Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is set to host National Wellness Month in association with holistic wellness expert and celebrity Yoga Instructor Anshuka Parwani.The wellness retreat will witness the expert’s involvement in curating the wellness retreat for the first time on August 14 and 15, 2026, which would guarantee to give its visitors an extraordinary wellness experience. The wellness retreat, set to begin in the stunning Shaviyani Atoll, was created to help guests disconnect from the daily hustle and rediscover their wellness. As sunrise and sunset on both days, guests will indulge in the sunrise and sunset yoga sessions curated by Anshuka Parwani, where she will guide them through breathing techniques, yoga, meditation, and relaxation. Anshuka Parwani is a celebrity Yoga Instructor who has trained A-list superstars such as Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone, among others, in Hollywood.  With an expertise in yoga therapy, restorative yoga, and aerial yoga, Parwani is one of the most recognized holistic wellness authorities and has been inspiring people to discover the power of wellness and lead a balanced lifestyle.  Parwani is a certified yoga therapist and one of the nation’s most sought after holistic wellness experts teaching the ancient art of yoga. Moreover, she has been sharing her vast knowledge of the healing powers of yoga with the masses for years. Furthermore, celebrity Yoga Instructor Anshuka Parwani will also be working with the resort’s executive chef to unveil a special wellbeing menu of healthy eats during the wellness retreat.  Apart from yoga, Parwani has also been collaborating with the resort’s chefs to develop a special wellbeing menu, inspired by clean-eating detox trends, which will align with the wellness retreat theme.  The menu includes nutrient-dense meals that will feature ingredients harvested from the resort’s very own JW Garden.  The wellness retreat guests who participate in this two-day wellness retreat can enjoy this exclusive menu for the next six months until September 30, 2026. “The collaboration with renowned holistic wellness expert and celebrity Yoga Instructor Anshuka Parwani fits right into our philosophy of bringing in extraordinary wellness and leisure retreats for our guests that leave them rejuvenated and recharged,” said General ManagerMohit Dembla.  Located on secluded Vagaru Island, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodation in 60 private beach and overwater villas, fine dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, and Thakuru butler service to ensure guests have the ultimate barefoot luxury island escape.

Celebrations at the beachfront of Niva Dhigali 2026As the festive season draws closer, the luxury private island resort of Niva Dhigali invites travellers to experience the joy and magic of the festive season with an unforgettable island retreat in the Maldives. The resort recently launched their festive celebration programme for 2026 that promises a range of exciting beachfront celebrations, festive cuisine, family-friendly attractions and amazing entertainment events that will culminate in an incredible New Year’s Eve party featuring international DJ Liliana Reagan from Hungary. In order to combine the magic of festive seasons with the charm of island retreats, the resort has designed an exclusive programme for the holidays. From barefoot beachside festivities to stunning beach parties under the starlit sky, you’re in for some fun holiday experiences in the Maldives this year.A Festive Escape in Niva Dhigali StyleThe celebration starts on December 21st when the resort will hold the Beachfront Tree Lighting Ceremony that features guests gathering on the shore welcoming the festive season. With the resort offering a Maldivian take on the iconic holiday tradition with its tropical palm trees swaying over turquoise waters instead of snow-covered winter landscapes, guests have the opportunity to join the illumination ceremony and have festive beverages and entertainments in the company of the community. Afterwards, the festive program continues with the Starlight Beach Dinner where guests are welcomed to indulge in an elegant open air dining experience featuring tables set right on the beach. With the stars twinkling in the sky above, guests are offered to savor an exclusive menu of international cuisine and fresh seafood accompanied by the live band and sounds of the ocean. During the festive week, Niva Dhigali Malives has prepared a wide range of activities that will be enjoyable for couples, families and groups of friends. Guests can try out wellness programs, ocean adventures, cultural events, gourmet dining and children entertainment. Another magic moment is Christmas Day when Santa Claus pays a visit to Maldives in a unique way without his traditional sleigh. Families have the opportunity to experience all the magic of Christmas surprises, fun events for kids and other season-related activities in an easygoing environment typical for holidays in Maldives.Finally, the peak of the festive season takes place on the eve of the New Year during the fantastic "Where Freedom Celebrates" celebration which is designed as the final send-off of 2026 and a wonderful welcome of the next year with glamour, entertainment and fun beach party. The celebration starts with an elegant New Year's Eve Gala Dinner, where visitors will have the chance to taste an extraordinary culinary event with the finest international dishes, festive treats and delicious desserts. Later the evening will change into the fun party on the beach. Fire dances will light up the shore with their incredible performances and entertainers will prepare guests for the coming midnight. At the forefront of entertainment at the party will be the DJ Liliana Reagan, who has impressed people in previous years with her mesmerizing performances and energetic dance music.The Return of DJ Liliana ReaganFor the returning guests, the return of DJ Liliana Reagan will be one of the most anticipated elements of the festive celebration.Last year, at the well-known "Elemental" New Year's Eve party held by Niva Dhigali, Liliana Reagan mesmerized guests with her captivating performance, which was in harmony with the rituals of fire, fireworks, and the overall mesmerizing atmosphere created by the resort. The guests became immediately fond of the DJ, and her performance became one of the main attractions of the entire party. Her return this year is sure to bring even more excitement and fun to the guests.Who Is Liliana Reagan?Professionally known as Regan Lili, Liliana Reagan is known to be among the most successful representatives of electronic music from Hungary since the beginning of her professional activity in 2016.Liliana Reagan is easily recognizable by her blue hair and energetic stage performances. She is a regular guest of the best European music festivals and shows in the field of entertainment thanks to her ability to make a combination between melodic house music, commercial electronic music, and dance songs. Among those festivals where she performed were Sziget Festival and Balaton Sound. With performances combining technical skills and passion for music, Liliana Reagan managed to attract the attention of a wide audience.Also, Liliana Reagan is widely heard in Hungary due to the regular shows on the country's most popular radio station – Radio 1. As a result of her talent and success, Liliana Reagan received several awards for the best DJ in Hungary voted for by listeners. Regardless of whether they are on stage for thousands at large music festivals or creating private experiences at the Maldives beach front, Liliana Reagan is known for creating magical moments through each of her performances. An unforgettable holiday experience is set to be provided by Niva Dhigali Resort with its carefully selected festive experiences and entertainment programmes against the background of the beautiful Maldives. From beach Christmas festivities and private dining under the starlit sky to an exciting New Year's Eve party hosted by one of Europe's leading DJs, the Niva Dhigali Resort provides you with everything you need to ring in the new year with style surrounded by the beautiful waters of the Indian Ocean.

Visit Maldives has officially launched Visit Maldives Week in Australia, a three-city roadshow designed to strengthen the Maldives' presence in one of its fastest-growing long-haul markets. Beginning today in Perth, the roadshow will continue in Melbourne on 22 July and Sydney on 23 July, bringing together leading tourism stakeholders from the Maldives and Australia to strengthen industry partnerships and promote the Maldives as the preferred holiday destination for Australian travellers.Held under Visit Maldives' redefined "Visit Maldives Week" concept, the roadshow offers an engaging platform for travel trade professionals, media, influencers, and key industry stakeholders to connect with Maldivian tourism partners while discovering the destination's latest products, experiences, and developments. The initiative forms part of Visit Maldives' ongoing strategy to build stronger market presence through sustained trade engagement and targeted destination marketing.This year's roadshow is particularly significant following the launch of Maldivian's direct flights between Malé and Melbourne in May 2026, enhancing connectivity between the two countries and creating new opportunities to grow visitor arrivals from Australia. Visit Maldives is leveraging this milestone to strengthen relationships with travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers, and other industry partners while showcasing the ease of travelling to the Maldives.Australia continues to record strong growth for the Maldives. Between January and May 2026, the destination welcomed 20,126 Australian visitors, representing a 14.1% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Australia ranked as the Maldives' 10th largest source market, contributing 2.2% of total tourist arrivals. The market also recorded exceptional growth in May 2026, with arrivals increasing by 24.2% year-on-year, significantly outperforming overall market growth during the same period.Australian travellers remain among the Maldives' highest-value visitors, with 77.2% choosing resort accommodation, while growing numbers are exploring guesthouses, hotels, and liveaboards, reflecting increasing interest in the destination's diverse tourism offerings.Visit Maldives is joined by 11 Maldivian tourism companies showcasing a wide range of experiences and products throughout the roadshow. Participating exhibitors include Coco Bodu Hithi, Fushifaru Maldives, Voyages Maldives Pvt Ltd, Island Aviation Services Limited, Villa Resorts, Baglioni Resort Maldives, Pulse Hotels & Resorts, Resort Life Travel Pvt Ltd, Exciting Maldives, Splendid Asia Pvt Ltd, and Arrival Beach and Spa. Each event features destination presentations, business-to-business meetings, networking sessions, promotional activities, interactive games, and holiday raffle giveaways. Dedicated media and influencer networking opportunities have also been incorporated to further amplify the Maldives' visibility across the Australian market and strengthen collaborations with key opinion leaders and content creators.Visit Maldives continues to implement a comprehensive marketing strategy for Australia through joint campaigns with Luxury Escapes, influencer collaborations, familiarisation trips, and targeted advertising initiatives. Together with Visit Maldives Week in Australia, these efforts are expected to further strengthen destination awareness, enhance industry partnerships, and support continued growth from one of the Maldives' most promising long-haul source markets.  

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has recently introduced a whole new level of luxurious recreational opportunities with the opening of a padel court. The latest addition to the list of amenities offered by the resort will give guests unique possibilities to stay fit and active while enjoying amazing views of the Maldivian islands. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, padel attracts millions of players – there are currently over 30 million padel players worldwide. The sport has been designed by combining features of tennis and squash, which makes it simple to learn, fun, social, and suitable for people of all ages. Guests who have never played padel can easily discover this interesting sport, and those who have already enjoyed it will find it perfect for continuing their training sessions in their holiday period.Situated among swaying coconut palms and surrounded by white sand, the new outdoor padel court is an excellent place to play this fun and entertaining sport, enjoying breathtaking tropical views. Moreover, comfortable spectator seating area has been installed around the court, so that friends and family members can sit there and watch the players' matches while enjoying the atmosphere of the island. The outdoor padel court situated amid swaying coconut palms and surrounded by pristine white sands gives an amazing tropical setting unique to all conventional sports venues. With its picturesque setting, the players have the opportunity to engage with nature at the Maldives while engaging in friendly games, family games, or some competitive ones. Spectator seats have also been installed within the court to give the family members or friends the chance to watch and enjoy the activities of the players.In an effort to ensure that all the guests will be able to make full use of the facility without having any trouble, the padel court can be accessed by all the guests freely during their entire stay. High-quality rackets and balls have also been made available for all the guests for free so that all the beginners and even the experienced ones can engage in playing. Moreover, padel tennis courts can become the next element that will bring more value to the resort in terms of providing its guests with the package of wellness services. Being located directly beside the modern sports center of InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, padel tennis courts will give guests an opportunity to combine their sport activity with individual training programs, advanced equipment at the gym, yoga and aerobics classes.Padel tennis courts will contribute to another aspect of the wellness concept of the resort that involves the combination of physical activities, relaxation and pleasure from living on the island. Whether it is energetic morning game, family game in the afternoon or competition with other guests, playing in the padel tennis court will be another fantastic experience for the guests of the resort. Thanks to the new facility, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort will continue enhancing the guest experience by combining luxury hotel services and innovative wellness concepts. With the rising popularity of active tourism and holiday, the resort will remain ahead of time in providing its guests with enriching experiences.

Immersive Experiences for Families at Four Seasons Resorts Asia in the New Age of Multigenerational TravelMultigenerational vacations and schoolcations are continuing to redefine global travel trends as Four Seasons Resorts Asia introduces a range of immersive experiences, which unite families with unique adventures and discoveries. Whether it is the verdant mountains of Northern Thailand, the azure waters of the Maldives, the vibrant culture of Vietnam, the tropical climate of Bali or the pristine beauty of Palau – there is a place for every family member in any one of the destinations, which provide enriching activities and memorable experiences.Spacious Retreats for All GenerationsResponding to the rising interest in family travel, Four Seasons Resorts in Asia provide families traveling together with a fantastic choice of villas, residences and retreats. The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai provides luxurious and spacious Lanna inspired residences that bring together traditional Thai architecture and modern luxury. Those in search of more adventurous experiences can enjoy the exclusive Explorer's Lodge at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. With their infinity pools, spacious open-air living and dining areas, Residence Villas on the Gulf of Thailand are perfect for Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui family breakfasts and sunset celebrations.Learning through Travelling and Inspiring the YouthEducation is becoming increasingly important aspect of family vacations nowadays, and Four Seasons Resorts Asia provides numerous opportunities for education which inspire children's natural curiosity and create wonderful memories at the same time. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru features a programme of marine conservation which is considered to be one of the best in the area with The Manta Trust scientists. Coral restoration and research of manta rays are only some of the activities offered by this programme to young guests. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, which is close by, lagoon adventures can be enjoyed with lessons in surfing, diving and marine discoveries for beginners.Families will also have the chance to explore the waters aboard Four Seasons Explorer, Palau, which takes them to one of the most pristine ocean areas in the world. There, young ones will be able to earn a diving certification, with the assistance of expert divers who take them on dives in the colorful coral reefs. On the other hand, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi turns lessons learned in school into outdoor fun experiences in their schoolcation packages that allow children to learn in an environment designated by UNESCO.Cultural ExperiencesMore than luxurious places to stay, the Four Seasons Resorts Asia provides families with opportunities to immerse themselves in cultural experiences. At Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, families will immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture through activities such as planting rice, creating lanterns, and walking through the historic streets of Hoi An. For the guests who are visiting Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan in Bali, there will be a host of unique experiences, which will include temple visits, spiritual rituals, arts workshops, and activities connected to nature all set amidst the serene environment of Ayung River Valley. The family who are visiting Four Seasons Resort Langkawi can have an amazing experience in the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, where they can see mangrove forests, dramatic limestone and varied fauna along with expert naturalists. For the families visiting Four Seasons Resort in Northern Thailand, there are a number of immersive village experiences where they can participate in various activities like traditional farming, crafts and cookery, and thus get familiar with the region's culture and lifestyle.Together Making ExperiencesThere will be many different food experiences offered at the resorts, which will revolve around food and the family. The famous Taste of Sayan experience will have guests make six traditional Balinese dishes using the best local produce available to them before crafting cocktails out of herbs grown at the resort. The Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai provides authentic Vietnamese cuisine cooking experiences for families, as well as beachside dining that caters to relaxing breakfasts or romantic dinners by the beach.Wellness for Every AgeWell-being will still be the core of the Four Seasons Resort experience, as the wellness programs at the resort cater to guests of all ages.Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai will provide the "Start Them Young" spa program where the children learn about mindfulness and relaxation through massaging, body scrubs and other spa treatments using products without any chemicals.Guests will be able to take advantage of the Rose Crystal Lymphatic Facial in the tranquil jungle setting of Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, which uses botanic skin care products along with relaxing massage using rose quartz. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui not only offers spa-related activities but also yoga, sound healing, healthy cooking lessons, as well as boat tours that help relax and explore. Also, at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, families can join crystal singing bowls meditation, family yoga as well as children's mindfulness activities that follow the principles taught by a famous Vietnamese Zen master, Thich Nhat Hanh.Reinventing Family Travel Around AsiaFamily vacationers who wish to travel and create memories together are becoming more demanding each year, and thus Four Seasons Resorts Asia is continually reinventing the idea of luxury vacations for the entire family. With its wide array of bespoke hospitality, educational adventures, cultural immersion and wellness activities offered in Asia's unique locations, the resorts can make every moment worth remembering.

Omakase Cocktail Menu Unveiled at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island ResortThe newly unveiled Omakase Cocktail Menu will offer a unique drinking experience based on the principle of the Japanese culinary custom of omakase, meaning that the guests can rely on the knowledge and skills of a mixologist to create something unique for them, much like trusting the chef. Innovative cocktails will take the guests through a journey of taste with a special emphasis on artistic presentation and high-quality ingredients. The cocktail menu of the resort was developed by the mixologists and each cocktail tells its own story. It combines the precision and perfection of the Japanese cuisine with the influences of Peruvian cuisine.The menu includes a selection of cocktails, which represent unique creations that combine the strength of flavors and skillful work of mixologists. Such cocktails as Wasabi Was Good, which is a lively mix of the taste of wasabi and citrus, is among them. The cocktail Kumo, which reflects tranquility and lightness of floating clouds, as well as Pink Hanami, which reminds of Japanese cherry blossom time with floral aroma, should also be mentioned.Petals of Kyoto is an elegant mix that represents the delicate flavor of botanicals. It should be noted that the cocktail called Shisho Garden has the taste of aromatic herbs. Moon Over Tokyo, which is inspired by dynamic life of Tokyo after midnight, is another cocktail in the selection.Also, one needs to mention Shizuku (Droplet) as it is an interesting cocktail which was invented for people who are looking for purity, harmony and simplicity in their beverages. The other cocktail which deserves special attention is Thai Green Curry that is an interpretation of a classic South East Asian cuisine. This cocktail will impress you by its unusual flavor that will surprise you at once with the taste of a traditional meal.Speaking about the introduction of cocktails menu, Arup Chakraborty, Director of Food & Beverage, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort said, “Our new Omakase Cocktail Menu at Nikkei Bar shows our commitment to innovation and memorable experiences of our guests.”“We are delighted to announce the launch of the new Omakase Cocktail Menu at Nikkei Bar. Each cocktail on the list was made to give you an outstanding experience. This is all about innovation, storytelling and craftsmanship. The unique concept is about creating a unique drinking and dining experience with creativity in contemporary luxury.”It should be mentioned that the Omakase Cocktail Menu can be enjoyed exclusively in Nikkei Bar.Located amid the magnificent Indian Ocean, the introduction of the Omakase Cocktail Menu allows expanding the variety of culinary experiences for the guests, who are offered a unique beverage experience with creativity, craftsmanship and storytelling. As JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort constantly raises the bar in its food and beverage experiences, the new menu confirms the commitment of the resort to mindful luxury, personalized hospitality and innovative gastronomy.

Appointing of Harry Green Longin as the Marine Biologist for Finolhu IslandA Seaside Collection resort, Finolhu, has appointed a new Marine Biologist Harry Green Longin, making another step in terms of commitment to the conservation of marine life and the implementation of sustainable environmental strategies within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. Harry has a lot of experience related to marine conservation, sustainability, and creation of educative experiences for the guests. Prior to working at Finolhu Island Maldives, he was employed at The Westin Maldives as the Marine Biologist and Scuba Instructor, developing the educative programmes on marine life and carrying out the reef conservation projects.The island Finolhu is found in one of the regions which carry great ecological importance in the Maldives. The hotel has undertaken a coral restoration project that seeks to ensure the protection and rejuvenation of the reefs in the region of Baa Atoll. This project involves two underwater nurseries housing over 40 coral trees and 2,000 coral fragments. Some of these corals have even been adopted and transferred through the efforts of guests and employees of the hotel.This project has achieved some outstanding results so far since more than 1,500 coral fragments have been transferred to the local reefs. The purpose of the project is to regenerate and maintain ecological marine environments that can withstand threats such as coral bleaching and warming of water.In his new role, Harry will be responsible for the marine conservation activities carried out by Finolhu. This includes reef restoration, sustainability, and education activities. It can be done by joining various programs such as the Coral Adoption Program and the Coral Conservation Course, where the guests get involved in scientific studies of the reefs and education on the importance of conserving the marine environment. By increasing conservation activities, Finolhu gets their guests involved in environmental management while at the same time saving the underwater life of Baa Atoll.

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts proudly announces that three of its standout properties—Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, RAAYA by Atmosphere, and VARU by Atmosphere—have been recognised by Tripadvisor as part of the top 10% of hotels worldwide, based on exceptional guest reviews and ratings over the past year. This builds on a strong legacy of Travellers’ Choice Awards, with Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives consistently recognised over the years, RAAYA by Atmosphere marking its second consecutive win, and VARU by Atmosphere extending its streak of consecutive awards since 2021.This prestigious recognition highlights the brand’s continued commitment to delivering elevated, guest-centric experiences rooted in authentic Maldivian hospitality, thoughtful design, and curated holiday plans and offerings.The accolade reflects consistent positive feedback from travelers across the globe, celebrating everything from personalized service and culinary excellence to immersive island experiences. Each of the three awarded resorts offers a distinct identity while maintaining the brand’s positioning, “A New Experience Awaits.”Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives offers a vibrant island escape defined by spacious villas, lush natural surroundings, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Known for its seamless Kanifushi Plan™, the resort delivers exceptional dining, engaging experiences, and warm, intuitive service that consistently resonates with guests seeking both comfort and adventure in the Maldives.RAAYA by Atmosphere offers guests a luxurious world shaped by nature and imagination in Raa Atoll. The resort invites travellers to drift across crystal lagoons and enjoy a premium all-inclusive island escape, where every detail is thoughtfully taken care of. Surrounded by nature and architectural elegance, RAAYA by Atmosphere provides immersive experiences designed for couples, families and friends alike.VARU by Atmosphere is celebrated for its refined elegance and effortless experience, located just a short transfer from the airport. Combining modern architecture with authentic Maldivian warmth, the resort delivers personalized service, diverse dining options, and a tranquil yet sophisticated setting that continues to earn high praise from guests worldwide.Building on this achievement, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its portfolio across the Maldives and beyond, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and authentic guest engagement.

Appointment of Madura Liyanaguruge as Bar Manager at Joy Island Maldives by Cocoon CollectionThe Cocoon Collection is making an announcement on the appointment of Madura Arundaka Liyanaguruge as Bar Manager at the Joy Island Maldives, from July 2026. As Bar Manager, Liyanaguruge’s role will involve overseeing the bar operations at the resort. Liyanaguruge will ensure that there is an excellent delivery of services at the bars.Liyanaguruge has been serving as Assistant Bar Manager at Cocoon Collection Maldives since 2025. The reason behind his appointment to the well-deserved position lies in his commitment and leadership qualities. Before working for Joy Island Maldives, he worked as Assistant Beverage Manager at Villa Haven Maldives. He has also previously held the positions of Bar Supervisor at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo and at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, both located in Maldives and Israel. In addition, he worked as a bartender at One&Only Reethi Rah and Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas after he began his hospitality career at Kanuhura Maldives.Liyanaguruge has extensive experience of working in a number of famous luxury resorts which will make him proficient in bar operations, beverage management, and guest services and will help him to manage a team effectively.Joy Island Maldives is a luxury all inclusive island resort, located in North Male Atoll, only 40 minutes by speedboat away from Velana International Airport. This resort comprises of 151 villas and suites, including 91 beach villas and 60 overwater villas. The resort offers different accommodation types such as beach villa, lagoon villa, family villa, private pool suite and two bedroom residence.There are numerous culinary delights for guests at Joy Island’s restaurants and the renowned Rainbow Bar. The Market provides international buffet meals with live cooking, Il Basilico provides authentic Italian fare and wood-fired pizzas, and the Palm Beach restaurant serves dishes with beachfront setting along with sea food and grilled food items. Situated next to the main swimming pool of the resort, Rainbow Bar is the right place to have drinks, including cocktails and fine wines.In his new position, Liyanaguruge will work towards further enhancing the beverage menu at Joy Island Maldives.

Double Nomination for Grand Park Kodhipparu at World Travel Awards 2026With yet another achievement in its kitty of various other accolades received from around the world, Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has made it on to the list of two nominations received by it in 2026 World Travel Awards. The luxurious resort of the island has been nominated under the categories of Maldives' Leading Boutique Resort and Indian Ocean's Leading Villa Resort. This makes the resort one of the finest hospitality destinations in the Indian Ocean. Among the many prestigious awards in the travel industry, the World Travel Awards is known to be one of the most prestigious ones. The two nominations are an affirmation of the continuous efforts of the dedicated team at Grand Park Kodhipparu during the last nine years of its journey.Sited on North Male Atoll and accessible via a twenty-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Grand Park Kodhipparu marries a modern aesthetic with the warmth of traditional Maldivian hospitality through an award-winning house reef as well as a series of customized guest experiences that keep attracting travelers from all corners of the globe. According to Raffaele Solferino, who is the General Manager of the resort, the nominations were as a result of the hard work done by the people at the resort."We are grateful for these nominations, as they prove how much dedication, professionalism and passion our team members have been displaying every single day. And the thing is, hospitality is always about people and this award should go to all those who have contributed to the guest experience from day one of our operation nine years ago," he added.This comes in the wake of a successful year at the resort as it has won other awards including the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026.Grand Park Kodhipparu forms part of the Park Hotel Group which is based in Singapore and continues to promote the tourism industry in Maldives through sustainable practices, quality guest experiences and development of local hospitality talents.Travel professionals and guests are encouraged to vote for the Grand Park Kodhipparu for the 2026 World Travel Awards.

LUX* South Ari Atoll receives three awards at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026The luxury island destination of LUX* South Ari Atoll, located in the Maldives, part of the renowned global hospitality company The Lux Collective, has received the prestigious award in three categories at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. These include the best family resort, the best resort pool, and the best house reef. This is another confirmation of the leading position among the luxury islands of the Maldives, appreciated for its guest services, high-quality facilities and beautiful natural environment. This annual award is awarded by the prestigious magazine Travel + Leisure for the best hotels, resorts, destinations, and travel experience of the region, as chosen by the readers of the publication.LUX* South Ari Atoll is located in the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area, which is the only place on Earth for the year-round aggregation of whale sharks. It is a unique example of modern island luxury resort, which combines impeccable hospitality, exciting experiences and close connection with nature. The awards honor the rich tapestry of experiences that the resort offers, from carefully planned family-oriented experiences and two large swimming pools with views on the Indian Ocean to direct access to the resort's house reef with its amazing marine life in one of the most amazing underwater worlds.Spreading on a two-kilometre-long island, LUX* South Ari Atoll provides 192 beach and overwater villas and pavilions designed specifically for couples, families and multi-generation travelers. Recently opened at LUX*, the resort's new accommodation option, Temptation Beach Pool Villa provides spacious indoor and outdoor areas, a private pool and access to the beach. LUX* offers plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as the PLAY kids' club, teens programme, island treasure hunts, creative workshops and marine-related activities. Guests are also offered 40 complimentary activities per stay, which cover a wide variety of leisure, wellness, sports and discovery options.There are eight restaurants and five bars at the resort, providing a wide choice of dining concepts, starting from Italian and Japanese cuisine, ending up with Indian Ocean flavors and international menu. As an eco-luxury resort with its emphasis on sustainability and guided snorkeling and diving activities, whale shark experiences and LUX* Extraordinary Experiences, which include Swimming with Whale Sharks Maldives, can provide guests at the resort with the opportunity for unique whale shark sightings throughout the year and exploration of one of the most interesting marine environments in the Maldives.John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, said: “It is an honor for us to have been voted once again in three different categories by the readers of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia. This is a testimony to the passion and dedication that our team has towards offering unique and extraordinary experiences to our guests.”These awards add to the reputation of LUX* South Ari Atoll, the best luxury island resort in the Maldives, with unique hospitality and guest experience.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives Reimagining Luxury Through Multi-Generational HolidaysWith people looking for memorable experiences in their travels, multi-generational holidays and private getaways are among the most rapidly developing trends in luxury travel at the moment. Addressing the change, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, a Hyatt resort, provides luxurious but at the same time comfortable and private two-bedroom villas that offer the perfect place for family and friends to have a break surrounded by the stunning nature of Maldives.Private Spaces for Multi-Generations in MaldivesWhereas Maldives used to be considered one of the most popular destinations for romantics in the past, luxury travelers are nowadays inclined towards spending holidays together and having an amazing experience. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives meets the expectations of travelers through its Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas and Boduge Residence. The Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa takes up 265 square metres of living space on the pristine white sandy beach of the island. It consists of one king bedroom, one twin bedroom, comfortable living and dining space, a bathroom with separate bathtub and shower, and a private garden complete with a swimming pool and sun deck. Each visit here is complemented with the service of a personal villa host to make your holiday perfect and stress-free.Boduge Residence: A Private Retreat for Your Special EventIf you need some place for celebrating your special event or taking your family on vacation, the Boduge Residence provides the most private accommodation at the resort. It covers an area of 395 square metres (4,251 sq ft) including 235 square metres (2,530 sq ft) of stylish interior living space with a master suite with king bed, twin bedroom, service room with twin beds, living and dining areas, kitchenette, maid's room, amenities, and villa host services.In addition, this residence features a magnificent 160-square-metre (1,722 sq ft) outdoor area with such amenities as a 45-square-metre private pool, large sun deck, open-air dining area, wooden swing and BBQ area at the poolside. This configuration makes the perfect choice for having your family dinners, celebrations of important events and spending quiet time with your family on the peaceful island. The Boduge Residence can be combined with the neighbouring villa, offering a spacious three-bedroom accommodation, providing all privacy and peace that are characteristic of the Alila experience.Luxury with Thought"More and more, luxury is about the quality of time spent with those who matter," said Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives."The two-bedroom suites have been created to allow families and groups to spend quality time together while being able to immerse themselves into the tranquillity and simplicity of our island. This is how Alila's concept of thoughtful luxury materializes."Nature-Inspired ArchitectureAlila Kothaifaru Maldives boasts 81 private pool villas, which include 41 Beach Pool Villas, 36 Overwater Pool Villas, three Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas, and an exclusive Boduge Residence, all of which are designed to blend contemporary architecture with their natural environment. Architectural design of the resort is made by Studiogoto, Singapore, including natural lines and natural materials as well as spacious areas that remove the border between inside and outside spaces. Positioning of each villa has been designed carefully to preserve the untouched nature of the island.Experiences for People of All Age GroupsLocated right in the heart of the bustling Raa Atoll, the resort offers guests amazing experiences of snorkeling and diving along with some excellent wellness experiences at Spa Alila.The families can spend quality time with their children having fun with padel tennis court, outdoor games area and Play Alila programme offering many interesting activities for kids.Exploring the colorful coral reefs, learning about local traditions, and having a relaxing time during signature Shack Sundowner on a private sandbank - all experiences at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives are created to bring closer together the nature, the destination, and most of all, people to one another.

A unique green turtle visits the beach of Niva Kuramathi five times to lay eggsFrom May 2026, a particular female green turtle has visited the shores of Niva Kuramathi beach five times, that is on May 8, 18, 29 and June 9 and 20, for the purpose of laying eggs. The Kuramathi Island Maldives is not a usual site for the nesting of turtles. Each visit and each nest becomes an occasion to be noted for turtles. A nesting turtle drags itself to the beach to dig a hole in the sand for depositing about 100 eggs into it. It covers the eggs with sand to conceal them from any predators by making the surface even again. Finally, it slowly moves to the ocean water.This laborious process is normally undertaken in the dark of night. Green sea turtles can weigh between 150 and 250 kilograms with heart-shaped shells reaching lengths of 140 centimeters. In water, their paddle-shaped flippers move through the currents. All the nests in Niva Kuramathi have been marked and protected in order to ensure their success. On the 7th of July, the first turtles came into the world and managed to reach the sea. The digging of the nest took place 59 days after the start of the incubation period. The nest consisted of 107 eggs and resulted in 59 baby turtles making it to the sea. 46 infertile eggs and two fertilized ones were not hatched. This is a fantastic hatching rate concerning the fertile eggs. The excavation of the nest took place on permission from the Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA).All along, the guests have had a chance to observe the process of nesting and hatching. They see the island’s fauna in action in all its glory, not just as an uncommon attraction.  "We are delighted that our island was chosen by a green turtle for her nest," commented Tom Osborne, the Sustainability Manager at Niva Kuramathi. "This island is not among common nesting areas of turtles, so five nests here are very special indeed."

PADI Women’s Dive Day celebrated at Coco Bodu Hiti with reef clean-up diveAs part of the celebration of PADI Women’s Dive Day that takes place on 18 July 2026, Coco Bodu Hithi welcomes certified women divers for a morning underwater, bringing together marine conservation and pleasure of discovering the ocean in one of the richest natural environments of the Maldives. Following the theme of this year’s event “Celebrate Community. Create Change.”, the Women of the Ocean Reef Clean-Up Dive event at the resort gives a chance to unite by the common love for the underwater world, while at the same time giving back to the environment. Organised specifically for the women divers, the reef clean-up dive will allow exploring the house reef of Coco Bodu Hithi while cleaning the coral reefs from debris.The event takes place at Coco Dive, the resort’s PADI-certified dive center, where guests are invited to enjoy diving adventures in the beautiful underwater world of the Maldives. The experienced multilingual instructors of the dive center offer safe and unique underwater experiences for everyone who wants to start or continue the journey of discovering the Maldivian cuisine oceans. Within just a few minutes’ distance from the resort, divers have access to some of the most well-known dive spots, known for their vibrant corals and colorful marine life, such as hawksbill turtles, white-tip and grey reef sharks, eagle rays, barracuda, Napoleon fish, schools of blue-striped snappers, batfish, and fusiliers.  Guests who want to experience their marine adventures can complete their certification even before coming to the resort via PADI eLearning, giving them more time to explore the Maldivian waters upon arrival at Coco Bodu Hithi.“At Coco Bodu Hithi, we believe that every dive gives us the opportunity to establish stronger relationships with the ocean,” says Jinn Hui, Dive Base Leader at Coco Bodu Hithi.  “PADI Women’s Dive Day acknowledges the ever-growing number of female divers and reminds us that even simple steps like debris removal can make a big difference for the reefs.” This event will be conducted by the resort at the single-dive rate of the resort and provides participants with a personalized certificate and a free-of-charge dive video. With its true Maldivian soul, Coco Bodu Hithi keeps providing guests with experiences allowing them to get even closer to nature and appreciate the beauty of the Maldives.

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives announces the release of the highly anticipated Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, a brand new cookbook created by Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj. Set for publication in October 2026 by St James's House, the beautifully crafted coffee table book celebrates the 20-year anniversary of the talented chef and marks his unique take on plant-based cooking. The newly published book will be available for purchase through the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives website and on the island itself, starting preorders very soon. Plant to Plate offers guests and food lovers everywhere to bring Gili back to their kitchens by using the recipes presented in it.More than just a cookbook, Plant to Plate represents the philosophy of Chef Hari when it comes to food and inspires the reader to use fresh, natural ingredients and herbs to cook wholesome, nourishing dishes. In the book, readers can find more than 60 recipes ranging from breakfasts to starters, soups, salads, main courses, desserts and signature beverages.Featuring more than 60 recipes spanning breakfasts, starters, soups, salads, mains, desserts and signature drinks, the collection showcases Chef Hari’s wellness-led approach to food. Highlights include Rainbow Root Ceviche, Gili Garden Green Gazpacho, Teriyaki Tofu Steak with Coriander Sticky Rice, Pan-Seared Radish Scallops, Roasted Green Cauliflower with Zesty Couscous and Caramel Pistachio Silk Cheesecake, alongside treasured family recipes inspired by his South Indian heritage.“Plant to Plate is about making beautiful, wholesome food accessible to everyone,” says Chef Hari Govindaraj. “The recipes are designed to be practical, flexible and easy to recreate at home using fresh, seasonal ingredients. I want readers to feel confident in the kitchen and to understand that some of the most memorable dishes come from the simplest ingredients.”A much-loved figure at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Chef Hari has spent the past two decades helping shape the resort’s culinary identity. Born in southern India, his passion for cooking began at an early age and has evolved into a distinctive style centred around sustainability, wellness and plant-based dining. Today, he oversees the island’s flourishing organic garden, growing herbs, fruits and vegetables used throughout the resort’s restaurants and menus.Through the entire course of the book, Chef Hari breaks many barriers of perception when it comes to vegan cooking, using radishes to create scallops, creating tasty steaks from tofu, turning root vegetables into ceviches. These innovative recipes are proof that vegan cooking can be equally creative and tasty, as well as more conventional recipes.Rodrigo Buanafina, General Manager of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives said: "Chef Hari has developed the culinary identity of Gili Lankanfushi for twenty years, captivating the guests with his creativity, passion for sustainability, and unparalleled talent in creating magical culinary masterpieces from basic ingredients. This Plant to Plate cookbook is the most beautiful tribute to his unbelievable journey together with the island and an excellent opportunity for the guests to take a little bit of Gili home with themselves."Katie Nicholl, international broadcaster and author of the book, said: "As soon as I visited Gili Lankanfushi, I was captivated not only with the beauty of the island itself but also with the food prepared by Chef Hari. As a vegetarian, I was captivated with the creativity and originality of his dishes. With beautiful photos by world-renowned photographer Mel Yates, Plant to Plate combines evocative photos of island life with simple recipes suitable for delicious and healthy cooking. This book becomes not only an excellent guide for healthy food lovers but also a visual feast for the eye."