Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

The Huvafen Fushi Maldives has stated that its renovations would start in the second quarter of 2023, and it will reopen in September.Huvafen Fushi has been the benchmark for opulent hospitality in the Maldives ever since it opened, and it is incredibly well-liked by its regular visitors who seek it out for its cutting-edge style, first-rate service, and ideal location—just 30 minutes by speedboat from Male International Airport.The updates will honour the genuine craftsmanship and supplies that established the standard for Huvafen and will strengthen visitors' ties to the Maldives. In order to give its rooms a contemporary look, Huvafen has sought the aid of renowned architects and interior designers BLINK Design and branding experts Quo Global. All 44 bungalows will be renovated, and two brand-new "Two Bedroom Ocean Pavilions" with unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean will debut. The resort's beautiful surroundings served as inspiration for the new design approach, which gives a modern minimalist look that elevates the opulent experience offered there.These updates are a part of a planned strategy to enhance the facilities and services offered by Huvafen Fushi, according to Noel Cameron, general manager of Huvafen Fushi. The resort will be able to continue its position as one of the top resorts in the Maldives thanks to this investment, which will build on the Huvafen tradition and provide visitors a deliberate immersion on the island.The resort will close on May 15, 2023, and reopen to visitors on September 1, 2023.

Maeesha Mohamed, a scientist with Noo Raajje, has joined the National Geographic Pristine Seas scientific expedition, which set off today to collect scientific data to close data gaps in existing projects to create the Maldives' Marine Spatial Plan.For the following month, the expedition will fly to Huvadhoo Atoll, Fuvahmulah, and Addu onboard Blue Force Three and carry out a number of scientific surveys to add to the knowledge acquired by earlier Noo Raajje trips. The information gathered during this voyage will be used to assist shape a long-term strategy for the Maldives' sustainable development.Maeesha will join a distinguished group of regional and global scientists and ocean specialists, including expedition leader Dr. Keiron Fraser of the University of Plymouth, principal scientist Dr. Alan Friedlander, and regional marine biologist Aya Naseem. To assess the health of the south Maldives ocean ecosystems, they will work together to collect samples using techniques like Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVs), deep drop-camera surveys, micro-paleo, and microplastics sampling.The crew will publish a scientific report and a brief movie summarising their results after the mission. This data will supplement material that Noo Raajje has already gathered for the country's Marine Spatial Plan through its Ocean Use Study, prior expeditions, and countless stakeholder and public meetings.For Maldives students and youngsters, the expedition crew will also host a live online educational talk and Q&A session aboard the expedition ship."This voyage will increase our understanding of the Maldives' marine ecosystems, which is essential for the ongoing management of marine resources. According to Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan, Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture, this is also a chance for Maldivians to gain a deeper understanding of their ecosystem and deepen their love and admiration for the ocean."I'm happy to be a part of this voyage, which will not only help us learn more about the southern Atolls' marine ecosystem and better pinpoint regions that require protection. Trips like these strengthen the scientific justification for safeguarding marine areas and assist the government in developing science-based policy, according to Maeesha Mohamed, Noo Raajje Science & Communications Liaison."The National Geographic Pristine Seas team has worked all over the world to safeguard some of the most important areas in the ocean," said Dr. Alan Friedlander, the project's chief scientist. We are visiting the Maldives for the first time, and this is a fantastic chance to learn more about the distinctive ecosystems in the southern atolls. In order to create a bright future for Maldivian communities, the economy, and the environment, our team is thrilled to support the objectives of the Noo Raajje cooperation.

Constance Chang has been appointed as the Director of Sales & Marketing by W Maldives. Constance will oversee the sales and marketing team at the resort and has more than ten years of expertise in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality industry.Constance, a native of Singapore, graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration and Hospitality Administration/Management, earning three years in a row on the Dean's List. She was a connoisseur of wine and the University's Wine Society's Sales & Marketing Director.Constance has a distinguished history in the upscale hospitality industry. She was the Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing at IHG Hotels & Resorts Bali prior to joining W Maldives, where she successfully implemented a number of marketing programmes and events that raised brand recognition and improved revenue. Director of Sales & Marketing at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, Account Director, Luxury & Lifestyle at IHG Hotels & Resorts, Singapore, and Business Development Manager, Luxury Leisure Sales & Events at Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Singapore are just a few of the positions she has held throughout her career.Constance's appointment as the Director of Sales & Marketing makes us ecstatic. Idu Ribeiro, general manager of W Maldives, said, "Her experience and leadership will help us take our commercial efforts to new heights as we continue to promote W Maldives as a premier luxury lifestyle resort in the Maldives.Constance will manage connections with important stakeholders and partners in her role as director of sales and marketing. She will also be in charge of devising and implementing marketing strategies to raise the resort's brand awareness."I am thrilled to be a part of the W Maldives team and collaborate with such a gifted bunch of people. Constance Chang stated, "I look forward to contributing to the resort's future success and providing our guests with extraordinary experiences.The resort will benefit from Constance's proficiency in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English since it will make it easier to communicate with visitors and partners from around the globe. Constance is an adrenaline enthusiast who spends her free time participating in Crossfit, Muay Thai, and skydiving.

Begona Rodrigo, a celebrated chef with a Michelin star, will present a special pop-up at Le Meridien Maldives this Easter to mark the opening of their new Restaurant Riviera Tapas & Bar.The culinary programme at Le Meridien Maldives begins on April 7 with Chef Begona of the Valencian restaurant La Salita, who won the first season of Top Chef Spain and was crowned the finest cook in the Valencian Community.She will provide two unique dinners with customised tasting menus and an evening of Petit Plates as part of her Spanish gastronomic experience for guests staying at the opulent resort in the Indian Ocean. Scallops, Sea Lettuce & Cream of Pine Nuts, Parsnip Carbonara, Kimchi & Pork Belly, and Strawberries, Yogurt, Yuzu & Ginger are just a few of the mouthwatering dishes on her creative tasting menu.Also, Chef Begona will hold a unique cooking workshop where attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the skilled chef how to prepare a variety of dishes including paella while also obtaining useful insider knowledge and advice."I am excited to introduce the cuisine of my native country to the Maldives and delight customers to meals rich with Valencian flavours while also showing visitors how to prepare dishes from the Mediterranean, including the renowned paella." She remarked.Riviera Tapas & Bar, which recently debuted at Le Meridien Maldives, was created to celebrate long summers and was inspired by the busy boulevards of southern Spain. A taste of Catalonia is available at the seashore restaurant in the form of Petit Plates that celebrate Spain's vibrant culinary scene."We are excited to celebrate the opening of our new Restaurant Riviera Tapas & Bar and to welcome Chef Begona to our island paradise. She is a really accomplished cook, and we are confident that visitors will adore her cuisine. Director of F&B at Le Meridien Maldives Michal Zemlika remarked.Guests may take advantage of a special dine-and-stay package, comprising a delicious 6-course tasting menu for two plus buffet breakfast, at Chef Begona's Easter Delights pop up from April 7 to 10.

The Maldives' Ministry of Economic Development has issued regulations governing the operation, maintenance, and promotion of spa establishments.Starting on February 21st, new spa facilities must re-register in compliance with the regulations on the ministry's firm portal. The government has given spas already functioning in the Maldives 90 days to re-register on the platform. It will be determined if foreign workers are authorised to work at the establishments.The rules also prohibit spa staff members from sharing their own photos, films, or sounds of the facilities online. Furthermore, it is stated that commercials must not include any human subjects and must follow national social and cultural norms.The establishments who disregard the rules will be fined. The licences of such establishments may also be revoked by the registrar.

Marriott Bonvoy invites guests to enjoy a memorable Easter celebration at W Maldives and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa in the Maldives' tropical paradise.These Marriott resorts in the Maldives are an incredible retreat from the rush of daily life, with a focus on providing a one-of-a-kind experience for families, couples, and single travellers. Travelers can select from carefully planned vacation packages this Easter break as they add a variety of experiences, activities, and delectable dining options to make this holiday truly special.The Easter events range from customary Easter egg hunts to opulent spa treatments, allowing visitors to completely immerse themselves in the celebrations. While parents unwind in the sun, kids can take part in engaging cookery classes, artistic arts and crafts projects, and even an Easter Bunny visit. The resorts give visitors the ability to take advantage of the archipelago's stunning natural surroundings by taking them snorkelling in the pristine waters and giving them the chance to see the amazing marine life that calls the area home. The resorts' top-notch restaurants provide a selection of scrumptious meals with both local and international cuisines, or guests can choose to have a candlelight evening outside beneath the stars.There is something for everyone, whether they are seeking a tranquil getaway or an exciting family vacation. When you reserve your Easter getaway today, you'll enjoy the height of luxury and relaxation as you celebrate this joyous event with friends and family and make lifelong memories.

From March 7th to 11th, The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives has partnered with the Middle East-based wellness centre, SEVA Experience, to bring its leading yoga, meditation, and holistic programme to the beautiful Maldivian blues.SEVA, one of the Middle East's leading Yoga, Meditation, and holistic wellness centres, was founded to encourage deep reflection and acknowledgement of life's journey through a variety of multifaceted practises. The space offers a haven for the conscious traveller as well as learning opportunities for those seeking to restore balance in their daily lives.The Standard, Maldives' 360° white sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoon on Huruvalhi Island in the Raa Atoll provide the ideal backdrop for such a journey. The Standard, Maldives has a strong wellness offering of daily yoga and meditation, which is enhanced by the partnership with SEVA.The five-day takeover is hosted by SEVA founder Eda, SEVA Table Head Chef Kiki, and The Standard, Maldives resident Yogi Karan, and includes a variety of yoga, meditation, and breathwork exercises, as well as an abundant menu curated by SEVA Table, the Middle East's award-winning first plant-based café. For the duration of the partnership, SEVA Table will take over the Joos café, offering sustainable holistic eats.

Helen Bolton has been named Director of Sales and Marketing at Mirihi Island Resort in the Maldives. Bolton will oversee the resort's strategy and sales in this new role, promoting its 20-year legacy of providing a luxury resort experience.Bolton gets Mirihi together with more than 20 years of cordiality and deals and advertising experience in the specialty Maldives market, incorporating local area expert involvement in Kuoni UK travel and Hayes and Jarvis, visitor relations experience at Olhuveli Resort and Spa and her underlying deals job at Anantara Maldives in the pre-opening group for Dhigu, Veli, and Naladhu."We are happy to have Helen join our Team this year, for our 20th anniversary, given her extensive experience in the Maldives hospitality and tourism business and her in-depth understanding of Mirihi. The entire Team is thrilled to support Helen's innovative sales and marketing strategy as she expands the market for our tiny paradise. The Mirihi Island Resort's general manager, Mohamed Shareef, said.Bolton has worked for several internationally branded 5-star properties, including Conrad Rangali, Lux, Kanuhura, Anantara, NIYAMA, and Fairmont, and most recently was the Crown and Champa Resorts cluster Regional Sales Director. Bolton has worked as Conference Sales Manager for the Heritage Hotel group in Queenstown, New Zealand, Director of Sales & Marketing for Resplendent Ceylon (Dilmah resorts) in Sri Lanka, and Cluster Director of Sales for Sonaisali and Tadrai Resorts in Fiji, in addition to her hospitality experience in the Maldives.The travel industry is about to have a more exciting year, so I'm overjoyed to be taking on this significant responsibility. It's critical for us to advance the company by comprehending market trends, creating fresh target markets, and continuing to implement winning business strategies for Mirihi as the world reopens to more passengers from around the globe, according to Bolton.

On the invitation of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation, a team of journalists from India is visiting the Maldives to immerse themselves in the tourism offers, unique experiences, and exciting encounters that await tourists on the Sunny Side of Life.The journalists on this trip are from major Indian media outlets such as Indulge Express (NIE), The Sunday Guardian, ET Travel World, and Dainik Jagran. A freelance writer who contributes to Indian, American, and European publications, as well as one public relations representative, round out the team. From February 20th to February 26th, these five journalists will experience everything Maldives at Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, Sun Siyam Iruveli and West Sands Ukulhas, Ranthari Guesthouse & Spa, and Nala Veli Maldives.This team will participate in activities such as local island tours, snorkelling and visiting whale shark/manta and turtle points, sunset cruises, sandbank visits, coral planting programmes, cooking classes, and more. The team of journalists will relay these experiences to potential travellers in India and beyond through articles and multimedia content, with the combined reach of this content expected to exceed 4,952,250+ readers.This familiarisation tour is being held as a part of India's marketing strategy, which aims to spread important destination information via the internet platforms and social media outlets that are most popular in the Indian market. The approach intends to promote budget-friendly luxury lodging choices to Indian consumers and make the Maldives a top travel choice in this market. This excursion also seeks to raise awareness of the range of lodging choices offered in Sunny Side of Life.India was the top source market to the destination last year, with 241,369 arrivals expected by the end of 2022, accounting for 14.4 percent of total market share. To maintain destination momentum, it has launched a number of promotional initiatives aimed at this market. This includes participation in major fairs and exhibitions, media interviews, ad campaigns, TV and online programmes, outdoor advertising campaigns, and familiarisation trips. Many similar activities are planned for this market throughout 2023.

TripGen, a chatbot powered by cutting-edge AI technology, has been launched by Trip.com. Trip.com implemented this technology to provide tailored travel routes, itineraries, and travel booking advice to users in real time on the Trip.com platform.With its all-in-one app concept, the recently released consumer product aims to increase travel accessibility. For years, Trip.com has provided customers with individualised, thorough search solutions made to cater to their demands for the best hotels, flights, and travel advice. With a sophisticated context-based Natural Language Processing-integrated chatbot, TripGen has expanded this search capabilities. Users can "Create Your Dream Vacation Just Like That" by asking detailed or ambiguous inquiries and receiving the precise responses they require.It can be hard to plan a trip and make decisions while travelling. The first challenge, if you're not an accomplished traveller, is usually: Where should I go? What ought I to do? Of course, you may ask around or go online, but doing so always raises more queries such, "What makes this place special?" How should I plan my days? How much will it cost me? so forth. Users can ask any fragmented travel-related query into TripGen's chatbot and instantly receive ideas for pre-trip choices and on-trip arrangements, from hotels and transportation to tours, making the entire experience joyful and stress-free.In her experience as a regular traveller, Amy Wei, Senior Product Director at Trip.com Group and Product Owner of TripGen "Time is valuable, but preparing takes a lot of it and can be stressful. Users have access to a wealth of data, which is frequently overwhelming. As a travel addict who has been to over 40 places, I thoroughly understand the struggles and pain points that other travellers face when planning a vacation."Amy and her team used AI technology to help solve this tough and stressful process, offering effective and priceless real-time assistance. Amy and her team were aware of the challenges consumers confront while planning and getting ready for a trip. Said she, "Similar to the adage "You want a trip, we generate the rest," TripGen can offer travellers closed-loop services before, after, and during their journey. Simply like that!"Trip.com's COO, Schubert Lou, said, "Trip.com wants to earn your trust as your reliable travel partner. The launch of TripGen offers real-time, question-and-answer services in the Trip.com app, providing travellers with more comprehensive, swifter, and varied support.""English, Japanese, Korean, and traditional Chinese are presently supported by TripGen. Depending on user demand, more languages will be added. TripGen has integrated the OpenAI API, which created ChatGPT based on the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) architecture, on the technical side. We will continue in our quest to offer travellers the best possible product experience in the future and will take into account different NLP model choices.

The former British consulate's gardens on the banks of the Ping River are now the site of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort's new afternoon tea service, a tribute to the English tradition of elegance and pleasure.The English aristocracy started the tradition of afternoon tea in the 1800s. That was a modest indulgence—a reason to get dressed up, look forward to, and enjoy with friends.The new afternoon tea at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort pays attention to the tradition's ancient origins. On the verandah of what was once Her Majesty's consulate, which dates back 100 years, the location could not be more ideal.Starting with the fine porcelain, Chef David Eldridge and his colleagues have meticulously planned every aspect of the event. It comes from Wedgwood, who has served as Her Majesty's official potter since Queen Charlotte's reign. The Paeonia Blush line was selected as a homage to the floral surroundings of Chiang Mai and also has a whiff of the exotic Oriental.Freshly made scones with genuine Devonshire clotted cream are served after dainty finger sandwiches and tartlets. Here is a selection of pastries and, ideal for Thailand's hot climate, homemade tropical sorbet.The TWG and Monsoon lines of loose-leaf teas, as well as hot or iced coffee, are available to guests. Sparkling wine, an old-fashioned G&T, or a bubbly cocktail are further choices.

The Marine Biologists at Sandies Bathala have initiated a Coral Garden restoration programme to preserve and protect the coral reefs for the future as part of their ongoing commitment to prioritise ocean conservation and protect the natural environment.The restoration of coral reefs necessitates knowledge, planning, and scale. As a result, the Marine Biology team on Bathala has established the first mid-water coral nursery to test and, in a subsequent step, expand coral production to repopulate the reef. This technique, known as coral gardening, is a two-step process in which coral fragments are grown under ideal conditions in the nursery before being planted on the reef. This allows for the production of thousands of new corals in a year, giving them a better chance of survival on the reef. The biologists are closely monitoring the progress of corals growing on "Bathalantis" to test and fine-tune the process.By adopting and naming coral fragments, the coral cookie project hopes to actively engage guests. The resort repopulates shallow areas of the Bathala house reef by rescuing broken corals and affixing them to "Coral Cookies" before cementing them to the reef alongside guests. Participants not only receive a certificate and photos of the activity, but they also gain a better understanding of coral reef ecology and ways to support coral reef health.

Marriott Global Maldives and the Maldives Organization of Innovation (MIT) have teamed up to send off the Maldives' most memorable Clothing Affirmation Program, which has been supported by the Maldives Public Abilities Advancement Authority (MNSDA). This programme was created to prepare and upskill local talent in cordiality clothing tasks, as well as to maintain the most elevated cleanliness guidelines with a focus on visitor security and brand norms.The collaboration with MIT was a natural fit given Marriott International's promise of Putting People First and its emphasis on training, retaining, and growing local talent. The programme is also open to local talent from the islands of Maafushi and Gulhi interested in advancing their careers in hospitality laundry operations.The programme, which enrolled 21 local associates from Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of seven Maldives resorts, was delivered by MIT with input from resort laundry leaders. The course primarily focused on developing and upskilling local talent's laundry operational skills. All course sessions were led by MIT faculty members and delivered by resort laundry leaders. The certification programme lasted four months and included regular virtual theory sessions as well as physical practical sessions at the resorts.Pre-Assessment exams, which consisted of two parts, written paper and viva examinations spearheaded by Learning & Development leaders at individual resorts, were held to prepare participants for the final examination. All participants were then invited to the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa for the Final Assessments, which were overseen by an MNSDA-appointed Chief Invigilator.Marriott International, MIT, and MNSDA are optimistic about the success of this certification programme in training all local talents interested in careers in hospitality and laundry operations. The collaboration is another step in Marriott International's efforts to prioritise people, invest in local communities, and provide opportunities for local talent to grow.Marriott Bonvoy's Maldives resort portfolio includes seven luxury hotels offering a variety of unique experiences, from overwater villas to private island escapes, each designed to showcase the Maldives' natural beauty while providing exceptional hospitality services. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, W Maldives, Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort are among the properties in the portfolio.

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) held its 33rd Annual General Meeting on February 19th, 2023, at Kurumba Maldives. This year's AGM drew a total of 95 attendees. Mr. Mohamed Umar Maniku, Chairman of MATI, gave the official opening remarks, which were followed by a message from Vice Chairman Mr. Hussain Afeef. Mr. Ahmed Nazeer, the Secretary General of MATI, then made a statement.The Minister of Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, the Minister of Health, Hon. Ahmed Naseem, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed, and senior representatives of the National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM), the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), and the National Hotels and GuestHouse Association of Maldives all attended this year's AGM (NHGAM).Mr. Mohamed Umar Maniku presided over the AGM's official proceedings. The proceedings included the adoption of minutes from the 32nd AGM, a video presentation highlighting MATI's work for the year 2022, the presentation of the Annual Report and Financial Reports for 2022, the adoption of the Budget for 2023, the appointment of Auditors for 2023, the passing of an amendment to MATI's Charter increasing the term of Executive Board Members from one year to three years, and the election of the Executive Board for the 2023- 2024 term.Considering 2022 being the Brilliant Celebration of The travel industry, MATI likewise sent off 2 foot stool books named - "Maldivian Resort Engineering - 50 years of island resorts" composed by Mr. Mauroof Jameel which reports the structural development of the Maldivian Resorts and "50 years of The travel industry in Maldives - the Trailblazers, Individuals and Arrangements that molded Maldives The travel industry" created by Dr. Simad Saeed which archives the advancement of fifty years of the Maldives The travel Industry. The books were sent off together by the Pastor of The travel industry Hon. Abdulla Mausoom, Administrator of MATI, Mr. Mohamed Umar Maniku, Pastor of Wellbeing Hon. Ahmed Naseem, Secretary General of MATI, Mr. Ahmed Nazeer, Chief and MD of MMPRC, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed as well as creators Mr. Mauroof Jameel and Dr. Simad Saeed.Mr. Mauroof Jameel is an architect, independent researcher, and illustrator specialising in Maldivian architectural heritage who previously wrote and published the book "Coral Stone Mosques of Maldives: The Vanishing Legacy of the Indian Ocean," and Dr. Simad Saeed is the Managing Director of CDE Consulting and an avid researcher of Maldivian tourism who specialises in Strategy, Sustainability, and Social Innovation.

The Maldives government has changed the rules governing the transfer of shares by resort owners and operators significantly. The government announced on February 12, 2022, that these companies would no longer need to obtain prior permission from the Tourism Ministry to transfer their shares. This amendment aims to simplify the country's business processes and attract more foreign investment in the tourism sector.The amendment to the share transfer regulations removes two clauses. Previously, share transfers involving tourism businesses required prior written permission from the Tourism Ministry. This requirement is no longer in effect. The second clause required the submission to the Tourism Ministry of a share certificate issued by the Economic Ministry upon completion of the share transfer. This criterion has also been removed. Nonetheless, if the Tourism Ministry is notified of a share transfer, it will continue to seek public complaints.The removal of these regulations by the government is a positive step towards making it easier for companies to invest in the Maldives' tourism sector. The amendment should boost investor confidence, reduce bureaucracy, and streamline the country's business process.