Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025: LUX* South Ari Atoll Named Best for Families in Africa, Asia, and Middle East Regions This distinguished award reinforces the commitment of this Maldives resort to offering unrivalled family experiences in the Indian Ocean.Condé Nast Johansens, a luxury travel guide, rightly gives credit to the finest hotels, restaurants, and travel experiences all around the world. The Awards for Excellence in this field are some of the most prestigious awards one can earn, awarded by an independent panel of experts who have looked at and evaluated the quality of accommodation, service, dining, and ambience of every winner.General Manager, John Rogers of LUX* South Ari Atoll said the award to them was the highest recognition, with the resort positioning itself as a perfect balancer for families of adventure and relaxation, making memorable experiences for all ages. This excellence can be seen in the family-friendly accommodations, the engaging PLAY kids' club, and a wide variety of island experiences.This recognition marks LUX* South Ari Atoll as one of the world's premier destinations for family travel. With film nights under the stars, coral planting workshops, snorkelling with whale sharks, and island treasure hunts, the resort continues to lead the way in setting a global standard for luxury family travel.

That Maagiri Hotel provides the perfect setting for an easy, comfortable stay in Malé-the capital of the Maldives-is simply undeniable. Located in one of the most accessible areas of the city, this hotel promises to be able to provide travelers with easy, convenient flow-from short stop-over to longer-term stays-in Malé.It's again a winning year for Maagiri Hotel, which scoops the award of Best City Hotel at the TTM Awards & Gala 2024 for the second year on the trot, thus vindicating its exceptional standards in accommodations, service, and guest experiences.Maagiri Hotel offers rooms in a range of four categories and comfortably comes with luxuries as well as stylish interior designing. The rooms are tastefully furnished so that every guest enjoys panoramic views of the beautiful seas in Maldives while creating serenity in the environment.The facilities at Maagiri Hotel have been designed such that any guest can enjoy staying there even more and wonderfully. Have freshly brewed coffee at the cozy coffee shop, taste delicious meals at the hotel's restaurant, or relax in the trendy lounge. For an elegance touch to your dinner, semi-fine dining is perfect for those who have a special occasion to celebrate while at the hotel. Business persons are accommodated through well-equipped meeting rooms and the fully equipped gym where you can easily keep fit. Every detail has been considered to enhance your Maagiri experience, whether for business or for leisure.Maagiri Hotel fits the bills and bill accordingly in being a right fit both for leisure and business travelers. In addition, this is also a gateway to wonderful stays for couples and family groups. From a work stay to a beach recharge moment or spending quality time with loved ones, the hotel offers amenities within its hospitable atmosphere meant for any type of traveler. In addition, to spice up your luxurious stay at Maagiri Hotel, there are also very exciting ocean activities ranging from diving, fishing to snorkeling amongst others.

The ultimate luxury hospitality, Cora Cora Maldives, confirmed that the ambitious five-year coral restoration project had reached the final phase. This achievement marks the pinnacle of the resort's signature ethos "It's Freedom Time," since it interprets that the genuine freedom comes with tremendous responsibility toward our shared environment.It is Freedom Time"-a mantra, not just a slogan-but the guiding philosophy in every touch point of the guest experience. The effort to rebuild corals underscores commitment to five-star luxury but also responsibility for ensuring the safeguarding of the natural beauty that makes this a destination like no other.Freedom Footprints: A Sustainable LegacyIt forms the core of Cora Cora Maldives' Freedom Footprints Sustainability Programme, which uses the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) Certified Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System (MARRS). It will restore coral reefs but will come along with a new standard of sustainable luxury hospitality practices.Spearheaded by Managing Director Martin van der Reijden and General Manager Justin Swart, every head of department at Cora Cora Maldives has led by example and been actively participating in the restoration activities along with guests, partners, and the resort's dedicated staff of Freedom Fighters."."At Cora Cora Maldives, we truly believe that 'It's Freedom Time' is more than just a mantra; it's the way of life. True freedom brings responsibility with it, and as guardians of this stunningly beautiful natural environment, there is so much toward which we are committed toward preserving it for generations.".Meaningful steps towards living in harmony with nature include initiatives such as our Coral Restoration Plan and the Freedom Footprints Sustainability Program, said Martin van der Reijden, Managing Director of Cora Cora Maldives. He believes that these programs really reflect the core belief that the best way to celebrate freedom and embark on sustainability path together is for all guests to enjoy their experience knowing that we are also making a positive impact.Other moments may focus on allowing guests to participate in coral restoration efforts at the resort: combining luxury adventures with meaningful environmental work. So, freedom to indulge in world-leading facilities and services is a precious bonus of contribution to an extremely worthy cause."The Coral Restoration Program at Cora Cora Maldives is a testament that true freedom comes with responsibility in protecting and nurturing the beauty of nature around us.".This forms a massive part of our Freedom Footprints Sustainability Program, guaranteeing our guests have the freedom to relax, discover, and celebrate life in a resort that cares about living in harmony with nature. It is, in fact, an opportunity for us all to give back to the environment that gives us so much. This is what makes life complete, said Justin Swart, General Manager of Cora Cora Maldives.This project completed the first phase of a five-year coral restoration program for Mars Global and was targeted to become the second-largest site after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.Key Project HighlightsThere are two Focal Sites. The project is being carried on the two main focus areas that were strategically chosen due to their ecological importance on the island.Reef Stars : Reef Stars are given fragments of corals which have been broken off by natural forces and which have been unable to reconnect themselves to the reef.Second Chance for Corals : Instead of letting the "fragments of opportunity" die, Cora Cora Maldives collects them and plants them on the Reef Stars with a new hope.A Global Partnership for Local Impact: Cora Cora Maldives in partnership with Mars Global Sustainable Solutions enables the resort to carry out its Assisted Coral Restoration methodology. This partnership forms the underpinning of the resort's commitment to the protection of marine systems through best practices everywhere across the globe. Marine Biologist Giulia Morello was trained in Malaysia from where she would tap into expert knowledge around the world for her mission of rejuvenating fragile ecosystems within the marine environment.It also postures itself as a Centre of Excellence in coral restoration under the mentorship of Morello and Diving and Watersports Manager Marcus Goh. This can be viewed as part of training not only the "Freedom Fighters" but islands and other resorts around the region so that they could multiply the effect of this effort, beyond its resort borders.It's at least as much a community engagement and education process as it is a scientific intervention. Tying a bit of coral to learning about the marine ecosystem-all guests, staff, and local communities are encouraged to participate and be involved.Adopt-a-Reef star program: Guests shall be fully involved in a productive action when building a reef star that will contribute to improve the growth of the reef habitats.Future Prospect: A Five-Year RoadmapThe resort shall look forward to subsequent phases once Cora Cora Maldives marks the end of the first phase of coral restoration. The five-year roadmap include:Increase in the area size of restored reefsMonitoring and study on a regular basis to evaluate the output of the project. Guest educational programs on marine conservationInvolvement of the local communities in boosting the benefit multiplier of the restoration project beyond the resort."At Cora Cora Maldives, our vision is to become one of the iconic symbols of sustainability in the Maldives, with constant innovation to protect and enhance the natural surroundings. Initiatives such as the Coral Restoration Program build legacies for generations ahead to enjoy rather than mere preservation of today's beauty." EndActually, guests at Cora Cora Maldives are part of a transformation journey. Be it corals being planted or marine biology workshops, each visitor forming part of Freedom Footprints gets to witness rejuvenated reefs.The five-year plan will involve expansion work in restoration, frontline-cutting research, and guest and local community engagement in marine conservation. This puts into perspective the balance of liberty and responsibility as far as Cora Cora is concerned-holding the ocean's natural wonders as priceless treasures but hosting unforgettable experiences for guests.

This award-winning ultra-luxury private island hideaway invites guests to celebrate Valentine's Day as a sanctuary for the soul in 2025. How this year's celebration will transcend the ever-widening notion of romantic love and guide the visitor on a journey of self-love and personal well-being against the untouched beauty and profound serenity of its location is something one cannot miss. That's exactly what the Nautilus reimagines love to be: a bond starting from within, forming the base that has to abound for relations to grow with meanings and depths.This Valentine's holiday, The Nautilus focuses on the epitome of self-love. Solasta Spa presents this Valentine's holiday as a holiday of inspiration-tandem with moments of self-discovery and renewal-and moments for both reconnection with oneself and love. To name one, for instance, holistic psychotherapist and life coach Lucía Garcia-Giurgiu, from New York, grounds her views on a particularly simple philosophical bedrock: "The most important relationship we have is the one we have with ourselves." The Nautilus encourages guests to explore their personal passions and do things that put them on fire, individually or as a couple.For the personal journey, the Aromatherapy Journey is such a sensory escape that lets go of some of that conflict within so that one feels better outside. The Four-Hand Synchronised Massage is where two therapists work in perfect harmony to restore in an incredible manner. Self-care has never felt so seductive with a Self-Care Masterclass-a chance for couples to learn gentle massage techniques from Solasta Spa therapists, which they can then use on each other. Each couple goes home with a hand-picked self-care kit, complete with essential oils, massage oil, and a soothing scrub, to continue the journey at home.One of the packages to focus on Valentine's is Synched Yoga, instructed by a certified yoga instructor-teaching partner-based practice that includes physical engagement and trust building. Sessions on guided meditation on thankfulness and awareness can continue through synchronized breathing techniques used in tandem with the soothing sounds of Tibetan singing bowls, building connection and awareness.These artistic individuals will have the opportunity to express the creation of artworks at private art workshops. Loving nature may give peace to those fawns who love guided barefoot walking meditation since this island offers pristine landscapes suitable for grounding and serenity.It is through these manufactured experiences that Solasta Spa affords a place of mutual respect and appreciation for each partner's unique quality that is unique for the two in this relationship. Difference being strength, couples are able to bond themselves together, engender appreciation, and grow love emanating from within.Couples are encouraged to dine at The Nautilus as the sun sets over the horizon, which leads to dinners under the stars created with a profound intention of breathing love into relationships and shared ecstasy. Private Sandbank Cruise: A private sunset cocktail comes with the soothing serenade of a singer. Then, during the magical dinner under starlight, champagne is toasted and guests wake up to a floating breakfast at sunrise, making it an intimate way to begin the day.Those who enjoy beaches and want some luxury might enjoy a Gourmet Dinner at Thyme Beach, which is a five-course menu paired with champagne, after which comes breakfast in the guests' house or residence the next morning. The special dinner at Zeytoun features the Champagne Dinner with an oceanfront evocative, Mediterranean-inspired menu, and custom turndowns at the end of the evening. Every culinary journey represents the connection, where gastronomic art integrates moments of rediscovered love, memories longed to be cherished after the night grows old.Whether it's a sojourn for rediscovery of self with one's self or a safe haven for the once again love of the couples, The Nautilus ensures an experience above the ordinary. With every passing second, improvised to commemorate the individuality and oneness that opens its doors in welcoming guests to usher in 2025 anew, each and every experience of The Nautilus is one of a kind. Its tales of love, the memories here, certainly are to be enshrined long into the future.

And so, with much pomp and show, the festive season was, of course, commemorated at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with a beautiful, pristine Watersports Beach as the backdrop for its Christmas Cake Mixing ceremony against the majestic Maldivian sunset. It was held last November 15, 2024, and is a continuation of the resort's tradition to usher in the festive seasons of this year, inspired from the classic European Rumtopf practice wherein fruits steeped in rum are created to make it a delightful treat for the holiday season.Under the festive hue of sunset, they assemble to indulge into this ritual drink mix of dry fruits, spices, and spirits, which will have to age to be used as the base of Christmas cakes and warmth treat made at resort celebrations. The resort culinary team and the management leaders complemented this lively ambiance with a guided experience for the guests in making contact where remembrance lies about the origin of the tradition and how it is built to make an eye for festive holidays.The celebrations culminated in hosting a Management Cocktail, extending thanks to the guests for gracing their holiday destination with Sun Siyam Olhuveli. The resort prepared a cocktail get-together much needed for the guests, with tailed beverages and canapés, to enable the guests to unwind, mingle with other fellow holiday-makers, and meet and greet the resort's management team. It was exciting, the day's prizes and gift vouchers combined with the excitement of the evening."We welcome the cake-mixing ceremony as an appreciation of the season full of joviality, camaraderie and celebration. It is a time-honoured tradition that brings everyone together with its guests and its team into exciting memories into the holiday season," said Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives' executive chef Hassan Didi.This festive season at Sun Siyam Olhuveli is going to thicken up with the spectacular theme of AstroFest 2024-2025 from December 21, 2024-January 08, 2025. In these activities, the guests would be taken on a journey across the universe and promise memorable activities and experiences that seem to get close to catching the imagination of interstellar space. It would run from stargazing above beaches to galactic gale dinners flavored by stellar acts; AstroFest would be bringing that sleek fusion of luxury and wonder-the ultimate getaway experience which the view above the serene waters of the Maldives would introduce a new experience altogether.By courtesy of Beachfront Sun Siyam Olhuveli, it is eagerly waiting for guests on this galactic jubilee - a small foretaste of brilliant holiday feelings and days full of happiness, imagination, and festive cheer.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is proud to announce the graduation of its latest class of interns who completed a successful stint in the hands-on RiseHY by Hyatt program. Launched around the world, the program aims to introduce young people anywhere in the globe to working in various functions in a hotel, making it possible for people with any kind of past to see themselves in rewarding hospitality careers.Alila Kothaifaru offers the worthwhile experiences provided by this sustainable luxury resort environment. The resort management and staff marked the end of a number of months spent learning basic skills by some of these rising stars with a ceremony recently.This is part and parcel of the commitment shown by Alila Kothaifaru towards sustainability and excellence in hospitality, wherein the internship program offers experience in various departments such as guest services, culinary arts, wellness and environmental sustainability.Given the integration of the aim of the resort to ensure a marvelous experience in service while taking responsibility for the environment through responsible tourism, the company creates young professionals.The general manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is Thomas Weber, who is pleased with the very same: "At Alila Kothaifaru, we always strive for the nurturing of young minds among the local hospitality professionals. The internship program in our resort offers young talent a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a world-class environment. These interns have been truly committed to luxury hospitality and sustainability values.". We look forward to seeing them grow in the industry.Rif-ath Fareed, Director of HR at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, also shared his thoughts with us on why the program is important: "The internship program is fundamental to our talent development model for the hospitality industry. What we at Alila Kothaifaru do is to develop a well-rounded professional who understands luxury service and sustainable practices.". It's been rewarding to see these interns evolve, and we're looking forward to them taking this next step in their professional lives, fully armed with the knowledge and values they have learned here.This has been a very transformative journey for me, teaching me not only the day-to-day operations of a luxury resort but also the importance of sustainability and care for the environment. It was Alila Kothaifaru that prepared me and gave me all the necessary tools to build a meaningful career in the hospitality industry, so I look forward to continuing this journey."There was a welcome ceremony for interns, giving certificates of completion, that way they would be recognized as a reward for their effort. The program is now complete, and the interns are equipped to take on the next level in their journey with industry experience and a lot of in-depth knowledge in sustainable luxury hospitality.

Ranked as one of the world's best diving destinations by Lonely Planet, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is the tropical haven where greenery meets open waters, offering a rare cocktail of serenity and adventure, with the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life promising an unforgettable encounter with nature's finest. Yet, at the same time, this fragile underwater world puts increasing responsibilities on Maldives as global threats of climate change, overfishing, and pollution loom over the planet.Noticing this, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon takes the initiative in environmental stewardship with the opening of a dedicated Marine Biology Unit to spearhead marine conservation and instill a shared sense of responsibility among its guests and staff and within the community.The Marine Biology Unit, which started as the resort's library, has transformed into a learn centre promoting responsible tourism and ecological consciousness. Leading this unit is Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts's very first-ever female marine biologist ever. It is a space that is constantly changing as guests learn about marine life-from the health of corals to the habits of local species of fish.The educational content is always available to visitors daily through talks, introducing the guests to thec in the ocean. Topics range from the wonders of coral reefs to the more fascinating behaviors of marine life in the region. To encourage the exploration, the unit posts outside its door the topic of the day, fostering curiosity and inviting visitors to know more. Another check list in fish identification is also issued, and guests may well be able to dig deeper into knowledge while trying their hand at Ellaidhoo's thriving reefs.Commenting on this milestone Sanjeeva Perera, General Manager of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts said, "The opening of our Marine Biology Unit is the fulfillment of a long-held dream and an important step toward our ESG goals.". Our mission will be to empower our guests and staff to be real stewards of the ocean, through profound respect for marine life long after they leave from Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. We hope that this not only enriches their experience but also provides a foundation for responsible environmental stewardship to reach into the community at large.Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has always promoted eco-friendly practices since they understand the importance of such steps for preserving the pristine beauty of this island. A stay at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon will imbue within its guests a shared responsibility to preserve the pristine marine surroundings of the island for generations to come while inviting the guests to be partners in any effort toward preserving the environment.

JOALI Maldives, the first, and so far the only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, will celebrate this special day of commemorating six breathtaking years on 15th November 2024 with a combination of passion for art, sustainability, and nature as it looks forward to commemorating the day by teaming up with the world's oldest Champagne house - Ruinart. What defined this cult brand, Ruinart-from Reims in France and now owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy-for nearly 300 years-is its association with art; Andre Ruinart employed the Czech artist Alphonse Mucha to create a poster for Ruinart in 1895. Likewise, since its mega unveiling in 2018, JOALI has not only brought artists from every corner of the world to Maldives but also redefined the concept of indulging in art luxury hospitality. This will exemplify the joie de vivre lifestyle, realizing the historical approach Maisong Ruinart, the oldest champagne house in the world, takes when it comes to the savoir-vivre philosophy. The ultimate goal is to reflect artistic affinities and the highest standards of luxury.None other than the British-French artist Sophie Kitching has created an ethereal art scene that awaits guests at the annual cocktail at Mura Bar of JOALI Maldives. Sophie is trained from both École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, and the School of Visual Arts, New York but most known for installations, paintings, sculptures, and works on paper in simple oil, watercolors, paints, gold leaves on natural materials. She has been associated with Maison Ruinart at several events such as Frieze NY 2022, and also, her exhibition 'Maison 1729'. For its sixth year of celebration, Ruinart commissions Sophie to transform eco-designed second skins and coasters. That is so much about the commitment of JOALI to the causes because champagne bottle skins from Ruinart are taking a new life, inspired by the signature painting skills with vivid colors and copper-zinc leaves of island natives plants-be it elusive grey herons and sea birds, colorful corals and vibrant fishes. Drinking Ruinart Blanc De Blancs Cuvées and pondering this gigantic abstract art piece under Sophie's Invisible Green Art XXX, 2024; created employing a unique green that was developed in the Georgian/Regency in England and used for the first time exclusively in this collection. Hailing from its motherland-Reims, France-a section of the archives of Ruinart-the magnificent art piece will be residing at JOALI Maldives for over 6 months. Cocktail lovers who also enjoy art and wine will be able to purchase hand-painted second skins in extremely limited editions, which will only be available at the time of the launch of the cocktails and then via Sophie until they sell out.Then, the champagne culinary tour proposed is done with Maison Ruinart on 16th November 2024 headed by the International Director of Arts & Culture at Ruinart, Fabien Vallérian: Beautiful gastronomic evening of champagne perfectly mixed with harmony of flavors where each plate and glass will tell an artistic story.Brilliant collaboration, according to Fabien: "In the case of Maison Ruinart, it is a matter of preserving nature, a concept deeply inscribed in the core of our values; we have adopted the ambition of cooperating with artists capable of creating a dialogue between mankind and nature, through their artistic talents and skills. Since 2022, we have been collaborating with Sophie Kitching on various artistic commissions, and we believe that this project with JOALI is an incredible opportunity for her to discover and explore the ecosystems and beauty of the Maldives.".Those are just the launches for the meaningful long-term collaborations, much more exciting activations planned for the coming years for both Maldives and worldwide.From $2,928 per night, based on two people staying in a Water Villa with Pool, B&B basis. For further details and bookings, visit joali.com.

According to Lonely Planet, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is one of the greatest sites for diving with a tropical paradise fusing exuberance of greenery with open waters - bringing together a rare mix of peace and adventure. The site is made alive by coral reefs in every form of marine life promising an unforgettable encounter with nature's finest. It has consolidating its role in the protection of the fragile underwater worlds within its borders as the global ocean's looming threats of climate change, overfishing and pollution make their ways toward marine ecosystems everywhere.Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon established a Marine Biology Unit committed solely to pursuing marine conservation through the mobilization of all visitors, employees, and the local community to a common sense of responsibility.And there, where that library once stood at the heart of the resort, stands today the Marine Biology Unit, a fortress of learning under whose roofs sustainable tourism and ecological awareness can blossom together, alongside good works carried out by that to become-a-one-of-a-kind-and-extraordinarily empowered marine biologist at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts - the very first, and indeed, for now, only female marine biologist of its kind. It is an interactive scenario, where the visitors come to know just how complex marine life is, from concerns about coral health to just how one is supposed to interact with the local species of fish.Visitors can come to learn more about these scientific topics day-to-day through lectures that expose them to complex ocean systems. From the wondrous coral reefs to the fascinating behavior of marine life, the lectures are astounding and raise more questions to them. And it is showing through the day, displayed on the doors, so to encourage interest in the subject, inviting visitors to come and learn more. The unit also makes available fish-identification checklists, thus permitting visitors to have an easier understanding while exploring Ellaidhoo's teeming reefs.Commenting on this achievement, Sanjeeva Perera, General Manager of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts said, "For us, launching the Marine Biology Unit is the realization of a long-held dream and constitutes a meaningful contribution to our ESG initiatives.". By the end we would want our guests as well as staff to really become custodians of the ocean. The sustainable connection in interacting with the sea creatures to help him or her make it out of Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon does not only form a footing for tallying up but quite forms a foundational level of community environmental responsibility and more.Ever since its inception, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has taken protection of the environment as its own task. It realized that this is just the way to preserve what otherwise is its unrivaled natural beauty. Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon considers guests as partners in this task of environmental protection and aims at bringing forth an indelible mark-a sense of sharing responsibility for the pristine marine environment of the island for generations to come.

JOALI Maldives is an art-immersive resort in the Maldives and it is celebrating its sixth birthday on November 15, 2024, as part of an exclusive event all focused on effort for art, sustainability, and nature. For the milestone celebration of this Resort, the "deemed as" world's oldest house of Champagne Ruinart, has been chosen as the partner. It is in 1729, by Reims, France, and wholly owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy since its founding that Ruinart has always remained engaged with the world of arts, even though this is a process that dates back to 1895, the year when the Czech artist Alphonse Mucha was asked by Andre Ruinart to create the poster of the House. Similarly, since its inception in 2018, JOALI defined the role of art for luxury hospitality with its works from international artists. Known for its joie de vivre, a vibrant lifestyle which indicates that one is full of fun and worldly pleasures, JOALI's all-match-home values are drawn on the savoir-vivre -the art and luxury- of Maison Ruinart.To commemorate the event, British-French artist Sophie Kitching will be part of an ethereal art display for a cocktail event at Mura Bar, the heart of the resort. Trained in Paris at the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs and in New York at the School of Visual Arts, Kitching is an installations, paintings, sculptures, and works on paper artist. Often, she works with oils, watercolours, and gold leaves on natural materials. To mark the sixth anniversary of JOALI, Kitching collaborates with Maison Ruinart on bespoke eco-designed second skins and coasters, as for Frieze NY 2022 and the exhibition 'Maison 1729'. Feeding on the inspiration stemming from the fauna and flora of grey herons and sea birds to the corals and marine life, bursts of colors on the Ruinart bottles with copper zinc leaves are reflected in her works. JOALI and Ruinart celebrate passion through art in collation and reduction toward sustainability here.Throughout the night, guests will be sipping Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Cuvées, contemplating Kitching's 'Invisible Green Art XXX, 2024', a real abstract artwork, whose newly experimented green pigment is fresh and discovered first available during England's Georgian and Regency period. It has been transferred from the vaults at Reims and will spend over six months in JOALI Maldives.  Limited-edition hand-painted second skins by artist Kitching will be available for art and wine connoisseurs through cocktail events while stocks last.On November 16, guests will also be given the unique chance to taste the champagne pairing dinner by Fabien Vallérian, International Director of Arts & Culture at Ruinart. This gastronomic trip will take guests on an oenological tour with small plates and glasses from Maison Ruinart in support of the art-and-flavour narrative, one plate and glass at a time.The collaboration was further complimented by Fabien Vallérian, who said: "At Maison Ruinart, protection of nature is an integral part of our values. We truly feel a deep sense of responsibility in supporting artists whose work evokes a dialogue between man and nature through creativity and craftsmanship. Since 2022, we have been collaborating with Sophie Kitching on artistic commissions and this amazing opportunity for her to explore and pay homage to the ecosystems of the Maldives with JOALI.These activation events will represent the start of what promises to be a very valuable collaborative relationship with additional activations planned both in the Maldives and around the world.

The winner list of the 2024 Boutique Hotel Club Awards was conceived as the boutique hotel variant of the renowned Michelin Guide, celebrating 'the sheer best on earth in luxury and hospitality.' This marked a few firsts with properties such as Velaa Private Island, winning home 'World's Best Fine Dining Hotel' to grow further as the pinnacle of exclusive experiences and culinary superbness.Standing alone blessedly, the property stood apart due to its matchless offerings. Be it surrounded by the unspoiled azure waters of Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is a slice of exclusivity. The citation of "the one that placed itself out" came along, underlining an award commitment towards dining experiences transcending luxury by combining world-class cuisine with serene beauty. The verdict of the judges? "Private island with an azure sea, curated experiences that go beyond luxury.".Being the benchmark of the industry for excellence standards in accommodation selection for over a decade now, Boutique Hotel Club chose properties as exemplars of excellence from amongst 500 applicants of 80 countries, all of which underwent an on-site inspection process and more than 400 hospitality gold standards governing the award process. Winners in the year are thus far examples of peak creativity and sustainability alongside producing extraordinary immersive guest experiences.Other award winners and what they won spoke to original, unique expressions in boutique hospitality. This year's title 'World's Best Boutique Hotel' was secured by Akademie Street Boutique Hotel in Franschhoek, South Africa for style and charm with great guest service.The sustainability area was also discussed in the awards, where Munduk Moding Plantation in Bali was awarded as 'World's Best Eco Hotel' for actions it would undertake in order to produce a certain kind of environmental impact and community support. As always, this is a trend that's running across the boutique hotel industry: sustainability forms part of the luxury travel experience.Velaa Private Island has always been a right combination of natural wonders, bespoke service, and phenomenal culinary experiences. Dine under the stars, walk through vibrant marine life of the Maldives, or experience something else at Velaa Private Island. It is a new recognition boost to Velaa as a leader in luxury hospitality.For 15 years, Boutique Hotel Club has given the world's best boutique properties cause to cheer and celebrate with remarkable quality, emotional resonance, and unique sense of place destinations curating to new heights. Here's 2024-onwards: crème de la crème luxury destinations join the bandwagon, with names like Velaa Private Island, where the boutique era is about to spur on, luxury meets heart, and innovation shines through.

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has publicly commenced direct flights among Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, and the Maldives. The airlines’ first flight from Baku to the Maldives land at 9:45 AM, beginning the new direct route from Baku to the Maldives.The Maldives tenderly greet the airline with a welcoming ceremony, which was attended by key official, excluding Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Managing Director and CEO of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), beside other significant individuals.According to Mohamed Mihad, Chief Commercial Officer of MACL, the open of this new route improve transportation links and the travel knowledge for tourist. He also highlighted the service would much enhance the Maldives’ connectivity, offer more suitable tour options for those travelling from Azerbaijan.Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer of Azerbaijan Airlines, explain that the new route’s timing with the winter season make it particularly suitable for Azerbaijani tourists travelling to a tepid destination like the Maldives.The new route offers two weekly flights, with tickets existing for obtain through Azerbaijan Airlines’ website, mobile app, and AZAL ticket office. These direct flights are expected at provide a quicker and more tranquil travel occurrence for those travelling to the Maldives.

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI is one of the jewels in the Maldives, an idyllic private island famous for its awe-inspiring waters in hue of azure, pristine beaches, and unparalleled hospitality. This exclusive paradise isle made the perfect setting for actress Bipasha Basu and actor Karan Singh Grover to celebrate the 2nd birthday of their daughter, Devi. The resort made for an intimate haven, wherein the couple would be plunged into moments of pure bliss and that they would share with their beloved child.The family is now halfway through their week-long fun trip in OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, continuing to indulge in the distinct experiences on offer - the indulgent spa treatments, water adventures, and relaxed beach time with the family. There was a lovely photo shared on Bipasha's social media recently where she captured a moment filled with the best family moments against the beautiful scenery of the island. The tranquility of the resort, together with its services done to perfection, is what makes it the perfect venue to indulge and revive a rejuvenating celebration for them.Bipasha and Karan have been bringing bits of their Maldivian retreat on social media as they stay there. This does give fans a glimpse into how the Indian celebrities celebrated as a family and the breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of the island resort. Their posts included the luxurious offerings the resort had in store, as well as the memorable moments created together on this special occasion.Total indulgence is represented in the boutique and all-inclusive holiday plan OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers through the 'RESERVE™ Plan', a luxury villas' perfect blend of fine dining, premium beverages, butler services, and exclusive activities to create an extravagant castaway experience that celebrity international guests as well as high net worth travelers have fallen in love with.The little ones have a place in the children's club of the Maldives resort, which has its daily supervised activities and creative play-thanks, Bipasha, this is very important in selecting a location for such an important wedding.OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers its guests understated elegance, with expanses of private villas amid effortless luxury, and stunning overwater or beachfront vistas complete the vibe.Dining at the resort is a celebration of fine culinary arts, with inspiration for every palate from scrumptious international dishes prepared by world-class chefs using only fresh and high quality ingredients. Each dining venue would present to the guests a culinary journey that can be as glorious as the island paradise itself.The family loved the signature Indian influence restaurant, Saffron. It offered extremely unique dining experience and very vibrant flavors of India's most famous and loved dishes served in a traditional thali, conducting a fine dining culinary journey across India while pairing unique hand-selected wines from producers all around the world.ELE|NA Spa, where bespoke treatments renew the soul and elevate the spirit to a state of total rejuvenation, mindfulness, and well-being, is here for guests to find refuge. Snorkelling, swimming, and diving connect numerous ways with the beauty of surrounding waters. Personalized yacht charters are also available for romantic sunset cruises or private island picnics. But regardless of which experiences are chosen, the magic of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will haunt hearts long after guests return home.

Hussain Shahid joins Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection as General Manager.Shahid has more than 25 years of experience in hospitality operations with various positions in the industry. His resume includes Resort Manager and Executive Assistant Manager besides taking up a position as Director of Human Resources at IHG Holiday Inn Kandooma Maldives besides various other elite brands including Six Senses and Shangri-La.Extensive background encompasses three pre-opening resorts, and a rebranding under his belt. His 25 years of his hospitality career have gone beyond the shores of Maldives and abroad with the iconic opening of the Six Senses Zighy Bay Oman.For his part, since its inception in 2018, Ismail Nasir has been a member of the Advisory Committee of the Maldives Association of Human Resources Professionals and chairman of the Committee for his two terms with the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies.Well-equipped to take Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection even to newer heights, he is, with the rich experience he has in operations and human resources, along with an MBA in International Hospitality Management, to lead a great team environment.This is following IHG Hotels & Resorts's earlier announcement of a partnership with Roxy-Pacific Holdings Pte Ltd, one of Asia Pacific's leading real estate and hospitality players, for the new Vignette Collection brand in Maldives.The agreement will bring Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection, 50-key private villa resort on the dreamy island of Kudafunafaru, to IHG's Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio-one of the largest in the world-in December 2024 as it readies for refurbishment under the Vignette Collection brand-a family of unique properties distinct in character yet united by a vision to deliver a more authentic way to travel and backed by the reassurance of IHG's trusted reputation and leading loyalty offer.

Bandos Maldives invite you to have fun the magic of the 2024-25 holiday seasons with a stunning “Winter Wonderland” themed festive plan from December 20th, 2024, through January 5th, 2025. A vibrant combine of Maldivian warmness and festive joyfulness, the resort promises memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.The celebrations kick off with a sunrise yoga session on December 20th, followed by a day full with family-friendly activities in Maldives such as “Snowflake Stretch,” “Little Christmas Tree” decorating, and the much-anticipated “Jingle  Bells in Wonderland” Christmas tree lighting. The fun continues through the weeks with cheerful games, themed workshops, live amusement, and gourmet dining experiences at the island. Guests can spoil in activities like “Santa’s Magical Cruise,” a thrilling “Winter Wonderland Scavenger Hunt,” seafood galas, and freezing foam fiestas. The celebration culminates with the amazing “Wonderland Gala” dinner and an awesome New Year’s Eve countdown party feature live music and incredible fireworks. For those looking for relaxation, wellness activities like yoga, aqua-robics, and rejuvenate massage offer a calm retreat amidst the festive exhilaration. From tennis tune-ups and seashore volleyball to the stirring “DJ Wonderland” nights, Bandos Maldives offers amazing for everybody this amazing holiday season. With its warm blend of seasonal attraction and cultural festivities, Bandos Maldives invite you to experience the thrilling of the season. Discover an island holiday full with happiness amusement, and the natural beauty of the Maldives— where each moment feel like a wonderland!