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
JA Manafaru Wins Family-Friendly Resort Award
The company, JA Manafaru has said it received respected Worldwide Kids Accreditation, in a second consecutive win reaffirming its family-friendliness. A widely accepted independent recognition rewards the best resorts that make continuous improvements in childcare, train to international standards and high safety standards.JA Manafaru is located in a picturesque all-natural island resort, offering family-friendly facilities that range through various options. Young guests can have games and discovery time in the CoolZone play area, its own family pool, Recreation Pavilion, and ChillZone indoor games room, allowing the parents to relax. The range of this offering has it that both families and couples enjoy the perfect mix of a peaceful retreat and safety with fun for children.The audit performed by WK successfully passed its stringent test for the childcare facilities of the resort. Hence, it continues showing commitment to offering a safe and nurturing space for the younger guests. JA Manafaru has been certified as a professional childcare team that has undergone rigorous training accredited by Worldwide Kids to be well-equipped with all expertise needed to provide quality care. That way, parents can be comfortable knowing that their children are being properly taken care of while they go and enjoy the spa and dining services on offer.Rita Gupta, Director of Spa & Recreation, is proud and comments, "Being the winner for the second successive year highlights resort commitment toward making sure safety and security prevail for all visitors specifically younger visitors. With broad training and health and safety audits, it is possible that implementation will take place on international standards. And with this, accreditation stands out for family-friendly memories at the resort.".Jason Kruse, General Manager of JA Manafaru Maldives, said: "We are thrilled to be accredited by Worldwide Kids, which is a testament to our continued efforts to ensure that our youngest guests experience the best possible stay. The variety of activities ensures that families can enjoy the beauty of the Maldives together while parents can relax, knowing their children are in good hands.".Worldwide Kids Accreditation reiterates that, besides being a luxurious retreat for families, JA Manafaru stands for a resort that will look to the health and enjoyment of young visitors. Prestige in such accreditation says that the resort will keep up high standards of childcare while guaranteeing the pleasure and peace of all its visitors.With this award, JA Manafaru remains one of the top resorts in the Maldives, offering quality service and experiences that no family or holidaymaker can forget.
Editorial
Six Senses Laamu Earns Sustainability Honors
The recognition for outstanding innovative work in the marine environment has been twice achieved, with Six Senses Laamu crowned 'Bright Ideas in Travel' for 2024 by Condé Nast Traveller as well as securing the 'Best Culture, Travel & Lifestyle Environmental Initiative' category in the Country & Town House Future Icons Awards.One of the events that have been part and parcel of the celebrations ongoing is this annual gala Future Icons Awards coming off-and what better way to appreciate their productive hunt in finding such visionaries who would charge with overseeing the face-to-create visions of sustainability within heart, the project takes the form of setting up of Laamu's Shell for Six Senses Laamu, to be preserved within a mode of paying back what has been taken and had done with excellence by successfully gathering categories.While doing so, it also identifies SHELL and MUI as a solution for changing the solution to the most pertinent environmental challenges facing the travel industry. Similarly, it has been regarded by adding Bright Ideas in Travel by Condé Nast Traveller.SHELL is a first luxury hospitality and marine conservation collaboration launched in March 2023. It forms the heart of the MUI team; it comprises marine biologists from Six Senses Laamu who work in partnership with three leading NGOs. The NGOs include The Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation, and the Olive Ridley Project. It stretches over 5,952 square feet and houses numerous cutting-edge research programs.Shell has discovered so far 138 individual manta rays in waters around Laamu, while it has also developed the first underwater contactless ultrasound scanner to study manta ray reproductive habits. It is the first time globally where 'Eyes on the Reef' project will involve non-stop 24/7 monitoring of manta rays at cleaning stations.The team recorded 1,383 hatchlings during the period of January up to November 2024 on the beaches of this resort. It has among the most extensive turtle identification databases found in the Maldives-over 670 unique identified turtles in Laamu Atoll. Due to advocacy for the site, Gaadhoo is declared, on December 2021, as one of the important nesting sites that will become a Marine Protected Area for the turtles to nest.Results for the monitoring program of coral reefs at Six Senses Laamu reflected impressively since the percentage of coverage on house reefs, with regard to coral, had increased to 55%. Meanwhile, a research team that started studying patterns regarding the spawning of corals registered as many as 36 genera of coral on house reefs and, overall, up to 47 different genera of corals around Laamu Atoll.Shell, from research fuels impacting conservation that includes campaigns, for example, #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass which conserved more than 910,000 square meters of seagrass meadows in 37 resorts, this place has an interactive gallery, LED floors and view booths, with rich gadgetry to entertain visitors across all generations, amidst a marine conserving theme.In fact, Six Senses Laamu was a very fundamental science, conservation, and luxury tourism project further shaping the vision of sustainable travel in the Maldives. For such awards, it would need to be said that it goes to indicate that a resort stay protects marine life but yet brings an enriching experience.
Editorial
Erdal Altinok Boosts Finolhu in Europe
Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll has appointed Erdal Altinok as Director of Sales for Europe. With more than 20 years of experience in tourism and luxury hospitality, Erdal develops deep knowledge of strategic sales, marketing, and vital relationships within the European market.In the year 2001, Altinok worked on product and contracting, while joining Ltur tourismus - TUI Group as he is currently. Since 2015, Altinok specialized to hospitality sales and marketing exclusively working with two of Germany's largest tour operators who sold long-haul destination experience for the past 15 years. Some of the previous engagements by Altinok as a Director of Sales include LUX South Ari Atoll along with being a Director of Business Development with Mirihi Island Resort of Maldives.We are happy to welcome Erdal to the Seaside Finolhu team as our new Director of Sales for Europe, with special emphasis on DACH region, Spain, Italy, France, Central Europe, and Benelux. Erdal brings the experience and passion required to take our presence in Europe to the next level, where long-lasting relationships between our partners and guests will thrive. We believe he will play a vital part in increasing our presence and success in the European market.Seaside Finolhu is a 125-private-villa resort offering four restaurants within the boundaries of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Baa Atoll. Activities in this resort include vibrant marine life under crystalline waters, and exploration of the vast coral system around the house reef of the resort. Finolhu offers an unlimited number of adventures with such thrilling water sports activities set against the breathtaking Indian Ocean.
Editorial
Free Transfers Await at Cinnamon Maldives
Wake up to the feel of sun warmth of Maldives on your face as waves guide you to heaven, all on free transfers that takes you there. Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives and Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives have now invited guests to level up their island experience by means of a specifically tailored offer that would bring in memories of a lifetime. Book from 10th December 2024 through to 11th January 2025 to enjoy free return transfers with a minimum five-night stay. Your dream holiday just got closer with the price now set at USD 470 at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives and USD 348 at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives.Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is an escapade from the world and locates at Meemu Atoll. Over water bungalows and beachfront villas with stilted constructions besides views of the horizon are offered by the Platinum Island, exclusive to adults. Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is in North Malé Atoll, beckoning one and all to play every moment. World-famous Pasta Point surf break and vibrant house reef are among the treasures within this resort.Make your sojourn even more memorable by making use of up to two extra special book-direct benefits, including but not limited to four-course dinner on the beach, island-hopping tour, shark or dolphin watching-all designed to surround you with the finest things in life about living an island way. Whatever be the kind of experience-be it adventure or relaxation and/or special time with loved ones at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives secures a break that will really set everything in motion by promising to indulge and discover.
Editorial
Masterclasses by Robin & Laurie Haase at Dusit Thani
Now, guest experiences can learn through learning amid serene environments as world-class master classes conducted by leading professionals of Netherlands, namely, Robin Haase and Laurie Haase visited Dusit Thani Maldives.Even the day began with a 50-minute Pilates Masterclass, led by none other than the incomparable Laurie Haase, in the serene setting of the Wellness Pavilion. This allowed guests to rejuvenate both the body and the mind, to harmonize mindful movement with a peaceful landscape in this resort setting-all under excellent leadership from Laurie.In the afternoon, Dutch professional tennis player Robin Haase conducted an exciting Tennis Masterclass for kids at the resort's Tennis Court. The one hour was especially designed for the children as a part of 'Haase Academy' so that the young generation could get the thrill of tennis and learn from the world-class athlete."We are honored to have had the privilege of hosting Robin and Laurie Haase at our masterclasses, giving our guests some unforgettable experiences in their respective areas. This is precisely along the lines of the wellness, sports, and personal development commitment of Dusit Thani Maldives, said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives.These private sessions form one aspect of Dusit Thani Maldives efforts toward adding to the rich treasure trove of their guest memories, besides personal enrichment in a luxurious environment and mere relaxation in an island getaway.Dusit Thani Maldives Luxury resort- the first one in this group, inspired by Thailand but located within the Indian Ocean, and the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. Dusit presents their guests with unique experiences - rich marine life, superb wellness at Devarana Wellness, sophisticated possibilities for dining, luxurious villas, and much more.
Editorial
Experience 'A Soaring Festive' at Ifuru Island
Let go of your busy life during the festive season and take time to escape to Ifuru Island Maldives and live 'A Soaring Festive.' The celebration takes place from 21st December 2024 to 10th January 2025. End.*A Soaring Festive* would represent all tastes in music; everything, wild nights and street performances, would find more space on islands when relaxed. There is something for everyone there.Popular DJ Rawlo will maintain exciting evening entertainment and electrify the crowds with lively performances and energetic beats. Most DJs won't let such an evening send their patrons fleeing from the dance floor at worst possible time during night thus making Rawlo far away from any kind of DJ stereotypes.Synthetic Seduction with excellent pair performers Evgeniya and Olcay will bring the flexibility where one can add up and get featured in this show. From being entertained through cocktails by the pool to soulful saxophone melodies creating waves with dynamic DJ sets or even dancing on the sand will definitely keep them engrossed in this event.And so if someone is interested in some stunning visual artistry then Jonas and Aygul will do sure thing: breathtaking fire shows, amazing LED displays, elegant belly dancing, and really skilled juggery acts. Multidimensional performances of theirs would promise to light up the island to unforgettable entertainment.Beside stage shows, many other activities of 'A Soaring Festive', meant to be holidays themselves, can be played on spot-beach games and competitions, as well as a gastronomic event with some themes about flavors of the season. It makes for a true celebration in holidays that may never grow dull or glum.
Editorial
Abdulla Wisam Promoted to EAM at COMO Cocoa Island
COMO Cocoa Island announced the promotion of Abdulla Wisam to Executive Assistant Manager Rooms effective 1st December 2024. That yet again marks high-profile leadership with a never-ceasing momentum and commitment toward improving excellence and resultant continued success in the resort.Eminently notable recognition for spectacular contributions throughout 2024 is Wisam's promotion. Most importantly, he led on the island in the absence of both General Manager and Resident Manager. He is capable of 'holding the fort' while maintaining operational excellence; his capability has been key to the success of COMO Cocoa Island. Also, Wisam had been the driving force behind getting resort resort fantastic online reviews and had planned and executed two buyouts of an island hence, to get it above view, which was more than maintaining the highest QA scores in more than 94% performance.We are pleased to inform you that Abdulla Wisam is to move from being Director of Rooms to Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms. Leadership in absence of GM/RM with great guest feed, island buyouts, and quality assurance scores called for this. Wish him best.Wisam comes with ten years of hospitality experience within the resorts of Maldives, having worked within some of the most iconic ones. He joins as a restaurant waiter in 2004, but his progression to management quickly happens, as does an even few resorts such as Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, The St. Regis Maldives, and Raffles Maldives. Getting promoted as Front Office Manager for COMO Cocoa Island in 2021, his hard work pays off, and he graduates to become Director of Rooms. Wisam was the GM of COMO Cocoa Island since early 2024 as no GM had been appointed to the hotel at that time.One of the foundations of some of the problems instigated by the guest satisfaction issues with experience individualization up to green means to create sustainability. Most of Wisam's successes are related to continuous improvement with the development of relationship characterizes.Moving ahead in the future, Wisam will be growing with industry experience because he has already covered customer service, digital marketing, and sustainability. It would, therefore, push COMO Cocoa Island to a new horizon of success as he steps into his new role.
Editorial
Festive Cheer Awaits at Fushifaru Maldives This Holiday Season
Fushifaru Maldives unveiled its fun-filled festive program, full of jovial cheer, to be celebrated from 20th December 2024 through 6th January 2025. Join the endless adventure that awaits adults and kids at the resort's exquisite little island for an unforgettable holiday.The celebrations will start on 20th December with a Christmas tree decorating event, and the guests are encouraged to come and embrace the spirit of the season as they decorate the grand Christmas tree on the island, which will be followed by a Lighting Ceremony in the evening. This is an opportunity for the children and adults alike to have unique experiences that reflect the best of Fushifaru's offerings during the festive period.Besides morning and evening sunset beach yoga, adults can participate in sushi-making courses with expert chefs, wine enthusiasts can indulge into exclusive wine tastings- an exquisite portfolio of fine wines handpicked and presented under the tutelage of the resort sommelier-a truly great addition to overall dining experience.Younger guests at Fushifaru will have hundreds of activities ready to make beautiful memories, including cookie decorating sessions where they can bake their Christmas goodies, creating colourful treats at the same time.Christmas Eve will see the big entrance of Santa, with his bags full of presents, spread holiday cheer to every corner of the island. And, there's the treasure hunt across the island for little adventurers seeking those hidden surprises.As the New Year approaches Fushifaru will have a fantastic New Year's Eve. It is to be a bright, live music night with the theme of dining experiences on the beach and a major countdown party on the seashore to usher in style into 2025. Celebrations will continue further into the new year to focus particularly on Orthodox Christmas on 6th January and unique events and activities that honor this important cultural holiday.This year, no less than brilliant performance of the famous Anna Sklyar will be attended at the New Year's Eve Gala Dinner and Orthodox Christmas Dinner. A Russian opera and pop singer, celebrated because of her participation in The Voice, Anna is famous for the unique soprano voice with an amazing timbre that enchants.She performs in eight languages, from timeless opera classics to contemporary pop hits. It promises to be an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment perfectly complementing the festive celebrations at Fushifaru.Enjoy the season in festive celebrations, live music, DJ, and entertainment and so much more for the entire family. From mouth-watering Christmas & New Year Gala Dinners to thrilling events like Santa's Arrival and Christmas Tree Lighting, Fushifaru Maldives promises an unforgettable holiday season for all.
Editorial
Maldives Coco Bodu Hithi Hosts Star Chefs
One of the hospitality leaders from Maldives, Coco Collection, is starting 2025 with some of the culinary world's stars. Acclaimed Pâtissier Chef Joanna Artieda will be joining Coco Bodu Hithi in North Malé Atoll on 27 to 29 January, and celebrated Whole Hog BBQ' er Chef Jord Althuizen on 24 to 26 February. One of the most skilled in her craft with culinary art, Chef Joanna boasts of a success that brought international-level recognition to her work. This included Best Spanish Chef, in 2016; a back-to-back honor of consecutive years for the Madrid Fusion years; and 1 among the 10 desserts trended at the World Pastry in the Pastry Revolution Magazine in 2019. Last, but most important of all, in 2022, there were the two last honors she was granted: the Gastronomy Award in Navarra in 2022, and the Best Pastry Chef 2022 award.In December 2019, she published her first book, "Sweet 12" - the world's first digital book dedicated to seasonal products, which is actually a creative tool with great hopes for innovations in traditions of sweet food preparation.This promises to be a collaborative effort bringing forth the refreshing, sweet scent of the island while making a set of delicious candies and savory treats accompanied with several flavors to please children of all ages-an auspicious way of ushering in the great Year of the Dragon!And under starry night skies at Coco Bodu Hithi, where dazzling barbecues are on, much more for Coco Collection to take pride in having Chef Jord as their culinary guest this most romantic time of the year. He has gotten the name Whole Hog BBQ'er 2014, won several awards on four best-selling BBQ cookbooks, and one of the awards is that he is the winner for the year 2016 and 2017. He brings his guest to the resort because of an extraordinary dining experience as he will present a master of the grill and accompany his art of perfection through an unforgettable dining experience, especially for couples.Recently, it has received a variety of awards and continuously provides an entirely new version of food on each day in breathtakingly beautiful varieties. On-going visit by Michelin Star Chefs ensure it is one fantastic dining experience for guests which works quite well with Group Culinary Director, also Michelin Star-winning Martin Cahill's efforts while concentrating upon service excellence and fine culinary services on both properties.Feeling inspired to go out and indulge at Coco Bodu Hithi soon? Get ready to take up the Discover Coco deals to save as much as 40% on the generous and spacious villas. For reservations, feel free to contact reservations@cococollection.com in order to book your outstanding holiday.
Editorial
Gili Lankanfushi - Festive Fun & Sustainable Luxury
A Maldivian pioneer in barefoot luxury, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives had just passed through Christmas & New Year 2024/25. Snorkel past sharks, gingerbread villas in water- each of the festive feasts received a twist. It can be the ultimate place to spend some time during the most wonderful period of the year.This time-worn icon is the hallmark in the festivals around the globe; theme fun and frolic at this festival will be held inspiration and new beginning through deep roots of growth and connectivity that comes with a natural rhythm. Offering Yuletide is on 22nd December, 2024 to 7th January, 2025 and on this list of fun activities go as follows :.Be they caught by that crafty impulse, step in line with yoga and meditation, or just have a cure for the hype of the hypnotherapy course, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has much seasonal serenity up its sleeve for all this holiday season. These include gingerbread house-making classes, wooden decorations out of recycled wood on Christmas, and yet another beach tree-lighting ceremony performed to all renditions of the Gili Christmas Choir.But that's not all at Gili Lankanfushi: for the adventure-thusiasts, there are tennis matches and surf lessons with Santa Claus, beach volley tournaments, shark snorkelling, and dolphin cruising. And then, cinema under the stars in Gili by Christmas time, watching a holiday movie by your toes buried in the sand, dreaming up your coconut shell dreamcatcher, and speeding through your gifts arriving via speedboat by Santa.Such educational experiences and tours will give the visitor opportunities to view them in ways of respect and commemoration of the extraordinary beauty of the world's magnificent natural wonders.One can join the island's marine biologists in designing the Gili Coral Tree, or join the Gili Water Plant Tour where guests can see firsthand how the island turns sea water into purified drinking water, or participate in the Tree Expedition and Tree Grafting workshop wherein the nature enthusiasts will find out how to graft this marvelous manner to a new tree by fusing parts of different trees. Young children will have activities in projects with decoration ideas that include branch classes and the island's head organic gardener-led gardening programs.It is a preserve of the natural environment, it is a protection of frail marine ecosystems and walking upon already existing footprints on the sand. It is through such initiatives of the island brought through the Coral Lines project, therefore engaging its clients at Gili Lankanfushi in activities undertaken by the island concerning sustainability.And on the same page, this dine-by-the-beach experience might have anything one is ever to put at or reach the top of their "bucket list": just the churrascaria-type style of Brazilian barbecue Indian Tandoor feast, spice souk bazaar and "Roots" wine dinner curating by a chef and a sommelier, on to dining inspired by that life-giving and ground-an-choring root: trees.Sure enough, Gili Lankanfushi, within the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, is the par excellence of an untouched island location. It is just 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. The design has been sensitive to the environment, and, amidst one of the most beautiful settings-still, free-from-care luxury, with nothing greater in philosophy than 'no news, no shoes' -it is a perfect place for couples, families, individual travelers, and groups alike.
Editorial
Eco-Luxury Milestone: St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Goes Green
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort revealed that it has achieved a prestigious Green Globe Certificate awarded to the most outstanding sustainable performance in managing travel and tourism worldwide. In this regard, the move reflects the commitments of resort management towards sustainability, environmental conservation, responsible tourism, and thus indicates its efforts towards the private island's natural beauty, as well as its ecosystem.The resort incorporates sustainability very deeply into its operations. In partnership with Reefscapers, it is also part of a coral reef restoration activity where guests are permitted to take an active role in planting live corals. Its effective waste management strategy includes advance recycling and composting facilities. Sourcing from the local community as well as sourcing organic, locally grown produce and sustainable seafood helps keep the environmental footprint low.It added the signature still and sparkling water, named Fen after the Maldivian word for "water," which is made from the crystal-clear sea surrounding the island and desalinated on-site in the resort's new eco-friendly bottling plant designed to reduce carbon emissions by minimizing its footprint. For every bottle sold, the resort contributes USD $3 to the Blue Fund, supporting coral propagation projects directly with Reefscapers. Fen water is complimentary at breakfast and by the beach and is offered on all restaurant and bar menus for an elevated guest experience that actively reduces single-use plastic waste. The resort proudly touts local goods and champions Maldivian artisanal crafts to ensure guests feel a deep connection with the island in question."We are deeply honored to be awarded the Green Globe Certification that recognizes the efforts of all our associates toward sustainability across all levels of our operations. Our commitment to this natural environment of this island underlies all that we do. It is not a practice-it is a promise to generations in terms of the luxury in respect to the conservation aspects".This is the first ever private-island St. Regis resort promising an unparalleled experience of the pristine tropical paradise wrapped in the high standards of luxury and sustainability. The sparkle of sand and lush greenery and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean make this resort truly stand on the way towards market leaders in sustainable luxury travels.
Editorial
Thoddoo BTEC Students Explore Maldives Inflight Catering
In conclusion, on November 28th, 2024 Maldives Inflight Catering Pvt Ltd (MIC), the country's premier facility for inflight catering of the nation, hosted and gave an educational visit of Grade 10 BTEC Hospitality students from Thoddoo School. Being the only catering provider for the country's commercial flight operation into the country and private jet operations within the country itself, MIC plays a crucial role in both the country's Aviation and Hospitality Industries.The visit marked MIC's ongoing commitment to educational partnerships and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals.Students got exposed to intricate operations involving inflight catering, first-hand with key areas of menu planning and preparation, packaging, and logistics. This brought about a practical exposure that balanced their theoretical understanding."At Maldives Inflight Catering, we believe in nurturing and developing the future stars of our industry," says MIC General Manager Han Chieh Ashley Lim. "We were more than delighted to host these enthusiastic young students from Thoddoo School. We hope they will appreciate better now all the intricacies and triumphs in the world of in-flight catering. We remain fully committed to continuing working hand in glove with our local communities to generate real-life career and development opportunities."This experience gave our students very valuable exposure to the hospitality industry. Many of them got inspired to take up aviation, catering, and tourism careers. It has been really motivating to see how classroom learning translates into the real world," said Mohamed Rashid, a teacher at Thoddoo School.MIC is very committed to making strong bonds with education establishments and looks forward to the numerous opportunities for further cooperation with them, including internships. With hands-on experience, the students can be prepared and equipped in terms of knowledge and competencies that will help them make outstanding performances in the hospitality and aviation industry.A subsidiary of Maldives Airports Company Limited and SATS Ltd, MIC is very popular for inflight catering services to many international airlines and private jets. In addition to Maldives Inflight Kitchen, MIC also owns Hulhule Island Hotel; it is the only hotel inside Velana International Airport and the very exclusive Madifushi Private Island Maldives, which is in Meemu Atoll.
Editorial
Six Senses Maldives Welcomes Sara Pinto as Sales Director
Six Senses Maldives appoints Sara Raquel Pinto as Regional Assistant Director of Sales.Sara will work with both of the company's resorts in the Maldives: Six Senses Laamu, famous for its pioneering marine conservation programs, and Six Senses Kanuhura, which offers a private beach location in paradise.Sara is passionate about the brand's values, bringing nearly ten years of experience in luxury hospitality sales. She joins us from Six Senses Ibiza, where she managed the European and Brazilian markets as Sales Manager. Originally from Portugal, Sara began her career with Six Senses Douro Valley, advancing through various sales and marketing roles, eventually excelling as Sales Manager and forming important market relationships."Six Senses Laamu has always been a pioneering property for the brand, and it's exciting to witness Six Senses Kanuhura evolve into the new standout resort," says Sara.The resort is built on a spectacular coral reef deep within the Indian Ocean. Many of the villas and facilities are constructed above water, although beach villas and on-land dining options are also available. All villas offer privacy with breathtaking ocean views, allowing guests to connect with nature in the Maldives. Dining options abound with global cuisines, an overwater wine cellar, and an organic garden as well as a signature bar. The resort offers an exhaustive list of activities and excursions on land and on water, complemented by the Six Senses Spa and SHELL, Sea Hub of Environmental Learning in Laamu, the marine conservation center.Six Senses Kanuhura is famous for its three private islands, offering some of the finest beaches in the Maldives. The spacious and elegant beachfront, family, and overwater pool villas are 91 in number and set against a stunning turquoise lagoon teeming with turtles and marine life. Guests enjoy a range of adventures in this paradise, including dining, family moments, fun activities, new friendships, and peaceful seclusion for an intimate island retreat.
Editorial
Experience Paradise: Kuda Villingili Nominated for Wellness Award
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives announced its nomination for the Wellness Heaven Award 2026 in the Wellness & Spa category, with an outstanding score of 9.59 points in the Wellness & Spa rankings.Honoured this year as part of the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards from Condé Nast Traveller among the best resorts in the Indian Ocean, the resort continues to provide exceptional experiences to guests, earning a magnificent rating of 9.41 on the hotel rating platform, Wellness-Heaven.de, making it a flagship property in luxury wellness tourism.Voting for the Wellness Heaven Awards is now open, and it will close at 30 September 2025. Guests and fans are encouraged to participate by submitting favourite travel stories and photos. Those also stand a chance to win €27,500 hotel vouchers.This award is a testament of Kuda Villingili being committed to creating a haven with serenity where guests may rest and rejuvenate against such breathtaking beauty in Maldives.At the heart of this difference lies The Spa, a haven of rejuvenation and tranquility situated on a private island that can be accessed through a beautiful overwater bridge. This spa offers a truly unique experience with eight overwater suites, each including an outdoor bathtub and a dedicated Ayurvedic treatment room. Situated above a calm lagoon, every suite affords stunning 360-degree ocean views, and if a soundtrack for relaxation is required, then it would simply be the soothing sounds of the waves.Signature therapies that can be enjoyed as an exceptional treatment program are lava shell and raw baby coconut, which calms guests by touch, and transform guests in Ayurvedic treatment- the head, Shirodhara and Back, Prishta Abhyanga with Kizhi.The Wellness Heaven Awards recognises the best in the business of luxury wellness and spa resorts across Europe and Worldwide. In its first year, the Wellness Heaven Award 2026 also widens to include resorts worldwide. This award is designed for the purpose of honoring greatness in hospitality, wellness, and relaxation. The award analyses such categories as spas, food, rooms, and services. This is a win based on detailed analyses from professional reviewers and seasoned guests. Quality is the hallmark of the award, guiding the traveler to exceptional destinations for preserving their health.Vote for Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives and help it take the lead. The winners are to be chosen based on popular voting, and the final results will be announced once voting ends.
Editorial
Tennis Meets Wellness: Sascha Zverev at JOALI BEING Workshop
JOALI BEING luxury wellness retreat in the Maldives hosted tennis workshop on November 25, 2024, in association with Alexander Zverev Foundation, dedicating to assisting children afflicted with diabetes. The global number 2 tennis star Sascha Zverev was present at this event; young students, including adolescent diabetic patients, of the neighbour island R. Fainu were invited.It has presented a platform for the learners to be trained and updated about the tennis game by the experts, Sascha Zverev. Fathih Mohamed is also a part of this session, as a Young Leader in Diabetes, as well as Regional Representative for the Maldives in International Diabetes Federation. Fathih along with tennis stars gave positive messages to the young learner to learn and grow up with them.The celebrations in Tennis continued to November 29, 2024. The venue, JOALI BEING, was a lively open event to all the guests without age restriction. This guest enjoyed an interactive workshop session, a spirited game hosted by Sascha Zverev and his team that ensured to bring the night into warm friendship.The JOALI BEING guests during November 20 to 30, 2024 were provided with private tennis coaching with Sascha Zverev and his brother Mischa Zverev, along with Marcelo Melo. Sessions took place on the beautiful tennis court of the island and involved priceless expert input as well as an opportunity for the participant only once.The whole episode did not only bring out the wellness and community commitments of JOALI BEING but also the power of sports in bringing people together to fight for meaningful causes.