Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

Maldivian Diver Shafraz Naeem Added to Visit Maldives Book of Records for Two Underwater RecordsMaldivian diver Shafraz Naeem has been added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records for setting two incredible underwater records during the Across Maldives 2026 expedition, which was conducted in partnership with Visit Maldives.The two new records added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records are the longest total underwater distance covered and the longest continuous underwater traverse. During the two-week long Across Maldives 2026 expedition, Naeem managed to complete over 55 dives, covering an incredible underwater distance of 335 kilometers. He also managed to complete a single continuous underwater dive of 16.5 kilometers, which lasted over five hours and 30 minutes.Apart from these records, Naeem's record set in 2022 has also been added to the Visit Maldives Book of Records. This record marked the longest open-water scuba dive ever recorded in the Maldives and the surrounding region. The 50-hour dive was conducted at Anantara Lagoon to celebrate the 50th anniversary of tourism and diving in the Maldives.The Across Maldives 2026 expedition came to a close with an induction ceremony held on 4th February 2026 at Phase One Beach in Hulhumalé, afterAddressing the gathering, Naeem said that the achievement was important but added that his personal mission was more than just breaking records. He hoped that his personal journey would encourage more Maldivians to take up technical diving and raise awareness about marine conservation. He also thanked Visit Maldives and the sponsors of the expedition for their assistance. Visit Maldives CEO Ibrahim Shiuree said that the inductions are an important addition to the Visit Maldives Book of Records and that the significance of recording achievements related to the country’s marine heritage cannot be overstated. He also added that the expedition is an important step in further enhancing the Maldives’ reputation internationally in relation to ocean-related activities.The expedition has been made possible through the assistance of several partners, including State Trading Organisation as a partner, Ooredoo Maldives as the technology partner, and beOnd Airlines as the airline partner. Other partners include H78 Hulhumalé, Ocean Junkies, and Safari (Southern Cross). According to Visit Maldives, the Across Maldives 2026 expedition is a part of its overall strategy to promote the Maldives through initiatives related to the marine environment and conservation awareness.

Beijing’s Baiweiyuan Makes Maldives Debut at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Lunar New Year CelebrationsFour Seasons Resorts Maldives will usher in the Year of the Fire Horse with an immersive week of Lunar New Year festivities across its two island resorts, Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa, from 16 to 24 February 2026. Celebrated for its bold energy and spirit of renewal, the Fire Horse zodiac will be reflected through a thoughtfully curated programme blending cultural tradition, island elegance, and family-focused experiences.For the first time in the Maldives, Four Seasons Resorts will host an exclusive pop-up by Beijing’s Michelin-recognised Baiweiyuan Dumpling Restaurant, operating simultaneously at both resorts. Renowned for its handmade dumplings and comforting northern Chinese flavours, Baiweiyuan will present a menu featuring signature pork and chive dumplings, beef and onion fillings, and vegetarian options such as egg and tomato, alongside classic cold starters including soy-braised pork trotter. Lunar New Year at Kuda Huraa16–24 February 2026At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the celebrations will unfold in a vibrant, festival-style programme throughout the week. Festivities begin with a Reunion Dinner at Café Huraa, followed by themed dining experiences, outdoor cinema screenings, a lively pool party, and a Pop-Up Asian Market.Evening experiences will include a Secret Beach BBQ under the stars, a Mediterranean Market at Reef Club, and an Asian Buffet at Café Huraa. Baiweiyuan’s dumpling pop-up will be available daily, allowing guests to savour authentic Beijing flavours throughout the celebrations.Kuda Huraa highlights include:Reunion Dinner on 16 FebruaryFamily Feast Lunch, Seafood Night, and Asian BuffetSecret Beach BBQ and Mediterranean MarketPool Party with DJ on 18 FebruaryPop-Up Asian Market and outdoor movie nightsDaily Baiweiyuan Dumpling pop-upThe Kuda Mas Kids Club will host a two-week Fire Horse-inspired festival for younger guests, featuring lantern painting, snorkelling adventures, arts and crafts, dumpling making, tie-dye workshops, karaoke evenings, and beach games—designed to inspire creativity, confidence, and joyful discovery.Lunar New Year at Landaa Giraavaru16 February 2026At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, the New Year will be welcomed with an elegant poolside celebration from 7.00pm to 10.30pm. Guests can enjoy a traditional Dragon Dance, a live DJ performance, and a lantern-lit ambience around the main pool. A Yu Sheng prosperity toss will symbolise abundance and good fortune, complemented by live cooking stations showcasing festive flavours crafted by the resort’s culinary team.Landaa Giraavaru highlights include:Poolside Lunar New Year celebrationDragon Dance performanceLive DJ and festive atmosphereYu Sheng prosperity tossCulture-inspired welcome drinksBaiweiyuan Dumpling pop-up available throughout the week

‘Give to Gain’: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands celebrates women through shared experiencesTo mark the occasion of International Women’s Day in 2026, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has organized a thoughtfully designed three-day experience called ‘Give to Gain’ from 7 to 9 March. The event is founded on the idea that giving results in gaining and brings women together through experiences of learning, creativity, and bonding.The spirit of the event is collaboration. The Resort Ladies will be accompanied by women artists, practitioners, and creatives from across the Maldives, thus giving women a platform where their stories, knowledge, and experiences can be shared liberally. From wellness, food, sustainability, culture, and arts, ‘Give to Gain’ is designed to be an exclusive, meaningful, and community-driven experience.The event begins on Saturday, 7 March, with a focus on wellness and sustainability. Guests are encouraged to start the day with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a practical pastry-making class with the resort’s culinary team. Children can engage in an eco-friendly candle-making workshop, while nature lovers can look forward to a coral restoration activity conducted by the resort’s marine team—each activity a reflection of the collective responsibility towards people and the planet.International Women’s Day on Sunday, 8th March, celebrates creativity and connection through a series of activities. These include a ladies-only dive and sound healing, as well as an artistic tea with watercolor painting led by Maldivian artist Shimha Shakeeb. As the night unfolds, guests are invited to a Maldivian Night Dinner with live music, celebrating Maldivian culture, heritage, and female talent.The activities culminate in a peaceful finale on Monday, 9th March, with a focus on nature, beauty, and craftsmanship. These include coral nursery snorkeling, botanical beauty treatments, floral design workshops, and an afternoon tea specially designed by the resort’s pastry chefs—a moment to pause and reflect on three days of shared inspiration.Throughout Give to Gain, the spotlight is firmly on Maldivian women and their stories. This initiative brings the resort community and Maldivian creatives together, celebrating cultural pride and exploring new ways to express it. At its core, this initiative reminds us that giving, in the form of time, knowledge, and creativity, has lasting value throughout a lifetime for each of us, and for the world around us.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has Valentine’s experiences that are romantic and rejuvenatingThis February, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to celebrate the essence of love through a series of romantic and carefully designed Valentine’s experiences, set amidst the stunning beauty of the Original Maldives, where romance, personal renewal, and living in the moment come naturally. From 10 to 14 February 2026, the resort presents a sophisticated Valentine’s experience specifically designed for couples who are looking for something more meaningful and romantic. At the heart of the celebration is destination dining on a private sandbank, where an exclusive Valentine’s dinner is served on a secluded part of the pristine white sand beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Under the starry night sky and with candles lit, couples are encouraged to indulge in a specially designed menu in a setting of quiet seclusion.Romance is further heightened at Madi Hiyaa, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, where a specially designed four-course Valentine’s menu is offered. The evening begins with a rose-themed sparkling welcome cocktail, setting the tone for an elegant dinner experience. At Naiboli Bar, candlelit tables, subtle Valentine’s touches, and music come together to create an unhurried evening by the sea, where guests are encouraged. On 14 February, couples can further indulge in their celebration of love at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa with the Romantic Spa Retreat, a 120-minute experience tailored specifically for couples. Guests can choose between Sunrise Nourished or Sunset Relief, which include a signature body healer, full-body massage, and mini facial, accompanied by light refreshments served in the privacy of the spa pavilion.In celebration of the month of love, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru also has the “From Stress to Stillness” wellness experience in February, encouraging guests to seek balance through a personalized consultation and carefully crafted experience incorporating Auricular Therapy, Counter Tech Move treatments, and Yogic Sleep (Yoga Nidra). With its heritage in understated sophistication and holistic wellness philosophy, the month becomes a call to celebrate love while embracing calmness, contemplation, and mindfulness.Valentine’s Day celebrations are also taking place at Dhawa Ihuru, where couples are encouraged to celebrate the day with unstructured moments by the sea. On 14 February 2026, guests are invited to meet at Velavani Bar for a rose sparkling Valentine’s cocktail before proceeding with the evening at Riveli Restaurant, where a Valentine’s sweet corner provides a romantic touch to the dining experience. 

Angsana Velavaru rings in Lunar New Year with two-day island eventsAngsana Velavaru invites guests to ring in the Lunar New Year with a two-day island celebration that draws inspiration from the values of togetherness, prosperity, and new beginnings. The event will take place on the 16th and 17th of February, celebrating the Year of the Horse. Located in a private lagoon in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru is a place where tradition seamlessly integrates with island living. The Lunar New Year celebration is carefully crafted to provide a balance between cultural significance and a relaxed celebration atmosphere, where guests of all ages can come together and share in the spirit of new beginnings.The celebrations take place across the island with a variety of activities. Mornings are filled with water aerobics at Kuredhi Pool Bar and gentle encounters with the resident lovebirds of the island, while afternoons are filled with creativity through dumpling-making classes, flying kites along the beach, and friendly games of beach volleyball. Water lovers can look forward to snorkeling cruises, citizen-science reef excursions, and discover scuba diving experiences, which give guests a closer look at the resort’s marine ecosystem.Evening activities are centered on indulgence and celebration. Guests can look forward to guided cocktail workshops, such as tropical arrack, rum, and mojito mixology, before gathering together for festive dining experiences that embody the spirit of abundance and togetherness. The activities include a Lunar New Year beach BBQ with special dishes, a banquet dinner with festive delights, and a gala night at Kuredhi Pool Bar with cultural performances, entertainment, and DJ sessions that go late into the night.The role of families is also highlighted during the celebration, with children encouraged to participate in the Ranger’s Club for a children’s programme. The activities include festive craft workshops, nature walks, scavenger hunts, and hands-on experiences that take inspiration from the Lunar New Year celebrations, allowing children to be a part of the celebrations while families enjoy the programme at their own leisure.Throughout the two-day celebration, the meaning of the Year of the Horse, which represents dynamism, movement, and positive energy, is incorporated into the island. From communal dining to ocean activities and alone time while watching kites fly high in the sky, the celebration is carefully crafted to mark new beginnings in a festive and effortless way.

The Standard, Maldives launches ONDA, the latest Mediterranean dining experienceThe Standard, Maldives is making a splash with the launch of ONDA. More than a restaurant, ONDA (which means “wave”) is an energetic and sophisticated interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine, set to be the most thrilling dining spot in the area. Serving up bold and soulful cuisine with a “come-as-you-are” attitude, ONDA turns the traditional resort dining experience on its head by ditching the formalities in favor of pure, unadulterated fun in the sun.“ONDA is a reflection of the playful and rebellious spirit of The Standard,” says Justin Swart, General Manager. “We’re not just shattering the status quo – we’re setting a whole new standard for exciting, innovative, and life-filled dining experiences.”Headed up by visionary Chef David Hartwig, who boasts Michelin-starred credentials, ONDA is a labor of love that embodies the philosophy of “Close to Nature, Close to Tradition.”Red Snapper Crudo: A nod to the local waters, using traditional curing techniques and a high-umami citrus vinaigrette—the “hero” of Mediterranean fruits.Caramelle Scampi with Chives: Hand-made pasta served with flavorful scampi in an elegant, chive-enriched bouillabaisse foam.ONDA Bouillabaisse: A refreshing and colorful reinterpretation of the classic French dish, using a foundation of scampi heads and herbs harvested from nearby islands.Amalfi Lemon Cake: A moist and citrusy sponge cake distilling the aromatic qualities of the Mediterranean shoreline.The drinks menu at ONDA offers reinterpretations of classic cocktails using house-made cordials, tinctures, and infusions. The goal is to take each cocktail as a journey.The wine list at ONDA is carefully crafted to tell a story of heritage. From the minerality of Joseph Drouhin Chablis 2022 to the prestige of Ornellaia Bolgheri DOC Superiore, the wine list is carefully crafted for the discerning drinker. Our team is dedicated to understanding the “why” behind each wine, from the meaning behind the label of Chapoutier’s 2017 Chrysopée to ensure the perfect pairing with Chef Hartwig’s culinary creations.ONDA is here to stay, breaking all the rules for island dining. It is the ultimate response to luxury without pretension, an anchor point for flavor and fun that will be as fresh and exciting as the Maldivian waves that inspired it. The New Wave of Culinary Excellence has officially Arrived at The Standard Maldives, proving that ONDA is what The Standard does best: turning the traditional resort dining experience on its head.

COMO Maalifushi appoints Mohamed Fareen as Resident ManagerCOMO Maalifushi is pleased to announce the appointment of Mohamed Fareen as the new Resident Manager, which marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career that has been characterized by his unwavering commitment, loyalty, and dedication to the COMO philosophy. Many members of the COMO family know Fareen not only as a reliable and trustworthy leader but also as a person who has been associated with the brand for many years. His association with COMO began at COMO Cocoa Island, and he has since held various senior leadership positions at COMO Maalifushi, including Front Office Manager, Fleet Manager, and most recently, Director of Rooms.Fareen has always shown genuine concern for guests and staff alike. His leadership qualities, sense of responsibility, and ability to rally his staff together have made him an indispensable part of the resort’s success. Fareen’s development has also been aided by his passion for learning, having just completed his Master’s in Hotel Management, which in itself is a testament to his desire to always develop and improve not only himself but also the resort.As Resident Manager, he will assist in the overall day-to-day running of COMO Maalifushi, working closely with all operational departments to ensure that we continue to provide the seamless and intuitive experiences that our guests have come to associate with us. This appointment is a testament to COMO’s commitment to developing our own staff.

Sirru Fen Fushi invites two-Michelin-starred Chef Heiko Nieder in FebruaryThis February, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is delighted to invite renowned chef Heiko Nieder to the island for an exclusive culinary experience that honors innovation, precision, and the art of culinary excellence, marking the beginning of The Michelin Series for 2026.One of the most renowned chefs in Switzerland and the mastermind behind The Dolder Grand in Zurich, Chef Heiko will be the guest of honor at two exclusive culinary events designed specifically for the most discerning travelers and culinary aficionados looking to indulge in the ultimate island culinary experience.Events at a Glance:14 February 2026: Four Hand Dinner with Chef Heiko x Chef Girish.To celebrate Valentine’s Day and the Lunar New Year, Sirru Fen Fushi’s Executive Chef Girish Sharma invites two-Michelin-starred Chef Heiko Nieder to join him for an exclusive Four-Hand Dinner, where two culinary worlds meet in one magical night.18 February 2026: Haute Cuisine Cooking Class with Chef Heiko NiederThe celebrations continue with an exclusive and unique cooking class, where Chef Heiko will take the guests through the preparation of two dishes, giving a sneak peek into his culinary thoughts and creativity. 18 February 2026: Chef Heiko’s Exclusive Signature Dinner & Cooking Class.Guests are invited to join an exclusive four-course dinner featuring Chef Heiko’s signature dishes, which showcase his signature style: bold creativity and refined technique.Born in 1972 in Germany, Chef Heiko is one of the most celebrated chefs in Switzerland and is currently the Culinary Director at The Dolder Grand in Zurich. He has had classical culinary training at the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, and has developed his culinary skills in some of Germany’s most celebrated kitchens, such as Restaurant Le Canard in Hamburg, Hotel Zur Traube in Grevenbroich,

Ifuru Island Maldives combines adventure, wellness, and island lifeAt Ifuru Island Maldives, tropical getaways are crafted for travelers who seek adventure and relaxation in equal measure, so every day is a chance to engage, connect, and rejuvenate. Guests begin their day as they like, plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the turquoise lagoon with snorkeling, water sports, or carefully crafted dive packages that showcase some of the Maldives’ most colorful coral reefs. On solid ground, the island provides endless ways to stay active; engage in a friendly game of pool volleyball, or pit skills against friends and take on the resort’s Tennis coach, who offers expert tips to help hone skills and enjoy a lively game of tennis.For guests who would like to experience the wellness retreat as part of their adventure holiday, Ifuru Island Maldives has much to offer. Guests can treat themselves to Pilates, Yoga, and Sound Healing sessions to stretch, tone, and rebalance, or join in on the fun of the island’s signature Ice Bath & Bubbles Challenge, a one-of-a-kind experience that revives the body with a refreshing cold water therapy, followed by relaxation in a sparkling bubble bath, awakening the senses and forging social bonds in playful fun.The evening activities in Ifuru Island Maldives are made even more fascinating. Guests are left in awe by the Tanoura Shows, music events, DJ nights, and LED & Fire Shows. Pool parties and theme nights bring the social life of the island to life under the star-studded night sky.For guests who are looking for some solitude and relaxation, the luxurious rooms in the resort are a haven of peace where guests can unwind, relax, and bask in the tranquility of the island. The superior all-inclusive package offers the flexibility and freedom to dine and drink as one wishes, with a variety of meals and drinks included, so that every guest can indulge in their Maldivian holiday experience without a care in the world.

Holiday Inn Kandooma to celebrate Year of the Fire Horse in FebruaryHoliday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives will welcome the Lunar New Year 2026 with an exciting island celebration marking the Year of the Fire Horse. Taking place from 16 to 21 February, the event combines festive dining, rejuvenating wellness, and fun activities for all ages amidst the stunning backdrop of the Maldives.The Horse in Chinese astrology represents dynamism, confidence, liberation, and progress, which are further amplified by the Fire component, signifying passion, rebirth, and fresh starts.Guests are encouraged to indulge in a Prosperity Yu Sheng (Lo Hei) experience, where raw fish, colorful shredded vegetables, and condiments are tossed together to welcome abundance, togetherness, and good fortune. Conventionally, the higher the toss, the greater the fortune. Interactive Hot Pot dinners at The Asian Kitchen on the beach come with the Yu Sheng set, two savory broths, fresh vegetables, elastic noodles, premium slices of Angus beef, succulent Tiger prawns, pork belly, and a variety of delicious fish balls. Festive dining is also at the core of the celebrations. Guests are encouraged to participate in a Prosperity Yu Sheng (Lo Hei) experience, where raw fish, colorful shredded vegetables, and condiments are tossed together to welcome abundance, unity, and good fortune. Traditionally, the higher the toss, the greater the fortune. Interactive Hot Pot nights at The Asian Kitchen on the beach come with the Yu Sheng set, two savory broths, fresh vegetables, elastic noodles, premium slices of Angus beef, succulent Tiger prawns, pork belly, and an array of delectable fish balls. (US$99++ per person from 16-21 February, except 19 February). Seafood aficionados will be thrilled with the Seafood Fiesta at The Asian Kitchen on 19 February, as an indulgent spread will greet guests, including fresh sushi and sashimi, sand lobster, Norwegian salmon, and more. Meat indulgers will also be treated to a selection of grass-fed beef sirloin, lamb cutlets, roasted Beijing Duck, pork belly, and more. The Lunar New Year also brings opportunities for renewal and reflection. Throughout the week (16-21 February), guests can relax with special promotions on spa treatments that emphasize balance and gentle renewal. Revitalize your skin and spirit with the Kandooma Spa’s Express Facial using SUNDARIAs a family-friendly event, Lunar New Year at Kandooma provides extra value with IHG’s Kids Eat & Stay Free program (for up to two children under 13 years). On the first day of Lunar New Year, 17 February, children are invited to join the fun at Kandoo Kids’ Club with hands-on activities such as making wishing trees, red envelope treasure hunts, arts & crafts, and games, making for a memorable experience for the whole family.Surrounded by turquoise waters, colorful marine life, and pristine beaches lined with palm trees, guests are encouraged to create their own celebration experience. For some, the New Year means adventure: snorkeling, jet-ski safaris, scuba diving, and beach excursions. For others, it means taking it easy and enjoying the simple things in life: spa treatments, hammock time with a good book, or a cooling dip in the crystal-clear waters.Room types are designed for couples and families, ranging from garden villas and beachfront villas to the resort’s favorite two-story beach houses. Among the most popular are the expansive overwater villas with a signature hammock overlooking the lagoon and direct ladder access to the waters below, offering a multitude of possibilities for the ultimate selfie.

Kandooma emphasizes partnerships that are essential to sustainable tourism development in MaldivesWithin a tourism sector that is increasingly called upon to demonstrate its accountability to the planet and its people, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is stepping forward again as a reminder that true sustainability progress is unlikely to happen as an individual initiative.Reshaping its focus in the year 2025 meant the resort placed sustainability and regeneration at the very heart of its operations, taking the bold step to be audited as part of the journey towards obtaining its Green Globe certification. According to the General Manager of the resort, Mark Eletr, the journey served “to highlight the value of our relationship with like-minded partners in assisting us in overcoming some of the key sustainability challenges the Maldives faces today, particularly in the sphere of waste management.”“Of all the hard sustainability battles for a resort of this type to face, waste is certainly one of them for a destination of this type, the island resort. It is a difficult one to address certainly, as the Maldives and the challenges we face as an archipelago, we are certainly not going to overcome as an individual resort in our own right; it requires collaboration and that collective sense of responsibility”Eletr accentuates that teaching guests in the first place regarding waste management as a crucial measure, in line with working in close collaboration with procurement partners to minimize packaging materials, especially polystyrene-based materials, in favor of a greener option such as plastic materials."It's an uncomfortable reality we face, but education is fundamental to these challenges," he was saying.“For many visitors, it is difficult to grasp the fact that the Maldives is an island nation, with every single resort operating as a self-containable village, responsible for everything from wastewater treatment, the production of drinking water, to the management of every type of waste. There is no shortcuts, only action, collaboration, and a shared desire to think differently!”He provides a good indication of the way to do this when he mentions one obvious but effective case as follows:"In many of our guests’ home countries, waste systems are highly advanced, with compulsory recycling, careful sorting, and specialised collection for hazardous materials such as batteries. Here in the Maldives, we do not yet have safe, large-scale facilities to process certain materials. That is why we ask guests to take used batteries home with them, where they can be disposed of in a responsible way through existing recycling schemes."Instead of these challenges being seen as barriers to move ahead, collaboration for growth was seen as the way to proceed at Kandooma. Although the resort sees itself as early in the game, Eletr believes that both successes and lessons learned have to be shared. “For us at Kandooma, building partnerships has been a transforming exercise. For us, every small success is important if it helps others take their first step, use the ideas we developed, or find their own solution which works for them. Making ourselves more vulnerable to the glare of public scrutiny and criticism is also an essential part of the exercise.For instance, the resort works in partnership with Parley for the Oceans and supports the Maldives tourism industry's pledge to Parley's AIR strategy of Avoid, Intercept, and Redesign. This long-term relationship enables Kandooma to intercept plastics in its surrounding environment and engage in clean-up activities to uninhabited islands; an exercise that IHG Hotels & Resorts clearly accepts and works towards as part of their long-term strategy of “Journey to Tomorrow."For the year 2025, the resort formed an association with the company called “Secure Bag.” They are dedicated to acquiring waste resources to convert them into new, usable items to promote the circular economy approach. The resort is operated under the notion of every resource being to have to have a second life.As a four-star resort itself, Kandooma understands that they can't compete on equal levels in terms of resource capability as an ultra-luxury resort might enjoy. Instead, they've opted to utilize creativity and collaboration in terms of partnering causes that suit their values and belief system:Manta TrustManta rays are a species of rays that fall directly under the category of endangered species because of habitat loss and other unecological practices aimed at protecting these beautiful creatures.Not able to afford the costs of keeping someone on site who was a full-time, qualified marine biologist, the resort devised an alternative strategy involving the guests. The Kandooma resort developed the idea of selling silver or gold manta ray pendants, with 5 US Dollars from each one going to the Manta Trust."It’s a modest contribution, but it’s realistic, sustainable for our business, and it sparks conversations with our guests," Eletr explained. "It brings people into the story of what we’re trying to protect and why it matters."Apart from this donation-based system, the resort also stages the annual "Manta Month," which takes place in September to encourage more exposure and awareness for these gentle creatures that swim freely in the water near the islands of Kandooma. In line with its transparency initiative, Kandooma has launched an online version of its Sustainability Guide, where they identify specific sustainability initiatives and actions in areas of environment, social, and governance. The sustainability guide, known as the Green Book, is available online.

Bandula Thilakarathne appointed Resort Manager of Joy Island MaldivesThe Cocoon Collection has appointed Bandula Thilakarathne as the new Resort Manager of Joy Island Maldives, with responsibility for overseeing the resort’s full operational and guest service functions. Thilakarathne joined The Cocoon Collection in March 2025 and currently leads the operations of the 151-villa resort, managing a workforce of more than 400 staff across accommodation, food and beverage, and support services.He brings more than two decades of experience in hospitality operations, with a career that has focused on food and beverage leadership and resort management in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Prior to joining Joy Island, he served as Director of Food and Beverage at Anantara Kihavah Maldives and held senior roles with One&Only Resorts, including Associate Director of Food and Beverage and Operations Manager – F&B. His earlier career includes management positions at resorts in the Maldives and Sri Lanka, as well as operational roles with Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas and Hilton, where he began his hospitality career in food and beverage service.Thilakarathne holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Suffolk and professional certifications in wine and spirits education. In his new role, he will be responsible for maintaining operational standards, overseeing service delivery, and supporting the development of Joy Island Maldives as a family-oriented resort within The Cocoon Collection’s portfolio. The Cocoon Collection is a portfolio of luxury resorts in the Maldives and Zanzibar, including Cocoon Maldives, You & Me Maldives, Joy Island Maldives, and Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa. Renowned for its blend of modern design, natural beauty, and heartfelt service, The Cocoon Collection is dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences while promoting sustainability and local empowerment.

A Wine Dinner Featuring Mastroberardino at the Alila Kothaifaru Maldives on JanuaryAlila Kothaifaru Maldives is set to pull off an exclusive Mastroberardino Wine Dinner on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, as it invites wine lovers and culinary travelers for a night of epicurean delights at The Shack – a private sandbank restaurant of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives.This dinner, which takes place in front of the stunning Indian Ocean view, celebrates Mastroberardino, a historical winemaking family in Italy that has been promoting the use of regional grape varieties since the mid-eighteenth century. Headed by the renowned Piero Mastroberardino, a winemaker and the tenth generation of his family to run the estate, Mastroberardino Winery is one of the most famous in the industry for preserving and promoting ancient varieties like Greco, Fiano, Aglianico, and Taurasi DOCG.The culinary experience is designed to feature an exclusive multi-course meal, created by Executive Chef Frank, accompanied by an array of Mastroberardino wines. The meal will begin with Greco Di Tufo DC, Fiano Di Avellino DC, followed by Lacrimarosa Rosato, and ultimately finish with Radici Taurasi DC, followed finally by dessert accompanied by the Melizie Fiano Passito.According to General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Thomas Weber, their resort hopes to produce authentic dining experiences which transcend beyond the usual setting because not only will heritage and storytelling be combined but so will the setting. This can be seen in their initiation of the Mastroberardino Wine Dinner on the Private SandBank where they get to showcase one of the historical traditions of Italy’s winemaking process to the guests.Besides the brand heritage, the other area which makes Mastroberardino distinctive is sustainability. Under this, the brand is involved in vineyard sustainability, biodiversity, and energy. This is very much in line with the philosophy that Alila Kothaifaru Maldives follows.

Visit Maldives promotes "Across Maldives 2026" record attempt for underwater diving in MaldivesVisit Maldives Corporation (VMC) recently announced a record attempt named “Across Maldives 2026,” which involves a Maldivian diver named Shafraz Naeem in setting a record underwater. The event is scheduled to start on January 23rd, 2026. This will be the first record attempt of 2026 in the Visit Maldives Book of Records.In Maldives 2026, the project will involve attempts at two records as the diver traverses an underwater journey from one atoll to another. In 15+ days, the diver will complete over 450 km of dives with at least 55 dives and over 90 hours underwater using the Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV). The organized record attempts are divided along the following lines:Longest distance accomplished in the open ocean on a single dive using a DPVLongest distance travelled by a DPV in a month:The initiative is intended to mark the beginning of a new era of adventure-based storytelling, with Maldives being launched as an Ocean Nation and establishing itself as a premier destination for marine and adventure tourism around the globe. This adventure would showcase the Maldives' special underwater environments and strong cultural ties with the oceans.Shafraz will make stop-overs at various islands with partners and hotel and council support. A videographed underwater expedition, visit highlights, interviews, and stories centered around sustainability will provide a comprehensive insight into the marine heritage of the Maldives to international audiences through this expedition.Across Maldives 2026 is being promoted by Visit Maldives with Shafraz Naeem, with Ooredoo Maldives acting as the technology partner, together with the airline partner beOnd Airlines. This expedition will mark the start of a large scale national initiative to increase the global visibility of the Maldives through a record-breaking endeavor that complements the country’s historical dedication to ocean conservation.

Target Taste China awards Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives Resort of the YearGrand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has been awarded Resort of the Year 2025 by Target Taste China, one of the most influential Chinese platforms.The award places Grand Park Kodhipparu among a select group of internationally respected luxury resorts, acknowledged for their commitment to taste, craftsmanship, and holistic guest experience. Winners were chosen by Target Taste’s editorial and expert panel that is well-known for its stringent evaluation process and strong influence among the high-end audiences of China in travel and lifestyle sectors.Commenting on the recognition, Raffaele Solferino, General Manager, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, stated, "This recognition as Resort of the Year is a very important endorsement for us, as Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, and was a way for us to honor the dedication and commitment that our entire resort has shown, as they now celebrate their ninth year as a resort, as well as the creativity that has allowed us to fulfill an important need in the market by delivering experiences that resonate in the minds of the most discerning travelers."Grand Park Kodhipparu, situated on a secluded island reachable by speed boat from Malé International Airport, is no stranger to accolades for its modern take on Maldivian luxury. The heart of the experience is its destinations dining concept, which is one of its defining features of the hotel. The destinations dining concept is comprised of eight destinations.Target Taste China is recognized as a major influence on high-end taste and living in China, with a significant following among high-spending Chinese travelers and professionals in these sectors. Each year, it honors excellence in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and destinations with its awards.Resort Executive Chef Raymond Tan mentioned that dining at the resort is designed to be immersive and sensory. He explained, "The Firedoor signature dining experience is built around open-flame cooking, elemental techniques and the integrity of premium ingredients, allowing natural flavours to take prominence." He said that this is complemented by the Maldives' only glass-floor overwater dining venue, where guests are connected to the ocean beneath them as much as to the cuisine itself.This further cements the status of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives as one of the leading luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean, while reinforcing its appeal in the Chinese market and internationally.