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.
Editorial
Varu Spa in Kandolhu Maldives Reveals Its New Spa Menu
Kandolhu Maldives presents a beautiful new menu at Varu Spa, where visitors are welcome to embark on a rejuvenating experience that harmonizes mind, body, and soul. Taking inspiration from the word 'Varu', which refers to energy in the traditional Dhivehi language, the new offerings feature signature experiences designed to restore balance and promote the wellbeing of the visitors. One of the treatments that deserves mention is the Varu Origins treatment, which is a very immersive 120-minute ceremony featuring a full-body cleansing exfoliation, a customized massage, and a rejuvenating facial to maximize skin luminosity. The guests may also treat themselves to the Varu Tradition, an integrative treatment which involves aromatherapy, spinal pressure manipulation, and reflexology to minimize stress and maximize relaxation. Also, clients wishing for a detoxifying pick-me-up can try the Varu Essential, a stimulating treatment using the combination of grapefruit, rosemary, and juniper essential oils to rejuvenate completely. To complete the new treatments, Varu Spa offers handcrafted wellness journeys to satisfy different relaxation desires.The Three-Day Reset emphasizes subtle rejuvenation through rose body scrubbing and specific massages, whereas the Five-Day Tranquil package includes Maldivian Fusion Massage and Glow Facial for ultimate indulgence. Couples can indulge in the Varu Haven package that provides a shared retreat by mixing sea salt soaks, full-body massages, and lymphatic drainage facials in a peaceful ambiance. With such carefully crafted experiences, Varu Spa at Kandolhu Maldives provides the ideal getaway for guests to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect to their inner vitality.
Editorial
Enjoy a Classic Easter at the Kuda Villingili Resort in the Maldives.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites travelers to experience a classic Easter vacation in the grand shadow of the Indian Ocean from 17-23 April, 2025. With its retro theme and bygone celebrations, Easter's celebration here is a tribute to the splendor of an age-old Easter by fusing high-standard culinary exploration, spine-chilling family fun, and heavenly moments of paradise. The Easter celebrations at Kuda Villingili are packed with exciting activities with the purpose of creating breath-taking memories. From breath-taking Easter egg hunting for children to Easter arts and crafts, the resort makes sure that each member of the family is entertained during the celebration. The guests can also enjoy a unique Easter Sunday sunrise yoga session, embracing serenity before indulging in the opulent Easter celebrations. The showpiece event of the festivities is the Kuda Villingili Easter Extravaganza Buffet Dinner on April 20, 2025, an evening not to forget at The Restaurant. Guests can treat themselves to a decadent buffet of an international and local variety of delicacies in the soothing background sounds of the resort's resident live band. For sun lovers who long for fun in the sun, the Easter Island Splash Pool Party promises a thrilling afternoon as the Maldives' largest pool is converted into a party ground full of excitement. Aqua Zumba, poolside games with lots of fun, energetic music by DJ Leila, and tasty treats like popcorn, flavored beverages, & cotton candy and more await guests. Ideal for kids and families, the event brings the joy of Easter to its most festive expression. Food enthusiasts will be indulged in an interactive experience with Chef Kimo and Mar-Umi Sushi Artistry. The event give guests an opportunity to learn about the attention that goes into making sushi from a professional chef, adding a note of gourmet sophistication to the island getaway. Wine lovers are invited to ring in Easter in fine style at The Exclusive Wine Tasting with an expertly selected range of the finest world wines and New World wines. For the elegant and luxurious wine dining experience, The Easter Grapevine Dinner offers an unforgettable five-course Wine Library Dinner – handpicked and crafted for an upscale Easter sojourn. apart from wine, diners can explore a universe of gastronomic pleasure through themed set-menu dinners. Pan-Asian Voyage at East transports diners on a culinary tour of the continent's vast array of flavors, while Nikkei Rhapsody at Mar-Umi presents the delectable fusion of Japanese and Peruvian Nikkei cuisine. Spice presents the Awadhi & Arabic Culinary Journey, an elite experience designed by the legendary Qureshi brothers, upholding five generations of gastronomic excellence. Adrenaline junkies can feel the ocean waves with a Surf Beach Lesson, an exhilarating experience for novices who would like to learn surfing with professional instruction. Kuda Villingili is the ideal family and tourist resort to spend Easter in the Maldives. The combination of luxury, adventure, and hospitality offered by the resort is a perfect environment for relaxation and bonding. Whether the tourists would like to discover the abundant marine life, enjoy a world-class spa, or participate in carefully planned Easter activities, Kuda Villingili offers something special for every tourist. Aside from these signature moments, Easter in Kuda Villingili Resort is packed with plenty of Easter-themed activities suitable for all ages to make every guest enjoy a wonderful and not-to-be-forgotten holiday. From savouring gourmet cuisine to enjoying thrilling water sports or simply the best of quality family time, Easter in Kuda Villingili is an unforgettable holiday.
Editorial
Celebrate Easter in Luxury at NOOE Kunaavashi Maldives
NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi invites visitors to enjoy an unforgettable Easter celebration, uniting island paradise, rich culture, and lively entertainment. Between April 18 and April 23, 2025, the resort turns into a holiday haven with activities catered to families, couples, and thrill-seekers.The NOOE Easter Carnival promises an exciting lineup of events, from a Maldivian Cultural Show to Live DJ Nights, to offer an unforgettable combination of music, heritage, and relaxation under the stars. Guests can wake up with Sunrise Yoga, enjoy fun activities like the Easter Treasure Hunt, and indulge in specially chosen culinary delights at special themed dinners, the Lobster Champagne Dinner, and the Flam-in-Go Dinner.Kids will enjoy special workshops like Coffee Painting, Coconut Painting, and Salt Art, while sportsmen can enjoy Beach Football and Family Olympics. Sunset hours are illuminated with live entertainment music at VELI, filling hearts with happiness and harmony.Mark Easter with perfect balance of comfort and thrill at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi. Look here for Easter Brochure.
Editorial
Family Bonding During Eid at Hilton Maldives Resort
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa extends a warm welcome to families to spend Eid al-Fitr as a delectable mix of flavors, family fun, and themed programs for young adventurers. Visitors can also experience a collection of brand-new fitness facilities and wellness travels, all against the serenity of unspoiled beaches and lapping ocean blue.Taste of TraditionVisitors have the opportunity to enjoy the coastal Eid Beach Market Buffet at Beach Shack, where they will be able to taste the sumptuous flavours of local dishes with original recipes prepared by experienced Moroccan and Egyptian chefs.The live grill station provides shish tawook, lamb kebab, and chermoula fish, in addition to braised lamb at the carving station. Visitors can experience a falafel bazaar, a live shawarma station, and enjoy mezze, dolma, chicken kabsa rice and lamb tagine, as well as sweet treats such as umm ali and basbousa.During the blessed month of Ramadan, Habitat offers two exclusive iftar menus, which can be savored with in-villa dining as well. Moreover, when a guest books a shisha experience, a complimentary freshly brewed Arabic coffee pot is provided. This facility is offered at Aura Pool Bar, Sip Tea Lounge, and Eden.Family-Friendly AdventuresThe resort provides an assorted selection of recreational activities for the entire family to share together with a fun daily programme at the state-of-the-art purpose-built Krakengiri Kids' Club, the largest in the Maldives. Themed fun will fill the kids' club over the Eid weekend with activities such as Eid card making, henna designs, craft sessions & jewelry making, T-shirt painting, and face painting. Families can also experience the Eid Parade and a thrilling Eid Fashion Show at the Aura Pool Bar, providing a lively and vibrant touch to the festivities.Active vacationers can use the 24-hour gym or ride around the island on bikes. An outdoor multi-purpose court is used for outdoor workouts, tennis clinics, and pickleball games, while padel tennis players can indulge in the new state-of-the-art seaside padel court.Wellbeing JourneysEnjoy a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation with the resort's bespoke well-being experience at Amingiri Spa & Hammam.• Serenity and Reflection: A 90-minute experience that includes a cleansing body scrub, tension easing back massage, and soothing scalp massage.• Joyful Renewal: A 90-minute treatment that includes a massage, invigorating facial, and calming paraffin wax for the feet.Guests interested in more specialist treatments can liaise with visiting practitioner and accredited Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis teacher Lorelei Bulan. On site at the resort for the month of April, she has a menu of holistic movement, meditation and breathing practices.Wellness aficionados can also try the comprehensive Sleep Wellness menu aimed at calming and soothing the body and mind to a deep, restorative sleep. Choices run from a signature calming massage on the spa's Skye deck; an after-dark hammam ritual in the contemporary hammam room; or an in-villa treatment including guided meditation, yoga and breathwork.
Editorial
List of top UK tourist arrivals to the maldives in feb 2025
Maldives, with its scenic beaches and high-end resorts, remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations around the world. In February 2025, the Maldives hospitality a total of 214,091 tourists. The daily average number of arrivals stood at 7,646, with the highest single-day arrivals standing at 9,518, according to the latest statistics made public by Maldives Immigration. Paced at the front of the number one nationalities were visitors from the United Kingdom with 23,210 tourists, followed distantly by tour parties from China (21,928) and India (10,253). Russia also joined the list heavily with 20,649 visitations, the United States producing 6,448 visitors. European nations such as Italy (19,120), Germany (14,119), and Switzerland (5,399) were represented in good numbers, a strong indication of the Maldives' popularity among tourists from across Europe. Poland, with 5,354 tourists, was a sign of increasing interest from the Eastern European market, contributing to the mix of tourists. The United Kingdom has been a traditional and steady market for the Maldives for years, continuously holding a top 10 source market status for tourists. Yet, China maintained its position as the year's top market overall. During February 2025, a total of 214,091 tourists visited the Maldives, slightly lower than the 217,391 visitor tally seen during February 2024, yet building on an aggregate figure of 428,954 arrivals to date in the first two months of 2025.
Editorial
Enjoy the Sun with the Discovery Offer from Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives
In the Maldives, the sun shines its warm light upon the Indian Ocean throughout the year, colouring every moment with hope and awe. As Summer dawns, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives welcomes you to do it all without limitation to how long you wish to remain. For a short period only, Cinnamon DISCOVERY members can experience an unparalleled world of privileged privileges. Make the ideal break between 1st March and 31st March 2025 and travel between 1st May and 31st October 2025. Begin your adventure in style with free transfers and enter the world of comfort with a host of exclusive benefits, all tailored to maximize your stay. Imagine coming to your resort and being greeted warmly with a thoughtful amenity, then having the added indulgence of a room upgrade. Members can get comfortable in a suite that takes the stay to new levels of style and comfort. During your stay, a universe of luxurious experiences is yours to enjoy as you can indulge in a romantic four-course dinner on the beach or go island-hopping to explore the Maldives' best-kept secrets, or take a peaceful Dhoni ride followed by a dolphin-watching tour. Between May and October, the Maldives becomes an explorer's fantasy and a relaxation haven. It is the ideal time to witness enchanting ocean creatures, bask in serene moments, & surf rejuvenating swells. It is easy to do snorkel alongside lovely sea turtles, dive over world-famous reefs, & appreciate the stunning beauty of hidden island treasures. Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is the best option for vacationing. Just a short distance by speedboat from the airport, this large island offers seven different types of accommodation, including a budget option that can accommodate four adults. It also features the renowned Pasta Point, making it a surfers’ haven for great waves, along with an assortment of family-friendly activities to suit all ages. For the seekers of luxurious intimacy, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives does not disappoint with its virgin 360-degree beach, superior house reef, and effortless access to famous dive spots. Fine dining delights heighten the experience, fusing indulgence and relaxation in an utterly tranquil ambiance. The ultimate diver's dream, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon features one of the Maldives' most dynamic house reefs, filled with all manner of sea creatures. The superior rooms are large enough for four adults, and an array of land and underwater activities keeps every second of your time brimming with excitement. Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers romance and relaxation for an adult-only getaway. Couples seeking seclusion and some well-deserved time out enjoying overwater villas, free daily snorkelling trips, and entry to the luxurious Platinum Island are sure to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
Editorial
Visit Robinson Noun to Experience the Exhilaration of Water Adventures
ROBINSON NOONU is a lively resort located in the untouched Noonu Atoll of the Maldives, gives you a perfect combination of relaxation and activity.One of the major highlights of recent renovations at ROBINSON NOONU is the addition of a new water sports jetty. The larger, improved jetty is the perfect starting point for tourists undertaking snorkelling, diving excursions, and other aquatic activities. The additional facility serves to further endorse the resort's commitment to providing excellent marine experiences.The resort offers an exciting activities to involve visitors in the natural beauty and excitement of the Maldives. Divers are particularly well catered for, with the chance to discover the resort's unspoiled house reef, just 150 metres from the shore. Guests can enjoy sea life on guided dives, night dives, and safari trips to surrounding atolls.The PADI-certified dive centre provides courses for every skill level, ranging from Discover Scuba Diving to Advanced Open Water, with experienced divers being able to take up drift diving and Nitrox experiences. Snorkelling is just as enthralling, with sunrise and night guided tours, as well as chances to see dolphins and turtles. There are also plenty of activities to keep families entertained, such as pirate tours, treasure hunts, and introductory children's dives.Apart from snorkelling and diving, ROBINSON NOONU offers high-octane water sports for those who want more. Guests can experience parasailing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tube rides, or try more leisurely pursuits like stand-up paddleboarding and lagoon kayaking. For the keen to learn the wind, windsurfing and kite surfing lessons are available.Also, visitors can engage in Maldivian sunset fishing excursions traditionally or go on big game fishing. Environmentally friendly tourists can help protect the marine life by adopting coral frames. With all these activities to choose from, ROBINSON NOONU makes sure that each visitor is able to create memories that they will never forget in this tropical haven.
Editorial
With OUTRIGGER Maldives new overwater domes explore a whole new eating experience.
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is redefining luxury dining with its breathtaking new addition—five overwater dining domes at the Moodhu Grill. These VIP pods provide an experience never to be forgotten, where guests can indulge in fine cuisine while floating over a thriving coral reef. With breathtaking 360-degree views of the horizon and starry skies, dining here becomes a magical escape.Moodhu Grill, one of the resort's five remarkable restaurants, stands out with its fresh seafood and meats infused with subtle Asian flavors. Signature dishes include the Chef's recommended Kandu Kukulhu—grilled yellowfin tuna marinated in Maldivian spices—along with delicious offerings like Kandai chicken, Seekh Kebabs, and Tandoor-baked gobi.For the more adventurous diner, Art-I-San has a romantic balcony table at the top of the island where diners can eat over a moonlit ocean, and Koto has cozy Japanese fusion in a peaceful lagoon atmosphere.Each of the overwater domes can seat a maximum of four individuals, ideal for couples or families who want to take their evening to the next level in an intimate atmosphere. Only available for dinner with prior reservations, dome dining is an extra fee, but it's an experience worth splurging on.OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort rooms begin at £574 ($728) per night, with a mix of luxury, comfort, and experiences that will be remembered forever.
Editorial
The 2025 Eid celebrations at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort are announced.
Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is launching a special programme of activities to mark the Eid holidays with ocean activities, art workshops, spa, sound healing, mesmerizing performances and magical beachside dining. Inviting everyone to partake in traditional maldivian island celebrations, set against the breathtaking beauty of the Indian Ocean.The resort is collaborating with professional artist in residence Anastasia Medvedeva to host immersive workshops specializing in epoxy resin artwork from beautiful jewellery to groundbreaking art pieces. Kids can express their creativity at the resort's kids club, Planet Trekkers, with the star coaster resin art class, making moon and stars wind chimes, card making, and palm leaf weaving, an interactive and engaging way to learn about art while being in touch with nature and culture.Highlights of the Eid programme are:Maali Parade - 31st March 2025 at Café Umi BeachAn original and vibrant Maldivian parade featuring dressed-up performers, rhythmic drums, and nail-biting dances to create an actual spectacle in the island.Arabian Beach BBQ Dinner - 31st March 2025 at Café Umi BeachDelicious Arabian inspired cuisine will be served under the stars, with guests invited to dine on the beach with live music and performers for a night to remember. For a romantic evening for two, the stunning dinner setting at The Lighthouse restaurant with private chef and waiter is offered on 29th, 30th March and 1st April.Ocean MomentsThe entire family can enjoy exploring the island's diverse marine life through activities such as parasailing and scuba diving to the magical dolphin cruise, offered on every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.Wellness and Holistic TransformationEid is a period for renewal and rejuvenation, during which guests may experience a choice of revitalization sessions, among which are sound therapy sessions, cupping massage, breath and meditation by certified Yoga and Fitness Instructor from India, all of which to benefit rebalancing of mind, body and spirit.The cultural and immersive experience at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort will mark and commemorate Eid, instilling unity and togetherness, and engaging visitors in the peaceful majesty of the Maldives and the resort's idyllic setting.
Editorial
Discover Maldives’ Marine Life with Cinnamon Resorts
With the world coming together to celebrate World Wildlife Day, there's no better opportunity to take a plunge beneath the azure waters that caress Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' four Maldivian resorts. Housing some of the most captivating marine life, these waters give an inkling of a vibrant underwater world which is full of life. Specialists from Dive & Sail, the resort's official dive operator, gave a glimpse into the oceanic wonders waiting to be discovered under the sea.“Each of the four resorts in the Maldives by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts boasts a unique marine ecosystem,” says Adam Ali from the Dive & Sail team. “From the vibrant coral gardens of Ellaidhoo to the world-famous surf breaks and manta ray encounters near Dhonveli, every site is a window into the wonders of the ocean.”Toggle navigationNEWS AWARDS PEOPLE APPOINTMENTS CONNECT TTM MALDIVES TTM TAKEOVER CONTACTNEWSMARCH 4, 2025Uncover the Marine Marvels of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the MaldivesAs the globe comes together to commemorate World Wildlife Day, no better time presents itself to plunge beneath the blue waters that encircle Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' four Maldivian resorts. Treasured habitats for some of the most spectacular marine life, these waters allow a glimpse into an abundantly living underwater world. Dive & Sail's experts, the resorts' official dive operator, provided insights into the marine wonders that await visitors under the waters."Every one of the four Maldives resorts of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has a distinctive marine ecosystem," according to Adam Ali of the Dive & Sail team. "From the colourful coral gardens of Ellaidhoo to the internationally renowned surf breaks and manta ray sightings off Dhonveli, each location is a portal to the ocean's magic."-Advertisement-At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, snorkellers and divers often find nurse sharks swimming in the waters, while at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, crystal-clear lagoons provide spotting of stingrays and rainbow reef fish. The variety of species at these resorts is indicative of the rich marine heritage of the Maldives and provides unforgettable diving and snorkelling experiences.Perhaps the most highly desired experience for divers and snorkellers is meeting manta rays and whale sharks. "The Maldives is among the finest spots in the world to spot manta rays, and they can be frequently seen in channels surrounding Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives and Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives," says Ibrahim Shaah, a veteran instructor at Dive & Sail. "I have one memory of a dive when the group was surrounded by a dozen or so manta rays, with their elegant movements seeming almost hypnotic.". One even looped around, as if performing a dance.”Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, with its house reef, has some of the best close-up shark encounters. "Night diving here is an otherworldly experience," reports diver Mohamad Amjey. "There was this one time when he was swimming motionless, and a group of reef sharks swam by like specters in the darkness. It was thrilling, yet serene too."In addition to providing world-class underwater experiences, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts are also dedicated to the conservation of marine life. "The resorts support sustainable diving and snorkelling operations to preserve these delicate ecosystems. The dive facilities teach visitors the responsible interaction with marine life, from keeping at a safe distance from marine life to not touching corals."Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' coral propagation efforts also go a long way towards reef restoration. "By seeding coral frames and observing their growth, the resorts help maintain the reefs that are home to an amazing diversity of species," the team describes. Guests are encouraged to join in on these activities, further connecting them with marine conservation.In celebration of this World Wildlife Day, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is acknowledging the rich marine life of the Maldives as a top destination for ocean lovers. Whether it is for returning divers or first-time snorkelling exploits, the resorts welcome them to explore, treasure, and protect this underwater paradise. The beauty of the ocean, after all, is not just what is seen, but the protection of it for future generations.
Editorial
Unveiling Makunudu Island's Marine Excursions
Makunudu Island is a serene tropical island resort in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, located some 35 kilometers north of Malé International Airport. It can be accessed by a 50-minute speedboat transfer, where the serene atmosphere is complemented by an abundance of exciting water sports and activities.The Dive Ocean Centre within the resort also caters to beginners and regular divers with entry to over 25 dive sites and PADI-certified courses. New diver visitors can have guided tours to Manta Point to spot reef manta rays, or advanced divers can visit sites like Shark Point for guaranteed shots of sharks, eagle rays, tuna, and silver jacks. Blue Canyon location provides a unique privilege with the opportunity for divers to personally encounter face-to-face exotic soft corals that bring glory to the seafloor.In addition to diving, Riyaa Water Sports Centre offers numerous activities to challenge the adventure-seeker. There is the opportunity to learn sailing catamarans, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboard, and kayaking in the lagoon. For a taste of culture introduction, there are also handline fishing trips and sailing excursions on traditional Maldivian dhonis that offer a taste of local tradition.From diving in the vivid coral reefs beneath the sea to engaging in Maldivian watersports of days gone by, Makunudu Island has something enriching in store for a wide-ranging interest.
Editorial
Maldives’ Longest Pool Debuts at Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Sun Siyam Olhuveli resorted the entire Beach and Sunset Beach Pavilions with the opening of the Maldives Long Pool on 1st March 2025. Their fresh design mesmerizes guests and provides a better experience. With the new design, Beach Pavilions modernized from Deluxe Rooms to suit for the new pace of beachfront living in Maldives with high approachability while balancing comfort and style. The rooms are categorized in two sections. These two story, four room suites enable guests to appreciate their surroundings with private terraces overlooking the beach, lagoon, and ocean. The 40 Beach Pavilions provide direct access to the beach and pool, while the 60 Sunset Beach Pavilions offer splendid views of the ocean and sunset along with two of the Maldives’s longest pools enhanced with a sunken bar for comfort. The guests can treat themselves to a relaxing swim, or rest on the terrace and enjoy a setting combining simplicity and sophistication.Over the course of six months, London-based Studio Sixty7 worked to completely overhaul the interior design. It now boasts an expansive open-plan feature that emphasizes the views of the outdoors and the ocean. The new design makes use of light, soft, and modern colors. Open-plan bathrooms now feature delicate grey striped natural linen curtains and rich marbled tiles for a touch of understated luxury. Sophisticated lighting further increases the ambiance of the space, making it feel as a calm home, allowing guests to relax in their private space.A major highlight is the opening of the 210m long pool, the longest in the Maldives, running parallel to the beach and featuring a sunken pool bar ideal for casual socialising. But that’s not where the luxuries end, guests can also luxuriate in a second ocean facing pool which is an additional 131m long. Both pools allow guests to not only enjoy the swim but soak in the breathtaking views of the Maldives.“We have made these uplifting changes to one of our most high-in-demand room categories, and we believe the changes have made the stay more affordable without detrimental effects to the amazing views from the beach in the Maldives,” says Hassan Adil, Assistant Group General Manager of Sun Siyam Resorts.The newly constructed pavilions and pools compliment Olhuveli’s all-inclusive offer. Now guests can grab a bite or sip an all-inclusive cocktail served by the pool, and enjoy a stress-free vacation.The newly constructed Beach and Sunset Beach pavilions at Sun Siyam Olhuveli are now open and waiting for guests searching for a luxurious yet functional beachfront retreat in the Maldives. These modern style pavilions with record-breaking pools are perfect for romantic getaways, family holidays or vacation breaks with friends at the Indian Ocean.
Editorial
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Recognized by Forbes in 2025
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru earned a coveted Four-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide for the 2025 Star Awards, which endorses the indesputable quality of service provided at the resort, along with its luxurious appeal and exceptional hospitality.Forbes Travel Guide is the only independent, global luxury hotel, restaurant, spa, and ocean cruise ship rating system in the world. Their auditors prowl resort properties blindly and judge against some 900 objective criteria heavy on hospitality and guest relations malpractice and performance.Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has awarded this prestigious accolade in equal proportions for their efforts towards constructing peerless luxury villas and upgrading their guest services along with dine-around experiences at their award-winning restaurants. The award is a testament to the resort's dedication to being the undisputed luxury hideaway in the Maldives.Service excellence is part and parcel of the Banyan experience. Their employees go above and beyond to ensure that every guest receives hassle-free service along with personalized attention. This along with warm Maldivian welcome hospitality makes their staying experience exceptionally soothing and indulgent.Beyond hospitality, passion drives Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru towards sustainability and conservation of the Maldives’ marine ecosystem. Its newly refurbished Marine Lab, which is now central to coral reefs rehabilitation, marine biodiversity conservation, and eco tourism remains unmatched in the Maldives.“We are very grateful to be selected by Forbes Travel Guide as one of their awarded recipients, ” said Hery Kuswoyo, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “This award signifies our commitment to offering unparalleled service and authentic experiences that surpasses and respects the natural beauty and heritage of the Maldives. With our recently refurbished resort, we are aiming to blend in luxury, sustainability, and the true Maldives.”
Editorial
Saving Paradise: Villa Park’s Conservation Efforts
The Maldives is being mostly complimented for its postcard-picture-perfect scenery, but behind its swaying palms, powder-white beaches, and turquoise lagoons is a lot more to this island country. At Villa Park, the devotion to saving this paradise extends well beyond its radiant surface. Below the waves and on its green landscapes is a fine balance of life where delicate environments flourish. Vibrant coral reefs filled with tropical fish, peaceful mangroves harboring unique birdlife, and dense greenery with high diversity all contribute to the Maldives being unique.Working in this amazing setting is a huge honor. Knowing that, Villa Park has brought it to a very high level of reducing its footprint on these precious environments. Sustainability in practice, collaborations with community-based conservation initiatives, and ecotourism-conscious hospitality are the pillars of that dedication. From guaranteeing the promotion of reef-safe sunscreen application to conserving water, nothing is left out when it comes to protecting this natural wonder for generations to come.Even the tourists are prompted to do their share. Small things like care for the native wildlife and reduction of waste can go a long way. Collectively, it can be observed that the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives is still intact for future generations.One of the greatest achievements in minimizing the environmental impact has been tropical garden design. The Villa Park gardens yield more than 20,000 coconuts per month in addition to other tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs. These are all used locally, which means less demand for imported items. The technical skills and hard work of the environmental manager and the cooperative garden staff are the key to the success of these successful gardens.Coral reefs worldwide, including the Maldives, are being threatened by fishing, pollution, global warming, and tourism. The recent global warming trends have caused mass bleaching and destruction of these fragile ecosystems. In response to this, the dive center at Villa Park has launched a coral reef conservation program. The project aims to cultivate artificial reefs and populate the existing ones with healthy marine life, which will aid the underwater ecosystem in recovering and sustaining itself.Villa Park is also a haven for tropical birds that migrate to the region, where they are drawn to the dense, green canopy that spreads over the resort. Although these birds can be spotted flying around the island from time to time, their own personal sanctuary is a peaceful haven, located way back within an inaccessible area on one side of the botanical garden. This remote location is a haven for the birds, where they have their chance to flourish in their natural environment.By doing this, Villa Park continues to preserve the Maldives' diverse ecosystems, presenting the visitor with a glimpse into the fine balance of life behind its stunning beauty.
Editorial
Luxury Eid Getaway at Kuda Villingili Maldives
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is going to give an unforgettable Eid al-Fitr experience with a fusion of tradition and luxury. Between March 30 to April 1, 2025, the resort invites guests to experience a festive environment with special activities, fine dining, and special activities for all ages.For all those looking to experience something truly special, the Kuda Eid Lunch Feast of Kuda Villingili will include a lavish Middle Eastern Fusion five-course set menu at Spice restaurant. Especially designed for this occasion, this feast will transport the guests into the midst of the Middle East with a fresh twist by fifth-generation Qureshi brothers, who head the talented chefs at Spice Restaurant. For the length of the Eid celebrations, guests on Half Board and Bed and Breakfast meal plans can enjoy a 30% discount on beverages and food at Med, the Mediterranean and Italian specialty restaurant for lunch. For those who want to enjoy interactive dining, Teppanyaki by Mar-Umi offers a 15% discount on food and beverage both during lunch and in the evening. These special offers prove the generosity of Eid celebrations throughout the world. The Kuda Eid Grand Buffet at The Restaurant invites all guests to a rich assortment of Middle Eastern and Maldivian Eid cuisine. This is the cream of the cake of the evening and supplemented further by the Bodu-beru special performance on the beach from 1915 hrs to 2015 hrs and a live band show thereafter till 2200 hrs. There may be face painting for kids and taking pictures at the Eid special photo booth on the beach. The restaurant will be tastefully decorated with an Eid theme, and the ambiance will be perfect for this festive occasion.The Bar at Kuda Villingili will feature an Arabic Shisha Night, live DJ sessions, karaoke fun, and special Eid Signature mocktails designed specifically by professional mixologists.Visitors are invited to Raalhu Bar from 1600 hrs to 1900 hrs, which is golden hour, to indulge in 30% discounts on beverages, and a Shisha and beverage package.As part of the celebration of the special gift of Eid, visitors will also be able to indulge in Eid-themed turndown amenities exclusively, providing an added sense of celebration for their stay.The festivities of Eid are not just for adults but also extended to the children, with an active agenda of activities at the Kuda Fiyo Kids Club. There is Eid-themed crafts and art, games, and pool activities, and so on, where children can enjoy hands-on activities throughout the holiday of March 30 to April 01, 2025. Some of the activities are Henna Art classes, Mocktail Masterclass, Eid suncatchers making, Nature Hunt, and more.In keeping with tradition, the resort provides a special day visit package just for its resident neighbors of Thulusdhoo and other local visitors seeking the ultimate island escape to spend Eid with family and friends.Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives promises a memorable and indulgent Eid celebration steeped in tradition, joy, and opulence with the perfect blend of culture and cuisine.