© 2026 Maldives Times
Maldives Times

Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

Stay informed with firsthand island dispatches, newly opened resorts, seaplane regulations, marine biology updates, and seasonal travel advice.

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Celebrates the Essence of Maldivian Flavours with Its Signature “Kandu Kukulhu” Culinary Experience Editorial

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Celebrates the Essence of Maldivian Flavours with Its Signature “Kandu Kukulhu” Culinary Experience

Maldivian cuisine is given reverence at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef for being more about the culture and identity of the Maldives rather than the simple culinary practice of consuming it. Kandu Kukulhu, Maldives’ version of the rolled tuna curry, is an essential Maldivian culinary tradition. #umbaught Established and based upon local tradition, this beloved dish is the cornerstone of every week’s Maldivian cooking class that Vilu Reef offers its customers, giving them a personal experience related to the taste, craft, and stories that make up the Maldive culture. Another part of the unique dining experience that the resort has incorporated into its main offerings. Extremely traditional and deeply rooted in tradition, “Kandu Kukulhu,” which translates as “fish market,” has remained unchanged for centuries. At Vilu Reef, this activity is guided by chefs in Maldivian resorts who expertly and instinctively, as has been done by their forefathers, take them through the art of slicing tuna into rolls and packing them with spices, and using coconut or pandan leaf to hold everything together. While the curry cooks in coconut milk, it fills the air with an enticing smell, an indication of daily life in this island paradise. Kandu Kukulhu, which translates to “chicken of the sea,” is a beloved Maldivian tuna curry and a powerful tribute to the Maldives’ deep connection to the ocean. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s culinary story celebrates Maldivian heritage, moving beyond simply serving fresh seafood,” says Chef de Cuisine Mohamed Hameed, known as Chef Printey. “It is a connection to our islands, our people, and the traditions that shaped Maldivian cuisine. By sharing these methods, we bring our cultural narrative to life in the most sincere way. Cooking Class is an essential element of the Maldivian Roots Signature Experience and is designed to give an insight into the Maldives’ cuisine, traditions, and expressions that make it unique. According to the philosophy of Sun Siyam, experiencing island life through meaningful interactions and the essence of Maldivian culture is of utmost importance. This activity is an experience offered at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.

Maldives Times Read Story
Reconnect with balance and serenity at Angsana Velavaru Editorial

Reconnect with balance and serenity at Angsana Velavaru

Positioned in South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru presents a wide range of conditioning and  gests  geared toward  heartiness- for both body and mind. The centerpiece behind these programs and services is, of course, Angsana Spa, which widely adopts Asian- inspired  heartiness procedures combined with  remedial touch, aroma, and natural  rudiments. In this regard, the gym offers  colorful treatments, from massages to body treatments and  hand rituals with  constituents like coconut, honey, and tropical sauces.  The resort's  heartiness approach goes further than gym treatments into physical  exertion and  awareness practices. installations include a fitness centre set within the natural surroundings of the  islet, while organized conditioning range from aqua calisthenics in the Kuredhi Pool to yoga sessions on the  sand. These conditioning will combine physical movement with relaxation and  mindfulness.  Other  probative sessions to guests range from guided contemplation, breathwork through conditioning, to  evening yoga. The practices all blend into the resort  terrain with the stopgap of inspiring rest, reflection, and balance during the stay of the guests.  Good programmes at Angsana Velavaru are headed by good director Artemasius Harefa, and centred around Banyan Group's Eight Pillars of Good- rest, movement,  awareness, social connection and  further. The resort says that  similar programmes  insure guests'  gests  of  heartiness practices throughout their stay. " moment's  trippers decreasingly seek  gests  that support renewal as much as rest," said Harefa." The plan is to introduce programs that will stimulate guests to reconnect with themselves and their natural surroundings."  further information on the Angsana Velavaru  heartiness action may be  attained through the resort’s website.

Maldives Times Read Story
Three exceptional Maldives resorts from the Marriott Bonvoy Luxury Group shine at the inaugural Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 Editorial

Three exceptional Maldives resorts from the Marriott Bonvoy Luxury Group shine at the inaugural Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025

Some of the parcels of the Luxury Group, under Marriott International in the Maldives, had their achievements recognized in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East inaugural series of ‘Choice Awards’ in 2025. The event marked the very first country-specific iteration of this initiative. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islets were alternative picks for Favorite Overseas inn taverns, and JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa placed fourth. The two hotels have exclusive manor house lodging and vibrant dining and guests programs with a Maldives context. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islets, with designs from Kerry Hill engineers, comprises an array of circular-manicured estates built over both water and landmass. JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Gym incorporates water and sand pool estates in addition to a variety of dining areas.Favorite Destination gyms The Ritz-Carlton Spa in The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islands, took the fifth place. It is an evaluation gym because it is raised above the lagoon. Water-inspired healthiness generalities are used in this assessing facility. Down Gym in W Maldives took the tenth place in this order because it provides gym service with privileged views in relation to the surrounding lagoon.The other awards include Maldives being named Favorite Overseas Leisure Destination, which is a repeat of interest in the destination by locals.The existing brands under Marriott Bonvoy include The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Fitness center; W Maldives; JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort; The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort; Le Méridien Maldives Resort . They all exist singly in an island in the country.For a full list of winners and more information on these awards, see Condé Nast Traveller Middle East.

Maldives Times Read Story
joali being-x lvate well living Editorial

joali being-x lvate well living

JOALI BEING, a wellness island retreat in the Maldives, has partnered with LVATE, a dermatology and aesthetics clinic based in Munich. As of 2026, JOALI BEING will provide LVATE Signature Facials. They combine solutions developed by dermatology expert PD Dr. med. Anne Gürtler and plastic surgeon Dr. med. Lukas Kohler.It was established by Dr. Gürtler and Dr. Kohler in Munich. The LVATE clinic offers both dermatology and aesthetic solutions using technology-assisted methods and informed medical practices. The support team of this organization comprises dermatology, aesthetics, and cosmetic care offered in a clinic setting.The LVATE technique emphasizes an integrated practice style in which attention to sense-oriented themes, in addition to patient consultations, takes place. Skin health and a sense of consideration for the patient, rather than achieving a dramatic cosmetic change, is also emphasized. "We do not work towards perfection, but towards a lifetime of skin balance," stated Dr. Gürtler.Both of these doctors will be in residence at JOALI BEING during Christmas and New Year celebrations and Easter, consulting on dermatological evaluation and future skin health strategies. Such consultations include a combination of medical evaluation and nutritional and wellness advice.The partnership highlights a strong interest in a holistic approach to skincare and overall well-being from both sides. The upcoming project will integrate medical knowledge with a philosophy of well-being, which is offered by the resort in relation to a healthy lifestyle.Accommodation villas in JOALI BEING begin from USD 2,326 per night for two people sharing an ocean pool villa on a bed-and-breakfast basis.To learn more or reserve a room, contact them at reservations.being@joali.com.

Maldives Times Read Story
Festive Fun Awaits at Dhawa Ihuru – Thrilling Seas, Island Flavours & Family Adventures Editorial

Festive Fun Awaits at Dhawa Ihuru – Thrilling Seas, Island Flavours & Family Adventures

This  gleeful season, Dhawa Ihuru invites  trippers to celebrate the joy of  islet life with gleeful Splash – a vibrant programme of ocean adventures, culinary delights and family-friendly  gests  from 22 December 2025 through 10 January 2026.Recognised by Travel Leisure Asia Awards 2025 for the Maldives’ Stylish House Reef, Dhawa Ihuru morphs into a  sportful playground where every single moment holds the  pledge of fun, connection, and discovery during this  awful time of the time.Dive into Days of Discovery and Fun Island Excursions From morning till evening, the turquoise lagoon is the focal point of festivity. Guests can embark on Big Game Fishing, Night Fishing, and gleeful Sunset sails that paint the horizon in gold. exhilaration-  campaigners can plunge into Adrenaline Tube Rides,  passage with the Sailing Adventure Lift, fly  grandly with Parasailing print Breakouts, or  share in the Cross the Channel Swimming challenge. Marine  suckers can take an aquatic adventure around the  islet's  bulging coral reef on See Fish Snorkel or discover the magic of the Christmas Dive – the  gleeful,  instigative aquatic experience unique to Dhawa Ihuru. Savour the Season with islet- Inspired gleeful Flavours Dining  gests  throughout the  gleeful period at Dhawa Ihuru are inspired by the  uproariousness of  islet life. Riveli's Christmas Eve regale sets an elegant  morning to the season, while the lively Original request- a show of Maldivian flavours and traditions- creates a  witching sense of  islet life.Every day brings a new pleasure from Christmas Lunch and Mediterranean Night to the  largely popular Indian Ocean Buffet, all precisely designed and prepared to please  numerous tastes. Conditioning  similar as Maldivian Curry Cooking, Kids’ Cooking Class, and rubbish & Wine Tasting  produce  fresh affable moments to look forward to during the  gleeful season.joyous Moments for Little ExplorersThe kiddies' Club becomes a  mecca of  gleeful energy, with creative and engaging conditioning designed for  youthful comers. kiddies' Christmas parties, Santa's Little Crafters, Gingerbread house decorating,  instigative Treasure Hunts, and  various  trades  gests  fill the season. As the evening falls, Bodu Beru  measures,  evening  amalgamations, and a lively New Year's Eve preamble with live music come alive, bringing families together under the starlit sky of the  islet. Celebrate with Purpose Guests can also take part in meaningful conditioning  commanded by Our Marine Lab Save the Reef  exertion, original reef clean- ups, and Christmas CoralMicro-Fragmentation Planting all adding to the  islet's  uninterrupted commitment to marine conservation. Black Friday Is Then Celebrate further, Save More Dhawa Ihuru presents the most compelling offer of the time- the Black Friday Limited- Time Offer- offering 30 off stays and special  gleeful savings on destination dining, gym treatment,  named water sports, and dive  gests. It's a perfect  occasion to bespeak an  islet escape during one of the most  instigative times of the time, with added value throughout the stay.

Maldives Times Read Story
Ifuru Island Maldives Celebrates Its Second Anniversary of Exceptional Luxury and Memorable Moments Editorial

Ifuru Island Maldives Celebrates Its Second Anniversary of Exceptional Luxury and Memorable Moments

Ifuru Island Maldives is celebrating its second anniversary on 1 December 2025, highlighting two incredible years marked by stunning sunsets, memorable events, and outstanding guest experiences. This milestone underscores the island’s quick rise and global acclaim, as shown by major awards at the 2025 World Luxury Awards and the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards.Located in the beautiful Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island is a quiet paradise surrounded by one kilometer of smooth white sand and amazing Maldivian sunsets.The resort combines lively shared spaces with calm private areas, providing the perfect mix of socializing and relaxation. It is a top choice for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers looking for truly special moments. The island has 147 spacious rooms, each with a private pool and direct beach access.Excellent food is a big part of the Maldivian experience.This top-tier all-inclusive resort offers six restaurants and four bars, as well as 24-hour wellness services. Every dining option, from traditional Maldivian dishes to modern international cuisine, shows the island’s focus on taste and its dedication to creating lasting memories through great food and shared times.Last year, guests had a wide array of activities, including dolphin cruises, diving trips, cultural visits, and relaxing treatments at the Xanadu Spa.Younger guests enjoyed time at the Coconut Kids Club, while families found the perfect blend of relaxation and fun. This year, Ifuru Island Maldives was awarded several top honors: Best Luxury All Inclusive Property in the Maldives, Best Luxury Family Beach Property in the Indian Ocean Islands, and Best Luxury Wedding Property in the Indian Ocean at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. It was also recognized as Best Luxury Beach Property at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2025. These awards reflect the resort’s continued effort to provide unique and unforgettable experiences for all visitors.As Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives, said, “Achieving this milestone is truly special.At Ifuru Island, we aim to create experiences that inspire, connect, and stay with guests. Our team’s passion has earned these honors, and we are excited to share the magic of Ifuru Island Maldives with our guests for many years to come.” Two years have passed, but Ifuru Island Maldives keeps delivering amazing experiences, unforgettable moments, and that special charm that makes every visit truly special.

Maldives Times Read Story
Kandolhu Maldives Showcases Upgraded Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas Editorial

Kandolhu Maldives Showcases Upgraded Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas

Kandolhu Maldives is  pleased to advertise that the  rearmost refurbishment at the property was completed and Deluxe Ocean Pool estates have now been strictly  converted into luxurious retreats of comfort and style. Designed to maximize  sequestration and relaxation, these  recently upgraded  estates now boast a fresh, contemporary design replete with private pools and stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The  recently designed Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas measure a  commodious 120 square metres and boast a  commodious bedroom, a light and airy  restroom with deep round bathtub overlooking the ocean, and a private  out-of-door   sundeck. The  sundeck features sun davenports, a sun marquee, and a new 23- forecourt- metre private pool. For increased indulgence, a hammock suspended over the water beckons guests to relax while soaking in the serenity of the ocean views. The  estates retain the  hand minimalist aesthetic of Kandolhu, firstly  envisaged by  famed Maldivian  mastermind Mohamed' Sappe' Shafeeq. The design seamlessly blends into the  islet's natural beauty, boasting high ceilings, open spaces, rich textures, and a palette that exudes understated  fineness. Adding a touch of convenience and luxury are  ultramodern amenities like Bluetooth speaker, espresso machine, and in-  manor wine fridge. This refurbishment further cements the character of Kandolhu Maldives for its exceptional combination of zen- suchlike design,  sequestration, and natural beauty. Enhancements have been made with a view to giving guests a more refined experience and making their stay as  comforting and memorable as possible.

Maldives Times Read Story
Amilla Maldives Recognized for Accessible Travel Efforts Editorial

Amilla Maldives Recognized for Accessible Travel Efforts

Amilla Maldives has been  honored with  farther accolades in the sphere of inclusivity and availability the property has been largely confided in the  order' Accessible Travel Initiative- Accommodation' at the  initial trip for Every Body Awards by Dealing trip. Launched this time, the trip for Every Body Awards recognises  individualities,  enterprise, organisations, and  juggernauts making a positive impact on the accessible  trip assiduity, celebrating progress, and motivating  farther change. Since gaining the world's first IncluCare  instrument, Amilla Maldives has continuously developed its  installations and services to  feed to a wide range of availability needs its guests might have. Completely wheelchair accessible with features that include provision for  hail or visually  bloodied guests  likewise,  platoon members have also completed MyHappyMind training to further support guests with  retired disabilities  similar as autism and ADHD. Partnering with Dive Butler, an accessible dive centre was set up at Amilla and introduced pool hoists, ramp access, and  particular attendants to help  grease inclusive snorkelling, Dolphin Discovery, and fishing excursions. Adaptive chopstick,  acclimatized menus, and staff completely trained in supporting guests with dysphagia round out a thoughtful and inclusive dining experience within the  installation's venues. This recognition adds to the long list of awards and accolades collected by Amilla Maldives, which has  lately been named among the Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives at the trip rest Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025; and as one of only five Maldivian resorts in the FORBES Travel Guide VERIFIED ™ Responsible Hospitality 2025 programme. The resort and its Javvu Gym were also  honored in the recent FORBES Travel Guide 2025 Star Awards for excellence and meaningful guest  gests.

Maldives Times Read Story
Experience Five-Star Luxury at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Adults-Only Retreat Editorial

Experience Five-Star Luxury at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Adults-Only Retreat

Reimagined, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is an grown-ups- only haven promising to offer a redefinition of sophisticated serenity amidst pristine surroundings in the Maldives. This positioning ushers in a new  period for the resort with the  donation of precisely planned areas, curated dining  gests, and upgraded  rest amenities- a reflection of its  pledge For Those Who've Outgrown Ordinary.  Dining These two  hand  caffs have revamped the gastronomic  geography of this resort. Summer is an open- air, beachfront  eatery at the resort opening towards the end of November, mirroring the energy of Southern  littoral cookery through a vibrant  sense within a laid- back, Louisiana- inspired  caff conception. honey- grilled specialties,  epicure burgers, and hearty comfort dishes are celebrated on the menu in  sand- style surroundings that easily segue from the warmth of the  autumn into the relaxed  meter of evening. Corals, launching inmid-December, offerssemi-fine dining in an exquisitely enclosed and air- conditioned  terrain, taking its alleviation from the aquatic realm of the  islet. Global and French influences  pullulate within the menu, while a especially  named wine  force and live jazz add to the sophisticated air the  eatery has prepared. Wellness & Recreation Opening inmid-November, a new extension to the Sports and Recreation Centre adds a badminton court, new pickleball and tennis courts, and a table tennis  mecca to  feed for the growing demand for social and  heartiness-  acquainted  gests. New advancements that bring new energy and connectivity to the resort will make sure every guest gets the perfect balance of  exertion and  rest during their stay.   Enhancing Guest Gests At Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, comfort and connectivity are  linked as essential at every touchpoint in the guest  trip. With that in mind, a  courteously designed Guest Waiting Lounge is  handed for those guests arriving well ahead of time or leaving  latterly in the day. The chesterfield features plush seating, soft lighting,  hand teas and coffees, Wi- Fi access, and a curated reading  niche,  rounded  by  restroom and shower  installations offering the perfect tranquil spot to relax before one's coming leg of  trip. opining on the continuing, Rajeeva Rajapakse, General Manager of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, said," Our vision was to  produce a sanctuary where grown-ups can reconnect, relax, and rediscover the magic of  islet life in an elevated yet  royal setting. Every space- from our new dining venues to our  heartiness and recreation  installations has been designed to celebrate  gests  that feel  particular and inspiring.

Maldives Times Read Story
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort Unveils a Sunlit Christmas Celebration and Glamorous Gatsby-Themed New Year’s Eve Extravaganza Editorial

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort Unveils a Sunlit Christmas Celebration and Glamorous Gatsby-Themed New Year’s Eve Extravaganza

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is proud to unveil its line-up for the Festive Season, "Golden Nights, Timeless Lights," a bespoke collection of festive events inspired by the glamour and spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Seamlessly blending sparkling beachfront moments with wellness-forward experiences, the magic of the season will be captured from 22 December 2025 through 6 January 2026, right in the middle of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.Festivities start on December 22 with a tree-lighting ceremony, heralding the next fortnight of golden evenings and jolly gatherings. A Christmas Eve Cocktail Party on December 24 invites guests to get dressed up for a night of sipping on specially concocted creations by the mixologists of the resort. On Christmas Day, Santa Claus visits especially for a meet-and-greet with the attending families, while at the Westin Family Kids Club, an elaborate program is provided for them: from decorating gingerbread houses, playing Christmas bingo to many other activities.The season reaches a crescendo on December 31 with The Great Gatsby New Year's Eve Gala Dinner-a barefoot beach celebration of vintage elegance and island flair. This will be an evening to remember, with an international buffet, a live swing band, a mesmerizing fire dance performance, and a dazzling fireworks finale to welcome 2026 with unforgettable flair.Of course, throughout the holiday season, the resort's Move Well and Play Well ethos takes center stage. Sunrise yoga, energizing beach workouts, a signature runWestin program, and several complimentary recharging activities bring balance to nights of celebration. Take part in unforgettable excursions and explore an underwater world teeming with marine life, or at your leisure, paddle with one of the many complimentary ocean kayaks. Treat yourself to relaxing treatments in an overwater sanctuary with a glass floor and sweeping views of the ocean at Heavenly Spa by Westin™.A season of connection and well-being, wrapped in the tropical warmth of Maldivian nights, awaits guests: from themed dinners across each of the five restaurants and bars at the resort, focusing on fresh flavors and judicious pairing, to sparkling cocktails at sunset and family meals under starry skies.

Maldives Times Read Story
Experience a weekly tradition of stunning sunsets and refreshing cocktails at Canareef. Editorial

Experience a weekly tradition of stunning sunsets and refreshing cocktails at Canareef.

Each Wednesday evening, a magical spell engulfs Canareef Resort Maldives, as the "Sunset Cocktails" experience-relaxation, refreshment, and rhythm-offers all guests the chance to enjoy the island's magic during the golden hour. Guests are welcomed into the elegant setting where the sky merges with the sea in a kaleidoscope of colors. Complimentary cocktails and snacks are delightful sensations well-crafted to match the serene surroundings. Unwind after your day of adventure or just recharging with island vibes; the atmosphere really sparkles with good cheer and great company. Complementing the breathtaking natural beauty of the setting sun is a vibrant energy, either from a live DJ set or from a live music performance, forming a soundtrack that goes from mellow beats to dance-worthy rhythms as night falls. It is a celebration designed for all-free for every guest of Canareef-to gather, connect, and create unforgettable memories.Weather permitting, of course, it's a tropical region. When the weather is fine, this activity becomes an event to look forward to: "Sunset Cocktails" offers the guests an opportunity to raise their glass in a toast to island life in style. Join Canareef and sip, savor, and celebrate the island's signature sunset-your perfect midweek pause by the sea.

Maldives Times Read Story
Kuramathi Maldives Named Among the Top 20 Resorts in the Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards Editorial

Kuramathi Maldives Named Among the Top 20 Resorts in the Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards

Beach estates nestle into the geography, marrying contemporary design with nature, whileover-water options sit atop the turquoise lagoon. Suitable for families or groups, Two Bedroom Beach Houses feature two living areas only a many steps down from either the reef or the great lagoon; Bageecha Kids Club is always at hand, offering a variety of complimentary features for children, ranging from outside playgrounds, splash pads, and football pitches to outside play areas and special excursions, similar as probing the hermit grouser trail through the islet's jungle. Gastronomists also love Kuramathi. With 12 caffs to choose from, guests can enjoy everything from international buffets to Indian, Thai, French, regale, and seafood cookery. The hand dining experience at Kuramathi is at The Reef, where guests are invited to savor fresh catches and high cuts; the Laguna Bar and Champagne Loft boast continued Indian Ocean views and hand- drafted amalgamations. Basic and Select All- Inclusive packages mean every stay is fluently acclimatized. This rearmost recognition from Condé Nast rubberneck's anthology's Choice Awards celebrates the enduring appeal of Kuramathi, a place where guests can really decompress, reconnect, and rediscover the beauty of islet life.

Maldives Times Read Story
A Memorable Golden Wine Experience at Kanifushi Editorial

A Memorable Golden Wine Experience at Kanifushi

Ambiance Kanifushi will host a sophisticated celebration of Maldivian hospitality and Italian flair from 4 to 6 December, as Atmosphere Core presents a three-day collaboration with Bottega SpA, Italy's celebrated lifestyle winery. President and CEO of Bottega SpA Sandro Bottega described the Maldives as "an iconic place, a diving and holiday heaven," referring to the collaboration as "a sophisticated hospitality that is complementary to the Italian lifestyle." The event is duplicated at Just Veg, Maldives' inaugural vegetarian restaurant, with specially created lunch and dinner menus by Italian Chef Fabrizio Marino complemented by expertly selected Bottega vintages. Pier Six greets on the second night with seafood-pairing inspiration building to a golden cocktail night, teppanyaki, and Venetian-style entertainment against lagoon ambiance. The celebrations will be topped off with the Bottega Gala Gold Dinner on the beach, where diners and drinkers GOLD Prosecco DOC will enjoy themselves under the stars to the music of live and DJ sessions. Bottega's Head Sommelier Elena Schipani will guide diners through each pairing, explaining the source of each wine. All of which is part of the Kanifushi Plan™ and may be reserved in advance pending availability. This Golden Wine Experience is our declaration of faith in moments that combine art with authenticity," says Raman Gomathi, Food and Beverage Director at Atmosphere Kanifushi. "The team worked their heart and soul to develop this inaugural event, an expression of our Joy of Giving philosophy." The opening also heralds Atmosphere Core's growing infatuation with Italy. In 2026, the collection will unveil its inaugural European property—BORGO MONCHIERO Heritage by Atmosphere in Piedmont, land renowned for vineyards and gastronomy. This collaboration with Bottega SpA and Chef Fabrizio Marino is but an appetizer for this potential project, combining Maldivian hospitality with Italian ingenuity. A fourth-generation, family-owned estate, Bottega SpA is the very essence of quality, authenticity, and timeless design—the very things Atmosphere Core itself believes in. Together, they will treat the atmosphere's guests to a sophisticated toast to good wine and uncomplicated island pleasures.

Maldives Times Read Story
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives Introduces Pickleball Court, Enhancing Its Premier Sports and Wellness Experiences Editorial

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives Introduces Pickleball Court, Enhancing Its Premier Sports and Wellness Experiences

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives now boasts a new pickleball court to complement its range of sporting and recreational facilities on offer to visitors. The addition helps further the resort's aim of presenting a varied and stimulating activity for visitors of all ages. Pickleball, a racquet sport that blends tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has become popular worldwide because of its simplicity and social aspect. The new court of the resort allows its visitors to play the sport in the midst of the island life of the resort. As quoted by Amjad Thaufeeg, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives' Commercial Director, the new facility is an engaging manner of staying active and connected with guests during stay, The pickleball court joins the resort's current sports and wellness amenities that include:Two floodlit tennis courtsA padel tennis courtA futsal pitchA volleyball courtA fully equipped gym featuring Technogym equipmentAn indoor and outdoor pavilion yoga room with classes on a daily basis under the guidance of instructorsA spa center on a private island providing holistic therapy for well-beingA 150-meter long pool for play and workout 75 houses and villas, eight restaurants with 12 global cuisines, and proximity to a world-famous left-barrel surf break are the features of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, which is 25 minutes from Malé Airport by speedboat. The addition of the pickleball court is an enhancement of the facilities already present at the resort, providing visitors with further ways to be entertained and stay healthy when they are there.

Maldives Times Read Story
Villa Nautica Presents a Sparkling Diwali by the Sea Editorial

Villa Nautica Presents a Sparkling Diwali by the Sea

Diwali at Villa Nautica fills a resort environment in a private island setting with colour, craft and coastal celebration, with moments that visitors can indulge in across their stay. The schedule combines long-standing tradition with beach chic, ranging from poolside rangoli and children's crafts to henna artistry, a shoreline banquet and lively Bollywood beats in the evening. Sessions are drop-in, so groups and families can flow between moments as desired.It is an easy destination to arrive at. Villa Nautica is accessible by direct speedboat transfer in 20 minutes from Velana International Airport, with hassle-free arrival for speedy getaways and longer vacations as well. Food is key to the celebration but not on the dominant agenda. Look for a celebratory buffet that celebrates local Indian zest, supplemented with open-armed alternatives for everyone, including children, and ample opportunity to taste something new in easy beachfront ambiance.Families enjoy spacious rooms in larger classes like the Two Bedroom Beach Villa with Two Pools and the Two Bedroom Ocean Suite with Pool. Both locate the lagoon near at hand with plenty of space for parents and kids to relax between Diwali celebrations and island fun on a daily basis. Children also receive the experience of painting sessions in Wavy Navy Kids Club, with session activities such as basic card-making and lantern-making at the capable hands of caring facilitators. As sunsets approach, the island is aglow with soft lanterns, beachside live music and a build-up of Bollywood classics. A friendly, warm way to welcome the Festival of Lights to the Maldives.Seasonal value is brought by Villa Resorts' Winter Offer at 20 percent discount on stays, uniting festival spirit with price savings for families, friends and couples looking to book a Diwali holiday.

Maldives Times Read Story