Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, a tropical boutique hideaway in the Maldives, has revealed its Valentine’s Day celebration, "Regency Romance in Paradise." Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Maldivian archipelago, the resort invites couples to enjoy a romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day.The Valentine’s Day festivities provide a variety of activities aimed at creating enduring memories for couples in search of a genuinely romantic experience. Notable features of the Valentine’s Day event at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef comprise:Romantic Dinner Under the StarsExperience a delightful dining affair with their specially designed Valentine's Day menu. Savor a romantic dinner under the starry Maldivian sky, overlooking the Indian Ocean. The chefs have created a menu that blends local tastes with global delicacies, offering a culinary adventure to excite your palate.Movie Night Under the StarsCuddle up with your partner for a cozy movie night under the sparkling night sky. The open-air theater, nestled among lush tropical foliage, offers an ideal backdrop for a romantic night featuring timeless romantic tales and your preferred movies.Couples Massage at the SpaRefresh your senses with a relaxing couples massage at the Spa. Allow the calming sounds of the ocean waves and the gentle sea breeze to elevate the peacefulness of your spa visit, providing the perfect relaxation for you and your partner.Romantic Lagoon BreakfastStart your day with a private breakfast on a floating platform in the clear lagoon. Enjoy a delicious breakfast served by your personal island host while taking in the stunning Maldives scenery, creating a romantic beginning to your Valentine’s Day.Floating Breakfast in Your Private PoolFor the definitive luxury, spoil in a floating breakfast serve in the privacy of your own villa’s pool. Enjoy a luxurious extend of gastronome delights while absorbed in the calming waters of your private pool, create an cherished and memorable dining experience.Whether you decide to enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars, a movie night bounded by environment, or a calming couples massage at the spa, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef promise to create this Valentine’s Day a celebration of love and comfort.

Explore a romantic experience where love and luxury come together, with Kandolhu's new honeymoon package, specially offered for online bookings. Situated in a stunning location with beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, Kandolhu offers a unique package created to commemorate your union in a truly magical manner.Get away to Your Private Haven:Start your romantic getaway with the privacy of your own villa - a peaceful sanctuary where serenity and closeness are the main focus. Indulge in the luxury of Kandolhu's lodgings, creating the ideal setting for the beginning of your lifelong journey as a couple.Savor lovely Delights: As you relax in your sanctuary, enjoy the pleasures of a wonderful combination of champagne and canapés, producing a sensory experience that excites the taste buds and establishes the mood for a love-filled celebration.Miraculous Evenings by the Beach: Experience the enchantment of an intimate candlelit dinner on the sandy beach beneath the starlit sky as night falls. Let the soothing sound of the waves and the delicious culinary delights set the perfect ambiance for this magical moment.You can also enjoy the daily breakfast at The Market, as well as a fruit basket and flower bed decoration upon arrival, and a 30-minute spa massage during your stay. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in all villas and public areas, and explores the underwater world with free snorkeling equipment throughout your stay.Kandolhu will create the ideal setting for your love story, guaranteeing that your honeymoon is a beautiful chapter filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Start your path to marital happiness at Kandolhu, where every aspect is crafted to honor the enchantment of your partnership.

Ibrahim Faisal, the Tourism Minister, emphasized the continued initiatives to tackle the issues with 63 incomplete island resorts Maldives. He mentioned that the government is focusing on these ongoing projects but is also welcoming proposals from capable companies keen on establishing new resorts.Faisal recognized the major challenge of integrating these 63 islands into the tourism market. He stated that the government is actively looking into potential solutions, with one crucial aspect being the review of lease agreements. The Minister noted that the government is consolidating a list of parties interested in adjusting their lease terms and is working on scheduling meetings with them. He conveyed optimism about making rapid progress in these efforts.The Minister highlighted the lack of a specialized investment bank in the Maldives as a significant obstacle to resort development. He noted that constructing a four-star resort necessitates an investment of approximately USD 25 million, a figure that existing banking institutions in the Maldives are unable to support, especially for new entrants in the tourism industry. This financial constraint has resulted in numerous projects stalling following initial investment and development stages.Faisal also discussed the process of purchasing islands for resort development, noting that the cost of acquisition is typically revealed to entice investors. Nevertheless, he noted that despite investor participation, certain projects have been suspended midway due to different challenges.Discussions about the incomplete resorts are being carried out collaboratively with the aim of finding practical solutions. Minister Faisal confirmed that lease agreements will be adjusted as needed to support progress.

Canareef Resort Maldives has made significant strides in response to the Ministry of Tourism and MMPRC’s strategic focus on the Chinese market, signaling the start of a promising trend.Canareef recently welcomed a record-breaking group of 151 guests by chartering two planes and securing additional seats on scheduled flights for a smooth transfer from Male to Addu Atoll. This demonstrates the resort’s dedication to offering distinctive experiences that resonate with the Chinese market, aligning with the nation’s efforts to strengthen ties. According to a Team Leader from the Resort’s Management, the initial plan was to hire an Airbus A320 to transport the entire group at once, but due to unavailability, they had to charter two ATR 72 planes instead.This amazing milestone set the phase for more collaborations and opportunities as the resort looks forward to additional improve the demand of Addu Atoll as a prime destination for Chinese tourists.Located in the UNESCO biosphere reserve Addu, Canareef Resort Maldives offers 271 beach villas crossways a 4.5 km extend. Available by domestic flight and a 10-minute speedboat journey from Gan Airport, it boasts a private picnic atoll and one of the Maldives’ longest beaches. Enjoy roomy villas with open-air bathrooms and dazzling lagoon or Indian Ocean views.

Located in the charming Raa Atoll, Heritance Aarah stands out as a leader all-inclusive resort in the Maldives, allow visitors to dive into the enduring thrilling of life at this lavishness retreat.This sought-after location was recently recognized as one of the "Editor’s Choice: All-Inclusive Resorts" at the TTM Awards & Gala 2023 for its seamless blending of modern amenities and traditional design.The resort offers a unique selection of villas and suites with butler service, encouraging guests to embrace the soothing sounds of the ocean and enjoy a peaceful retreat. Each villa is equipped with snorkeling gear, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life whenever they please.Heritance Aarah-Premium All Inclusive, Raa Atoll has transformed the all-inclusive experience with its Premium All-Inclusive package. This enhanced package includes top-notch in-villa amenities, resort facilities, snorkeling and diving excursions, whiskey and wine tastings, a free IASO face scan, spa credits, and exceptional dine-around cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs from Culinary Olympic and Culinary World Cup.Guests staying in beach villas and ocean villas can enjoy an all-inclusive experience that includes a restocked minibar, complimentary sparkling wine upon arrival, daily replenished wine, and selected spirits added to the in-villa mini bar. Additionally, guests staying in Ocean Suites with Infinity Pool and Ocean Resident with Infinity Lap Pool can take advantage of extra privileges, such as a fully stocked wine cellar and in-villa dining.Guests on the Premium All-Inclusive package can enjoy a culinary adventure across seven restaurants and five bars. This includes whiskey tastings and a variety of international cuisine, providing a tailored dining experience for food enthusiasts. The Sips & Surprises feature allows guests to savor premium spirits and creative drinks at five bars, each offering a menu of 30 unique cocktails.Heritance Aarah goes outside, offering cooking classes with award-winning chefs, cocktail master classes, and exclusive experience like the 3Cs – Ice Cream, Candy, and cocktail from the Naughty Carts wandering the island. Guided snorkeling excursion, Maldivian Village experience, and flattering wellness consultation at IASO SPA add additional strength to the all-inclusive assistance.For visitors stay a least of three nights, extra perks contain a flattering facade scan at the IASO Medi Spa, spa credits, and an option of excursion, ranging from sunset cruise to night fishing.

Celebrating three decades of creates outstanding experience across hotels, spas, residences, food and retail; Banyan Tree Group is developing its shared umbrella brand from “Banyan Tree Group” to “Banyan Group”. This brand transfer reflects the Group’s development into an energetic, multi-brand warmth inspiration.The Group has expanded its brand portfolio since 2019, introducing its innovative spirit, design-focused experiences, and purpose-driven mission to new locations. These include Banyan Tree AlUla in Saudi Arabia, Garrya in Kyoto, and Folio in Osaka, Japan, Dhawa in Ho Tram, Vietnam, Homm in Huzhou, China, and Banyan Tree Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, 2023 signifies a year of robust and consistent business performance that has exceeded pre-pandemic levels.Multi-brand increase Continues in 2024 with 19 latest OpeningsEddy See, President and CEO of Banyan Group, expressed, "As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Group and its transformation into Banyan Group, this milestone not only demonstrates the Group's enduring success in the hospitality industry but also paves the way for an exciting future. This rebranding reflects our shift from a single luxury brand to the diverse offering we have today. Nearly half of the countries where we operate feature multiple brands, many of which are in high-growth travel destinations. With a focus on expansion, we are pursuing new opportunities with our unique brands, tailored to meet changing traveler preferences and needs in these dynamic markets."Banyan Group currently oversees 12 international brands, 75 hotels and resorts, more than 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in 22 countries. In 2024, the Group plans to expand its portfolio with 19 new properties and residences in Cambodia, China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Mexico.• The Banyan Group's initial property in Cambodia will launch with Angsana Siem Reap.• Japan will see the first Banyan Tree property with Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto.• In addition, the Banyan Group will expand its multi-brand presence with new brands debuting in Vietnam• Angsana Quan Lan in Halong Bay and Garrya Mu Chang Chai, as well as in South Korea with Cassia and Homm Sokcho. Suzhou, which is approximately 2 hours away from Shanghai by train or car, will showcase two complexes• The first, in Shishan, will include Banyan Tree and Angsana, while the second, by Yangcheng Lake, will feature Banyan Tree and Garrya.• Angsana Tengchong represents the Group's fifth property in the Yunnan province of China. In North America, Banyan• Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe marks the debut of the first full-fledged Banyan Tree Veya in MexicoRecord-Breaking trade presentation in 2023The anticipated growth in 2024 has been fueled by a strong recovery following Covid, exceeding pre-pandemic levels in multiple regional markets. Key metrics for 2023 include:• Hotels saw a 44% increase in RevPAR in 9M2023 compared to 9M2022, surpassing pre-pandemic performance by 27% on a same-store basis.• Residence sales for 9M2023 reached 90% of the total sales in 2022, the best year on record.• China demonstrated significant growth, with a 49% increase in RevPAR in 9M2023 compared to the previous year and an 18% increase compared to pre-Covid levels in 2019 on a same-store basis. The number of properties increased from 16 in 2019 to 25 in 2023, with 14 more in the three-year pipeline. • The recent buyback deal with China Vanke further enhances the Group’s position in the hospitality industry, streamlining strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.New Sustainability Commitments and Deepened DifferentiationThe company has upheld its innovative mindset and dedication to design-focused experiences and a mission centered on stewardship and responsible tourism, positioning itself as a leader in promoting inclusive growth and sustainability.Ren Yung Ho, Senior Vice President of Brand & Commercial at Banyan Group, stated that as the company celebrates its 30 years of success, it acknowledges that progress must not halt. The fundamental beliefs and values that have steered Banyan Group to this achievement will persist in shaping its growth strategy as the company remains committed to being a catalyst for helpful modify for both citizens and the globe.In 2024, Banyan Group will support with United Nations Climate Science-based target to develop a inclusive 2030 Sustainability Roadmap that address both ecological and human capital development in line with its beginning culture of Embracing the Environment, Empowering People. It will also begin a circularity guide project, reinforcing the brand’s pledge to progress the hospitality industry’s change to regenerative practices.The Group will also begin Laguna Lakelands in Phuket, its most striving nature-integrated development. Spanning 110 hectares, Laguna Lakelands will include a Rainforest Park, over 10km of treetop skywalks, and six distinct zones—orchard, lakeside, lagoon, valley, and forest—ushering in a fresh period of immersive living.New Programming and InitiativesThrough its 30th anniversary in 2024, Banyan Group will initiate beyond, a new digital attendant that offer a holistic familiarity athwart its codified wellbeing framework, and with Banyan, an empirical member’s programme that rewards appointment, connections and events. The celebration extend worldwide with 11 trade pop-ups, attractive global customer campaigns, the launch of 8 signature scent enthused by the Group’s eight pillar of comfort and limited-edition artisanal anniversary gifts, all craft in collaboration by the community where the Group operates.

The Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) has revealed that it is now accepting participation for EMITT 2024, a renowned travel and tourism exhibition for the Eastern Mediterranean region. The event will take place from 6-9 February at the Tuyap Fair and Congress Centre in Istanbul, Türkiye. Limited participation opportunities are available due to space constraints at the event.Visit Maldives seeks to showcase the unique attractions of the destination and build important relationships within the global travel community over the course of the four-day event. In line with their efforts to increase the visibility of the destination and work closely with significant travel industry partners, Visit Maldives aims to attract potential agents and buyers in the important Turkish market to enhance the influence of the Maldives' tourism sector.The Maldives has great potential in the Turkish market. Last year, it was the 25th largest source market, showing a significant increase of 33.4% with 14,007 arrivals. There has also been improved connectivity to the Central & Eastern European markets. Taking part in this fair offers a great chance to increase arrivals from this region and achieve substantial growth.Tourism industry companies interested in participating in this event with Visit Maldives can sign up through the Members Portal (members.visitmaldives.com) by Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 3:00 PM. To be eligible, make sure to renew/register your membership for 2024.

Get ready for an exciting and indulgent adventure at Ifuru Island's Ice & Bubbles Challenge! Picture yourself enjoying the stunning Maldives scenery as you take on a 6-minute polar plunge and savor a glass of bubbly like a champion. After conquering the challenge, you can relish the delicious bubbly and bask in your victory.Imagine relaxing by the pool, with palm trees and sandy beaches around you, and clear waters, all while testing your endurance. As a symbol of accomplishment, visitors receive a stylish t-shirt for taking on the Ice Bath and Bubbles Challenge, showcasing their brave nature. The current record for the challenge stands at an impressive 22 minutes, and we challenge you to surpass it!Cold-water immersion can accelerate muscle recovery, decrease inflammation, and provide a surge of energy. Additionally, conquering the challenge and basking under the warm Maldivian sun can make you feel like a true hero.Don't wait any longer. Gather your friends and come to Ifuru Island, Maldives, for a memorable adventure that will create lasting magical memories.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli recently delved into the essence of Maldivian heritage by celebrating tradition and culture with an engaging coconut oil making event. Visitors were able to take part in the traditional art of coconut oil extraction, gaining insight into the vibrant cultural heritage of the Maldives.The event showcased traditional practices, featuring talented craftsmen showcasing the detailed process of husking coconuts, expertly grating coconut flesh, and skillfully cooking coconut oil. Attendees were encouraged to participate, gaining practical experience and a greater understanding of the longstanding methods used to create this useful oil.The Sun Siyam Iru Veli team worked hard to make sure this educational and enjoyable activity happened regularly. Guests enjoyed a variety of coconut-based drinks and snacks, getting a delicious taste of Maldivian culinary traditions. The atmosphere was joyful as guests immersed themselves in the local culture, savoring the flavors and embracing the communal spirit of the occasion.Charming in coconut oil making at Sun Siyam Iru Veli serve as an exclusive opportunity for visitors to learn about the several strength benefits connected with coconut oil. In addition to its gastronomic uses, attendees gain insight into the holistic advantages of incorporate coconut oil into their everyday lives, both in cuisine and as part of a skincare routine.Sun Siyam Iru Veli remains dedicated to present guests not only a luxurious stay but also a reliable and inspiring experience that celebrate the beauty of Maldivian culture. The coconut oil-making activity set the phase for a regular fascination into Maldivian tradition, relaxation, and the kindness of traditional Maldivian hospitality.

Baglioni Resort Maldives is situated on the island of Maagau in the Dhaalu Atoll and is the inaugural genuine Italian luxury resort in the Maldives, harmoniously blending Italian sophistication with the stunning natural allure of the Indian Ocean.Recognized as an "Editor's Choice: All-Inclusive Resort" at the TTM Awards & Gala 2023, the resort provides a memorable experience featuring sports, relaxation, and high-end gourmet dining tailored to its discerning international guests.The Luxury All-Inclusive package at Baglioni Resort Maldives aims to enhance the guest experience, especially when it comes to dining. Three exceptional restaurants and the sophisticated Pool Bar invite guests to discover a variety of culinary pleasures. Offering the choice between à la carte and buffet-style dining, guests can enjoy genuine Italian dishes, fresh Japanese sushi, international buffets with live cooking stations, and poolside treats. The resort takes great care to accommodate dietary preferences, including gluten-free options.The Luxury All-Inclusive status offers a wide variety of high-quality beverages for guests to enjoy, including premium liquors, refreshing cocktails, and fine Italian wines, which help create an upscale and indulgent atmosphere at the restaurants and pool bar.Beyond the culinary assistance, Baglioni Resort Maldives: Discover All-inclusive Paradise invites visitors to immerse themselves in a globe of water activities. From motorized option like big game fishing to non-motorised activities such as scuba diving and dolphin excursions, the resort provides a collection of exciting experiences against the setting of the blue waters.To provide to guests’ midnight or morning cravings, the resort ensure a daily-refreshed all-inclusive minibar in each stay. This minibar include a variety of water, wine, beer, soft drinks, chips, chocolates, and more, addition an extra touch of luxury and expediency to the general experience.The resort’s loyalty to tropical grace and its extensive Maldives All-Inclusive package create a charming and memorable stay for visitors looking for the peak of luxury in the Maldives.

The Maldives is a luxurious paradise in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its extravagant five-star resorts and long history of catering to luxury travel enthusiasts. For fifty years, it has been a beacon of opulence in the tourism industry.Luxury in the Maldives is not just a feature; it's a way of life. Among exclusive resorts, private islands, and personalized services, this tropical paradise offers a special invitation to a select few: celebrities, dignitaries, and high-profile individuals. The top resorts in the Maldives come with a high price tag, but for those who can afford it, it's an investment in an unforgettable getaway that promises to leave a lasting memory and invite return visits.Attractive Accommodations:The Maldives is home to some of the world's most luxurious and upscale resorts, each offering perfected luxury. As soon as you arrive on these sunny shores, you enter a realm where lavish lodging, outstanding service, and exclusive facilities redefine the true meaning of a tropical getaway.The overwater bungalows and villas in Maldives are the main attraction here, enhancing the feeling of seclusion. With private decks extending over clear waters, direct ocean entry, and exclusive pools, these lodgings redefine the concept of a private sanctuary in the midst of oceanic beauty.Uniqueness in each Grain of Sand: The Maldives boasts a captivating geography of scattered atolls, each luxury resorts that stand as the only establishments on their respective islands. This exclusivity ensures an intimate experience, allowing guests to luxuriate in the profound sense of being the sole inhabitants of their secluded haven.Far beyond simple luxuries, individuality and privacy, far from mere luxury, are rush into the very fabric of the familiarity. Among tranquil landscape protected from snooping eyes and the inexorable gaze of paparazzi, visitors relax in a retreat carefully crafted for tranquility and pleasure, ensure a getaway like no other.Culinary SymphonyExperience private dining at Maldives that redefines gastronomy. Tailor your journey through diverse global cuisines, each presented with unique flair. Whether you choose a beachfront feast, an elegant villa setting, or a secluded spot on the island, indulge in private dining experiences. Enjoy renditions of traditional Maldivian dishes, thoughtfully crafted to harmonize heritage with innovation. With a variety of presentation styles, from casual beach setups to intimate villa affairs, each dining experience offers a symphony of flavors, ambiance, and exclusivity.Tailored LuxuryThe Maldives prioritizes individualized facilities. Here, team members are not just helpful to your needs; they expect them, all while regarding your retreat. The result is surroundings where company can relax, safe in the familiarity that every feature of their stay is craft to excellence.

At Fushifaru Maldives, we are excited to declare a culinary corporation that is set to redefine dining on our lovely Maldives Island. Globally commended superstar chef, Jan Cleusters, has grace us with his culinary skill, and we can't stop to unveil the magical he's set to make at our fine-dining Restaurant, Raakani Beach Grill Restaurant.With a profession marked by modernism and an excitement for blending varied flavours, Chef Cleusters is set to acquire Raakani to latest heights. Chef Jan Cleusters bring his pioneering culinary revelation to us, where he will curate an completely new menu while inspiring the existing fine dining options in Maldives. The thrilling new menu includes smoked salmon, grass-fed beef striploin and a poach lobster medallion.The food enthusiast started cuisine at the age of four and after obtains his high school certificate, he concluded an apprenticeship in the Michelin-starred gastronomy, since then he has won several international awards at the New York gala, the Indie Awards, as well as at One Show, ADC and D&AD. Known for his enthusiasm for combination local flavors with international techniques, Chef Cleusters is set to redefine the gastronomic experience at Fushifaru Raakani Beach Grill Restaurant."We desire to convey our visitors on a gastronomic voyage that reflect the splendor of the Maldives. It's not just on the food; it's about create recollections during unique dining experiences," say Ahmed Siaar, General Manager of Fushifaru Maldives.Get equipped to board on a culinary journey with us and rejoice a new era at Raakani Restaurant, where Chef Jan Cleusters' creativity is set to hypnotize your senses and leave you wanting extra.

Explore a romantic getaway with Kuramathi Maldives’ newly introduced honeymoon package, available exclusively for bookings made through the website. This package presents a variety of delightful perks and inclusions crafted to enhance the honeymoon experience.Begin your day on a delightful note with a luxurious floating breakfast experience. Picture yourself savoring a romantic meal while floating in the pristine pool waters, encompassed by stunning views. This is an ideal way to start a day brimming with romance and tranquility.The honeymoon package offers a 60-minute spa massage for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Couples can enjoy a pampering treatment to unwind and revitalize their spirits, creating an opportunity to escape everyday stress and focus on each other's well-being.As night descends, guests can enjoy a private dining experience at The Reef restaurant. This special dinner promises a delicious culinary selection in a romantic atmosphere. Advance booking is necessary to guarantee a tailored and unforgettable dining experience.The honeymoon package offers various extra inclusions and benefits. Couples can have their meals at a designated buffet restaurant, enjoying a wide range of delicious cuisines. Upon arrival, the bed will be adorned, and they will receive a box of chocolates and a voucher for a bottle of wine to enhance their romantic getaway.Honeymooners have the opportunity to improve their romantic dining experience by receiving a free upgrade to the Basic All-Inclusive meal plan. This offer is applicable to specific dates and room types, providing them with access to a variety of culinary choices without the concern of extra expenses.Kuramathi offers a personalized honeymoon package that aims to create lasting memories of the couple's union. The package includes special benefits such as romantic dining, spa treatments in Maldives, and luxurious accommodations, guaranteeing a romantic, relaxing, and charming honeymoon experience.

Maldivian, the flag transporter, has set out a call for proposals to charter a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, aiming to bolster its convoy for nonstop Maldives flights.Island Aviation Services (IAS) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) looking for a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for a six-year charter. The predictable delivery of the aircraft is targeted for the next section of this year.Condition outline in the RFP indicate the require for an aircraft prepared with 270 seats, include a least of 15 to 20 Business class spaces.President Mohamed Muizzu lately green lit strategy to introduce two wide-body aircraft, enabling Maldivian to commence nonstop direct flights to top tourist destinations.“These flights will control a least of two or three times a week among select destinations and the Maldives,” confirmed an executive release.The President’s Office announces Maldivian’s intention to offer nonstop direct flights to selected areas in China, Europe, and South Africa. Emphasizing China as a top priority, these routes support with the government’s Hafuthaa 14 roadmap.Earlier, Maldivian required proposals in February to dry lease two A330-200 aircraft but hasn’t provide any update while then.Currently, Maldivian operates globally only to destinations in India and Bangladesh. Though, recent additions to its fleet comprise three ATR 72 airplane selected for domestic Maldives flights.The airline ruins dedicated to increasing its fleet, eyeing a transform in logo and branding. As of now, Maldivian’s fleet consists of single Airbus A320, three ATR aircraft, 10 Dash-8 aircraft, and 11 Twin Otter seaplanes.

Costa Serena, a prestigious Italian cruise ship, has arrived in the Maldives with more than 3,000 tourists aboard. The ship, worth USD 450 million, set sail from the ports of Goa and Cochin in India and is currently moored near Male City.The Costa Serena has brought a varied mix of travelers to the Maldives, with a majority being European and Asian tourists, including a significant number from India. This increase in tourist arrivals is anticipated to significantly benefit the local tourism sector.The Costa Serena in Maldives has remarkable specifications, with a length of 950 feet and a crew capacity of 1,100. With room for 3,700 passengers, it is one of the larger ships to visit the Maldives, highlighting the increasing popularity of the island nation as a top destination for cruise ships.The Costa Serena's arrival is a direct outcome of collaborative efforts between the Maldives government and the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA). In response to MAYA members' requests, the government proactively eliminated specific taxable provisions. This action has eased the arrival of Costa Serena and is expected to promote similar visits in the future.