Latest Maldives News, Resort Openings & Travel Guides
Stay informed with firsthand island dispatches, newly opened resorts, seaplane regulations, marine biology updates, and seasonal travel advice.
Editorial
ELE I NA Revolutionizes Wellness Industry with Groundbreaking OceanFlow Therapy in Celebration of World Ocean Day
OceanFlow therapy, a singular and breathtaking inner trip enveloped in the embrace of ocean water, has been introduced by OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO's ELE I NA. Guests are invited to go on a transformative adventure that will feed their minds, bodies, and souls on this World Ocean Day. Exclusively offered at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, this cutting-edge therapy presents a stunning and unrivaled opportunity to reclaim oneself while being cradled by the soothing rhythms of the ocean.Various therapeutic techniques, such as Watsu, Water Dance, Ayurveda, Shiatsu, Craniosacral, Manual Therapy, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, and Trigger Point Therapy, are combined in enthralling ways in OceanFlow therapy. Through the use of sophisticated techniques and the release of its full therapeutic potential, these carefully chosen components enrich the holistic Aquatic Bodywork.The high magnesium content of saltwater is one of the amazing advantages of OceanFlow therapy. Guests' muscles and nerves are controlled, blood sugar levels are balanced, and sleep quality is improved as they immerse themselves in the water or simply enjoy its presence. The outcome is a profound sense of renewal, which is enhanced by the waves' calming pattern, which balances their circadian clock.The pun "Vitamin Sea" emphasizes the importance of seawater as a nutrient for the skin, the biggest organ in the body. Saltwater, which is rich in minerals including magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium, has excellent therapeutic effects. It helps to lessen swelling, protect the skin, and speed up the recovery of wounds, scrapes, and sores. In addition, saltwater improves lymph fluid movement, which might lessen the appearance of cellulite.A variety of conditions, such as stress symptoms, restricted mobility, arthritis, rheumatism, back pain, chronic illnesses, headaches, migraines, insomnia, post-operative rehabilitation, accidents, trauma, water phobia, and even during pregnancy, can benefit greatly from OceanFlow therapy. Each session lasts an hour and includes a designated area for healing and rejuvenation, followed by a silent integration period of another 45 minutes.Pain control, sleep management, and stress management are all therapeutic advantages of OceanFlow. Guests can efficiently control their stress levels, reduce physical pain, and improve their sleep habits by immersing themselves in this holistic approach. OceanFlow therapy uses the healing properties of saltwater and gentle massage to help people establish a deep connection with their inner selves.In honor of World Ocean Day, ELE I NA extends an invitation to everyone to appreciate the ocean's beauty and go on an OceanFlow therapy journey of transformation. Discover their own inner peace, immerse themselves in the healing properties of the water, and come out renewed, refreshed, and in tune with the rhythms of the sea.
Editorial
GoAir's Financial Turmoil Forces Suspension of Operations in Maldives
India's GoAir has temporarily ceased operations after previously operating flights to the Maldives. Since the start of last month, ticket sales have also stopped.Budget Indian airline GoAir used to provide nonstop service to the Maldives from Mumbai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru. GoAir's operations in the Maldives have been halted since April, according to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).Due to operational challenges brought on by the company's growing debt, which is currently around $800 million (MVR 12.3 billion), GoAir decided to halt operations. The corporation has already made an announcement regarding its bankruptcy in relation to this matter.GoAir has also told the media that, despite the fact that bankruptcy proceedings have been started, they are striving to find a solution and hope to get back to business as soon as possible.Prior to its closure, GoAir operated flights to 26 domestic and seven foreign locations inside India. The firm started operations in 2005.
Editorial
Marriott Bonvoy's Maldives Luxury Resorts Reign Supreme, Sweeping Prestigious Awards
South East Asia Travel + Leisure To honor the companies and individuals influencing the travel industry, Hong Kong & Macao recently revealed the winners of the prestigious Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 in Bangkok on June 5, 2023.Several accolades were given to the Maldives-based luxury hotels in the Marriott Bonvoy group. The winners are determined by the votes of Travel & Leisure South East Asia readers. They highlight the extraordinary experiences the resorts have to offer and celebrate achievement in the luxury travel sector.Top 10 Best Resorts: Fari Islands, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives has established itself as one of the top 10 resorts in the Maldives, demonstrating its dedication to offering unmatched luxury and outstanding guest experiences. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands (@ritzcarltonmaldives) Top 5 Best Resort Spas: Fari Islands, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives renowned for its outstanding The Ritz-Carlton Spa, which provides visitors with a haven of rest and relaxation in the middle of stunning surroundings.The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort's Top 5 Most Outrageous Villas One of the most outlandish properties in the Maldives is The John Jacob Astor Estate at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, which has become the benchmark for luxury lodging.Top 5 Best General Managers: Idu Ribeiro, W Maldives For the second year in a row, Idu Ribeiro, General Manager of W Maldives, has been recognized as the finest general manager in the Maldives. His outstanding management and leadership abilities are essential to producing amazing visitor experiences.Best House Reefs: Top 5 - W Maldives: The beautiful house reef at W Maldives has won praise for providing visitors with unmatched chances to discover the abundant marine life of the Maldives right outside their door.Oriol Montal, managing director of Marriott International Luxury Asia Pacific (outside of China), expressed his joy at the remarkable performance of the Maldives' four five-star resorts. "We consider it an honor to be recognized by Travel & Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023. These honors are a testament to our workers' unwavering commitment to giving our visitors outstanding experiences, and they will inspire us to keep doing so, he continued.
Editorial
Transforming Chinese Tourism: MMPRC and SQ Join Forces to Showcase Maldives
In partnership with Singapore Airlines (SQ), the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) completed a familiarization trip. The voyage took place from May 29 to June 4, 2023. Participants from the Chinese market had an in-depth introduction to world-class Maldivian hospitality during this familiarization tour, with a focus on accessible luxury and sustainability on the Sunny Side of Life.Following the Visit Maldives Storytellers' Conference 2023, the familiarization trip started on May 31, 2023. With a particular emphasis on the mass market, it featured representatives from numerous newspapers and social media sites. This journey resulted in considerable media coverage that emphasized the distinctive geographical characteristics of the Maldives, its one-island-one-resort idea, as well as the extraordinary experiences that have made the Maldives one of the most popular vacation spots in the world.Leading journals and websites like Travel+Leisure, City Traveller, Conde Nast Traveller, Voyage, and : Flyer Tea offered coverage that reached a large audience, with an estimated aggregate reach of 1,270,000. Participants in the tour had the chance to interact with customers on social media, offer first-hand accounts of Maldivian hospitality through insights into local culture, and promote the area's environmental initiatives. The tour highlighted the variety of distinctive experiences offered in the Maldives, underlining its status as a top vacation spot and eco-friendly escape. They want to use this journey to not only reach a large audience but also establish a strong online presence and draw tourists to the Maldives for their unmatched beauty and welcoming culture.Through this program, MMPRC hopes to promote the Maldives as a secure and alluring vacation spot for Chinese tourists. Prior to the pandemic, China consistently ranked among the top 10 source markets for visitors to the Maldives. Despite the difficulties brought on by the pandemic, the market is currently exhibiting encouraging indications of recovery. 17,691 Chinese tourists came to the Maldives in the first quarter of 2023, and the country wants to use its online presence to stand out from other travel destinations.This journey to get acquainted with Singapore Airlines is a component of a larger marketing plan that also includes continuing PR initiatives, social media promotions, cooperative campaigns with top travel firms, and more. In order to capitalize on the increased interest in travel opportunities following the pandemic, MMPRC is committed to enhancing destination presence in the Chinese market.
Editorial
Sun Siyam Resorts Unite for International Day of Biological Diversity and World Environment Day 2023
Visitors and staff at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef actively participated in various sustainable practices in support of the recent International Day for Biological Diversity and World Environment Day. The resorts are committed to operating sustainably and responsibly in the Maldives and placing sustainability at the forefront of their guest experiences. These programs are a part of Sun Siyam Cares, a program that seeks to operate in the Maldives sustainably and responsibly while providing genuine visitor experiences, aiding local people, and advancing environmental preservation and sustainability.On June 5th, 2023, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi held a tree-planting ceremony to commemorate World Environment Day. As a result, 100 trees were planted by visitors and staff, bringing the island team's goal of 1000 trees in 2023 to 347 trees for the year. To maintain the island's beauty, numerous beach and island cleaning events were also held.Visitors and workers at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef had the opportunity to take part in a variety of eco-friendly activities, such as planting coral to protect the area's stunning reef and trees as part of ceremonies to help reach the resort's three-year goal of 5000 trees planted.
Editorial
Patina Maldives on Fari Islands has been crowned as the top-rated resort for families in the Maldives.
At the annual Travel & Leisure Southeast Asia Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, won the honor of being named the Best Resort for Families in the Maldives.Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, a retreat for future travelers who are environmentally aware, is located amid the stunning azure waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort achieves a perfect mix between tranquility and stimulation by fusing the beauty of nature with contemporary refinement.Families are offered a variety of services and activities at Patina Maldives that are tailored to their requirements. The resort has a kid's club called Footprints that is solar-powered and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities. Young adventurers can also choose from a variety of water-based excursions, guaranteeing the whole family an amazing experience.Patina Maldives is dedicated to conserving the Maldives' natural beauty and lays a major emphasis on ocean conservation and education. Families can participate in educational programs that encourage a better awareness of marine life and the value of environmental preservation.Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, continues to establish itself as a prime location, catering to the needs of travelers looking for a memorable and gratifying holiday with its well-deserved award as the Best Resort for Families in the Maldives.
Editorial
Villa Nautica and Villa Park Sweep Awards at Travel+Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023
In Bangkok, Thailand, at the Travel+Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, Villa Nautica and Villa Park won honorable mentions.In the category of "Best Resort Pools," Villa Nautica was named as one, and Villa Park was named as one of the best resort spas in the Maldives. The editorial staff and knowledgeable contributors from Travel+Leisure publications in the Asia Pacific area selected these nominations.These brand-new awards, presented by Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia, Hong Kong & Macau, are intended to honor and recognize the outstanding establishments and people who have made significant contributions to Asia's world-class hospitality sector.Outstanding resorts in the Maldives include Villa Nautica and Villa Park, previously Paradise Island and Sun Island. While Villa Park embraces a daring and nature-inspired experience with an emphasis on sustainability, Villa Nautica offers an urban hideaway with a maritime motif and a gorgeous pool. Both Villa Nautica and Villa Park guarantee outstanding stays for those looking for indulgence, relaxation, and eco-friendly experiences thanks to their magnificent settings and distinctive services.
Editorial
Sheraton Maldives Introduces Carbon-Free Menu to Commemorate World Environment Day
In honor of World Environment Day, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa debuted its avant-garde carbon-free menu. The resort's continuous dedication to sustainability is demonstrated by this project, which also demonstrates its efforts to comply with Marriott International's "Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction" and to offer guests a top-notch dining experience while minimizing its environmental effect.The resort's culinary staff takes great satisfaction in providing guests with the freshest and healthiest dining selections, under the direction of Executive Chef Riccardo Pinna. The resort makes a point of using veggies that are picked right from its very own Chef's Garden, demonstrating its commitment to ecological techniques. The Chef's Garden is a flourishing green oasis that covers an astonishing 130m2. It is home to a variety of plants, including tomatoes, lettuce, okra, bringers, basil, chillies, lemongrass, and many more. Our landscapers, under the direction of Ali Thakan, diligently tend to these organically grown veggies, assuring a consistent supply of fresh produce that greatly lowers the resort's carbon footprint.Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa places a strong emphasis on helping local communities and lowering food miles in addition to providing fresh organic vegetables. The resort buys its fish directly from regional fishermen who use sustainable fishing techniques. The resort makes sure that visitors may enjoy the flavors of the Maldivian seas while limiting the carbon footprint associated with long-distance travel by working with local vendors.The Carbon Free menu at Sea Salt Restaurant is available for dinner and features a variety of traditional dishes like Organic Watermelon and Tomato Jam with Local Coconut and Basil, Reef Fish Cooked in Coconut Water and Furanafushi Spinach, Reef Lobster Stew with Frisee Lettuce and Lemongrass, and much more. Each meal shows the rich flavors created from organic, locally sourced ingredients and symbolizes the resort's continuous dedication to sustainability.General Manager, Mohamed El Aghoury, who is a proponent of environmental stewardship, stated, "At Sheraton Maldives, we recognize that every action counts when it comes to maintaining our planet. A major step towards reducing our ecological footprint while still providing our customers with great culinary experiences is the launch of our carbon-free menu. Additionally, he said that by growing a variety of plants, the resort maintains a consistent supply of organic vegetables, greatly reducing its carbon footprint and improving the quality of its meals.The resort participated in the community on World Environment Day by planning a special planting exercise for their young visitors. Through interactive learning, we hope to help kids develop a sense of connection with the natural world and encourage sustainable lifestyles early on. In addition to the more than 65 different kinds of plants that naturally grow on the island, the resort planted 50 dwarf hybrid coconut trees with the assistance of senior visitors.
Editorial
D'Souza Assumes Role of Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage at Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island
Brian D'Souza has been appointed as the new Executive Assistant Manager - Food & Beverage by Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island. Brian is well-positioned to improve the resort's culinary offerings and take diners' dining experiences to new heights because to his more than 17 years of expertise in the hospitality sector.Brian, who is Indian, offers a broad range of experience and a highly developed skill set to his current position. He gained a great deal of experience working in Dubai with well-known worldwide companies including Sheraton-Starwood, Wyndham Group, and Grand Midwest. Brian is no stranger to the Maldives; he has worked at a number of resorts, including Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru and Niyama Private Island. In his most recent position, he was Director of Food & Beverage at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives, where he significantly improved the resort's dining experiences. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island (@jumeirahmaldives) Assuming command as the Executive Assistant Manager - Food & Beverage, Brian will direct the Food & Beverage team and manage the activities at the opulent dining establishments in Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island. At Shimmers, guests may enjoy a delicious selection of Greek and Mediterranean meals while soaking up the beach club's bright atmosphere. The ethereally chilly ambience of Kayto shows an alluring mix of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Glow, an all-day dining establishment where professional chefs skillfully produce world cuisine to take center stage, completes the trifecta. These eateries are ready to deliver unforgettable dining experiences under Brian's direction, enhancing the resort's standing as a Maldivian culinary hotspot.
Editorial
Villa Park and Royal Island: Distinctive Tripadvisor® 2023 Travelers’ Choice® Award Recipients
Tripadvisor has recognized Villa Park and Royal Island as winners of the 2023 Travelers' Choice award. The prized distinction honors establishments that have continuously attracted favorable traveler reviews on Tripadvisor over the previous 12 months, ranking the winners in the top 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor worldwide."We are honored to earn this prestigious award. Khadeeja Sana, Director, PR & Marketing at Villa Resorts, Maldives, said: "It is a testimonial to our commitment to quality in hospitality and our ambition to offer unique experiences for our guests.John Boris, Tripadvisor's Chief Growth Officer, congratulated the 2023 Travelers' Choice Award winners. "The competition has been further heightened by the travel resurgence we've witnessed over the past year. Receiving a Travelers' Choice Award proves that you have given the people who matter most—your guests—great experiences. This is no simple task, and the hotel industry's resiliency and capacity for adaptation continue to astound me. This is despite the fact that there are shifting expectations, persistent labor shortages, and rising expenses. Cheers to another successful year!"
Editorial
South Asian Travel Awards Kicks Off Jury Evaluation Session in the Maldives
The highly anticipated jury review session has begun, according to the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA), a distinguished platform honoring excellence in the travel and hospitality industries. In the Maldives, where nominated properties from this alluring archipelago will be thoroughly evaluated over the coming days, the evaluation process has begun.The jury, made up of renowned industry leaders and travel and hospitality specialists, will be important in determining which businesses are the best in South Asia. They bring a plethora of knowledge and experience to the table, guaranteeing a thorough and unbiased appraisal process. The following individuals made up this year's SATA evaluation session jury:Mr. Abdula Latheef is a well-known figure in the travel sector who is renowned for his extraordinary knowledge and insight. Dr. Mahamood Shougee is a well-known expert in the hospitality industry who has made a substantial contribution to its expansion and improvement.Dr. Sachin Bansal is a well-known authority in the travel and tourism sector who has a thorough awareness of consumer preferences and market trends.Ms. Mariyam Noordeen is a well-known figure in the hospitality sector who is renowned for her commitment to the culinary arts.Sangeeta Rana is a successful travel industry expert who has received recognition for her outstanding leadership and services to the field.Mr. Tek Mahat is a pioneer in the travel and hospitality industries who is renowned for his creative thinking and dedication to quality.The SATA jury's extended tour of South Asia begins with the Maldives evaluation session. The panel will visit Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh after evaluating properties in the Maldives in order to perform in-depth evaluations of nominated properties in each nation.The SATA appraisal session is an essential step in acknowledging and celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of the travel and hospitality sector in South Asia. The jury seeks to find exceptional institutions that have gone above and beyond in delivering extraordinary services, experiences, and guest satisfaction by evaluating nominated properties against strict criteria.The appraisal session was met with enthusiasm by Mr. Suraj Khan, VP of SATA, who said, "We are happy to have such distinguished people on our juror panel this year. The top properties in South Asia will be identified through a thorough review procedure that is ensured by their experience and industry understanding. We can't wait to see the selected establishments' excellent standards and innovative practices.The South Asian Travel Awards are about to go on an exciting journey after the jury review process. Industry experts, tourists, and other stakeholders eagerly await the announcement of the winners, who will be honored for their exceptional contributions to the travel and hospitality industry, as the review process progresses.
Editorial
Introducing Joali Being's Unprecedented Collaboration with World-Renowned Wellbeing Experts
The first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives, JOALI BEING, has unveiled its guest programming on the idyllic isle of Bodufushi in Raa atoll. The programming will center on immersive wellbeing experiences curated by 'Master Practitioners' who will provide guests with unmatched expertise and results-driven transformative wellbeing menus that will inspire, uplift, and renew. The program, which runs from June to early December 2024, offers a mix of therapeutic modalities, including alternative therapies like Holographic Memory Resolution and heart-centered wellbeing methodology.Experts will collaborate with JOALI BEING's long-standing network of professionals within its distinctive transformative spaces, including hydrotherapy, movement, and sound healing treatments, to nourish visitors and offer them a new sense of "weightlessness," redefining what wellness getaways mean.The program seeks to combine ancient Eastern and Western modern concepts by inviting pioneers in alternative wellbeing techniques to the location. This is consistent with JOALI BEING's basic methodology.
Editorial
Shangri-La Circle Members Day at JEN Maldives Malé: Unveiling Estrella Galicia 0.0
Everyone is invited to stop by JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La on June 6 to attend the Estrella Galicia 0.0 launching ceremony on Shangri-La Circle members day. The event will run from 16:00 to 19:00 at JENS Kitchen On-the-Go, and guests may enjoy complimentary Estrella Galicia drink samples as well as some delicious nibbles.The Spanish brewing firm Hijos de Rivera, with its headquarters in Galicia, Spain, makes the non-alcoholic beer Estrella Galicia 0.0. The distinctive flavors and smells of Estrella Galicia are retained in this alcohol-free beer, making it a tasty and reviving beverage. Its balanced flavor, minimal bitterness, and crisp finish make it a favorite among those looking for an alcohol-free option.Visitors should take advantage of this chance to join the Shangri-La Circle to receive special privileges at Shangri-La hotels and resorts across the world. While staying and dining with Shangri-La, members can take advantage of exclusive prices, improved privileges, and a more streamlined approach for earning and redeeming Shangri-La circle points.After the launching event on June 6, 2023, Estrella Galicia 0.0 will be sold at Azur Restaurant, Lime Restaurant, and JENS Kitchen On-the-Go at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La.
Editorial
SundownFestMV 2023: Harmonizing Worldwide and Homegrown Artists for the Ultimate Musical Extravaganza
The much awaited Sundownfestmv 2023 will take place on June 8, 2023, at the breathtaking Kuda Giri in the Maldives, as announced by Sundownfestmv. Walshy Fire from Major Lazer and the explosive duo Make You Freak head an outstanding lineup of talented international and local DJs at this year's festival.Outstanding performances and wonderful moments have continuously been presented at Sundownfestmv. Walshy Fire, a legendary Major Lazer member renowned for his contagious enthusiasm and powerful stage presence, is the featured performer this year. Make You Freak, a remarkable pair known for its inventive and energizing performances, will be joining Walshy Fire on the international schedule.A lineup of outstanding local DJs who are creating waves in the Maldivian music scene is proudly presented by the festival. DJs Umar, DJG, DJelfie, and Menimal's Sundown Evening Set will demonstrate their extraordinary abilities and enthrall the audience with a variety of musical genres.There will be a captivating combination of musical styles for attendees to enjoy, including reggae tunes and explosive electronic sounds.Sundownfestmv is excited to provide all-inclusive lodging options at Centara Ras Fushi in addition to the electrifying performances. With breath-taking views, immaculate beaches, and top-notch amenities, Centara Ras Fushi offers a luxury and soothing hideaway. The Beach Villa starts at $200 per night, and the Deluxe Overwater Villa is $300 per night, both of which include taxes and breakfast. For your convenience, a shuttle ferry service will be set up between Kuda Giri and Centara, guaranteeing a smooth transition from the festival to your lodging."At Sundownfestmv 2023, we are beyond thrilled to present Walshy Fire from Major Lazer, Make You Freak, and our great local DJs. a venue where fans can see well-known DJs perform in the Maldives and, hopefully, be inspired to become DJs themselves," says Umar Ziyad, the festival's organizer from Uber Events & Artists. "Our dedication to showcasing a variety of musical talent and giving our attendees an unforgettable experience is reflected in this year's roster. As these wonderful musicians take the stage, we can't wait to see the magic that happens.
Editorial
Oman Air Introduces Exclusive Flights to Maldives Commencing June 24th
The national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, Oman Air, has released its eagerly awaited summer schedule for 2023, beginning on June 24 with four weekly flights to the Maldives.Oman Air (WY), which was founded in 1993, began by specializing on internal travel, but after experiencing quick growth, it is now recognized as a significant international airline. Oman Air, renowned for its dedication to displaying Oman's breathtaking natural surroundings, enthralling culture, and gracious hospitality, expertly connects cities all over the world to this wonderful location.The airline has received numerous honors from the industry, including two consecutive Five-Star Major Airline Ratings (2021 and 2022) from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and a coveted Five-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating from Skytrax.