of destinations and the global market, makes her a valuable addition to our team. 

The Standard, Maldives, is inviting all its guests to switch off, slow down, and come together for a night that celebrates sustainability, ambiance, flavors, and connections. On the night of the 28th of March, 2026, guests can look forward to a night where the island will switch off all non-essential lights on the island. This is a night that is carefully designed where lights set the mood, and meaningful moments are at the heart of it all. Between 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, guests can look forward to enjoying their dinners a little earlier in the evening at any of the dining outlets within the resort. This is as the island begins to switch off. As night falls, guests can look forward to a series of experiences that will take place within the island of The Standard, Maldives. This is to ensure that they know that saving the planet is effortless and that it can be so vibrant. The Japanese Affair Set Dinner is going to be the highlight of the night. This will take place on the beach at Kula Beach between 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM at only USD 85 net per person. As the lights go off, the energy moves to Todis Beach, where guests are encouraged to go off the grid and indulge in glow-in-the-dark cocktails and mocktails, available à la carte from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM. A ‘Buy One Get One Free’ promotion is also available to guests who want to sip, glow, and keep the night going—demonstrating that low power definitely does not mean low spirits! However, to add more to this already magical experience, a bonfire and acoustic guitar performance will be available for guests to create a more intimate experience and setting for storytelling and stargazing, all to rhythms dictated by nature and not electricity. This is definitely a celebration of the true essence of Earth Hour in a fun and social manner.By striking a balance between making responsible choices and creating unique experiences, The Standard Maldives is able to reinforce their commitment to sustainability and their ethos of high-living without pretension.

Kandooma Maldives Celebrates Global Recycling Day with Team-Led Sustainability InitiativeThis month, in celebrating Global Recycling Day, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has brought sustainability to life by creating a colorful team-led sustainability initiative in which the team creatively transforms ordinary wastes into beautiful pieces of art. As part of its team building and sustainability initiative under the theme "Don't Think Waste - Think Opportunity," Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has challenged all colleagues from different departments within the organization to participate in a Sculpture Competition in which the team creatively transforms ordinary wastes into beautiful pieces of art.The winning sculpture was entitled "Waste to Wonder" created by the Front Office Team in which bottle tops and recycled glass were creatively arranged to form a beautiful framed art piece held together by wire.The second position was awarded to the Recreation team for their creative installation of Varah Majaa, which is full of ideas and thoughts but still conveys a very important message about the effects of pollution in our sea and how we need to take care of our sea and sea creatures. The third position was given to the team from Kandooma Spa for their creative installation of Tanya, which is full of ideas and thoughts as it is composed of old magazines, egg trays, and other discarded papers. The inspiration for this work came from the works of marine veterinarians who help in the conservation of sea turtles and female leaders in science who help protect our sea. The quality of these creative installations is a testament to the fact that innovation and creativity are found in all aspects of the resort, not just limited to the traditional functions of a creative team like the marketing department.The initiative is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially the Sustainable Development Goal 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, which promotes the reduction of wastes through reuse, recycling, and the efficient use of resources. This initiative is also in line with IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Journey to Tomorrow, the hotel group’s pledge to make a positive difference in the world.Commenting on the event, Sharon Garrett, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives’ Director of Marketing and Sustainability, said: “This Global Recycling Day, we are celebrating the transformation of what we once considered waste into something worth celebrating. This year, we had all departments in the hotel participate in our creative sculpture challenge with one simple requirement: to transform what we considered waste into something of great meaning and worth. The entries were amazing, and the winning entry by our Front Office team with their recycled glass mosaic was inspiring, although I must confess that the Engineering Department’s entry using recycled mechanical parts and pieces to make a Heron sculpture resonated with me the most. This is now proudly placed in our Chef’s Garden, Magey Bageecha.”Sharon reinforced this as it is not considered another marketing gimmick or campaign for Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.“Sustainable practices are ingrained in our Kandooma culture and special calendar days like Global Recycling Day enable us to inspire and show that we are building that culture together and that it’s an ongoing commitment requiring focus and fun,” she said.The initiative was led by Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives’s General Manager Mark Eletr, Sustainability Officer Krisel Magallon, and the Sustainability ‘EcoAction’ Team to develop an interesting campaign that promotes involvement, cooperation, and awareness among all participants with prizes. The judges were also composed of resort guests, who gave it an interesting dimension to the campaign.Furthermore, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives’s Sustainability Officer Krisel Magallon organized a workshop entitled ‘Recycling Workshop,’ where it tackled the do’s and don’ts of segregation of wastes, how to identify recyclable materials, as well as its economic benefits. The workshop was beneficial as it included significant interactive discussions among all participants on the best ways of recycling in Maldives, as well as effective ways of recycling that could be adopted by Kandooma.As Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives continues to incorporate sustainability in allLocated in the South Malé Atoll, just 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a lively island resort known for its excellent diving, surfing and family-friendly experiences. With a range of villas, multiple dining venues, a dedicated kids’ club, and the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala, the resort offers a relaxed and accessible private-island.

Hawksbill turtle makes return to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru after a decadeA Hawksbill sea turtle has made a return to the shores of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru for the first time since 2015, with eggs laid in January making their way out of the egg on the afternoon of 23rd March, representing a significant event for the island and its surrounding ecosystem. Eggs were laid on 24th January, and they have now made their way out of the egg, with baby turtles venturing out of the warm sand and making their way across the beach and into the lagoon, a poignant moment for guests and resort associates as they witness this miracle of nature in a very fragile process.The return is part of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s continued commitment to marine conservation activities under its on-site Marine Lab, one of the first marine conservation initiatives in a resort in the Maldives. Over two decades ago, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s Marine Lab was launched to assist in coral rehabilitation, reef conservation, marine life monitoring, and environmental education. The Banyan Tree Marine Lab works with guests and associates to contribute to marine conservation activities, including Marine Talks on turtle and shark conservation, reef conservation and monitoring, and ongoing turtle identification and monitoring activities to aid in research initiatives.Even the critically endangered hawksbill turtles are vulnerable to the loss of their habitat, marine pollution, and climate change in the Maldives. The rare sighting of these turtles on land is a gentle reminder of the need to protect these endangered species. “Moments like are truly special,” says Alex Burden, Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “The return of a sea turtle to our shores is a powerful reflection of what long-term commitment and genuine care for the marine environment can achieve.”