Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection has announced the launch of its Coral Propagation Programme, a new reef enhancement initiative guided by the brand’s purpose-led pillar, Means for Good.

Set within the tranquil waters of Noonu Atoll, Noku Maldives is home to a naturally vibrant marine environment — and this programme reflects the resort’s long-term commitment to nurturing it with care, intention, and respect for the ocean that surrounds the island.

Supporting Natural Growth, One Fragment at a Time

At the heart of the initiative is a gentle and nature-led method using “fragments of opportunity” — naturally broken coral fragments that are collected and carefully secured onto coral frames to encourage healthy regrowth. These fragments are stabilised in an environment that supports their development, allowing new coral to establish and flourish over time.

Designed with both short-term progress and lasting impact in mind, the Coral Propagation Programme will monitor key indicators of success within its first year, including stronger, healthier coral growth and increased fish activity around the coral frames — a positive sign that biodiversity is thriving and marine life is naturally gathering around these new habitats.

Over time, the initiative aims to support the natural expansion of reef habitats by creating structured micro-environments that encourage marine life and contribute to the long-term resilience of the surrounding reef ecosystem.

A Wider Commitment to Ocean Stewardship

The Coral Propagation Programme forms part of Noku Maldives’ broader conservation focus — including the protection of one of the island’s most distinctive natural features: its lush and thriving seagrass meadows.

Unlike many destinations where seagrass is removed or covered, Noku Maldives has chosen to protect and celebrate this important ecosystem. As part of its participation in the Maldives Resilient Reef Industry Circle, the resort has pledged to safeguard at least 80% of its seagrass area, recognising its vital role in supporting marine biodiversity and strengthening environmental resilience.

Seagrass meadows are essential to the lagoon’s natural balance. They provide a nursery habitat for juvenile fish species, help stabilise sediment and reduce beach erosion, and are widely recognised as powerful natural carbon sinks — absorbing CO₂ up to 35 times faster than rainforests. Seagrass also plays a key role in supporting green sea turtles, who rely on it as a primary food source and can graze up to 2 kilograms per day.

Noku Maldives will continue ongoing seagrass monitoring through regular assessments of species composition, blade height, algae content, and ecosystem health markers measured across set quadrats. Of the eight seagrass species found in the Maldives, four have already been identified within the resort’s lagoon — a promising indicator of biodiversity and habitat richness.

A Stay That Leaves Something Behind

Through Means for Good, Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection invites guests to connect with the destination in a way that feels meaningful — where luxury is not only experienced, but thoughtfully shared with the place that makes it possible.

The Coral Propagation Programme is a step forward in ensuring that the island’s reefs, lagoon life, and underwater landscapes remain protected for generations to come — a living symbol of what happens when nature is given the space, care, and time to return.

For more information and reservations, please visit the hotel website or email us at [email protected].

This Holi, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands welcomes iconic Indian restaurant Khyber for a three-night takeover that brings the spirit of the festival to life through shared tables, bold flavours and joyful connection.

Rooted in craft and culture, the collaboration brings together two brands that value authenticity, thoughtful hospitality and meaningful experiences. Khyber’s time-honoured recipes from India’s North-West Frontier meet Patina’s design-led, modern sensibility, creating a dining moment that feels both grounded and forward-looking.

More than a pop-up, the takeover is a celebration of heritage meeting place. Set against the Indian Ocean, guests are invited to gather, connect and mark Holi in a way that feels communal and elevated.

A name that for over five decades has embodied heritage and excellence, Khyber has become a cultural landmark, welcoming global travellers, dignitaries and tastemakers from around the world, including Shakira, Brad Pitt and, most recently, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

“This association with Patina Maldives is a celebration of elevated hospitality,” said Sudheer Bahl and Ishaan Bahl, Founders of Khyber. “Both brands share a commitment to authenticity, excellence and crafting memorable experiences that go beyond expectations. With Khyber’s enduring legacy rooted in Indian heritage and culture, we are honoured to bring this rich narrative to one of the world’s most acclaimed resorts.”

Adding to the celebration, Tom Bray, Director of Lifestyle at Patina Maldives, shared, “This is about bringing people together through flavour, colour and easy island energy.”

Taking place from 3 to 5 March the experience features a festive menu designed to be shared and savoured, capturing the warmth and generosity of Holi.

To book email [email protected], tel. +960 4000555, or visit the resort’s website. 

At a time when the global tourism industry is being called upon to take greater responsibility for its environmental and social footprint, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is reinforcing a clear message: meaningful sustainability progress is not possible in isolation. Collaboration, transparency and partnerships are essential to achieving long-term impact.

In 2025, the resort placed sustainability and regeneration firmly at the centre of its operations, taking the decisive step to be independently audited as part of the process to achieve Green Globe certification. According to General Manager Mark Eletr, the process underscored the importance of working alongside like-minded partners to tackle some of the Maldives’ most complex sustainability challenges – particularly waste management.

“Waste is one of the most difficult aspects of sustainability for any island resort, but it is also a destination-wide challenge,” said Eletr. “As an archipelago, the Maldives faces unique constraints, and no single resort can solve these issues alone. Collective effort and shared responsibility are critical.”

Eletr emphasises that guest education is a critical first step in effective waste management and resource conservation, alongside working closely with procurement partners to reduce packaging and replace materials such as polystyrene and single-use plastics with more sustainable alternatives.

“It’s an uncomfortable reality we face, but education is fundamental to addressing these challenges,” he said.

“Many visitors don’t always realise that the Maldives is an island nation where each resort operates like a self-contained village, responsible for everything from wastewater treatment and drinking-water production to the management of all waste streams. There are no quick fixes – only sustained action, cooperation, and a collective willingness to rethink how we operate.”

He cites a simple but powerful example: “In many of our guests’ home countries, waste systems are highly advanced, with compulsory recycling, careful sorting, and specialised collection for hazardous items such as batteries. Here in the Maldives, we do not yet have safe, large-scale facilities to process certain materials. That is why we ask guests to take used batteries home with them, where they can be disposed of responsibly through established recycling systems.”

Rather than viewing these challenges as insurmountable, Kandooma has embraced collaboration as a catalyst for progress. While the resort acknowledges it is still early in its journey, Eletr believes sharing both successes and lessons learned is vital.

“For us at Kandooma, building partnerships has been transformative. Even small wins matter if they encourage others to take their first steps, adapt our ideas, or find solutions that work for them,” he said. “Opening ourselves up to scrutiny and criticism is part of that process. If we keep our efforts behind closed doors, we miss the opportunity to inspire change or discover better solutions together.”

During the Green Globe audit, Kandooma’s partnerships were closely examined, highlighting the role collaboration plays in strengthening sustainability outcomes.

In 2024, the resort partnered with Parley for the Oceans, supporting the Maldives tourism industry’s commitment to Parley’s AIR strategy – Avoid, Intercept, Redesign. Through this ongoing partnership, Kandooma actively intercepts plastic waste, participates in clean-ups on uninhabited islands, and continues to reduce single-use plastics across its operations, something that IHG Hotels & Resorts embraces globally as part of its Journey to Tomorrow.

In 2025, the resort established a partnership with Secure Bag, a company that purchases waste materials and transforms them into new, usable products. Guided by the belief that every resource deserves a second life, this collaboration supports a circular economy approach, reducing landfill impact while giving materials renewed purpose and value.

As a four-star resort, Kandooma recognises it does not have the same resources as ultra-luxury properties. Instead, it has embraced creativity and collaboration to support causes aligned with its values. One such partnership is with the Manta Trust, an organisation dedicated to the conservation of manta rays and their habitats.

Unable to fund a full-time, tertiary-qualified marine biologist on-site, the resort developed an alternative approach that engages guests directly. Kandooma introduced a collection of silver and gold manta ray pendants, with US$5 from every piece sold, donated to the Manta Trust.

“It’s a modest contribution, but it’s realistic, sustainable for our business, and it sparks conversations with our guests,” Eletr explained. “It brings people into the story of what we’re trying to protect and why it matters.”

Beyond this donation based effort, the resort also hosts the annual “Manta Month” each September to draw more attention to the graceful creatures which can be observed in their natural environment in the waters surrounding Kandooma.

As part of its commitment to openness, Kandooma has developed a publicly available Sustainability Guide, outlining key initiatives, partnerships and actions across environmental, social and governance areas. The guide known as the Green Book is accessible online and designed to inform guests, partners and industry peers alike.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is proud to be Green Globe certified, joining a global community of tourism businesses meeting one of the industry’s most respected sustainability standards. Green Globe certification requires verified compliance with more than 40 rigorous criteria covering environmental stewardship, social responsibility, cultural heritage and sustainable management, with a strong emphasis on transparency, continuous improvement and measurable outcomes.

Looking ahead, Kandooma remains committed to strengthening partnerships, engaging guests in responsible travel choices, and contributing positively to the protection of the Maldives’ unique natural and cultural heritage.

For more information, visit the resort’s website. 

Known for its turquoise lagoons and impossibly soft white sands, the Maldives continues to rank high on the bucket lists of travellers in search of an ideal island escape. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites travellers to plan their next escape through its exclusive ‘Endless Summer’ offer, designed for those seeking perpetual sunshine, effortless island living, and holistic wellness.

For a limited time, guests can escape to this year-round summer paradise and recharge in the resort’s wellness sanctuary with a comprehensive package that transforms an ordinary vacation into an extraordinary wellness journey. This exclusive offer is valid for two guests and available to book from now until February 28, 2026, with a minimum four-night stay, for stays through December 20, 2026.

The Endless Summer offer features a Full Board meal plan that ensures guests are nourished throughout their stay, with daily breakfast at Island Kitchen and their choice of lunch and dinner at either Island Kitchen or Hawker. The culinary experience is further elevated with a one-time dinner at The Pearl, the resort’s signature Japanese restaurant, where guests can savour expertly crafted dishes while taking in breathtaking ocean views.

Families are especially welcome with this offer, as children under 12 eat free, making it an ideal choice for memorable multi-generational getaways. Each stay also includes USD 150 in resort credit, allowing guests to personalise their experience with spa treatments, excursions, or special dining.

The wellness-focused package invites guests to embrace the resort’s complimentary recharging activities, including rejuvenating Yoga sessions, invigorating scenic running routes, and fun-filled water volleyball. Young travellers can enjoy enriching experiences at the Westin Family Kids Club, while fitness enthusiasts have 24/7 access to the state-of-the-art WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, ensuring wellness routines remain uninterrupted.

For those drawn to the Maldives’ legendary marine life, the package includes complimentary snorkelling equipment and one-hour kayaking sessions, perfect for exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of Baa Atoll. Guests can also enjoy the multipurpose court, offering additional opportunities for active recreation during their stay.

Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort presents a holistic wellness retreat inspired by nature and designed for shared moments of restoration. Contemporary overwater and beach villas provide generous space for couples and families, while nearby Hanifaru Bay draws marine enthusiasts each year with its seasonal gatherings of manta rays. Those seeking cultural immersion can join the resort’s weekly Liye Laajehun workshops, discovering traditional Maldivian craftsmanship as part of Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy.

Whether planning a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a restorative solo retreat, the Endless Summer offer delivers an unforgettable island experience in one of the Maldives’ most pristine locations. Begin your journey at westin-maldives.com.

Fushifaru Maldives has announced a special programme to mark Chinese New Year 2026, with a series of festive activities and dining experiences scheduled from February 15 to 17.

The resort said the celebrations are designed to offer guests a relaxed island escape focused on togetherness, wellness and shared dining. Throughout the three-day period, guests will be able to enjoy a daily Chinese Tea Corner at Fanihandhi Bar, providing a dedicated space to gather and unwind during the festivities. Selected spa treatments will also be offered with special savings during the celebration period.

The main event is planned for Lunar New Year’s Eve, when the resort will host a family BBQ dinner at Raakani Restaurant. The evening will conclude with a fire show, intended to mark the arrival of the Year of the Horse and symbolise renewal and prosperity.

In addition to the scheduled events, Fushifaru Maldives will make its signature dining experiences available throughout the holiday period. Options include private beach dinners, in-villa dining, sandbank picnics and sandbank hut experiences, offering guests a range of settings for family gatherings and couples.

The celebrations will conclude on Lunar New Year Day with family-oriented activities, including a Red Packet Hunt, followed by a Lunar New Year Hot Pot Night at Raakani Restaurant.

Fushifaru Maldives said the programme has been designed to suit both family holidays and romantic escapes, combining dining, leisure and island experiences in a festive setting. Further details on the full programme and offerings are available through the resort’s Chinese New Year brochure and online gallery.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has unveiled an intimate celebration of love through an exclusive collaboration with IVAR Jewellery, bringing together craftsmanship, emotion, and timeless romance in a refined island setting. Rooted in shared values of artistry and enduring beauty, the partnership invites guests to experience love as something continuous, evolving, and deeply personal.

Central to the collaboration is IVAR’s Infinity Collection, inspired by the circle as a symbol with no beginning and no end. Each piece reflects a quiet and enduring expression of love, designed to preserve fleeting moments in lasting form. The collection speaks to intimacy, connection, and the promise of forever, offering jewellery that is both meaningful and timeless.

IVAR’s creations draw on the rich traditions of Indian craftsmanship, reinterpreted through a contemporary design approach. Crafted by skilled artisans using time-honoured techniques, each piece balances heritage with modern elegance. Designed for daily wear and long-term appreciation, the jewellery is intended to accompany life’s most significant milestones and be treasured across generations.

Inspired by this philosophy, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has curated a series of romantic experiences that reflect the elegance and symbolism of the Infinity Collection. At Iridium Spa, couples are invited to enjoy a Romantic Spa Escape, an immersive sensory journey infused with rose geranium and rose quartz. Each treatment is designed to restore balance, deepen connection, and create moments of calm intimacy that extend beyond the spa.

As evening approaches, romance continues with Valentine’s dining experiences set beneath open skies and framed by the island’s natural beauty. Soft lighting, refined menus, and an unhurried atmosphere encourage couples to linger, connect, and celebrate togetherness. Every detail is composed to honour shared moments and the quiet luxury of presence.

For couples preparing to begin their next chapter, IVAR’s Solitaire Collection offers a classic expression of commitment. Defined by diamonds of exceptional brilliance and clarity, each piece reflects the purity of the promise it represents. Set within the surroundings of The St. Regis Maldives, weddings become personal celebrations where elegance, emotion, and artistry come together.

Through this collaboration, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and IVAR Jewellery invite guests to experience a love that is both effortless and profound, fleeting yet enduring, creating memories inspired by the infinite symbol that lies at the heart of the partnership.

At The Nautilus Maldives, time is guided by personal rhythm and creativity is free from constraint. From 3 to 5 April 2026, the ultra-luxury private island resort will welcome Gregor Zimmermann, Switzerland’s State Chef and Executive Chef of the Bellevue Palace in Bern, for an intimate Easter culinary residency that brings Alpine heritage to the shores of the Indian Ocean.

During the three-day residency, guests will be invited to take part in a series of unhurried and immersive dining experiences. Two exclusive gourmet evenings at Zeytoun will feature tasting menus that create a refined dialogue between the flavours of the Swiss Alps and Maldivian produce. The programme also includes a Chocolate Masterclass, offering an interactive introduction to Switzerland’s celebrated chocolate-making traditions, where Zimmermann will share techniques, cultural heritage and the artistry behind the craft, allowing guests to create and enjoy their own confections.

The residency will extend into the island’s Easter celebrations, with Zimmermann’s creations appearing as special canapés during Nautilus Rising at the Naiboli Beach pop-up. These moments will serve as a prelude to the festive programme, blending culinary artistry with the relaxed rhythm of island life.

A member of the prestigious Le Club des Chefs des Chefs, the international association of chefs serving heads of state, Zimmermann is the trusted culinary custodian for visiting presidents, royalty and official delegations in Switzerland. His career includes cooking for figures such as President Emmanuel Macron and members of European royal families. In recognition of his contribution to gastronomy and his commitment to excellence, he was awarded the Officier du Mérite Agricole by the French President.

Zimmermann’s cuisine is defined by clarity, restraint and emotion. Rather than adhering to a fixed signature style, his cooking reflects stories of origin, landscape and memory, weaving Swiss Alpine traditions with global influences in a technically precise yet expressive approach. He has described his work as a continuous reinterpretation of rustic Swiss recipes, while remaining faithful to their roots.

Adan Gomez, General Manager of The Nautilus Maldives, said that Zimmermann’s residency reflects the resort’s commitment to artistic freedom and authenticity. He noted that the Masters for Masters series invites respected global talents to create without boundaries in an environment shaped by individuality and unhurried living.

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Easter residency at The Nautilus will bring together Swiss craftsmanship and Maldivian serenity in a celebration of purity, artistry and cultural exchange. The programme is designed to offer guests moments shaped by mastery, experienced entirely on their own terms.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has unveiled the first phase of its resort-wide design transformation, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the property under Sun Siyam’s newly launched Luxury Collection. The five-star resort introduces a reimagined portfolio of overwater accommodation, setting a new design direction rooted in refined island luxury and Maldivian craftsmanship.

Reimagined Water Villas & Horizon Water Villas with Private Pool

The newly reimagined over water villas are the first chapter of this design transformation. Sublime in form and feeling, they introduce a contemporary expression of rustic Maldivian luxury. Each villa frames the ocean, offering a serene open-plan layout and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub overlooking the lagoon. Private decks feature multiple lounging zones, suspended hammocks, and intimate corners in soft green tones, creating a sense of refined, lived-in luxury.

All Horizon Water Villas now feature a 22 sqm private pool and sunken seating, transforming the space into a sanctuary for sunrise rituals, slow afternoons, and cinematic sunsets. For couples and honeymooners, bespoke moments ensure every stay feels beautifully tailored.

The overwater portfolio features 40 Water Villas with Pool (123 sqm), 16 Horizon Water Villas with Pool (128 sqm), and 19 Sunset Horizon Water Villas with Pool (128 sqm), each offering a seamless blend of comfort and privacy.

Design Excellence Guided by Vision

Driven by the group’s commitment to positioning Sun Siyam Iru Fushi among the Maldives’ leading luxury resorts, Sun Siyam appointed international interior design consultants Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero—Founders and Creative Directors of the London-based Studio Sixty7—to lead the transformation. Their approach introduces a characterful aesthetic with muted tones, natural textures, and softly sculpted forms that evoke effortless barefoot luxury. Gently imperfect plastered walls, tactile finishes, and layers of breathable linen create a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere.

“Every element has been chosen to feel grounded and sensorial, inviting guests into a deep sense of calm,” said Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero.

“This transformation goes beyond aesthetics—it’s a careful orchestration of space, service excellence, and emotional detail,” highlighted Abdulla Atham, the hotel’s Resort Manager. “From villa layouts and in-villa experiences to the minibar selection, outdoor offerings, views, and quiet gestures from your butler, each moment is designed to immerse guests into the spirit of chic island living”.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi continues its transformation into a destination defined by understated luxury and island authenticity.

Book your stay now on Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s website and indulge in Premium Island Indulgence with Signature Moments.

The whispers of innovation are sweetening the Maldivian air once more as THE OZEN COLLECTION heralds the celebrated return of culinary visionary, Janice Wong. This April, the pristine shores of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will again become a canvas for her genius, hosting the exclusive ‘Chocolate Art & Serenity’ pop-up from the 27th to the 29th. Here, against the iconic overwater backdrop of the resort’s world-class outlets, CUVÉE, ORIGINꓱ and Vista del Mar, indulgence is redefined transformed into an immersive journey of edible artistry and sublime flavour.

The ‘Chocolate Art & Serenity’ pop-up will present a meticulously curated series of exclusive engagements. From intimate masterclasses for adults, where the alchemy of chocolate is unveiled, to engaging guided cooking activities for children, and a bespoke Cacao Bonfire Meditation Ceremony with Chef Janice Wong combining a guided sound healing session and an intention-setting ritual with a cacao-infused culmination, the programme is designed to enchant every guest.

Leading the series is Chef Janice Wong, a visionary often hailed as Asia’s “Queen of Desserts.” Over a celebrated 18-year career, Chef Janice has revolutionised the world of patisserie, transforming desserts into multi-sensory works of art. Her eponymous restaurant, 2am:dessertbar, became a global phenomenon, earning her two consecutive spots on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list and establishing her as a formidable force in the industry.

“My passion for culinary art has always been driven by a desire to test the limits of dessert making,” said Chef Janice Wong. “At OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, chocolate becomes more than a confection, it is a medium where art meets design and mindfulness. Each creation is thoughtfully composed to encourage presence and curiosity, inviting guests to engage their senses and experience dessert as a moment of balance, creativity and wellbeing within this tranquil island environment.”

The event also underscores Atmosphere Core’s continued dedication to curating world-class gastronomic experiences. Anupam Banerjee, Vice President of Food & Beverage for Atmosphere Core, remarked, “Hosting a culinary artist of Janice’s calibre once again is a testament to our ongoing mission to deliver unparalleled, memorable moments to our guests. This collaboration reflects our company vision that true gastronomy transcends indulgence – it becomes a ritual of wellness, weaving artistry and nourishment into every experience. Her innovative approach aligns perfectly with our vision for OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI as an invitation to savour health, joy and artistry in every bite.”

This highly anticipated 2026 series builds upon the resort’s distinguished legacy, a narrative woven from pioneering gastronomy, the restorative wellness of ELE|NA Elements of Nature and deeply engaging guest experiences. Since its inception, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI has masterfully curated moments where artistic expression and world-class hospitality converge, establishing an unwavering precedent for excellence that defines the very ethos of THE OZEN COLLECTION.

Love doesn’t arrive loudly at SO/ Maldives, it drifts in with the tide, glows at sunset, and lingers long after the last note of music fades. This Valentine’s Day, the island invites couples to slow down, lean in, and write their own love story in paradise with Rosé All the Way, an intimate beachfront celebration at Lazuli Beach on 14 February 2026.

As the sky blushes pink and the lagoon mirrors the stars, Lazuli Beach transforms into a romantic sanctuary. Soft candlelight flickers, a soulful live band sets the rhythm of the evening, and the gentle sound of waves becomes part of the melody. Here, time feels suspended just two hearts, one island, and a moment that belongs only to you.

Couples are treated to a thoughtfully curated four-course dining experience, paired with a bottle of rosé champagne, designed to be savoured slowly, sip by sip, course by course. Every detail is intentional, every moment effortless romance without rules, elegance without pretense.

Celebrate love starting on The Citronee Club Beach with Rosé All the Way, an exclusive Valentine’s Day dining experience:

• USD 380++ per couple for Bed & Breakfast guests
• USD 240++ per couple for Half Board, Full Board and All Inclusive guests

Valentine’s Day is not confined to a single setting it’s a feeling that can unfold anywhere. From quiet moments on your private villa deck to laughter by the pool or barefoot walks along the shore, the island becomes a canvas for love, painted in your own style.

And for those who dream beyond the expected, romance takes on new dimensions. Drift across the lagoon aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni, or descend beneath the surface for an underwater celebration, where silence speaks louder than words and love knows no boundaries.

This Valentine’s Day, forget the clichés. Follow the feeling. Paint your story in paradise Rosé All the Way, only at SO/ Maldives.

For more information or to book your perfect festive getaway, please visit so-maldives.com or contact [email protected].

Maldives has once again cemented its status as a premier global destination, securing a prestigious spot in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best awards for 2026.

This elite accolade is reserved for the top 1% of TripAdvisor’s 8 million listings, representing the pinnacle of travel excellence. The rankings are determined by the quality and volume of traveler reviews over a 12-month period, highlighting destinations that consistently deliver “above-and-beyond” experiences.

In this year’s global rankings, the Maldives outperformed several major international tourism hubs. The island nation earned a higher placement than Seoul, South Korea, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Budapest, Hungary.

In addition to its overall destination ranking, the Maldives was named the 3rd Best Honeymoon Destination globally. This recognition highlights the Maldives’ continued status as a leading destination for luxury and romance based on verified traveler feedback.

TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best awards follows a landmark year of international recognition. In 2025, Maldives secured the World Travel Awards’ World’s Leading Destination title for the sixth consecutive year, setting a new global record and underscoring its sustained leadership in global tourism. This unprecedented streak further reinforced the Maldives’ standing as a benchmark for excellence across the international travel industry.

In addition to its success at the World Travel Awards, the Maldives and its resort portfolio received multiple accolades from the likes of Condé Nast Traveler, alongside prestigious MICHELIN Key recognitions, marking another milestone in the destination’s luxury and experiential travel credentials.

Kandolhu Maldives has announced its next culinary collaboration with Lima-born chef Claudia Canessa, with a special residency scheduled from 30 April to 4 May 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to experience the flavours of Peru through a series of dining events curated by one of the country’s most recognised contemporary culinary figures.

Chef Canessa brings extensive experience and a distinctive culinary perspective to Kandolhu Island. She is best known for her work at Amaru in St. Moritz, a bespoke restaurant created specifically for her and designed by Luke Edward Hall, where she presents Peruvian cuisine shaped by Swiss restraint. Her cooking style is rooted in the traditions of Peru while incorporating refined techniques, earning international recognition for the balance and precision of her ceviche dishes.

Her cuisine reflects influences from South America, Japan and Mexico. Having lived in Switzerland for many years, Chef Canessa credits her adopted country with shaping her approach to harmony in cooking. She describes the evolution of her style as a journey towards symmetry, with Swiss culinary discipline refining her palate, particularly in the use of spices, allowing her to present bold flavours that remain measured and controlled.

Chef Canessa’s signature style is defined by layered aromatic flavours and careful use of spice. Her residency at Kandolhu will feature a selection of her most noted dishes, including Tuna Chicano with lemon zest and a salmon tiradito served with yuzu ponzu.

The collaboration is designed to offer guests a focused gastronomic experience, combining Chef Canessa’s culinary approach with the setting of Kandolhu Island.

The programme for the residency includes:

• Special Peruvian Lunch: Served daily at Ato Roa from Thursday, 30 April to Sunday, 3 May. Two seatings will be offered each day, with a maximum of seven guests per seating.
• Surprise Dinner Menu: The residency will conclude on Monday, 4 May, with a four-course surprise dinner menu at Olive Restaurant, limited to 14 guests.

The partnership is expected to enhance Kandolhu’s culinary offering, support its reputation for curated dining experiences, and introduce new creative influences to the resort’s culinary team.

Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has been named Resort of the Year 2025 by Target Taste China, one of China’s most influential platforms recognising excellence in hospitality, dining and experiential luxury.

The award places Grand Park Kodhipparu among a select group of internationally respected luxury resorts, acknowledged for their commitment to taste, craftsmanship and holistic guest experience. Winners were chosen by Target Taste’s editorial and expert panel, which is known for its rigorous evaluation process and strong influence among China’s high-end travel and lifestyle audiences.

Commenting on the recognition, Raffaele Solferino, General Manager of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, said the award was a meaningful endorsement of the resort’s team and its long-term vision. He noted that as the resort marks its ninth year of operations, being named Resort of the Year reflects the passion, creativity and dedication of its staff, as well as its continued commitment to delivering experiences that resonate with discerning travellers.

Located on a private island accessible by speedboat from Malé International Airport, Grand Park Kodhipparu has gained recognition for its contemporary interpretation of Maldivian luxury, combining modern design, attentive service and a strong culinary identity. A central feature of the guest experience is the resort’s destination dining portfolio, which has become one of its defining attributes.

Target Taste China is widely regarded as an authority on luxury taste and lifestyle, with a strong following among affluent Chinese travellers and industry professionals. Its annual awards recognise excellence across hotels, resorts, dining concepts and destinations worldwide.

Resort Executive Chef Raymond Tan said dining at the resort is intended to be immersive and sensory. He explained that the Firedoor signature dining experience is built around open-flame cooking, elemental techniques and the integrity of premium ingredients, allowing natural flavours to take prominence. He added that this is complemented by the Maldives’ only glass-floor overwater dining venue, where guests are connected to the ocean beneath them as much as to the cuisine itself.

The accolade further strengthens Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives’ position as a leading luxury resort in the Indian Ocean and reinforces its appeal within the Chinese market and internationally.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is hosting an exclusive Mastroberardino Wine Dinner on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, inviting wine enthusiasts and culinary travellers to an evening of fine wine and gastronomy at The Shack, the resort’s secluded sandbank venue.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the intimate dinner celebrates Mastroberardino, one of Italy’s longest-established winemaking families, known for championing Campania’s native grape varieties since the mid-18th century. Led by Piero Mastroberardino, a tenth-generation winemaker and an internationally recognised figure in Italian viticulture, the estate is widely regarded for preserving and promoting historic varietals such as Greco, Fiano and Aglianico, including the Taurasi DOCG.

Guests will take part in a curated dining experience featuring a bespoke multi-course menu created by Executive Chef Frank and paired with a selection of Mastroberardino wines. The menu begins with Greco di Tufo DOCG and Fiano di Avellino DOCG, continues with Lacrimarosa Rosato, and concludes with Radici Taurasi DOCG, followed by a dessert course paired with Melizie Fiano Passito.

Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, said the resort aims to create dining experiences that go beyond conventional formats, where heritage, storytelling and setting come together in a meaningful way. He noted that hosting the Mastroberardino Wine Dinner on a private sandbank provides an opportunity to present one of Italy’s historic winemaking traditions while offering guests an intimate evening within the natural setting of the Maldives.

In addition to its heritage, Mastroberardino is recognised for its sustainability practices, including responsible vineyard management, biodiversity conservation and energy efficiency. These values align closely with Alila Kothaifaru Maldives’ own approach to mindful luxury and environmental stewardship.

Siyam World Maldives created the setting for two memorable football experiences during the festive season, as Fernando Torres and Mark Noble led a series of camps that transformed the holidays into shared moments of play, discovery and connection. With phones set aside and screens forgotten, more than fifty young players became fully absorbed in movement, laughter and island life.

Over two days, former World Cup winner Fernando Torres hosted an exclusive children’s football camp for resort guests, welcoming more than fifty players aged between four and fourteen. Mornings that began by the lagoon gradually shifted to the football pitch, as relaxed holiday routines evolved into informal training sessions filled with energy and enjoyment.

Torres, widely known as El Niño, brought the same enthusiasm that defined his career with Spain and Chelsea, tempered with humour and an easygoing approach suited to the island setting. He played alongside the children, encouraged the youngest participants and offered guidance without interrupting the sense of fun. One moment captured the tone of the camp when a four-year-old attempted to nutmeg him. The attempt failed, but the laughter that followed set the mood for the sessions that continued into the afternoon.

Torres remarked that children are less concerned with reputation than with the simple pleasure of playing the game, noting that this was when the experience felt most genuine. Parents observed from the sidelines as the sessions unfolded, gradually realising that the camp had become a highlight of their family holiday.

One guest, visiting from London, said the family had arrived for the sunshine and water park, and had not expected their eight-year-old to be playing football with a former World Cup winner. She added that her son had not removed his signed jersey since.

Earlier in December, Siyam World welcomed former West Ham United captain Mark Noble for a five-day football programme. Known for his long career and leadership at the club, Noble led daily sessions that focused on teamwork, simple technique and encouragement, exchanging formal settings for cones, drills and steady guidance.

By the end of the programme, the camp had taken on the character of an informal family memory rather than a structured course. For the children, it was several days of football. For parents, it became a defining moment of their stay, remembered through shared photographs, stories and moments that lingered beyond the holiday.

Together, the two camps reflected Siyam World Maldives’ growing emphasis on immersive, sport-led experiences, where internationally recognised athletes meet the informal rhythm of island life. The approach aims to create opportunities for families to connect through experiences that feel natural, joyful and quietly distinctive, adding another dimension to the resort’s family offering.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is hosting French chef Bruno Ménard for an exclusive Valentine’s Day gastronomic programme in February, bringing one of Asia’s most respected culinary figures to the resort for a limited series of dining experiences.

Chef Ménard is internationally recognised for holding three Michelin stars in Tokyo for five consecutive years and brings more than 35 years of culinary experience to the Maldives. Now based in Singapore, he is known for his refined French techniques, contemporary interpretations and precise attention to detail.

On 14 February 2026, Lily Beach will present a Valentine’s Day Signature Dinner curated by Chef Ménard at Les Turquoise D’Aqua, from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. The venue is a recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2024, reflecting the strength of its wine programme and bar offerings. The setting and beverage selection are designed to complement the multi-course menu prepared for the evening, with cocktails that balance classic styles with modern presentation.

In addition to the signature dinner, guests will have the opportunity to experience Chef Ménard’s cuisine during lunch at the beachfront AQVA Restaurant on 13 and 14 February 2026, where a selection of dishes created by the chef will be featured.

Chef Ménard’s visit forms part of Lily Beach’s ongoing focus on presenting internationally recognised culinary talent within its dining programme, reinforcing its position in delivering curated gastronomic experiences.

Lily Beach is known for its diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, offering a range of global cuisines, premium wines and crafted cocktails across beachfront and overwater venues. These experiences are integrated into the resort’s Platinum All-Inclusive concept, which includes gourmet dining, premium beverages, curated wine selections and selected signature experiences, allowing guests to enjoy a seamless luxury stay centred on dining and hospitality.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has unveiled its Masters of Crafts programme for 2026, presenting a year-long series of residencies and collaborations designed to celebrate artistry, innovation and cultural exchange. The programme brings together internationally recognised figures across culinary arts, mixology, wellness, sport, music and design, inviting guests to engage with craftsmanship at its highest level within one of the Maldives’ most distinctive island settings.

The 2026 calendar reflects the resort’s focus on transformative travel and experiential learning, uniting masters from diverse disciplines who share a commitment to excellence. Throughout the year, guests will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of experiences, from surf coaching with a world-class athlete and guided stargazing with an astronomer, to Michelin-starred dining, bar takeovers by leading mixologists, immersive wellness practices and encounters with contemporary artists. The programme is shaped by the resort’s Blue Prescription philosophy, which emphasises wellbeing, balance and the restorative power of the natural environment.

The year opens in January with the return of movement coach and founder of the Jacy Method, Jacy Cunningham, who will lead a four-day training series focused on resilience, strength and mindful movement. His sessions will take place across the resort’s gardens, beach and spa spaces, combining high-intensity training with breathwork and connection to the surrounding seascape. Later in January, singer-songwriter and producer Madison McFerrin will present a series of three performances, including a sunset gathering, a candlelit concert and a relaxed morning coffee session, offering guests an intimate introduction to her neo-soul, R&B and jazz-influenced sound.

In February, the culinary and beverage programme will be highlighted by chef Maurizio Bufi of the Michelin-starred Il Fagiano and head mixologist Rama Redzepi, who will host a series of dining and cocktail events at the resort’s Italian restaurant. Their collaboration will combine regional Italian cuisine with curated cocktail pairings, marking the opening of the Behind the Bar series for 2026.

March will see the arrival of award-winning floral designer Harijanto Setiwan, who will host workshops, a botanical afternoon tea and culinary experiences featuring edible flowers, alongside children’s workshops and in-villa floral installations using locally sourced and sustainable materials. In April, astronomer and author Tom Kerss will guide guests through a programme of stargazing experiences, introducing both adults and children to the constellations visible from the Maldives and the stories, science and mythology behind them. Later in the month, mindset mentor Harriet Mandak will lead a three-night retreat for couples, offering guided workshops and shared activities designed to support conscious partnerships.

In June, a trio of leading Asian bars from The World’s 50 Best Bars list will take part in a series of bar takeovers and workshops as part of the resort’s fifth anniversary celebrations, bringing together The St. Regis Bar Jakarta, Punch Room Tokyo and Bar Sathorn Bangkok. In July, big wave surfer Nic von Rupp will return to the resort during the Maldives’ peak surf season, offering coaching sessions for both adults and children around selected surf breaks in the atoll.

The autumn programme continues in October with chef Jean-Philippe Blondet of Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, who will present a series of fine dining events at the resort’s Beach Shack. In November, fermentation specialist Alexis Goertz will curate a five-day programme of workshops and tastings focused on gut health and probiotic cuisine during the Thanksgiving period. The year concludes in December with a mixology residency by Moebius, ranked among the world’s leading bars, followed by a mindfulness session led by author and wellbeing advocate Virginia Gambardella, integrating meditation, oceanfront reflection and alcohol-free mixology.

Through its 2026 Masters of Crafts programme, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands continues to position itself as a destination for immersive, high-level experiences that combine cultural exchange, wellbeing and creative expression within a refined island setting.

Sebastian Frank, acclaimed chef and owner of Berlin’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Restaurant Horváth, will be a guest chef at Nova Maldives from 10 to 15 May 2026, presenting an exceptional culinary residency. Originally from Austria, Frank has developed a distinctive culinary signature through his philosophy of “emancipated vegetable cuisine” — a radically personal approach that moves far beyond conventional fine dining.

For Nova, Sebastian Frank has created a series of new menus under the theme “Roots & Waves” — bold, uncompromising and defined by clarity. The menus express the essence of his cuisine: no artifice, no luxury for luxury’s sake. Instead, seemingly simple ingredients take centre stage, elevated through precise craftsmanship, creative techniques and the transformative power of time. The result is food with purpose, character and lasting impact.

At the heart of Chef Sebastian’s emancipated vegetable cuisine is an uncompromising focus on vegetables and fruit. During his residency at Nova, ingredients such as aubergine, spinach and pumpkin will play a central role, reflecting his commitment to regional and seasonal produce. By exploring their flavours in multiple dimensions, Chef Sebastian creates a completely new culinary experience. The predominantly vegetarian focus not only reflects his personal philosophy, but also aligns seamlessly with Nova’s sustainability-led concept.

During the residency, Chef Sebastian will host two exclusive gourmet dinners at Flames Restaurant on 10 and 15 May 2026. On 12 May 2026, guests will also have the opportunity to take part in a vegetable-focused cooking class at Soul Kitchen, where Chef Sebastian will present the signature recipe of his iconic dish “Celery – Mature and Young”. The celery component of this dish undergoes a unique maturation process lasting an entire year.

An optional, trend-setting non-alcoholic beverage pairing will be available alongside the menus, featuring tea infusions, house-made vegetable juices, premium oils and refined reductions. All menus are offered either fully vegetarian or, alternatively, with locally sourced fish or meat components.

Sebastian Frank describes his philosophy in his own words: “Restriction is focus, and vegetables are my strongest form of expression. I continually engage with my culinary roots, which enables me to create dishes that emotionally resonate with people. I am very much looking forward to introducing Nova’s guests to my emancipated vegetable cuisine — with refined dishes that unite Maldivian and regional ingredients.”

This approach fits seamlessly with the ethos of Nova Maldives, where enjoyment, sustainability and modern lifestyle converge to create an exceptional fine-dining experience in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Sebastian Frank, a true pioneer of vegetable-led cuisine, to Nova,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager of Nova Maldives. “We are excited to experience his creative dishes that combine Maldivian ingredients with regional produce. Maldivian cuisine lends itself surprisingly well to vegetarian and even vegan interpretations — traditional fish curry, for example, is now often prepared with sweet potato or jackfruit. Curries featuring pumpkin, aubergine, okra or chickpeas are also popular, alongside vegetarian snacks such as fried plantain or breadfruit. Our guests at Nova will be able to enjoy this diversity throughout the residency.”

For bookings and more information on the island resort, visit Nova’s website.

Anant Ambani, son of Indian businessman Mukesh Ambani, and his wife Radhika Merchant have arrived in the Maldives for a holiday.

Ambani’s Boeing 737 private jet landed in the Maldives on Saturday. Witnesses at the airport said the couple were accompanied by around 50 security personnel.

Anant and Radhika are currently staying at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s private island.

Two seaplanes are on standby at the resort, according to sources. The arrangements are in place to facilitate transport if required.

The Ambani family has previously spent holidays in the Maldives. Last year, other members of the family spent the Christmas and New Year period at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

In November 2024, Anant stayed at Soneva Secret and also visited the nearby island of HDh. Makunudhoo. During that visit, he purchased a chicken and a rabbit from the island, which were later taken to a zoo he operates in India.

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, set within one of the Maldives’ largest lagoons, is inviting families and couples to embrace a season of celebration through a thoughtfully curated programme of cultural traditions, family gatherings and island experiences designed to encourage connection and renewal.

From the Lunar New Year celebrations marking the Year of the Horse, to Eid by the Sea and Easter festivities, the season is shaped by the resort’s brand pillars of Wild Luxury, Purposeful Living and Immersive Reconnection.

Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse (February 2026)

Welcoming the Year of the Horse, Sirru Fen Fushi will host a series of celebratory experiences that blend dining, movement and shared family moments. The programme includes a Lunar New Year special buffet, interactive dim sum experiences, floating mahjong, karaoke evenings and relaxed gatherings beneath the night sky.

Beyond dining, guests of all ages are invited to take part in activities such as Muay Thai sessions, friendly kayaking competitions and archery, alongside dedicated Kids’ Club events and a Junior Football Camp designed for younger guests.

Eid by the Sea (March 2026)

Eid by the Sea unfolds as a two-day celebration centred on togetherness and cultural connection. Guests can enjoy shared dining experiences from breakfast through to dinner, including destination dining inspired by traditional flavours.

Family-focused activities include football matches, a Junior Football Camp, hands-on cooking classes, kayaking competitions and archery. Guests may also join a local island discovery excursion, complemented by Maldivian folklore storytelling and live performances featuring the traditional Serpina instrument.

Easter at Sirru Fen Fushi (April 2026)

Easter celebrations at Sirru Fen Fushi are presented under the theme “Perfectly Island Hatched”, offering a relaxed island experience focused on family time and shared enjoyment. Guests are encouraged to celebrate spring through casual gatherings and beachside activities in a tropical setting.

Adding to the seasonal programme, the resort’s upcoming Sirru Icon Series will introduce a new dimension to the island experience, featuring curated culinary events, appearances by a football icon and experiences linked to Asia’s 50 Best Bars mixology scene.

At Sirru Fen Fushi, family time is positioned as a central part of the island experience. Accommodation options range from Sirru Residences and two- and three-bedroom water and beach villas to Safari Tented Villas, all offering generous living spaces, private pools and seamless indoor-outdoor layouts suited to multi-generational stays.

Throughout the season, families can participate in Sirru Family Moments, including Coralarium discovery experiences, stargazing, archery, tennis, football and Muay Thai. The resort also offers extensive children’s and teen programming, including arts and crafts, treasure hunts, beach and pool games, outdoor cinema nights and talent shows.

The Kids’ Club welcomes children aged four to 14, providing a bright and engaging environment featuring a distinctive spiral slide. As an added benefit for family travellers, the resort offers a Kids Fly, Stay and Eat Free programme for children under 14 years of age.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is inviting guests to extend their time in paradise with the introduction of its Endless Summer offer, a thoughtfully curated stay designed to encourage a slower pace, elevated comfort and a deeper appreciation of island living.

Created for travellers seeking flexibility and ease, the Endless Summer offer combines dining experiences, leisure activities and added privileges that allow each stay to feel personalised. From arrival, guests receive USD 150 in resort credit per room, per stay, providing the freedom to enjoy moments of relaxation, culinary discovery or island exploration.

Mornings begin with a buffet breakfast at Feast, offering a selection of international favourites alongside fresh pastries and live cooking stations. Lunch is served as a relaxed three-course à la carte experience at four selected restaurants, including a beachfront venue, presenting a range of global flavours inspired by island freshness.

In the evening, guests may choose between a buffet dinner at Feast or a three-course à la carte menu at Indian, Mediterranean or Asian dining venues. Adults also receive a nightly USD 45 dining credit, which can be used at Baan Thai for authentic Thai cuisine or at Sea Salt, known for its seafood-focused menu and oceanfront setting.

Families are welcomed with added convenience, as children aged 11 and under dine complimentary from the breakfast and dinner buffets or from the Kids’ Menu when accompanied by parents. Daily experiences throughout the resort include poolside events and live entertainment at Anchorage, creating relaxed and social evenings.

Wellbeing and recreation are integrated into the daily programme, with complimentary wellness sessions and recreational activities available according to the resort schedule. Guests also have access to the tennis court with equipment included and may enjoy a 15 per cent saving on selected treatments at Shine Spa for Sheraton.

The Endless Summer offer is available for booking until 28 February 2026, for stays valid through to 20 December 2026, allowing guests to plan a year-round island escape.

Reflecting the essence of a Maldivian holiday, the Endless Summer experience is defined by unhurried days, diverse dining options and moments designed to linger beyond the stay. At Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, summer is presented not as a season, but as a way of life.

Eri Maldives has officially opened in the North Malé Atoll, introducing a new eco-chic lifestyle resort concept focused on accessible island living in the Maldives. Located a 45-minute speedboat journey from Velana International Airport, the resort combines ease of access with the calm of a natural island environment, offering a streamlined escape for travellers seeking authenticity rather than artificial luxury.

Set on a lush natural island, Eri Maldives is defined by dense greenery and a vibrant house reef accessible directly from the shore. The resort operates under the philosophy of “The Island of Becoming”, favouring genuine cultural immersion over traditional hospitality formality. Local arts, Maldivian cuisine and cultural practices shape the daily rhythm of island life, supported by a focus on mindful living that integrates sustainability and wellbeing throughout the guest experience. Visitors are encouraged to disconnect, slow down and engage more deeply with both the island and its cultural heritage.

Accommodation at the resort is offered across four categories designed to prioritise comfort, connection and simplicity. Beach Pool Villas feature private pools surrounded by tropical vegetation, while Beach Villas offer direct access to the shoreline and lagoon sunsets. Beach Studios, located on the ground floor, provide immediate beach access, and Sky Studios on the upper level include private balconies with expansive lagoon views. Dining follows the same relaxed approach, with Full Board Plus and All-Inclusive options available across three venues: international cuisine at Soul Kitchen, casual beachfront dining at Beach Shack, and sunset refreshments at Sip & Dip.

Adventure and relaxation are balanced through a range of experiences. A five-star PADI dive centre operated by Euro-Divers provides access to more than 30 recognised dive sites, alongside a comprehensive water sports programme. For restorative experiences, Eskape Spa is set within the island’s tropical canopy, offering holistic treatments and ocean-inspired rituals rooted in Maldivian traditions. The resort also curates bespoke celebrations, including destination dining under the stars and vow renewals accompanied by traditional Bodu Beru drumming.

Commenting on the opening, General Manager Haroon Mohamed stated that Eri Maldives is founded on the principle of experiencing the Maldives in an authentic and uncomplicated way, with an emphasis on wellbeing and meaningful connection. He noted that the resort aims to create moments that leave guests feeling cared for, understood and positively transformed.

Frederic Brohez, Chief Operating Officer of Pulse Hotels & Resorts, said the opening marks a significant addition to the group’s portfolio, introducing an eco-chic lifestyle brand designed for environmentally conscious travellers seeking a genuine Maldivian escape. He added that Eri Maldives reflects the group’s broader vision of sustainable island living, where design, community and wellbeing are closely aligned.

Eri Maldives is now welcoming guests. To mark its opening, the resort has introduced a limited-time launch offer featuring exclusive savings and added inclusions. Further information is available via the resort’s official website.

This Valentine’s Day, The Standard, Maldives is inviting couples to celebrate love through a curated collection of romantic dining experiences set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Designed to encourage connection and indulgence, each experience combines refined cuisine, intimate settings and signature details that transform shared moments into lasting memories.

For couples seeking privacy and exclusivity, the Romantic Dinner at Baby Island offers a secluded escape on a private island setting. Guests are treated to a bespoke dining experience for two, accompanied by champagne and specially curated Valentine’s touches, all within an atmosphere that is personal, tranquil and understatedly romantic, creating an intimate celebration of love surrounded by nature.

The Private Dinner at Kula Beach provides an equally refined beachfront experience beneath the night sky. Set along the shoreline with the sound of the ocean in the background, the evening is designed to balance elegance and intimacy, creating a warm ambience that allows couples to immerse themselves fully in the moment. Advance reservations ensure exclusivity and a peaceful setting for this special occasion.

Valentine’s Day at The Standard, Maldives may also begin in relaxed island style with a Floating Breakfast served in the privacy of each villa. Carefully prepared and attractively presented, guests may choose from a range of breakfast options, from classic favourites and lighter wellness-inspired selections to a champagne-enhanced start to the day, offering a leisurely and indulgent morning together.

From private island dinners and starlit beachfront evenings to indulgent floating breakfasts, The Standard, Maldives has crafted Valentine’s Day experiences designed to be shared and savoured. Each moment reflects the resort’s signature blend of playful luxury and meaningful connection, inviting couples to celebrate love in a way that feels personal, immersive and memorable.

To further enhance the romantic escape, guests may complement their stay with The Standard, Maldives’ Premium All-Inclusive experience, offering seamless indulgence throughout the visit. With daily dining at selected restaurants, premium beverages, in-villa refreshments and curated resort experiences included, couples are free to focus on one another, enjoying a relaxed and immersive Valentine’s celebration in a tropical setting.

This Valentine’s Day, Angsana Velavaru invites couples to experience a romantic Maldives getaway designed for intimacy, connection, and unforgettable moments. Set within a private lagoon in the pristine South Nilandhe Atoll, the resort offers an idyllic Valentine’s Day escape for couples seeking privacy, wellbeing, and meaningful shared experiences.

On 14 February, Angsana Velavaru presents Valentine’s Day Under the Stars, a beachfront dining experience created exclusively for couples. Set along the shoreline, this elegant five-course dinner combines refined cuisine with ocean views, candlelit ambience, and personalised service, making it one of the most romantic Valentine’s Day dinners in the Maldives.

Beyond the evening celebration, the resort extends Valentine’s experiences throughout February with a curated programme of couples’ wellness and spa offerings. Designed to encourage relaxation and reconnection, these experiences include shared spa treatments at the award-winning Angsana Spa, private yoga sessions by the beach, and holistic rituals that promoted balance and wellbeing for couples.

Couples can enjoy sunset walks along white-sand beaches, floating breakfast in private pools, or tranquil time together in the resort’s signature beachfront and overwater villas. The iconic InOcean villas, offer exceptional privacy and panoramic ocean views, making them ideal for honeymooners and couples celebrating Valentine’s Day in the Maldives.

With its blend of romantic dining, couple’s spa experiences, and secluded island living, Angsana Velavaru offers one of the most distinctive Valentine’s Day resort experiences in the Maldives. Whether celebrating new love or deepening a lifelong bond, couples are invited to mark Valentine’s Day in a setting where romance feels natural, personal and timeless.

For more information on Valentine’s Day experiences and romantic stays at Angsana Velavaru, please visit the resort’s website.

In a place where the ocean stretches endlessly and time seems to soften, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives reimagines Valentine’s Day as more than a single celebration. This February, love unfolds across five thoughtfully curated days, inviting couples to slow down, reconnect and savour moments that feel instinctive, intimate and deeply personal. Each experience is designed to complement the rhythm of island life, allowing romance to emerge naturally from playful beginnings to a graceful finale by the sea.

The journey begins on 10 February with a couples’ pickleball tournament, setting a light-hearted tone for the days ahead. Designed to spark laughter and friendly competition, the experience offers couples a chance to share a moment of fun, ease and connection, a reminder that love is often found in the simplest joys.

As the celebrations continue on 11 February, couples are invited to sail into the golden hour on a sunset cruise across calm Maldivian waters. With the sky awash in warm hues and the ocean gently unfolding beneath, the evening offers space to pause, raise a toast and reconnect, framed by one of nature’s most romantic settings.

On 12 February, the pace slows further with an early morning couples’ yoga session led by the resort’s spa team. As the island awakens, partners move in quiet harmony, focusing on balance, relaxation and shared presence. The experience offers a mindful interlude, grounding both body and mind while strengthening togetherness.

As sunset approaches on 13 February, romance takes on a celebratory note at the Sunset White Party. Dressed in white, couples gather for an evening of music, movement and island elegance. As the sky deepens in colour, the atmosphere comes alive with laughter and rhythm, culminating in a special reward for the evening’s most spirited dancing couple.

The five-day celebration reaches its crescendo on Valentine’s Day, 14 February, with an elegant gala dinner at Coral Beach. Set against sweeping ocean views, the evening brings refined flavours and a carefully curated ambience together, offering couples a memorable and romantic conclusion to their Valentine’s journey.

At Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, Valentine’s is not confined to a single date on the calendar. It is a series of shared experiences, playful, peaceful and heartfelt, designed to linger in memory long after the island fades from view. Book your Valentine’s escape now and celebrate love with five days of meaningful moments in a truly serene island setting.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has announced its brand-new, Solo Serenity collection — a curated suite of luxury experiences designed to celebrate the solo traveller. Inspired by the global rise in independent journeys, the collection blends personalised rituals, curated experiences, and deep restorative self-care amidst the shores of Maamunagau. The collection underscores that one does not need a partner to indulge in the Maldives; reimagining experiences traditionally designed for two into empowering, tailored-made moments for one. Highlights of the Solo Serenity collection include the resort’s signature floating breakfast, personalised wellness journeys at the Avi Spa, beachside reflection moments, and sunset excursions by ocean and land.

Available in 3-, 5-, and 7-day journeys, the Solo Serenity collection supports self-discovery through a renewed sense of clarity, confidence, and inner harmony. Each experience encourages guests to reconnect with themselves and embrace independence. Upon arrival, guests are invited to reset through a personalised wellness consultation with one of the resort’s leading practitioners at the AVI Spa, easing them into a week of self-indulgence. The consultation may be followed by the recently debuted Maldivian Essence Treatment – a locally inspired ritual rooted in Maldivian wellness traditions. Following a luxurious treatment, guests can explore the range of Astrology-Themed Gifts that make the ideal keepsake – from crystal water bottles, to zodiac stones, or jewellery inspired by their birthstone.

Culinary rituals and solo dining moments play an integral role in the Solo Serenity collection. Guests may begin the morning with a Floating Breakfast Date with a View, a serene experience set in the privacy of their own pool, complete with champagne, fresh pastries, fruit, savoury delights, and more. Intimate culinary moments continue with a Beach Dinner Date Night, wherein a private, chef-crafted meal under the stars offers local delicacies paired with champagne sips. For an indulgent evening wind-down, the resort can arrange a Personalised Outdoor Cinema Night, transforming the powder-white beach into a private movie setting, with gourmet snacks, tailored film selections, and soft lantern lighting. Additional options include a sunset dolphin cruise, wherein travellers can enjoy solitude amidst the waves, accompanied by a champagne sabering experience and friendly dolphin sightings.

The resort’s sense of adventure invites solo travellers to embrace unforgettable encounters as well, independently. Options include an exciting Manta Ray Experience with the resort’s Manta Trust team, allowing guests to see the gentle giants up close alongside a knowledgeable guide, and a serene Coral Diving Day Date, where travellers can explore the resort’s vibrant house reef at their own pace. Those seeking intentional movement can enjoy a sunrise yoga session, followed by a self-discovery hour, wherein a blanket is set up on the nearby sands with journaling tools, morning coffee, and a beachside breakfast to enrich the experience. For guests seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the local culture, holistic well-being rituals and experiences are available. A Cooking Class Date offers a hands-on way to learn Maldivian culinary traditions, such as flavorful local curry, prepared alongside one of the resort’s leading chefs.

With the launch of the Solo Serenity collection, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort takes a pioneering lead in the global rise of solo travel, reimagining a destination traditionally associated with couples’ escapes. The Solo Serenity collection empowers independent travellers to craft a journey entirely their own—selecting the rituals, experiences, and restorative moments that best align with their personal interests and intentions.

Rates start from USD 1,290++ per night for an Overwater Pool Villa, with a variety of inclusions. To book the curated personalised solo-luxury experiences or reservations, guests are invited to visit the resort’s website or email [email protected].

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has announced the return of its esteemed Tastemaker Series for 2026, reaffirming its commitment to bringing influential global talent to one of the Maldives’ most distinctive private island destinations. The programme continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to engage with leading voices in the culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness and sport.

The season opens in January with renowned chef Gianluca Renzi, who will host wine-led dining experiences, an intimate hands-on gnocchi masterclass and a signature dinner overlooking the ocean. His appearance sets the tone for the year ahead, combining classical Italian culinary heritage with contemporary craftsmanship and a spirit of conviviality that reflects the resort’s refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

In February, attention turns to innovation in both mixology and winemaking. Felice Capasso, World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, will bring his expressive approach to The Whale Bar through a bar takeover and an interactive masterclass exploring the narratives behind spirits, flavour and creativity. Shortly after, Romaric Chavy of Domaine Chavy-Chouet will bring Burgundy’s winemaking tradition to the Maldives, leading a wine tasting and a hosted dinner that offer an authentic encounter with one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.

The programme also embraces wellness, with Akiko Igarashi returning as Visiting Practitioner from 9 to 23 February. With extensive experience in Reiki, sound healing and holistic practices, she will guide guests through restorative therapies including Tibetan Singing Bowl healing sessions, Reiki treatments and bespoke couples’ experiences, each designed to promote inner balance, emotional clarity and transformative wellbeing.

In March, the series turns to elite sport as former World No. 1 and multiple Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber joins the lineup. Through private coaching sessions, a dedicated children’s clinic, on-court interactions and an informal meet-and-greet, Kerber will share professional insight while maintaining an approachable presence that resonates with both experienced players and recreational enthusiasts.

The season continues in April with Michelin-starred British chef Glynn Purnell, who will present a showcase dinner, an intimate cooking class and a finale experience at The Whale Bar. Known for his modern British culinary identity, technical precision and engaging personality, Purnell’s residency brings a fitting conclusion to a season shaped by talent, storytelling and meaningful engagement.

In May, the Tastemaker Series will welcome one of tennis’s most respected figures, Feliciano López. Celebrated for his longevity, signature serve-and-volley style and lasting success across more than two decades on the ATP Tour, López is a former World No. 12 and a Grand Slam doubles champion with a prominent role in Spain’s Davis Cup victories. At the resort, he will lead curated sessions on advanced technique, movement, match awareness and the nuances of elite-level tennis, delivered in a relaxed island setting.

Reflecting on the return of the Tastemaker Series, General Manager Vincent Pauchon said: “The Tastemaker Series is more than a programme; it is a celebration of passion, artistry and human connection. Each year, we strive to curate experiences that feel personal and enriching, giving our guests the opportunity to engage not only with exceptional talent, but with new perspectives and inspiration. This year’s lineup captures the essence of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort—elevated, thoughtful and deeply memorable.”

With its 2026 edition, the Tastemaker Series continues to evolve as a defining hallmark of The St. Regis Maldives experience, inviting guests into a world where excellence is shared, discovery is encouraged and every encounter is designed to resonate long after the moment has passed.

Kurumba Maldives has announced an exciting culinary collaboration with acclaimed food columnist and cookbook author Meera Sodha. Scheduled from 13 to 15 February 2026, this partnership brings Meera Sodha’s celebrated plant-forward cooking philosophy to the coral shores of Kurumba for a series of curated dining experiences.

This special activation sees Sodha join forces with Kurumba’s own esteemed culinary team. Together, they’ll craft and present a collection of dishes inspired by her acclaimed cookbooks ‘Fresh India’ and ‘Made in India’, which champion bold, vibrant, and accessible vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The collaboration promises to deliver an authentic Gujarati experience that will delight guests, food enthusiasts, and discerning travellers alike.

Throughout her residency, guests at Kurumba Maldives will discover plant-based dishes that reflect Sodha’s signature style. The event showcases the versatility of plant-based ingredients, presented through a series of thoughtfully crafted dining experiences including a Sunset Canapé Evening at Athiri Beach Bar on 15 February 2026.

The collaboration represents a significant moment for the Maldivian culinary scene – a rare chance to experience the creations of one of the UK’s most influential food writers in an iconic island setting. Travellers with a passion for creative and flavourful food will discover a fresh and inspiring take on vegetarian and vegan dining.

For more information or to make a booking, visit www.kurumba.com.

COMO Maalifushi, the only resort in the unspoiled Thaa Atoll, has announced the launch of a new all-inclusive plan – Simply COMO – available from February 1, 2026. Designed for depth over excess, this elevated experience brings together COMO Hotels and Resorts’ renowned culinary philosophy, transformative wellness, and bespoke ocean adventures into one effortless, thoughtfully curated journey.

Simply COMO reshapes the conventional all-inclusive approach. Dining spans multiple venues — from Mediterranean flavours at Thila to Japanese at Tai and the wellness-driven COMO Shambhala Kitchen — complemented by weekly chef-led themed dinners, beach BBQs and a curated beverage list including more than 50 labels of wines, variety of spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic options, complemented by a daily restocked in-villa private bar. Offering oceanfront dining, barefoot lunches and dinner under the stars, each culinary experience showcases the resort’s dedication to quality, simplicity, and naturally sourced ingredients.

Simply COMO includes an enriching selection of island and marine activities that reveal the beauty and unique surrounding COMO Maalifushi including:

• Dolphin Sunset Cruise – a spectacle of nature creating a moment of wonder for guests they’ll never forget
• Splash Boat Cruise – a must for the family at sunset to hop onto our dhoni’s splash net and experience the thrill of being towed through the ocean
• Guided turtle and reef snorkeling safaris to experience the rich house reef in this remote atoll
• Offshore sunset drop-line fishing, for a moment of calm as the sky turns gold (one per guest)

Wellness forms the heartbeat of Simply COMO, with inclusion of a signature COMO Shambhala massage per guest as well as daily movement classes – ranging from yoga and stretching to meditation and functional strength – all supported and enhanced by COMO Shambhala Kitchen, for those guests looking to enrich their wellness experience.

For families, Play by COMO offers younger guests a world of discovery, with dedicated supervision that gives parents complete peace of mind. Children can dive into purposeful, creative play including treasure hunts, fort building, yoga sessions, and conservation projects, while parents embrace the island’s natural beauty and curated barefoot rituals. Thoughtful touches, from handcrafted afternoon tea to an all-day ice-cream bar, add a gentle sense of indulgence for little ones too.

Designed to meet the needs of every type of traveller, Simply COMO brings people together across generations – appealing to couples seeking privacy and reconnection, families looking for effortless bonding, and wellness seekers drawn to restorative practices – while inviting everyone to explore the Maldives’ extraordinary marine life and unique position of COMO Maalifushi.

“With Simply COMO, we focused on creating an experience that feels effortless yet elevated,” says Peter Nilsson, Managing Director, COMO Maldives. “Every element — from cuisine and wellness to our ocean-led adventures — has been crafted to feel distinctly COMO.”

Simply COMO all-inclusive plan is available to book now for stays from February 1, 2026, offered alongside the resort’s existing Half Board meal plan to provide guests with flexible choices tailored to their style of travel.

Fushifaru Maldives has introduced a refreshed programme of guest activities and experiences as it enters 2026, combining cultural elements with new forms of entertainment across the resort.

The boutique resort has expanded its in-house activities to cater to a wide range of age groups. New offerings include circus-style sessions for children, hula hoop classes, aerial performances, fire shows and CYR wheel displays, aimed at providing structured entertainment for both families and adult guests.

The resort marked the end of 2025 with a Gatsby-themed farewell event, featuring a cocktail evening where guests were invited to dress in period-inspired attire. New Year’s Eve celebrations centred on a dinner service prepared by the resort’s culinary team, with a menu that included beef ribs, roasted turkey, grilled lobster, salmon and oysters, alongside seafood selections, Japanese dishes, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, and live cooking stations. The evening concluded with desserts and tropical fruit offerings.

For 2026, Fushifaru Maldives has also updated its daily activity schedule. Themed dinner nights continue to form a core part of the guest experience, with a Maldivian-themed dinner held every Friday. This includes a live cooking demonstration based on traditional Maldivian preparation methods, highlighting the step-by-step process of making local curries.

According to the resort, the updated programmes are designed to strengthen guest engagement while maintaining links to Maldivian heritage. The focus remains on offering structured experiences that reflect both cultural practices and contemporary resort entertainment.

Fushifaru Maldives stated that it plans to continue developing its activity and dining concepts throughout the year, with further updates to be shared with guests and industry partners.

The gift bags presented at this year’s Golden Globe Awards include holiday stays at three resorts in the Maldives.

The awards ceremony was held Sunday, with selected winners receiving gift bags valued at more than USD 1 million. According to organisers, the gift bags contain 35 items covering travel, wellness, beauty and related sectors.

The travel and experiences category of the gift bag includes resort stays in the Maldives. The packages are:

• Two nights at the Muraka underwater residence at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, valued at USD 70,000, awarded to five winners
• Three nights at The Residence at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, valued at USD 80,000, awarded to five winners
• Three nights at the Grand Overwater Villa at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, valued at USD 26,000, awarded to six recipients

In the awards ceremony, Hamnet won Best Motion Picture (Drama). Jessie Buckley received the award for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture (Drama), while the award for Best Performance by a Male Actor in the same category went to Wagner Moura for his role in The Secret Agent.

Ifuru Island Maldives has introduced a new collection of curated dive packages, inviting guests to explore the exceptional underwater world of the Maldives through programmes designed for beginners, aspiring divers and certified enthusiasts alike.

Located in the pristine waters of Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island Maldives provides access to vibrant house reefs, calm lagoon conditions and several of the region’s most celebrated dive sites, including the renowned Ifuru Thila. The newly launched dive packages are crafted to combine professional training, guided exploration and the convenience of a premium island stay.

The collection begins with an introductory diving experience tailored for first-time divers seeking to discover the underwater world in a safe and relaxed setting. Guests undergo lagoon-based training before progressing to the house reef, offering an ideal entry point into scuba diving with no prior experience required.

For guests ready to advance further, the resort offers a globally recognised scuba certification course. Designed for confident swimmers and snorkellers, the programme includes professional instruction, open water dives and an internationally valid certification, opening access to dive destinations worldwide.

Certified divers can choose a three-day dive escape that highlights the best sites in Raa Atoll. Featuring guided morning dives across renowned locations, the experience showcases the atoll’s rich marine biodiversity, striking reef structures and clear waters.

“Diving is an essential part of the Maldivian experience, and we wanted to create a collection that feels both accessible and exceptional,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “Whether it marks a guest’s first dive or their next significant underwater journey, these packages are crafted to offer confidence, comfort and memorable experiences beneath the surface.”

All dive packages may be booked alongside the resort’s premium accommodation offerings, including the Exclusively Yours Premium All-Inclusive meal plan, daily resort touches, complimentary non-motorised water sports, snorkelling equipment and return domestic flight transfers for qualifying stays.

The dive packages are available for booking and travel throughout 2026 and must be confirmed ahead of arrival. Package rates apply in addition to accommodation and are subject to availability.

Six Senses Kanuhura has announced a pioneering initiative that positions the resort at the forefront of marine conservation in the Maldives: the Kanuhura Coral Census, the world’s first long-term, 3D reef-monitoring programme implemented by a resort. Developed in collaboration with leading scientists from Newcastle University and University College London (UCL), this advanced methodology delivers an unprecedented level of accuracy, data integrity and ecological insight. The launch arrives at a critical moment, as global research indicates that up to 90% of the world’s coral reefs could be lost by 2050.

For decades, coral-reef monitoring worldwide has relied on clipboards, tape measures and diver observations—methods that, while valuable, only capture small portions of a reef and leave significant gaps. Traditional surveys remain slow, highly subjective and limited in scale, typically assessing less than 0.01% of any given site.

The Kanuhura Coral Census removes these long-standing limitations. Using 3D modelling and advanced AI analysis techniques, including Gaussian splatting, the system maps more than 100 square metres of reef at each site, capturing detail down to half a millimetre. The result is a hyper-accurate, fully repeatable digital reconstruction of the reef—something no other resort has achieved to date.

The new methodology resolves the constraints of conventional surveys in several transformative ways:

• Large-scale digital reef mapping: Entire reef sections are recorded in ultra-high resolution instead of limited snapshots.
• Rapid fieldwork: Only 20 minutes of diving is required to collect all images needed for each 3D model.
• Removal of human bias: AI-driven analysis ensures consistent, objective coral data regardless of the researcher.
• Unmatched ecological detail: Indicators such as rugosity, coral-canopy height, overhangs and habitat complexity—often overlooked in traditional surveys—are fully captured.
• Perfect repeatability: The same reef sections can be re-surveyed every few months, producing the Maldives’ most accurate time-series coral dataset.
• Visual storytelling: Immersive 3D models allow clear communication with guests, researchers and the public, transforming scientific data into intuitive visual insights.

Alicia Graham, General Manager of Six Senses Kanuhura, said: “The Kanuhura Coral Census represents a major step forward for reef science within the hospitality sector. By introducing advanced reef mapping, we are not only elevating how reefs are monitored but redefining what is possible. It allows us to track the smallest changes with scientific precision, share findings transparently and make data-driven decisions that directly support reef recovery. This project signals a new era of accountable and impact-driven conservation for the Maldives.”

The long-term objective of the Kanuhura Coral Census is to develop a next-generation restoration programme that moves away from traditional metal frames and towards sustainable, ecologically informed solutions. With highly detailed insights into which corals are thriving, struggling, recruiting or bleaching—and where—Six Senses Kanuhura will design a restoration blueprint that sets a new benchmark for the region.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is inviting guests and visitors to welcome the Lunar New Year with a curated programme of celebrations from 16 to 19 February 2026, marking the Year of the Horse through cultural performances, signature dining experiences, wellness rituals and family-focused festivities.

Set against the natural beauty of Raa Atoll, the resort’s Lunar New Year programme blends cultural tradition with contemporary island living, offering moments of togetherness, creativity and indulgence across the four-day celebration.

Festivities begin on 16 February with a Lunar New Year Cocktail at Café Umi Beach, followed by the resort’s signature Lunar New Year Gala Beach Dinner. This elegant evening will include festive dishes, fresh seafood and live performances such as a Lion Dance and Fire Show under the Maldivian night sky.

Culinary experiences form the core of the programme, with themed dinners and tastings crafted to reflect the spirit of the season. Highlights include wine-led dining journeys, a reunion dinner, a seafood-focused evening at Fish Market and an Asian BBQ pop-up buffet, offering guests meaningful opportunities to come together and celebrate through food.

Wellness will also feature prominently, with restorative experiences encouraging balance and renewal. Guests may enjoy signature spa rituals inspired by local traditions, immersive sound healing sessions and energising fitness activities. A visiting integrative somatic practitioner will be present throughout the festive period to support mind-body wellbeing.

Daily entertainment and cultural performances will enrich the celebrations, including ribbon and fan dances, umbrella performances, fire shows and a full day dedicated to Olympic-style island games suitable for all ages. Younger guests will have access to creative workshops, festive crafts and outdoor activities, while art enthusiasts may join resin art sessions led by the resort’s resident artist.

In addition, the resort will offer relaxed seasonal experiences available throughout the festival period, such as a Lunar New Year signature cocktail and shisha offerings at select venues, allowing guests to enjoy the celebrations at a leisurely pace.

With its combination of cultural expression, refined dining, wellness and island-inspired entertainment, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort’s Lunar New Year celebrations promise a meaningful and memorable beginning to the Year of the Horse.

Milaidhoo, an intimate island retreat located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, has announced a once-in-a-season wellness residency with internationally renowned integrative medicine specialist Dr Lim Xiang Jun, taking place from 22 to 28 February 2026.

For the first time, guests will have the opportunity to experience Dr Lim’s integrative approach to wellbeing in a private island setting. The founder of a leading modern Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice in Singapore, Dr Lim brings more than 20 years of experience and a rare mastery of both Eastern and Western healing traditions, including acupuncture, TCM, energy medicine, yoga, Ayurveda, meditation and metaphysics Bazi astrology.

During her residency, Dr Lim will offer bespoke one-on-one consultations and signature therapies aimed at restoring vitality, balancing energy and supporting transformation of mind, body and spirit. Guests will have access to her globally recognised treatments, including facial acupuncture, gua sha, reflexology and Chi Nei Tsang, as well as immersive sessions in meditation, qigong, yoga, sound healing and energy therapy. The residency’s distinctiveness lies in its integration of ancient wisdom, modern clinical practice and metaphysical insight, creating a personalised journey for every guest.

“Milaidhoo is an ideal sanctuary for guests seeking to reset, recharge and reconnect with themselves,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager of Milaidhoo. “By pairing the island’s serene, barefoot elegance with Dr Lim’s transformative expertise, this residency delivers an experience that is intimate, exceptional and truly unique.”

Dr Lim Xiang Jun added: “I am honoured to bring my holistic practices to Milaidhoo Maldives for the first time. The island’s natural tranquillity and energy provide an ideal environment for guests to embark on a personalised wellbeing journey. I look forward to guiding each guest through integrative traditional therapies, meditation and energy healing to help them reconnect with their vitality.”

With a limited number of consultations and treatments available, the residency is designed for guests seeking a holistic reset and a deeply personalised wellness experience within Milaidhoo’s peaceful island surroundings.

Guests wishing to secure their stay for this exclusive residency may visit the resort’s Special Offers page to reserve their wellness journey.

The country offers one of the most delicious cuisines in the region, it provides a load of different flavors and tastes that you will not find anywhere else in the world.

The food has a unique tanginess, a little bit of sweetness and a distinct spiciness. The food is still prepared using the traditional methods and that is what makes it amazing.

Coconut

Similarly, when it comes to grating coconut, a special tool is used known as the ‘hunigondi’. It is a long chair that has a blade, there is a bowl below the blade which collects the grated or shaved coconut.

Fish

While other fish are either fried or grilled, tuna is prepared in a number of different ways. It can be cooked in the traditional way, cured, sundried or even smoked.

Curries

Conclusion

The country has been around for a lot of years, this is why the Maldivian cuisine has had a lot of time to grow and get inspired by other cultures and dishes. The food that you will get will certainly be something that is unlike anything that you have tried before.

The Maldives, like any other country on this planet, possess a history of their own, about which they are really proud.

Must-Visit Historical Places In The Maldives

Old Friday Mosque

These coral works are something of a unique nature and are a classic example of Maldivian culture and history.

National Museum Of Maldives

The items have been dated to belong to the Islamic and Pre-Islamic period of this region.

Muleeaage – Former Palace, Now President’s Residence

Utheemu – For History Lovers

These locations are part of the major attractions that are found in Utheemu.

Conclusion

The government and the people have done a tremendous job in preserving these places and have allowed people to visit them in order to appreciate the history of their land. They have maintained the museums and art galleries as well which provide a deeper insight into Maldivian history.

It was occupied by the Portuguese for 15 years in the 16^th century, however, the Maldivian militia was able to defend their country and expel the Portuguese.

The Early Age Of Maldives

It is believed that these were the people who established the capital of Male.

Buddhism

Culture

But the thing about these designs is that you will not be able to find such designs in any other part of the world.

Even in the present day, the women of Maldives have many rights that are not given to the women in other parts of the world.

Cuisine

Conclusion

Over the ages the attire of the Maldivian people has changed however, not much is known about the early attire of the people. The Maldives is a great country and that is why you need to visit it at least once in your life.

The people in the Maldives still choose to live in their traditional ways and this is because the people have been living there for centuries and have changed very little.

Wooden Lacquer Ware

Boats

Contrary to popular belief, these boats are not built as a tourist attraction, instead, they are still used in the same way they were used thousands of years ago.

Conclusion

If you have not seen the Maldivian art, then it is safe to say that you are missing out on a lot. The Maldivian art is unlike any kind of art that you have seen and that is why it is very important to experience it on your own.

The people of Maldives still have a number of historical beliefs that they still practice.

If you have never been to the Maldives, then you will be missing out on a lot of things. There are a lot of things that make the Maldives one of the most visited places in the world and the only way to experience all of those things is to visit the country.

The Maldives is an archipelago and it consists of a number of islands and although every island is part of the Maldives, they are still very different from one another. However, even though we live in the 21^st century, the people of Maldives still have a number of historical beliefs that they still practice.

When you hear the name of the Maldives, then the first few things that will come to your mind are beaches, resorts and breathtaking views. Although those are the things that most people visit the Maldives for, it is not the only thing that it is popular for.

When you are in the Maldives, you will learn about a lot of different things and believes related to the people there. These stories and beliefs are unlike anything that you have ever heard before.

It is safe to say that some of these beliefs might frighten you or make you a little uneasy, but still, the people believe them to be true.

Common Beliefs

There are a number of beliefs and stories that are still popular in the Maldives.

There are a number of beliefs and stories that are still popular in the Maldives. People tell these stories and think that they are all true.

Since most of these stories are so old, they have been revised and changed on various occasions. This is the reason why it is difficult to understand whether these beliefs are true or not. But whatever the case may be, the citizens of the Maldives believe in these things and still practice these things. Below you will find some of the most popular historical beliefs in the Maldives.

Coconuts

It was believed that sorcery was used to grow these trees.

The coconut tree has a lot of importance in the Maldivian culture, it is also the national tree of the country.

There was a time that coconuts were considered to be sacred objects and there are still people who believe this to be true. There are many stories that say that the first coconut trees that grew on the Maldivian islands were planted using the skulls of the people who once lived on the Maldives. It was believed that sorcery was used to grow these trees. This is a quite ancient story and there are people who believe it.

Tuna

Tuna is not only eaten in the Maldives, but it is also one of its biggest exports.

As you may already know, the Maldives is a collection of over 1100 islands and that is why fish was and still is one of the main sources of food in the Maldives.

There are many different kinds of fish that can be found in the Maldives and one of them is tuna. Tuna is not only eaten in the Maldives, but it is also one of its biggest exports. However, it is believed that tuna did not always live in the areas surrounding the Maldives.it is instead believed that a renowned sailor fought a magical tree and destroyed it. After destroying the tree, all of the tuna fish started to settle in the Maldives.

The End

One historical belief that the people of Maldives have is that the country will soon come to an end. This is something that you can find all over the Maldivian history and there were always some people who tried to predict the end of the Maldives.

However, no one has been able to prove that the country is going to end, therefore, it is still just a belief.

People believe that with the rising sea levels, the Maldives will lose most of its islands but there is very little evidence supporting that.

Conclusion

These were some things that you need to know about the historical believes of the people of Maldives. It is difficult to say that where these stories and beliefs first originated, this is because the Maldives has been a country for a lot of centuries and it has been ruled by a lot of different people.

Therefore, over the years many new beliefs managed to find their way into people’s lives.

There are a lot of recreational opportunities in the Maldives that you just cannot miss and that is why it is a must visit the country, the Maldives also has a rich history.

Dive Club In Male Island

The Maldives is also home to a lot of amazing wild and marine life. When I was scuba diving at the Dive Club, I got a chance to see some of the most amazing creatures.

National Museum

Inside the museum you will find a number of historical artifacts and exhibits, these include things like weaponry, art, household wares. The main highlight, however, is the 11^th century Buddha head made from a coral stone.

Artificial Beach

Conclusion

The Maldives is a beautiful place and there is no shortage of activities there. That is why when you are in the Maldives it is impossible for you to get bored. Everything from the resorts to the food is an unforgettable experience.

Everything that the people to do is in accordance with the teachings of Islam. As of now, it is difficult to talk about the Maldives and not mention religion.

The History

Importance

The Grand Friday mosque, however, is different from other mosques and it is more beautiful than other mosques. The people of Maldives are practicing Muslims and live their lives in accordance with the teachings of Islam, all of these things make religion an important part of society.

Conclusion

Their religion has become a part of their life and it is very difficult for them to separate both of these things. It is like religion supports people in a number of ways and helps them to lead a simple, humble and successful life overall.

Maldives is one of those places in the world which can easily be labelled as ‘Heaven on Earth’. Maldives comprises of 26 atolls with about 1200 small islands over the Indian Ocean. This place is all about warm crystal-clear water, clean white beaches, and lots of sunlight. So, if you are a water baby, you will find a lot of activities to do to cherish your time in Maldives. Under this article, we have listed for you some fun activities; go grab a pen and note them down.

Diving

Maldives offers one of the best scuba diving experiences as it thrives with lots of turtles, manta rays, eels, and sharks. There are many Padi Dive Centers which offer you a certification in scuba diving, and if you don’t want one, they would offer you a discovery dive which would be enough to experience the spectacular underwater life.

Snorkelling

Snorkelling does not require certification. Instead of arranging a boat, choose an island with an in-house reef so that you can go snorkelling directly from the beach to explore the coral reefs.

You can also book a boat safari, which would allow you to dive or snorkel at different places. The best part about this safari is that a chef accompanies you to cook you a limited but delightful menu.

Dolphin Spotting

While on a boat safari, you might also get a chance to spot dolphins happily leaping on the surface of the water. The dolphins at Maldives are said to be very friendly and playful, and they do come up to the tourist boats. Dolphin watching, indeed, brings smiles on faces of tourists, especially kids.

Water Sports

Water sport is an integral part of island tourism. Maldives offers all types of water sports - you name it, you get it. This includes wind and kite surfing, kayaking, parasailing, jet and water skiing, etc.

Spa And Massage

On a vacation, you must have a spa or massage treatment on your itinerary, and Maldives is just the right place to go for a spa to rejuvenate yourself. Maldives is well known for its Balinese Massage, which is a special kind of deep tissue massage. One of the resorts at Maldives offers underwater spa services with two glass-walled treatment rooms. If you are planning your honeymoon at Maldives, add a couple massage to your to-do list; it will, definitely, up your romance.

Cruise

For a true Maldivian experience, book yourself for a cruise ride. A cruise ride is something which would cover all other activities of dolphin watching, diving, snorkelling, or other water sports. Local dhonis offer cruise ride of 7 days from South Male and finishing to the origin point. Enjoying sunsets from the cruise is one memorable sight.

Helicopter Rides

It is splendid to see different shades of blue while flying over the Maldivian landscape. Some of the resorts offer a scenic flight over the atolls by using a twin-engine float plane or a helicopter. From above, you would surely admire the patterns on white shores created by the waves.

Explore The Islands

Male, the capital of Maldives, is one of the world’s smallest capitals. Due to its smaller size, you do not need much time to explore it. The National Museum has the collection from the days of Sultanate - thrones, statues, royal antiques, coins, artefacts, and other memorabilia. There is an Islamic Centre’s landmark Grand Friday Mosque constructed by using a coral stone. It is a 17^th century old and the largest mosque in Maldives. The only care to be taken is wearing a respectable dress code as Maldives follow strict Islamic practices. If you are a woman, cover your legs and shoulders, and if you wish to visit the mosque, cover your head with a scarf. Men should avoid wearing t-shirts and shorts.

Eat And Be Merry

At Maldives, one gets to experience the spectacular underwater restaurants and wine cellars. Again, if you are planning for a honeymoon, you can arrange for a romantic dinner on the shores of a private island with a glass of wine and some mesmerizing music.

Just Sit Back And Relax

If you do not wish to do any of the adventurous activities mentioned above, find a nice and cosy corner under the coconut tree and just relax. Watching a sunset or a sunrise on a beach never goes out of trend. You cannot miss some time, spending on a hammock and soaking up some sun.

There are many more things you can do in Maldives. This place is suitable for all-solo travellers, honeymooners, families, adventurous-sports lovers or for those who are just looking to relax. You just need to book a resort that can offer you the activities you wish for at an affordable price.

The Maldives is arguably the world’s most elite holiday destination. It embodies the eventual tropical heavenly getaway for sun worshipers, honeymooners, scuba divers, celebrities, and discerning travellers. It houses thousands of small coral islands, situated on the equator in the Indian Ocean. This group of islands has astonishing underwater wildlife, amazing beaches, and unparalleled luxury resorts. Here, we present to you a list some of the best luxury resorts the Maldives has to offer. They do come at a price but are totally worth the extravaganza.

Park Hyatt Hadahaa

This resort takes up its own private island towards the south of Male, a bit north of the Equator in probably the planet’s deepest coral reefs. This is the only 5-star luxury hotel that Hyatt has in the Maldives. The hotel provides its patrons with a barefoot luxurious resort experience. The lustrous interiors are furnished and designed luxuriously to provide the guests with the utmost privacy and luxury while maintaining the sensitivity of the environment. The comfortable accommodations are cuddled up within the tropical greenery, which are just a few steps from the greenish blue waters or floating above the water with extensive views of the ocean. All the villas have access to the ocean or beach and feature ceiling to floor windows. They all have doors that open to individual private decks with some having a private dipping pool. Surrounded by a vast and mesmerizing coral reef, the resort offers the most varied marine life in the Maldives.

Four Seasons At Landaa Giraavaru

This luxurious resort is a unique combination of conservation, wellness, and innovation. This resort has 103 villas and thatched bungalows built with modern Maldivian design. You can combine your vacation at the resort by staying at Kuda Huraa which is the resort’s sister property. Kuda Huraa is a lush private island situated near Male airport. It is known for its easy charm and exceptional surf. These both are connected by a luxurious cruise line, which stops at small uninhabited beaches, remote island populations, and extraordinary dive sites on the way.

COMO Maalifushi

This is the only luxury resort that is located in Thaa Atoll, a pristine island of Maldives, snuggled in the southern corner of the islands. COMO Msslifushi and its sister properties offer excellent diving and surfing opportunities along with seasonal sightings of manta and whale shark. The intimate property was designed by a Japanese architect by the name of Koichiro Ikebuchi that reflects the sensitive approach he took to cultural and natural authenticity. The resort has a garden and overwaters villas, featuring refined decorations. The place offers COMO’s health approach with tasty spa cuisine along with Asian therapies, yoga, and exercise having a results-oriented agenda.

Six Senses At Laamu

Six Senses is the sole resort in Laamu Atoll. The resort can be reached by taking an inter-island airplane trip from the Male International Airport followed by a quick boat ride. The resort features sustainable and stylish Maldivian villas that are set in lush tropical vegetation while facing the lagoons. Yin Yang, the well-known surfing wave of Maldives, is just offshore. You can also find beginner’s waves nearby and outstanding snorkelling is also available in the reef where you can typically trace parrotfish, green turtles, and oriental sweetlips. It is also common to see Dolphins as they pass by. You can enjoy your meals with a view of the tropical vistas prepared by the chefs of the resort who use produce grown in the organic gardens of the island. The visiting practitioners and skilled therapists of the spa provide a full range of Six Senses’ signature treatments, wellness, and rejuvenation specialties.

Cheval Blanc At Randheli

Cheval Blanc Randheli hit headlines recently when it was found that it had been Kate and William’s playground a few years ago when they holidayed at the Maldives. The accommodations provided here feel like elegant cathedral styled lofts with each of them featuring a sampling of modern design elements, outdoor relaxation areas, high ceilings and doors, spectacular private swimming pools and pontoons by the lagoon. The resort is situated on Noonu Atoll, which consists of virgin green islands surrounded by a huge coral reef that is home to sea turtles, rays, and multi-coloured fish.

With all this to offer and more, Maldives, indeed, is your dream vacation spot.

Living and working in the Maldives means we are on the front line of the climate crisis. Warming oceans, changing weather patterns, and shifting ecosystems are not distant threats. They are the daily reality we witness on our islands, in our coral reefs, and throughout our local communities.

In 2023, we took a significant step by becoming a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, committing to take measurable action to reduce our carbon emissions. That same year, we began tracking the emissions of our tours and cruises to establish a baseline, an essential first step in understanding our impact and identifying where reductions can be made. But we knew that signing a declaration and collecting data was just the beginning. In order to drive real change, we needed to deepen our understanding of climate science and strengthen our ability to act on it.

This June, we made that commitment tangible by completing a Climate Literacy Workshop with the brilliant team at ECOLLECTIVE  We are now proud to now call ourselves a climate literate company, with 100% of the team completing the training.

WHY COMPLETE A CLIMATE LITERACY COURSE?

For us, climate literacy means having a clear understanding of the causes and impacts of climate change and more importantly, knowing how to respond in ways that make a difference.

What made the ECOLLECTIVE training stand out was its emphasis on turning knowledge into action. The sessions weren’t just educational, they were empowering. We were encouraged to reflect, challenge our assumptions, and make individual and team commitments to do better.

OUR GUESTS NOTICE CHANGES TOO

One thing we’ve observed more and more on tour is that our guests are also paying attention. During visits to mangroves, seagrass meadows, and island communities, questions about rising sea levels, carbon capture, and marine conservation are becoming a regular part of the conversation.

It’s clear that many travelers want to do more than just explore, they want to understand, contribute, and be part of a more sustainable future. Climate literacy training helps us support that journey.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Becoming climate literate is not the end goal, it’s a stepping stone on our journey.

We are already integrating what we’ve learned into our operations, from reviewing our tour itineraries to measuring our carbon footprint across all areas of the business, not just our tours. We’re also developing a project to support our guesthouse partners in reducing their carbon footprint, while positively impacting their bottom line. This is all part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in everything we do.

We believe that responsible tourism in the Maldives must go hand in hand with climate action and as a local company, we have both the responsibility and the opportunity to lead by example.

If you’re curious about how climate training can benefit your own business or community, we highly recommend checking out ECOLLECTIVE’s approach. It’s a powerful way to build awareness and momentum.

???? 5 Company Benefits of Carbon Training – ECOLLECTIVE

Together, let’s keep learning, keep questioning, and keep stepping forward, because there’s no time to waste.

We know that planning a trip like this can raise plenty of questions, from responsible travel and safety to packing tips and island life, so we’ve gathered the most common ones and answered them all here. This guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to make the most of your Maldivian journey.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

1. HOW CAN I BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER ON TOUR?

Responsible travel means enjoying your trip while minimizing your impact on the environment and supporting local communities. Take home non-food waste, avoid touching corals and marine life, engage respectfully with island communities, and use water and electricity wisely.

2. DO YOUR TOURS SUPPORT COMMUNITITIES & CONSERVATION?

Yes! Your stay benefits locally owned guesthouses, and your transfers often use public ferries or scheduled speedboats, reducing carbon emissions and supporting local operators. Excursions follow Green Fins best practices, and you may participate in activities like coral restoration or beach clean-ups.

3. HOW BIG ARE THE GROUPS?

Groups are limited to 8 guests, to not only ensure a safe, personal, and authentic experience but to limit our impact on the environment and the communities we visit.

4. WHO LEADS THE TOUR?

Tours are led by our Secret Paradise Maldives local Maldivian Tour Leaders who are trained in First Aid, Snorkeling Guiding, Lifeguarding, and sustainability.  They have a wealth of knowledge from Maldivian history and culture to marine life and bio-diversity.

TRAVEL & TRANSFERS

5. HOW DO I GET TO AND FROM THE AIRPORT?

All tours start and end at Velana International Airport. Airport transfers are included on arrival and departure days. Your Secret Paradise Maldives Tour Leader will meet you and assist with your transfer via public ferry, speedboat, or domestic flight. On departure, they travel back to Male International Airport with you.

6. WHAT TYPE OF TRANSFERS SHOULD I EXPECT?

We prioritise public ferries and scheduled speedboats whenever possible to reduce carbon emissions and support local businesses.

LOCAL ISLAND LIFE

7. WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

Pack light and casual, swimwear, rash vests/T-shirts, light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a quick-dry towel. Shoes are rarely needed—flip-flops are enough. More information can be found here.

8. DO I NEED TO DRESS IN A CERTAIN WAY?

Yes. On local islands and in the capital area, female guests should dress with modesty in mind. Clothing should at the very least cover the upper thigh and shoulders/chests when within the local community area of islands and when visiting the home of a local family. Should you wish to enter mosques particularly on the Male City Walking tour, long trousers or a sarong are required by both male and female guests.

9. ARE THERE BIKINI BEACHES?

Yes, almost all local islands that welcome tourists have a designated bikini beach where swimwear is permitted. The exceptions are some islands in the deep south and far north. Where a bikini beach is not available, activities and excursions to sandbanks and uninhabited islands can be arranged, where you can swim and sunbathe freely. This will be highlighted in the tour itinerary where applicable.

As part of responsible travel, please remember that bikini wear is only acceptable at designated tourist beaches or uninhabited islands. In local communities, please dress with modesty in mind.

10. IS SNORKELING EQUIPMENT INCLUDED?

Yes, but feel free to bring your own mask and snorkel which ensures comfort, hygiene, and fit, preventing leaks. Rental equipment is also available if you wish to snorkel during free time.

11. WILL I BE ABLE TO STAY IN TOUCH WITH FAMILY AT HOME?

Yes. Guesthouses and hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi. Mobile roaming works, though charges can be high. We recommend consider purchasing an eSIM before travel or a local SIM at the airport for affordable data.

12. CAN I BUY SUNSCREEN AND ESSENTIALS LOCALLY?

Yes, local shops stock everyday items like reef friendly sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and toiletries, but brands may be limited. Bringing your preferred reef-safe sunscreen is recommended.

13. IS ALCOHOL AVAILABLE ON LOCAL ISLANDS?

No. The Maldives is a 100% Islamic country, and alcohol is not served on local islands or in guesthouses. While some islands may have nearby bar boats (floating bars anchored offshore), these are generally not accessible from the islands where we visit. From certain islands, it may be possible to arrange a day visit to a nearby resort, where alcohol is available for purchase.

14. ARE LOCAL ISLANDS VERY DIFFERENT TO RESORT ISLANDS?

Local islands are very different from the picture-perfect resort images you may have seen. These are living and working island communities, where daily life is shaped by Islam, family, and in today’s world, tourism. You’ll hear the call to prayer five times a day, and on islands closer to Male, you will notice ongoing construction and development, both for island infrastructure and new guesthouses or hotels. Every island has its own unique character and charm, offering something different in terms of culture, community, and natural environment

GUESTHOUSES & HOTELS

15. IS IT SAFE TO DRINK TAP WATER?

Tap water is safe for brushing teeth and washing. Guesthouses provide one complimentary bottle of drinking water per person per day. Additional bottles (500ml, 1.5L, 5L) can be purchased in local shops. To reduce plastic waste, we recommend buying larger bottles and bringing a reusable water bottle.

16. WHAT KIND OF ELECTRICAL SOCKETS ARE USED?

Most properties use UK-style three-pin plugs (220V) or in more recently build properties universal plug sockets. A universal adapter is recommended.

17. IS SMOKING ALLOWED?

Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor communal areas, never inside rooms, bathrooms, or lounges.

18. HOW CAN I PAY FOR ADDITIONAL MEALS & ACTIVITIES?

Cash in USD or MVR is standard on local islands. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available in Male and on many local islands dispensing local currency MVR only.

19. HOW SHOULD WE TIP IN THE MALDIVES?

Tipping is an important way to show appreciation if you feel members of the guesthouse or activity team have looked after you and added value to your overall experience. As a guideline, budget around $10 per day per guest, to share with individuals throughout your stay.

SAFETY, HEALTH & EMERGENCIES

20. DO I NEED TO BE AN EXPERIENCED SWIMMER TO BE ABLE TO SNORKEL?

Confidence in water is needed for snorkeling, but no SCUBA certification is required. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are provided, and our Tour Leaders monitor safety at all times during activities. More information can be found here.

21. WHAT IF THERE IS AN ACCIDENT?

Your Tour Leader will provide safety instructions at the start of your tour and before activities. Guesthouses are equipped with fire equipment and meeting points, and Tour Leaders are trained in First Aid. For emergencies, island health clinics and pharmacies are available, and travel insurance is strongly recommended.

22. IS MEDICATION AVAILABLE TO BUY?

Each island has a small pharmacy, though stock may be limited. We recommend buying essential medicines in Malé before your trip and carrying personal remedies such as motion sickness tablets, after-sun, or band aids.

23 ARE THERE MOSQUITOES ON LOCAL ISLANDS?

Bugs  and mosquitoes do tend to lurk in a warm and humid climate and unfortunately chances are high that you’ll encounter some bugs during your stay in the Maldives, there’s no way around that. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent and long sleeves for evenings. More information can be found here.

24. IS IT SAFE FOR SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS?

Yes. Maldives local islands are generally safe, and our tours are designed with guest safety in mind. Staying in locally run guesthouses, traveling in small groups, and being accompanied by experienced local guides ensures a secure and welcoming experience. As always, standard travel precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being mindful of local customs, are recommended.

25. ARE LOCAL ISLANDS LGBTQ+ FRIENDLY?

Yes. We warmly welcome guests from the LGBTQ+ community on all Secret Paradise tours. While islands are generally safe and inclusive, we recommend avoiding public displays of affection, such as kissing, as Maldivians are generally private and do not display affection openly. Respecting local customs ensures a comfortable experience for everyone.

Don’t just visit the Maldives, experience it like a local. Book your Secret Paradise Guided Multi-Day Tour today and dive into authentic island life, incredible marine adventures, and sustainable travel that leaves a positive impact.

1. Do I need to be an experienced swimmer for snorkeling?

You don’t need SCUBA certification, but you should feel comfortable in the water. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are provided, and our expert Secret Paradise tour leaders monitor safety at all times. The Maldives can experience strong currents, even on calm days, so being able to swim unaided is essential. More information can be found here.

2. How fit do I need to be for a conservation cruise?

Our Secret Paradise Conservation Cruises are active, with swimming, snorkeling, and moving between our main vessel, Felicity, and the dhoni throughout the day. Snorkeling trips typically last around 45 minutes, with the option to exit early if needed. Access to the boat involves climbing a ladder from the water. A moderate level of fitness is sufficient to enjoy the cruise.

3. Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

We recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel. Personal equipment ensures comfort, proper fit, and lower risk of leakage or health issues. Limited gear is available for rent if arranged in advance.

4. How can I be a responsible traveler on a cruise?

Responsible travel is a key part of the Secret Paradise experience. You can help protect the Maldives’ delicate ecosystems by:

• Taking non-food waste home: Recycling is limited on the islands and boats.
• Respecting marine life: Follow your tour leaders’ instructions when snorkeling and avoid touching coral or marine animals.
• Supporting local culture: Engage respectfully with island communities and observe local customs.
• Conserving water and energy: Use resources onboard wisely.

Following these steps ensures you contribute to sustainable tourism in the Maldives while enjoying your conservation cruise.

5. What key items should I pack?

Reusable water bottle and reef-friendly sunscreen. Light, casual clothing and swimwear. Rash vest for sun protection while snorkeling. Footwear isn’t required, a barefoot life onboard is encouraged, but rinse feet before boarding.

6. Are beach towels included?

Beach towels, bed sheets, and regular towels are provided. Towels are changed once per week, but bringing a quick-dry towel is handy for excursions.

7. What if there is an accident?

Accidents are rare, but guidelines from your Secret Paradise Tour Leader should always be followed. Stay close to your snorkeling buddy and move carefully around the boat. All vessels carry emergency equipment and medical oxygen, with access to local clinics. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. Tour Leaders are EFR and Lifeguard certified.

8. Does the boat carry medical supplies?

Boats are equipped with first aid kits. Guests should also bring personal remedies, such as motion sickness tablets, after-sun lotion, or band-aids.

9. Is smoking allowed?

Smoking is prohibited in cabins, bathrooms, the lounge, kitchen, and most open-air areas. A designated smoking area is at the bow of the vessel, with proper disposal containers provided.

10. How do I pay onboard?

Cash (USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa) is accepted onboard. In Male, you can pay with credit cards, USD, Euros, or local currency. ATMs are available in Hulhumale and at the airport, dispensing local currency only.

11. What are the tipping guidelines?

Tipping is an important way to show appreciation for the crew’s hard work and dedication on a Secret Paradise Maldives Conservation Cruise. As a guideline, budget around $10 per day per guest, collected at the end of the cruise.

12. Can the itinerary change?

Itineraries are flexible to adapt to weather, sea conditions, and marine life encounters. Your Tour Leader will provide updates during evening briefings.

13. How do I get from the airport to the boat and back?

The vessel is moored in Hulhumale Lagoon on arrival and before departure. Airport transfers are included on arrival and departure days, with a Secret Paradise tour leader meeting you. Group transfers are typically at midday. Exact meeting times are included in your pre-arrival email.

14. Can I stay in touch with people back home?

Mobile phone use is possible, but roaming charges can be high. For internet access, consider an international SIM card, eSIM, or local 3G SIM purchased at the airport.

15. Can dietary requirements or allergies be accommodated?

Secret Paradise can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, though menu options are more limited than on land. To lower our carbon emissions, we do not serve beef or imported seafood; meals are prepared with local, seasonal ingredients.

16. What type of luggage should I use?

Soft luggage or backpacks are ideal on board the conservtaion cruise, though hard cases can also be used. Cabins have sufficient storage, so packing light is best.

17. What type of electrical sockets are available on board

The boat is fitted with international sockets, so most plugs can be used without an adapter.

18. Is the boat noisy at night?

As with all vessels, some level of noise is unavoidable. There is always one generator running to provide air conditioning, lighting, and keep freezers operational. Being a traditional wooden boat with cabins close to the waterline, you may also notice gentle movement and the occasional creak of the wood. Most guests quickly adjust to these background sounds, which become part of the authentic small-ship experience.

19. Is there a toilet on the support dhoni?

Yes, there is a toilet on the accompanying dhoni support vessel.

A Secret Paradise Maldives Conservation Cruise is more than a holiday, it’s an immersive experience in the Maldives’ marine world, with a focus on sustainability and responsible travel. Guests can hope to encounter incredible marine life, from spotty whale sharks to graceful manta rays and curious sea turtles, ensuring there’s something for every nature lover’s interest. Preparing ahead, packing smart, and following responsible practices ensures a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable adventure.

Ready to explore the Maldives like never before? Book your Conservation Cruise  today and embark on a journey that will not be forgotten.

Whether photography is just a hobby with images captured on your phone or you are content creator, or a seasoned professional with a DSLR, here are five practical tips for capturing the Maldives responsibly and respectfully.

1. BE ETHICAL

Let ethics guide your photography. Always ask yourself: am I respecting wildlife, the environment, and the people in this shot? In the Maldives, where ecological sensitivity and cultural respect go hand in hand, this question is key.

Avoid any actions that could harm or exploit for the sake of a photo, such as feeding marine life, or culturally insensitive framing.

Ethical photography also means considering who you include and amplify through your work. If you’re documenting local life, consider highlighting local NGOs, environmental projects, and small businesses that are making a difference. Whether it’s a waste management initiative on a local island, a coral restoration project, or a community-run guesthouse, your platform can help raise awareness and support for their work.

Think of your photography as a tool for connection, not just creation.

2. RESPECT PEOPLE & THEIR PRIVACY

The Maldivian culture is deeply rooted in community and tradition. When photographing individuals or groups, always seek permission, a simple smile and a polite request go a long way. Not everyone is comfortable being photographed, and in some islands, especially local inhabited ones, conservative values may apply.

If you’re capturing images for public sharing or commercial use, this becomes even more important. Consent isn’t just courteous, it’s essential.

Photography should be an exchange, not an intrusion.

3. PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT

The Maldives is home to some of the world’s most delicate ecosystems. From vibrant coral reefs to mangrove forests, these natural habitats are incredibly biodiverse but also incredibly vulnerable.

Responsible photography means putting the environment first. Never stand on coral reefs, touch marine animals, or chase them for a closer shot. If you’re taking underwater photos, maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid damaging the seabed or coral.

It’s also important to understand and follow local marine life codes of conduct. These are designed to protect both wildlife and visitors. Feeding marine life such as stingrays, sharks, or fish is not only discouraged, but is prohibited. It disrupts natural behaviours, can lead to aggressive interactions, and negatively impacts marine health.

When photographing wildlife, maintain a respectful distance, avoid flash photography underwater, and never attempt to manipulate animal behaviour for a photo opportunity. If you’re joining a guided excursion, make sure the operator follows environmentally responsible practices.

The best wildlife shots come from patience and respect not interference.

4. SHARE STORIES AUTHENTICALLY

The Maldives is more than just turquoise lagoons and luxury resorts it’s a living, breathing country with real communities, rich traditions, and ongoing challenges.

As a photographer, you have the power to go beyond the postcard image. Not every photo needs to be perfectly filtered or composed. There’s value in sharing the real Maldives, including aspects that are less often seen such as climate change impacts, local waste management efforts, or the effects of rapid development on local islands.

Avoid stereotypes or staged portrayals. Instead, capture moments that highlight genuine culture, daily life, and the realities faced by island communities. Show the resilience, innovation, and sustainability initiatives that locals are leading across the country.

These images help create a more balanced, respectful, and informed understanding of the Maldives and they encourage others to travel with greater awareness.

5. SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Your lens can uplift local voices. Tag and credit local businesses, tour guides, and artisans who contribute to your travel experience. Whether it’s the guesthouse host who welcomed you, the dive instructor who showed you a hidden reef,  the chef who introduced you to Maldivian flavours, or the souvenir made by a local artisan, recognise their stories.

This not only promotes sustainable tourism but also builds visibility for the people and practices that make the Maldives more than just a picture-perfect destination.

EVERY IMAGE CAN INFLUENCE OTHERS

International Photography Day is a reminder of how photography can inspire, inform, and connect us but only when it’s done responsibly. In the Maldives, where natural beauty and cultural depth go hand in hand, every image has the potential to shape perceptions and influence future travellers.

So next time you raise your camera, ask: Is this shot respectful? Is it responsible? Is it real?

And if it is, we’d love to see it.

Share your images on Instagram that reflect responsible travel in the Maldives, whether it’s respecting nature, uplifting local communities, or telling authentic stories. Tag @SecretParadiseMaldives and use the hashtag #ResponsibleMaldives for a chance to be featured and help inspire others to travel with purpose.

Because the best photos don’t just show the Maldives, they support it.

The session introduced us to their inspiring initiative, Map the Giants, a project that is shining a spotlight on some of the ocean’s most extraordinary and overlooked inhabitants: giant coral colonies.

Who are MaRHE Center?

The Marine Research and High Education (MaRHE) Center, established by the University of Milano-Bicocca, has been based on Magoodhoo Island in Faafu Atoll for the past 15 years. The center acts as a hub for education, training, and research, while also engaging with local communities and international students.

Their work spans a wide range of topics, from coral reef ecology, seagrasses, and mangroves to coral diseases and shark monitoring. Importantly, they also bring a human dimension into their studies, exploring how local communities perceive climate change and how sustainable practices can be applied in tourism.

Citizen science plays a big role in their mission. Reefs are vast, and scientists can’t be everywhere, which is why involving tourists, local communities, and organisations like ourselves is key to gathering valuable data.

What is Map the Giants?

When you think of giants in nature, towering sequoias or massive whales may spring to mind. But hidden beneath the ocean’s surface are equally remarkable giants: coral colonies that have been growing for centuries, even millennia.

Some colonies can reach astonishing sizes—like Big Momma in American Samoa, with a circumference of around 40 metres. Here in the Maldives, colonies over 10 metres across have already been recorded, including one with a circumference of 65 metres in a shallow lagoon.

These giant corals are more than just impressive in scale:

• They are resilient survivors, withstanding events that have devastated smaller corals.
• They act as living archives, holding centuries of environmental information.
• They could serve as icons of marine conservation, much like monumental trees do on land.

Yet, until now, there has been no global effort to map, monitor, or protect them. This is where Map the Giants comes in.

How Does It Work?

The project has three key goals:

• Discover the biggest coral colonies in the world.
• Understand why they are unique and resilient.
• Protect them as “marine monuments” for future generations.

Contributors ranging from scientists to divers and tour operators can help by recording coral colonies that meet certain criteria (over 5 metres in size, continuous in structure, and likely centuries old). Data collection methods range from quick photos to detailed 3D photogrammetry models that can track growth and health over time.

So far, Map the Giants has gathered more than 170 entries from 20 countries, with the Maldives contributing the largest share.

Why It Matters

The reefs of the Maldives are not only central to the country’s marine biodiversity, but also to the daily lives of local communities and the success of sustainable tourism. Protecting these giants ensures that future generations can continue to experience the wonders of Maldives snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine life encounters.

By raising awareness, the project hopes to inspire a similar sense of respect and protection as monumental trees receive on land. Imagine a future where the Maldives formally recognises its largest coral colonies as marine monuments, a unique way of celebrating and safeguarding the natural heritage of our ocean.

Our Role at Secret Paradise Maldives

Our tour leaders and guests already contribute to citizen science through reef monitoring, data collection, and collaborations with NGOs such as Save the Beach and Olive Ridley Project. Incorporating Map the Giants into our tours means we can further support research while giving travellers the chance to engage meaningfully with the environment.

For us, this is another step in ensuring that your travel experience leaves a positive impact, from island hopping and snorkeling adventures to contributing to the long-term protection of the reefs of the Maldives.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you are a diver, snorkeler, or marine enthusiast, you can be part of the project:

• Visit www.mapthegiants.com  to learn more and submit data.
• Record sightings of giant corals during your Maldives dives or snorkeling trips.
• Share your photos, measurements, and observations with the project team.

Every contribution helps scientists better understand these remarkable organisms and build momentum towards their protection.

Our session with the MaRHE team was an inspiring reminder of the incredible natural wonders hidden within the Maldives ocean and the role we all play in protecting them.

At Secret Paradise Maldives, we believe that travel should be more than just seeing—it should be about learning, connecting, and giving back. Supporting initiatives like Map the Giants is just one way we continue to combine discovery with responsible tourism in the Maldives.

Join our snorkeling tours in the Maldives and be part of protecting coral giants, explore, learn, and contribute to marine conservation. “Together, we can help map, understand, and protect the giants of the reef.

Whether you’re planning your very first visit or returning for another adventure, the Secret Paradise Maldives team have selected five films they believe are worth watching before you pack your bags. They’ll not only entertain you but also give you fresh perspectives on island life, the wonders of our marine world, and the challenges we face in protecting them.

1. Chasing Coral (2017 Documentary)
Directed by Jeff Orlowski

Why watch it?
Coral reefs are often described as the rainforests of the sea, and this film shows both their beauty and their fragility. With powerful imagery and personal stories, Chasing Coral explains why reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate, including here in the Maldives.

How it connects:
When you join us for snorkeling tours, you’ll see how we support reef conservation by following Green Fins practices and sharing information about coral ecosystems. Watching this film gives you the background to better understand the importance of what you’ll see underwater.

2. Seaspiracy (2021 Documentary)
Directed by Ali Tabrizi

Why watch it?
This film takes a hard look at global fishing and the strain it puts on marine life. While some of its messages are debated, it raises important questions about overfishing, bycatch, and the health of the oceans.

How it connects:
Fishing has always been part of Maldivian culture and is still central to daily life and the economy. The Maldives is recognised worldwide for its sustainable pole-and-line tuna fishing, a traditional method that avoids bycatch and supports local communities. Watching Seaspiracy gives you global context, while travelling here shows you what sustainable fishing looks like in practice. On our tours, we also highlight how small actions from avoiding single-use plastics to respecting marine life while snorkeling fit into that same bigger picture of protecting the ocean.

4. Our Oceans (2024 Documentary Series)
Narrated by Barack Obama, directed by Jonathan Smith

Why watch it?
This series captures the wonder and diversity of the oceans, from the smallest organisms to the largest marine mammals. It also highlights the need for conservation and sustainable fishing, issues that directly affect the Indian Ocean and the Maldives.

How it connects:
When you’re here, you’ll encounter the same incredible marine biodiversity showcased in this series. Understanding the global threats facing our oceans helps put into perspective why the Maldives’ reefs and lagoons need protecting.

4. The Maldives: Paradise Lost? (2009 BBC Documentary)

Why watch it?
This film looks at the Maldives in a way many travelers don’t usually see, balancing the beauty of our islands with the real risks of climate change and environmental pressures.

How it connects:
It echoes our own philosophy of responsible travel. By understanding the challenges behind the postcard image of the Maldives, you can travel in a way that contributes to the islands’ resilience and long-term future.

5. The Island President (2011 Documentary)
Directed by Jon Shenk

Why watch it?
This documentary follows former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed during his campaign to draw the world’s attention to climate change. It shows the Maldives not just as a holiday destination but as a country on the frontline of rising sea levels.

How it connects:
For us, sustainable tourism is not just a phrase  it’s essential. By seeing the Maldives’ vulnerability through this film, you will better understand why your choices and actions matter.

Ready to travel deeper?

These films are more than entertainment. They provide context, spark curiosity, and help you see the Maldives with fresh eyes. When you arrive, the colors will feel brighter, the conversations richer, and your experiences more meaningful because you’ll already understand what makes these islands special but also fragile.

At Secret Paradise Maldives, we connect you with local communities, guide you through our reefs responsibly, and share the real stories of life in the Maldives. Watch these films, reflect, and then come experience the islands for yourself story by story, island by island and reef by reef.

By taking part, you’ll join marine biologists in the South Ari Marine Protected Area, home to a year-round population of whale sharks with the highest natural residency rate recorded anywhere in the world. Each day you’ll head out on survey trips aboard an accompanying dhoni, help collect valuable data, and play an important role in global whale shark research and conservation, all while travelling responsibly and respecting the Maldivian environment and communities.

WHALE SHARKS & MARINE LIFE

1. What is the best time of year to see a whale shark?

South Ari Atoll hosts a year-round aggregation of whale sharks. According to our data, there is no particular peak season.

2. Will we see a whale shark every day?

Nature is unpredictable. We might spot one, three, or no whale sharks in a day. While sightings are frequent, there are no guarantees.

3. Where does the whale shark data go?

All sightings and photos contribute to local and global whale shark research. This data informs scientific studies and is shared with policymakers to help conserve whale sharks and their habitats. Information that is collected is recorded daily and you will assist in this record keeping exercise. Ultimately, all the data collected across the year goes towards forming an overview of the Maldives whale shark population and can be found in the annual report published by MWSRP. It is also used by the various government bodies of the Maldives and has contributed to the management plan launch of this MPA in 2024 to support protection of the area.

4. Can I measure a whale shark?

Measurement collection is restricted to staff under government permits. Guests can assist with photo ID and other non-invasive tasks.

5. Are there community or educational activities during the cruise?

As we are on board a vessel, community engagement is limited. Staff may arrange beach cleanups during the expedition. Participation is optional but encouraged if physically able.

SNORKELING & FREEDIVING

6. Do I need to be an experienced swimmer for snorkeling?

You should be comfortable and confident in the water, but no SCUBA certification is required. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are provided, and our expert tour leaders monitor safety at all times. The Maldives can experience strong currents, even on the calmest of days and currents may change during a snorkeling activity. It is always possible we may encounter the occasional day of rough seas and therefore an ability to swim unaided is essential.

7. How fit do I need to be for a conservation cruise?

Snorkeling trips usually last around 45 minutes, with options to exit earlier if needed. Access to the boat involves climbing a ladder from the water. The cruise is physical, with lots of swimming and snorkeling, exit from the water and back onto the boat involves a boat ladder and we also cross between our ‘home’ base Akoya Pearl and our dhoni regularly throughout the day. A good level of physical fitness is required.

8. Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

Personal snorkeling equipment is recommended, though limited gear is available for rent if arranged in advance. By bringing along your own mask and snorkel, you be assured your mask fits your face properly and is comfortable and less likely to have leakage, it will also lower any health associated risks.

9. How can I be a responsible traveler on a cruise?

Responsible travel is about enjoying your trip while minimizing your impact on the environment and supporting local communities. On our conservation cruises, you can:
– Take your non-food waste home: Recycling is limited in the Maldives, so please consider taking home plastics, packaging, and batteries.
– Respect marine life: Follow your tour leaders’ instructions when snorkeling and avoid touching or disturbing coral and marine-life.
– Support local culture: Engage respectfully with island communities and respect local customs.
– Use water and resources wisely: conserve water and energy onboard whenever possible.
By following these simple steps, you help protect the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystem and contribute to sustainable tourism.

10. How many snorkels will we do each day?

This depends on whale shark sightings and sea conditions. Typically, snorkels last 30–45 minutes.

11. If I’m a freediver, can I wear a weight belt?

Non-staff participants are not permitted to wear weight belts for safety reasons, regardless of skill level or certification.

ONBOARD EXPERIENCE

12. What key items should I pack?

A reuseable water bottle and plenty of reef friendly sunscreen. Light clothing casual comfortable clothing, plenty of swimwear, and rash vest for sun protection. Shoes are not required, a barefoot experience onboard is encouraged. Rinse feet before boarding.

13. How many guests will be onboard at a time?

The maximum number of guests is 10, supported by 2 in-water staff and 6–8 boat crew including a chef.

14. Are towels, bedding, or sleeping bags provided?

Towels (beach and bath) and bedding are provided.

15. Do cabins have en-suite bathrooms? 

All cabins have their own private ensuite shower, wash basin and toilet.

16. Is there a toilet and shower on the dhoni?

A marine toilet is available. There is a hand-held shower available to rinse off salt after swimming.

17. Is laundry service available onboard?

There is no laundry service. Guests may wash items in the cabin sink using their own ocean friendly detergent if needed.

18. Will there be internet onboard?

There is no Wi-Fi on the dhoni. Mobile data is available in South Ari Atoll, but connectivity may be poor during inter-atoll crossings. Tourist SIM cards can be purchased at the airport.

19. Can dietary requirements or allergies be accommodated?

Yes, we can accommodate dietary requirements and allergies. However, please note that the menu options on board may be more limited than what you’re used to due to supplies to the Maldives. For sustainability reasons, we do not serve beef or imported seafood; all meals are prepared using local, seasonal ingredients.

20. What type of luggage should I use?

We recommend soft luggage or backpacks, though hard cases can also be used. There is sufficient storage space in the cabins for your belongings, so you don’t need to pack excessively.

21. What type of electrical sockets are available on board?

The boat is fitted with international sockets, so most plugs can be used without an adapter.

22. Is the boat noisy at night?

TAs with all vessels, some level of noise is unavoidable. There is always one generator running to provide air conditioning, lighting, and keep freezers operational. Being a traditional wooden boat with cabins close to the waterline, you may also notice gentle movement and the occasional creak of the wood. Most guests quickly adjust to these background sounds, which become part of the authentic small-ship experience.

23. Is smoking allowed?

Smoking is prohibited in cabins, bathrooms, the lounge, kitchen, and open-air communal areas. There is a smoking area located at the bow of the vessel. Please ensure butts are disposed of responsibly in the containers provided.

24. How do I pay onboard?

Payment onboard is in cash (USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa). In Male, credit cards, USD, and local currency are widely accepted. ATMs are available in Hulhumale and the airport (local currency dispensed only).

25. What about tipping?

Tipping is an important way to show appreciation for the crew’s hard work, attentive service, and dedication to making your experience memorable. As a guideline, budget around $10-$20 per day per guest for the boat crew tip, which is collected at the end of the cruise.

HEALTH & SAFETY

26. What if there is an accident?

Accidents are rare. Follow the guidelines shared by your Tour Leader. Stay alongside your snorkel buddy, and move around the boat with care. We carry emergency equipment, medical oxygen, and have access to local island health clinics. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Accompanying Secret Paradise Maldives Tour Leaders are EFR and Lifeguard certified.

27. Does the boat carry medical supplies?

Yes, boats have first aid kits. Guests should also bring personal remedies (e.g., motion sickness tablets, after-sun lotion, band aids).

28. Do I need to sign a health and safety waiver?

Yes. All participants are required to sign a health and safety waiver before the cruise. This ensures that you have read and understood the risks associated with onboard and water activities.

29. What safety measures are in place onboard?

Be cautious of tripping, slipping, or falling while the boat is in motion. Use handrails and move carefully. Stow belongings securely. Take motion sickness medication if needed. Stay hydrated and eat regularly to avoid exhaustion.

30. What precautions should I take in the water?

Skin diving and swimming carry risks, including fatigue, injury from marine life, or, in rare cases, drowning. Swim with marine life respectfully and maintain distance. Always follow your in-water guide and maintain visual/verbal contact. Be aware of other vessels and surroundings. Enter the water only when instructed after the safety briefing.

31. What if I have medical conditions?

Disclose all medical conditions fully on your booking form. Basic first aid is available onboard and health clinics are available on nearby local islands.

32. Are there risks for shore-based activities?

Yes. Risks include accidental injury, dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and mosquito-borne illnesses. We recommend that you wear suitable clothing and footwear. Use reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Ready to Join the Research Team?

Becoming part of an MWSRP research expedition isn’t just a trip it’s an opportunity to contribute to global whale shark conservation, and experience the Maldives in a way few travellers ever do.  If you’re ready to combine adventure with purpose, secure your spot with a $500 deposit here.

How will you challenge yourself to travel more sustainably this year?

CHALLENGE THE NORM

​Questioning the status quo doesn’t just protect the environment—it creates ripple effects that benefit​ o​ur oceans and islands, as well as future travelers. Challenge the norm by setting a higher standard for tourism, supporting businesses that genuinely care for the environment, and ​a​re active participants in preserving the Maldives’ natural beauty.

Your thoughtful actions help maintain the ecological balance, safeguard marine life, and ensure that the Maldives remains a paradise for future generations to enjoy. Responsible travel isn’t just a trend—it’s a commitment to creating a better world through mindful choices. Follow marine life ​code of conducts maintaining a respectful distance from marine animals, ​follow the Green Fins Snorkeling Guidelines avoiding contact with corals and using reef-safe sunscreen​. Choose ethical ​activity operators that enforce no-touch policies​ and remember that feeding marine​-life is both illegal ​in the Maldives and disruptive to the natural behavior​ of marine-life.​ Support certified sustainable operators engaged in initiatives like coral reef restoration and community projects. By embracing these practices, you’re not just a visitor—you’re a steward of the Maldives’ fragile ecosystems and vibrant culture.

If you notice others, including ​​excursion operators, disregarding these guidelines—such as feeding wildlife or damaging coral reefs—politely but firmly raise your concerns. Engaging respectfully in these situations can educate others and reinforce the importance of sustainable practices. By speaking up you help foster a culture of accountability and responsible tourism.

EXPLORE FOR LONGER

A longer stay is not only more cost-effective but also a more sustainable way to travel. Longer vacations help offset the carbon emissions associated with flying by making the most of your trip and minimizing the need for frequent air travel. By staying longer, you also have the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich culture, natural beauty, and diverse experiences the Maldives has to offer.

If an extended resort stay feels out of reach financially, you can stretch your budget by combining it with affordable local experiences. Spend part of your trip in a guesthouse ​or boutique hotel on a local island, where you’ll have the chance to connect with the community​ and gain a different perspective on Maldivian life—all at a fraction of the cost of luxury resorts. Alternatively, you could join a group tour or a local cruise, which often provide both affordability and opportunities for shared experiences with like-minded travelers.

A longer stay also allows you to explore more of the Maldives’ incredible archipelago, going beyond just one island. Island hopping is a fantastic way to experience the unique character of each island, from ​l​ocal communities​ and history, to ​t​ropical forests, mangroves and beautiful beaches. Public ferries offer an affordable and authentic way to travel between islands, giving you the chance to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. In the northern and southern atolls, the Regional Transport Link (RTL) speedboat network provides ​a budget-friendly alternative for exploring ​t​hese further afield atolls.

By choosing to stay longer, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel​. Spending more time on each island provides the opportunity to ​c​onnect with culture, the environment, and make the most of your time in ​o​ur paradise home. It’s not just about seeing more—it’s about connecting more, leaving with a richer understanding of the Maldives​.

OPT FOR LOW IMPACT ACTIVITIES

Choosing low-impact activities  but also allows you to connect more deeply with the local environment and culture. By making mindful choices, you can ensure your travels contribute positively to the preservation of this stunning archipelago.

Choose public transportation, such as ferries or shared ​speedboats to minimize carbon emissions. Opt for localized ​experiences within the atoll ​where you are staying rather than inter-atoll journeys, which often involve​ ​long distance, high-emission ​b​oat journeys to popular marine-life hotspots ​where it is likely that the marine encounter may not be positive for you or the megafauna involved. Take the time to explore the reefs and marine life closer to your island​, often, you’ll discover equally mesmerizing underwater wonders while reducing your environmental impact.

​Enjoy ​eco-friendly low-impact activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding​ which allow you to explore calm lagoons and mangroves quietly and without disturbing the natural habitat. Walking or cycling around larger islands is another excellent way to discover local life while leaving a minimal footprint.

For a more meaningful experience, opt for activities that promote learning and conservation. Join guided cultural tours to gain insights into Maldivian traditions, history, and daily life. Participate in educational snorkeling excursions led by knowledgeable guides who can introduce you to the vibrant coral reefs and marine life while emphasizing sustainable snorkeling practices. You can also take your commitment further by helping to restore coral reefs, participating in beach clean-ups, or supporting ​​NGOs who ​s​upport marine life conservation and research.

Choosing low-impact activities not only reduces your carbon footprint ​but helps preserve the natural beauty of the Maldives w​hile enriching your travel experience.

BE PRESENT IN THE MOMENT

Take the chance to really unplug and enjoy the moment. In today’s busy world, we spend so much time looking at screens—whether for work, chatting with friends, or watching shows. Stepping away from screens isn’t just good for your mind; it’s also great for your eyes and your ​w​ell being in general. Even though you might feel the need to capture every moment, you’ll often find it’s more meaningful to just be there in the moment. Instead of grabbing your phone to take a picture of everything, let yourself fully take in what’s around you. Picture walking through a lively market—the smell of spices in the air, the lively voices of sellers, and the bright colors of fresh fruits and vegetables. Or imagine standing on a quiet beach, feeling the warm breeze, listening to the waves, and gazing at the endless ocean.

These experiences are much deeper than anything a photo or video can show. When you put your phone away, you’ll discover​ the richness of the moment and create meaningful memories that last a lifetime. True connection comes not from documenting but from immersing yourself in the present, letting the sights, sounds, and feelings leave a lasting imprint on your heart.

SET TRENDS BY EXPLORING DIFFERENTLY

The Maldives has so much to offer beyond the famous overwater ​v​illas and beautiful beaches​. If you​ are curious and open to new experiences there’s a lot more to explore Choosing to embrace the unexpected and the unfamiliar allows you to engage with the Maldives in a way that is deeply personal and authentic.​ Focus on collecting moments, meals, and stories, not just checking items off a list of popular ​b​ucket list experiences. Seek out off-the-beaten-path ​locations and experiences that resonate with you.

But that balance is now under threat.

In November 2025, the Maldivian government plans to reopen gulper shark fishing and legalise vertical longlining, decisions that could unravel years of ocean conservation progress. These actions risk triggering a cascade of ecological damage that would be difficult, if not impossible, to reverse.

Gulper sharks are among the slowest-reproducing species on Earth. They take more than two decades to mature and give birth to just one or two pups every few years. When gulper shark fisheries last operated in the Maldives, populations collapsed by more than 90% within only a few years — and there is still no evidence of recovery.

Reopening the fishery would bring only temporary gains, but at the cost of long-term environmental harm. Deepwater shark populations could collapse again within a few years, destabilising marine food webs and disrupting the natural movement of nutrients between ocean layers a process vital to the health of the entire marine ecosystem.

The Maldives’ shark sanctuary has been a symbol of environmental leadership and marine resilience. Reversing these protections would not only jeopardise its marine ecosystems but also the ecological legacy that the nation has built.

We share an open letter below, and join the call to protect the Maldives’ oceans for generations to come.

Open Letter to the President of the Maldives, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources and Minister of Tourism and Environment

Sincerely,

WHAT IS A TIPPING POINT?

A tipping point refers to a threshold beyond which an ecosystem experiences irreversible change. In the case of coral reefs, this means that once temperatures rise past a certain level, coral bleaching becomes more frequent and severe, and reefs lose the ability to recover. When this happens, the ecosystem shifts, often permanently, from a healthy coral-dominated system to one overrun by algae or devoid of life-supporting structure.

Currently, we are nearing the 1.5°C warming limit, and scientists state we must remain below 1.2°C to have any hope of preserving the world’s warm-water coral reefs. If temperatures continue to rise, we risk losing all warm water reefs. These ecosystems support  a quarter of all marine life, sustain the livelihoods of millions of people, and contribute billions of dollars to national and global economies.

Tourism plays a significant role in reef health. Anchoring, reclamation & development, marine litter, chemical runoff, and untrained snorkelers and divers contribute to the stress on already fragile ecosystems. However, tourism can also be a driver of reef conservation when supported by education, best practice, and investment.

HOW GREEN FINS IS LEADING RESPONSIBLE MARINE TOURISM

Green Fins, coordinated globally by The Reef-World Foundation, is an initiative focused on reducing the negative environmental impact of marine tourism. By working directly with dive and snorkel operators, it promotes sustainable practices and ensures compliance with environmental standards.

Green Fins currently supports over 1,500 members in 85 countries and Secret Paradise Maldives is proud to be a member. We alongside other members commit to reducing physical damage to reefs, avoiding harmful chemicals, managing waste responsibly, and educating guests on low-impact snorkeling techniques. If you have snorkeled with us you will have received a Green Fins Responsible Briefing prior to getting in the water!

Imagine this:

• Thousands of liters of oil responsibly diverted from our precious marine ecosystems.
• Vast reductions and even the elimination of single-use plastics polluting our shores.
• Minimised contact and damage from divers and snorkelers, in turn protecting delicate coral reefs.
• Eco-friendly alternatives replacing harmful chemical cleaning agents.
• Countless beach and underwater cleanups, restoring beauty and biodiversity.
• The removal of invasive species and a rising tide of ocean conservation awareness.

This isn’t a dream. It’s already happening because of people like you. This is a global movement, a tangible shield protecting the underwater world we all cherish.

But now, that future is at risk.

INVESTING IN OCEAN CONSERVATION

Across the world, funding for environmental initiatives is drying up. Economic uncertainty, rising living costs, volatile markets, and global conflicts are drawing resources away from the environment. As the climate crisis accelerates, financial support for initiatives like Green Fins is being given less priority just when they’re needed most.

Yet the work continues. All around the world, individuals, businesses, and communities are stepping up to support ocean conservation in meaningful ways. Whether through adopting sustainable practices, raising awareness, or offering financial support, every action makes a difference.

For those looking to make a direct impact, contributions to Green Fins help deliver tangible outcomes like:

• £100: Trains five local dive guides in responsible reef practices, reducing unintentional damage from guest interactions.
• £500: Delivers customised sustainability action plans for four local reef-reliant businesses.
• £1,000: Funds infrastructure to eliminate anchor damage in reef areas supporting five communities.
• £5,000: Supports development of a reef-safe tourism strategy in a new tourism site.

These activities aren’t just short-term fixes, they help build long-term resilience and capacity in some of the world’s most popular and vulnerable marine tourism destinations.

WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO YOU?

If you’re planning a snorkeling or diving trip, the condition of the reef directly affects your experience. Healthy reefs support more marine life, better visibility, and more rewarding encounters. Damaged reefs, by contrast, often result in reduced biodiversity, poor water quality, and limited tourism value.

Conservation efforts like Green Fins ensure that tourism remains viable by preserving the very ecosystems you come to enjoy. By donating directly, or by choosing to travel with responsible operators who are Green Fins members, like ourselves, you can help reduce the environmental pressure on reefs.

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT?

Supporting Green Fins and our worldwide coral reefs is simple and meaningful:

• Donate at reef-world.org/donate
• Encourage your excursions centre, dive centre or resort to join the Green Fins network
• Wear only reef safe sunscreen
• Share responsible reef tourism practices with friends and fellow travelers
• Ask your guide how your trip is helping to protect the reef

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?

Coral reef conservation is no longer optional. As environmental tipping points approach, it becomes more urgent to support practical, proven solutions. Green Fins provides a scalable model that links tourism with conservation, offering a pathway to protect coral ecosystems while still enjoying them.

Whether you are  travelling for leisure or operating a marine tourism business, contributing to reef-safe tourism ensures coral reefs can continue to thrive for communities, for biodiversity, and for future generations.

Want to learn more about coral reefs and how to protect them? Join us on our Villimale Eco Walking Tour or An Insight into Marine Conservation Tour and hear from local NGO Save the Beach who are working hard alongside island communities to save Maldives coral reefs.

Happy 17^th Anniversary to Maldives Complete. This has been a bit of a topsy-turvy year for the site. About this time last year I was musing about whether to keep putting in the massive time and money to keep Maldives Complete going (“Should I Keep Maldives Complete Going?”). Then I got a major boost from Siyam who wanted me to come to their two properties, Olhuveli and Siyam World, which gave me the impetus and lots of great content for 2025.

But the news of the year, AI, has appeared to have boosted the site profile big time. After years of gradual increments in traffic, 2025 was record year for the site. Investigating the cause, the major driver appears to be the arrival of the big LLMs like ChatGPT and Copilot. AI devours data ravenously and there is nothing like a Maldives Complete buffet of data with its 2700 posts and unmatched databases. I’ve done a bit of research this year for the site on various Maldives topics and have been using ChatGPT and the like more and more. A bit surprisingly, the engines came back with answers footnoted to the Maldives Complete site as the source. A few other webmasters that I know who have high quality content have also reported getting a big boost in traffic over the same period with similar indicators. One of my challenges is people finding Maldives Complete after all of the commercial sites have paid an arm and a leg for Google ads and SEO to squeeze me out of the search result, but the LLMs appear to be more objective in their looking for relevant content to share (not to mention that the SEO hounds buy the position in line with a only little bit of content, but a lot of selling).

The post Maldives Complete-ly by the Numbers 2025 appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

Maldives Complete has been from its debut a place where I can play with the latest web technologies – Blogs, Active Server Pages, Splash, Dynamic HTML, DeepZoom. When Instagram took off about a decade ago inflecting the social media craze especially in the travel arena and photographic media, I figured I would to experiment with it and see what it had to offer the online landscape and experience. What content could it help me with for the site? What could I curate? It did provide an unprecedented flood of Maldives images which I started curating in the Listicles (another trend peaking at the time with sites like BuzFeed). Quickly, Insta became dominated by scantily clad (naturally for the tropics) pretty faces (most of whom women though I did ferret out and showcase a number of male ‘influencer’ wannabes). After a while, the novelty new imagery wore off and I stopped featuring Instagram collections on the blog.

Maldives Complete does have its own Instagram feed, but I don’t put hardly anything on it. Only a few of my very faourite pictures. People sometimes ask me why I am not more active on this social medium. I do continue to monitor the geotag “Maldives” daily to see if anything interested gets posted, but I’ve got even more disenchanted of late where this tag is less about the destination and more about the posing content creator. The “model” in the shots is not a personal touch to the depiction of the place, but rather the front-and-center focus pushing the destination far into the background. Just this week, 26 of the top 27 featured posts are bikinis (including the top 9). Wondering if this wasn’t just the Facebook algorithm pandering to its expected preferences of a middle-aged bloke, but I checked my wife Lori’s computer and her feed fed up the same geotag posts. Unfortunately, this platform is becoming more self-absorbedly focused on the poster than the subject which is less interesting to me.

The post Social Tedium appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

As I noted in my review, the increasing costs and challenges of maintaining the Maldives Complete website brings the second most frequently asked question once again to the fore…”Why do I do it?” Well, Seth Godin, a fellow blogger with regular insights into this question shared another recently:

• “Our biggest commitments, the things we are most dedicated to, rarely pay us back in equal measure. That might be the point.” Seth Godin

The post Reciprocity appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

27 years coming to the Maldives and still there are things I’ve seen online and elsewhere in my travel that would seem to be right at home in the Maldives, but I have seen them there yet.

Custom Cocktails – Also, could be called “Drink Designer”. This inspired approach to mixology was something that we discovered at “Bar Stories” in Singapore. There is NO cocktail menu. Instead, the mixologist talks with you at your table as you describe the general characteristics of the cocktail you imagine. My brief was “I want a pina colada that’s not a pina colada. I like my cocktails super cold, fruit and a bit exotic.” [video above]

Blue Murano Glass – These Murano glass beads seem ideal to evoke the aquatic aesthetic.

Electric Hydrofoil – Maker Candela has even specially targeted the Maldives.

Floating Villas – In a destination where so much floats and its signature lodging is water villas, it does seem to be overdue for one of these floating villas. A few resorts have boats that have been modified as lodging, but nothing quite so villa-like as these. The New York Times featured a collection of them recently – https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/10/travel/floating-hotels-resorts.html (paywalled). (thanks Lori)

Underwater Garden – A true octopus’s garden under the sea.

Micro Seaplane – In a country famed for its seaplanes, this seems like a distinctive option for a local aerial tour.

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Food Art – More food art ideas in Instagram…

Folded Fried Egg – Egg stations are perhaps the most common staple or the breakfast buffets and this technique elevate their fare to the distinctive.

The post Haven’t Seen Yet #23 appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

One of my “Haven’t Seen Yet” piece was a golf hole hitting over the water from one island to another (Haven’t Seen Yet #11 – Maldives Complete Blog, item #16). The signature hole of Jawakara’s executive course is an island green, but instead of it being from one island to another, it is on island within another.

The post Best of the Maldives: Golf Hole – Jawakara appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

The Maldives is not only one of the best places in the world to snorkel, but at Siyam World it is now definitely, verifiably the biggest place in the world to snorkel:

• “Siyam World, together with Free Dive Maldives, officially set the Guinness World Record for the most people snorkelling simultaneously at a single venue on 5 December 2025, with an incredible 307 participants joining our “Snorkel World 300” event.”

The post Best of the Maldives: Snorkeling Record – Siyam World appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

Santa might be delivering Christmas goodies to all the good little girls and boys tonight, but “DJ” delivers ice cream goodies to everyone all the time at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. He pedals around the property full-time to make sure that a tasty, cold treat is always on hand for the guests. Merry Christmas!

The post Best of the Maldives: Ice Cream Bike – Sun Siyam Olhuveli appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

As we are halfway through the 12 days of Christmas, its famous musical namesake mentions 184 birds including goose, calling birds, French hens, swans an of course the eponymous partridge…but no ducks. But the place you will find an even more extensive collection of ducks is at Siyam World’s animal sanctuary. In fact, Siyam World is a haven for injured and otherwise vulnerable individuals as a bit of a ‘duck rescue’ (see photo below).

Fun Fact – The word for such a group of ducks varies depending on their activity:

• Waking – flock
• Swimming – puddle
• Swimming in formation – raft
• Flying in a group – team
• Flying in formation – skein
• Large group – armada
• Baby ducks – badling or brood
• Two – brace

The post Best of the Maldives: Ducks – Siyam World appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

Meyyafushi’s new Overwater Padel Tennis Court might be the most neo-Maldivian feature in a long time – a trendy activity placed overwater:

• “The World’s first fixed Overwater Padel Tennis Court. Set above crystal clear lagoons where the sunsets paint the sky, this architectural masterpiece invites guests to play, rejuvenate, and connect in one unforgettable setting, surrounded by panoramic views and the soothing embrace of the ocean.”

The post Best of the Maldives: Overwater Padel Tennis – Meyyafushi appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

Ducks aren’t the large bird collection at Siyam World as they also boast over a dozen colorful macaws in their animal sanctuary.

The post Best of the Maldives: Macaws – Siyam World appeared first on Maldives Complete Blog.

This Valentine’s Day, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort invites couples to celebrate love through a collection of carefully curated experiences designed to unfold in intimate moments across the island.

Framed by the natural beauty of Maamunagau Island, the resort’s Valentine’s programme centres on a series of limited-edition dining and wellness experiences created exclusively for the occasion. From private beachfront dining and moonlit dinners along Café Umi Beach to an elevated Valentine’s evening at the signature Lighthouse venue, romance is conveyed through setting, atmosphere and thoughtful detail rather than elaborate gestures.

Culinary experiences sit at the heart of the celebration, with bespoke Valentine’s menus intended to be savoured slowly, paired with curated wines and accompanied by uninterrupted ocean views. Each dining experience is crafted to feel personal, whether enjoyed beneath the night sky or in one of the island’s more private spaces.

Beyond dining, couples are encouraged to reconnect through shared wellness experiences at AVI Spa. Signature rituals and indulgent treatments offer a quieter expression of romance, giving guests the opportunity to unwind together in a calm, oceanfront environment. Those seeking complete privacy may opt for bespoke in-villa treatments, allowing the occasion to be marked within the comfort of their own surroundings.

Throughout Valentine’s Day, subtle touches across the resort—from crafted cocktails to curated wine moments—enhance the celebration without overwhelming it, reflecting InterContinental Maldives’ belief that genuine luxury is rooted in balance, intention and authenticity.

At InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, Valentine’s Day is shaped not by excess, but by considered, enduring moments that create shared memories long after the day has passed.

Niyama Private Islands Maldives now offers what is considered the most luxurious surf experience in the Maldives, enhanced by the introduction of its new Surf Shack — a stylish beachfront hangout serving gourmet bites, drinks, sunset views and lively parties.

Known as Nature’s Playground, the resort has long attracted surf professionals from around the globe. Located in the southern Maldives, where swells are at their strongest, it is a preferred base during peak surf season. Waves break directly on shore, with additional surf spots accessible within minutes by speedboat.

Niyama’s signature waves roll in at Vodi Point, situated on the westernmost tip of its twin islands. It is here that the resort has unveiled the new Surf Shack, designed to make time off the waves equally appealing. The thatched-roof venue encourages a barefoot, relaxed atmosphere, offering an upper deck for sunset viewing and picnic-style seating below. Reflecting Niyama’s sustainability ethos, Area Chief of Engineering Michael Patrick Slevin notes that 75 per cent of construction materials were repurposed, blending beach casual with environmentally conscious design.

Guests can enjoy gourmet dishes served from service windows, with a menu inspired by iconic surf destinations worldwide: Australian fish and chips, Indonesian satay, Mexican nachos and Japanese takoyaki. The drinks list pays tribute to rum, featuring an extensive collection and signature cocktails inspired by renowned surf breaks.

While the Surf Shack maintains a laidback feel during the day, the beachfront transforms at dusk as the tides shift and the DJ elevates the atmosphere. The resort’s rum and reggae Sundays have already become a celebrated weekly event.

Surfers at Niyama can design their days as they wish — chasing waves or relaxing ashore. The Surf Centre offers equipment and guidance, while Drift by Niyama provides recovery treatments to soothe muscles, repair sun-exposed skin and restore energy. Resident professional surfers remain available to advise on technique and wave conditions.

“The new Surf Shack forms part of the renewed Niyama experience, which includes significant refurbishments across the resort, inventive culinary additions and a greater emphasis on active living and wellness,” said Hafidh Al Busaidy, General Manager of Niyama Private Islands Maldives. “With more developments on the way, we look forward to sharing what comes next.”

This festive season, SO/ Maldives set the stage for a truly cinematic celebration as Bollywood actors Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal arrived in style, making a dazzling red‑carpet entry that set the tone for an unforgettable island experience.

Welcomed amidst flashing lights, island beats, and an electric festive atmosphere, the couple’s red carpet arrival marked the beginning of a glamorous seasonal escape. Framed by turquoise lagoons and pristine white-sand beaches, the moment perfectly blended Bollywood star power with the playful, high-fashion spirit that defines SO/ Maldives’ festive celebrations.

A perennial favourite on the Indian seasonal travel map, the Maldives once again lived up to its reputation as the ultimate festive getaway. During their stay, Sonakshi and Zaheer embraced the full spectrum of island indulgence from immersive Maldivian festive traditions and glamorous gala evenings to exhilarating diving adventures, exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Indian Ocean.

The festive programme at SO/ Maldives unfolded through a series of standout moments, with the duo joining guests for signature island rituals, exclusive celebrations, and high-energy events that flowed effortlessly from day to night. Whether beneath the stars at the festive gala or beneath the waves while diving, every experience reflected a celebration without limits.

“Maldives has always been on my festive travel list, and celebrating the season at SO/ Maldives made it truly exceptional,” shared Sonakshi. “From the Red Carpet welcome to the warmth of the traditions, the diving experiences, and the vibrant events, every moment felt special and memorable.”

Known for its vibrant design, creative energy, and statement celebrations, SO/ Maldives continues to attract global tastemakers and Bollywood icons seeking a destination that seamlessly blends luxury with personality. This festive season, the resort once again redefined island glamour proving that the red carpet doesn’t belong only to cities, but also to paradise.

For more information or to book your perfect festive getaway, please visit so-maldives.com or contact [email protected].

Ifuru Island Maldives has introduced a refreshed collection of Day Visit and Day Use experiences, inviting guests to enjoy the island’s signature energy, flavour, and freedom without an overnight stay.

Designed for locals, travellers, and island-hoppers seeking an effortless escape, the new range of Ifuru Day Escapes blends beachside relaxation, poolside indulgence, and curated dining moments, all set against the island’s vibrant and social atmosphere.

From relaxed mornings by the sea to golden-hour cocktails and sunset dining, each experience has been crafted to capture the spirit of Ifuru: playful, generous, and unapologetically fun.

Guests can choose from five distinct experiences, each offering a different rhythm of island life.

The Barefoot Beach Escape invites guests to slow down at the Beach Club with unlimited soft drinks, snacks, and sea views, perfect for a laid-back coastal day.

For those drawn to the pool, the Poolside Pleasure Pass combines unlimited pizza, soft drinks, and a hearty buffet lunch at Social House, ideal for sunseekers who like their days delicious.

Turning up the indulgence, Sip, Swim & Surrender offers unlimited cocktails alongside pool access and all-day dining, encouraging guests to fully let go of the clock.

Adventure lovers can opt for the Island Explorer Experience, blending pool time with Beach Club access, non-motorised water sports, snorkelling, and unlimited dining and drinks, delivering a full taste of Ifuru’s playful energy.

For couples or friends, The Ultimate Ifuru Escape offers the complete experience for two, combining all inclusions into one seamless, shared day of island indulgence. Sunset Worth Staying For

To complete the experience, Ifuru Island also introduces Sunset Indulgence at Waterfront, an evening dining journey featuring a five-course à la carte menu with unlimited cocktails and wines, served as the sun melts into the horizon.

“With these new day experiences, we wanted to open the doors wider to Ifuru,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager. “Whether you’re joining us for a few hours or staying from morning to sunset, this is about feeling the island’s rhythm, enjoying great food, and leaving with memories that linger.”

All Day Visit packages are available daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with the Waterfront dinner experience available from 18:00 to 22:00.

Reethi Faru Resort recently welcomed Magda Linette, a Top 20 professional tennis player, who selected the island resort as her training retreat while preparing for the Australian Open and the forthcoming tennis season. Away from the competitive spotlight, Linette utilised the resort’s private and tranquil setting, where expansive beaches, clear lagoon waters, and discreet luxury provided an environment conducive to both focused preparation and recovery.

Throughout her stay, Linette combined intensive training sessions with periods of rest, making use of the resort’s calm surroundings and seclusion. The natural setting of the Maldives offered an effective backdrop for physical conditioning and mental focus, supporting her preparations ahead of the season’s first Grand Slam tournament.

Known for its emphasis on privacy, understated luxury, and an authentic island atmosphere, Reethi Faru Resort continues to attract elite athletes seeking a destination that supports peak performance while delivering a refined island experience. The resort extended its best wishes to Linette as she progresses through the upcoming tennis season.

Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort will host Your Paradise Maldives from 11 to 16 May 2026, as the boutique, destination-led Your Paradise music festival makes its Maldives debut with a curated roster of global electronic tastemakers. Marking the resort’s inaugural music festival, the award-winning Avani+ Fares Maldives sets the stage for a lifestyle-led escape that pairs sun-soaked sets with easy-going island living.

Designed around the island’s natural rhythm, Your Paradise – with past editions in Fiji and a strong international following – will unfold across a series of open-air stages and social spaces, shifting from golden-hour sets by the lagoon to pop-up beach parties and after-dark sessions with seamless transitions from day to night.

The phase one line-up features Ayybo, Arielle Free, Coco & Breezy, Double Touch, Jordan Brando & William Kiss, Low Steppa, Melé, Niiko x Swae, Sarah Story, Sasha Spielberg, Tom & Collins and Tori Levett, with further names to be announced. Delivering everything from feel-good house through to deeper club sounds, the festival is a limited-ticket experience with dedicated travel packages available.

Set on the natural island of Fares on the western edge of Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is ideal for festival crews, solo travellers and couples, with a mix of Beach Pool Villas and Over Water Villas, plus Two and Four-Bedroom Pavilions for groups of up to eight. For those going all in, the resort also offers two 287 sqm Two-Bedroom Overwater Pool Residences and a 368 sqm Three-Bedroom Overwater Pool Residence, each with an oversized terrace, infinity pool and seamless indoor-outdoor dining made for a private after-party. For sundowners with a local twist, the resort’s Ambaa Adventure sees a traditional dhoni cruise the lagoon, delivering handcrafted cocktails and mocktails direct to guests’ overwater pool decks.

Between sets, guests can lean into island life with watersports, diving and snorkelling on the house reef, then reset with sunrise yoga and meditation at AvaniFit and post-party recovery at AvaniSpa. The resort also offers easy access to the atoll’s marine highlights, including Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s most celebrated manta ray hotspots.

Avani+ Fares has built strong momentum since opening in 2023, named Best Beach Resort 2025 at the TTM Awards, following its Best Dive Resort win in 2024, with General Manager Judd Rabbidge recognised as Resort Manager of the Year 2025 at the Global Hospitality ON Awards.

Rates for Your Paradise Maldives start from USD 2,599 per person, with solo, couple and group packages available. Each package includes five nights at Avani+ Fares Maldives on a half board basis, main stage performances and exclusive parties, as well as group yoga and meditation sessions. For more information and to book, visit www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives, email [email protected] or call +960 660 1660.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort welcomed 2026 with an extraordinary festive season inspired by the mysteries of the ocean, culminating in a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration themed “Atlantis: The Lost Kingdom.” Set against the turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the resort transformed into a world of myth, artistry, and immersive island experiences.

Throughout the festive period, guests were invited to journey through a thoughtfully curated programme that blended refined celebration with meaningful connection. From the ceremonial Christmas Tree Lighting and joyful family moments to hands-on creative workshops, wellness experiences, and ocean-led adventures, the season unfolded as a celebration of togetherness, discovery, and mindful luxury.

The highlight of the festivities arrived on New Year’s Eve, where guests gathered for an elegant cocktail reception followed by a grand gala dinner beneath the stars. Inspired by the mythical splendour of Atlantis, the evening featured captivating live performances, artistic choreography, and immersive entertainment that brought the underwater legend to life. As midnight approached, the shoreline became the stage for a breath-taking starlit drone show, illuminating the night sky and marking the arrival of the New Year in radiant style.

Wellness and creativity were also woven seamlessly into the programme, with visiting specialists offering personalised movement sessions, celestial journeys under the night sky, and ocean-inspired art experiences that invited guests to slow down, reconnect, and create lasting memories.

Reflecting InterContinental Maldives’ commitment to True Hospitality for Good, the festive celebrations honoured both indulgence and intention, bringing guests together in a setting where celebration, nature, and storytelling coexist in perfect harmony.

As the final moments of the festive season faded into golden island mornings, Maamunagau stood as a place where meaningful experiences, shared joy, and timeless memories defined the start of a new year.

Huvafen Maldives is hosting an extraordinary wine experience in collaboration with Riedel, the world-renowned Austrian glassware company, led by 11th-generation CEO Maximilian J. Riedel. The exclusive event will take place in Vinum, Huvafen’s underground wine cellar – the first of its kind in the Maldives – offering guests a uniquely immersive setting to explore the art of wine enjoyment.

Over two evenings, Maximilian J. Riedel, the eleventh generation of family owned company RIEDEL, will personally guide an intimate group of guests through a sensory tasting of iconic wines using four distinct glasses from the RIEDEL Veloce collection, highlighting how the shape and size of each glass considerably influences aroma, texture and flavour – a hallmark of Riedel’s renowned approach to wine enjoyment.

Carrying forward a remarkable family legacy, Maximilian leads the Austrian glassware company with great success and a keen spirit for the Zeitgeist. He continues to redefine the so called Riedel Wine Glass Experience. Each year, these comparative tastings inspire, educate, and entertain more than 50,000 participants all over the world.

“Maximilian Riedel’s expertise brings an extraordinary dimension to wine enjoyment,” said General Manager, Noel Cameron. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our philosophy of curating unforgettable, refined experiences for our guests, where every detail, from the wine to the glass, is considered.”

“A glass can make the wine shine or destroy its magic. This is why we at Riedel offer exclusively functional tools. Their only purpose is to support and present the wine in its best possible way,” said Maximilian Riedel. “I am looking very much forward to demonstrate which enormous difference glasses make, in this extraordinary underground setting of Huvafen Fushi. Guests will experience and enjoy how the functional glasses enhance their wine enjoyment.”

For reservations or to explore exclusive packages, please contact the resort’s reservations team at [email protected].

Amilla Maldives welcomed the New Year with Around the World in Wonder, a globally inspired celebration beneath the Maldivian night sky.

The evening began with Around the World in a Glass, a beachfront cocktail journey with flavours from across the globe. A gourmet dinner buffet followed under the stars, each dish reflecting Amilla’s signature artistry. During the evening, Morgan Martinello, General Manager of Amilla Maldives, addressed the island with a warm welcome, sharing a few words of gratitude and reflection to set the tone for the night ahead.

The main stage, set over the pool, became the heart of the night bringing together an international line-up of performers. World rhythms flowed through the evening with DJ Elaiva, layered with vibrant saxophone interludes by Sharif and live sets from Australia’s Hamilton Band. Visual theatre unfolded around the stage as acrobats, aerialists and fire-led performances by Fiesta Creations brought movement and light, while cultural dance moments gently invited guests to join in. Throughout the night, Sid, the emcee, guided the celebration with warmth and an easy charm.

As midnight approached, the Hamilton Band led the countdown. Fireworks lit the sky above the lagoon, adding a dazzling finale to fire-lit performances and marking the arrival of 2026.

The celebration flowed into the early hours at Tessera, where DJ Kushan kept the rhythm alive, letting guests move seamlessly between music, conversation, and quiet moments by the sea.

Amilla Maldives’ Around the World in Wonder offered immersive, elegant, and personalised luxury, setting the tone for a year of connection, discovery, and island magic.

Swedish singer and songwriter Zara Larsson ushered in the New Year with a live performance at JOALI Maldives, marking the arrival of 2026 with an evening that blended international pop with Maldivian cultural expression.

Larsson performed as part of the resort’s New Year celebrations, held on 1 January 2026, delivering a set that included her fan-favourite track Symphony. A defining moment of the night saw the artist take to the stage wearing a traditional Maldivian feyli—a black-and-white striped sarong that holds cultural significance in the Maldives—adding a local touch to the festivities.

JOALI Maldives shared images and video highlights of the performance across its official social media channels, showing Larsson engaging with guests against the backdrop of the resort’s New Year programme. The singer also posted clips from her stay and celebrations on her own Instagram account, offering followers a glimpse into her Maldivian holiday.

Known for chart-topping tracks such as Lush Life and Never Forget You, as well as collaborations including This One Is for You and Ruin My Life, Larsson continues to enjoy strong global recognition. Her most recent single, Midnight Sun, was released in June 2025.

The New Year performance at JOALI Maldives adds to the resort’s growing profile as a destination for high-profile cultural and entertainment experiences, bringing together international artists and local traditions to mark key moments in the global festive calendar.

In the heart of the Maldives, love finds its true rhythm. At Milaidhoo, a sanctuary for couples of all ages, romance isn’t forced, it’s allowed to unfold naturally. Whether you’re beneath a blanket of stars, beside the gentle waves of the ocean or in the peace of your own private hideaway, each moment is designed to help you reconnect with yourself, your partner and the unspoiled nature that surrounds you.

This Valentine’s, Milaidhoo invites you to write your own love story through an exclusive collection of experiences, each crafted to celebrate the beauty of togetherness.

Culinary moments

Lagoon Breakfast

Start your day in the most serene way with an indulgent breakfast served by the ocean, right in front of your villa. The soft morning light, calm waters and a bottle of Ruinart Rosé set the perfect tone for a day of love.

Chocolate-Making Class

Indulge your senses in a private chocolate-making experience with our talented pastry chef. Learn the art of crafting delicate chocolates, paired with M. Chapoutier Banyuls Bila-Haut Rimage for the perfect finish.

Sandbank Picnic

Escape to a secluded sandbank for a romantic picnic, complete with gourmet delights, chilled rosé and breathtaking views of the endless horizon.

Valentine’s Beach Dinner on 14th February 2026

Let the stars be your ceiling as you enjoy a four-course dinner by the ocean. From a 10-rose bouquet to champagne and a romantic flower bath awaiting you back at your villa, every detail is designed to make this night unforgettable.

Ocean Stories

Beneath the Blue

Swim hand-in-hand through the thriving marine world of Milaidhoo’s house reef, where colourful fish and graceful corals create an underwater backdrop for your love story.

Private Cruise on Saima

Set sail aboard Saima, Milaidhoo’s handcrafted Maldivian dhoni, for a private cruise through tranquil waters. The experience can be elevated with champagne and gourmet canapés.

Private Cinema on the Sandbank

Create your own private movie night beneath the stars. Soft sand beneath your feet, your favourite film playing and the ocean as your soundtrack. You can even add dinner to make the evening even more special.

Serenity Spa

Reconnection Ritual

A deeply rejuvenating 120-minute experience designed to bring you closer together. From a mindful arrival ritual to a signature couple’s massage using rose oil and finishing with a moment of recommitment over rosebud tea, this is the ultimate expression of love and connection.

Partner Yoga

Support each other in synchronised yoga poses designed to nurture trust, balance and connection.

Couples Floating Sound Bath

Float on warm waters as the soothing sounds of singing bowls and gongs deepen your connection, helping you to harmonise body, mind and spirit.

At Milaidhoo, Valentine’s isn’t just a day, it’s a feeling that lingers in every experience, every moment and every sunset. Amidst turquoise waters, white sands and the gentle hum of island life, couples are invited to slow down and rediscover what truly matters.

This Valentine’s, let Milaidhoo be the island where your love story is written.

The festive season at Dhigali Maldives concluded on a vibrant and memorable note, offering guests a series of celebrations that blended tradition, creativity, and island spirit. From a uniquely Maldivian take on Santa’s arrival to thematic experiences inspired by the elements, the resort transformed into a setting designed for joy and togetherness.

Christmas Eve brought guests to Capers, where a traditional buffet featuring a wide range of global flavours was accompanied by live music that set the festive tone. On Christmas Day, Santa Claus made his entrance not by sleigh but aboard a traditional bokkura, a gesture that delighted families gathered along the shoreline.

In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, Dhigali Maldives presented a programme themed around “The Four Elements of Nature.” The series began on 27 December with Earth, featuring a jungle trail, grounded yoga sessions, and spa treatments. On 28 December, the celebrations moved to East for Water, highlighted by a floating bar and zorb ball acrobats performing across the pool. Air followed on 29 December with an aerial silk performance on the beach, and Fire brought the energy to a peak on 30 December with traditional Bodu Beru drumming and a fire dance illuminating the night sky.

The festivities culminated on New Year’s Eve at East Beach, where all four elements converged for an immersive celebration. Fire dancers, live performers, and a pyrotechnic display lit up the sky in vibrant colours. Hungarian DJ Regán Lili headlined the night with a set described as electric, her soundscapes resonating across the island and drawing guests to the dance floor as they welcomed the new year. It marked a striking finale to a season of celebration at Dhigali Maldives.

Machchafushi Island Resort and Spa Maldives, part of the Centara Collection, offers an authentic Maldivian island experience that blends exceptional hospitality with dedicated environmental stewardship. Throughout the year, the resort reinforces its commitment to biodiversity protection, marine conservation, waste reduction, water management, and sustainable food practices, inviting guests to enjoy a meaningful holiday that creates lasting memories while making a positive impact.

Last year, the resort’s dedication to coral restoration and reef conservation has produced tangible results. Between March and November, the team planted five coral frames, each containing 80 coral fragments, restoring 20 to 25 square metres of reef. Throughout the year, a total of 35 frames in the coral nursery were monitored and nurtured, supporting the growth and survival of new coral fragments. With a 70% coral fragment survival rate, the resort actively cares for the surrounding lagoon, home to dozens of marine species. Guests can participate in these initiatives through coral gardening activities. In addition, guests contribute to the island’s reforestation efforts, supporting the national vision of planting five million trees across the Maldives by 2029, reflecting a long-term commitment to the environment. Programs such as World Coastal Cleanup Day include collaboration with the Dhangethi Island Council on tree planting initiatives, further strengthening environmental stewardship.

Keeping the seas clean remains a top priority, with regular lagoon clean-ups helping to preserve the pristine waters. Over 25 kilograms of mixed waste were removed during a recent clean-up, ensuring the lagoon remains vibrant and healthy. On land, responsible waste management practices include paper straws, bamboo cutlery, and reusable water bottles, eliminating single-use plastics entirely. Between January and October 2025, the resort recycled 6,305 kilograms of glass, 6,325 kilograms of plastic, and 5,795 kilograms of metal, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

Water conservation is another key focus, with the resort’s Reverse Osmosis Plant producing 420 tons per 24 hours and daily water usage averaging 220 litres per guest. Reuse and recycling initiatives have grown significantly, with 3,000 cubic metres of water reused and 3,932 cubic metres recycled between January and October 2025, compared to 150 and 607 cubic metres in the previous year. Sustainable food practices are prioritised, with hydroponically grown produce including a variety of fruits, herbs, and vegetables accounting for 7 percent of onsite sourcing.

Sustainability is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the guest experience. From overwater villas overlooking crystal-clear lagoons to immersive opportunities in marine and island conservation, guests can connect deeply with the natural beauty of the Maldives while making a positive impact. The island offers a truly authentic experience, where each moment is meaningful, and every encounter draws visitors closer to the sea, the land, and the thriving ecosystem.

Rainwater is carefully collected and stored, with both rainwater and treated water from the Sewage Treatment Plant efficiently used to irrigate gardens, nourishing plants while conserving freshwater resources. Lighting along the overwater walkways is fully powered by solar energy, reducing carbon footprint and reliance on conventional electricity.

Organic waste generated on-site is converted into rich, organic fertiliser through a composting system, which nourishes cultivated crops and garden plants while supporting sustainable agriculture in the surrounding community through donations to local farmers.

Within the villas, environmentally conscious choices are implemented, such as ceramic soap dispensers for guest amenities to minimise single-use plastics. Water boilers integrated with air conditioning units equipped with heat pump systems enable efficient production of hot water while optimising energy use.

Through these combined efforts, the resort not only minimises its environmental impact but also nurtures a lasting connection between guests, the community, and the natural world, creating experiences that are both memorable and responsible.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has launched its 2026 Masters of Crafts season with a sound-and-motion duo featuring singer-songwriter Madison McFerrin and movement therapist Jacy Cunningham, Founder of the Jacy Method. Their joint residency will take place from 19 to 26 January, opening the resort’s annual programme that highlights distinguished talent across diverse creative and wellness disciplines. This edition is set to offer guests a blend of transformative fitness experiences and intimate musical performances.

Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Madison McFerrin brings her genre-blending sound to the Maldives, weaving neo-soul, R&B, and jazz-inspired harmonies into a personal and expressive musical journey. She will perform at a sunset concert at the Beach Shack on 22 January, followed by a candlelit performance under the stars at Mystique Garden on 23 January. Her residency will conclude with a Morning Coffee Session at The Ritz-Carlton Estate on 25 January, where the poolside deck of the four-bedroom beach residence will provide an elegant setting for a calm and uplifting start to the day.

Movement therapist Jacy Cunningham returns to the resort for his second Masters of Crafts appearance. He will lead four HIIT classes inspired by athletic conditioning, functional movement, and mindful breathwork. Designed to suit all fitness levels, the sessions aim to energise the body, restore balance, and strengthen the connection between mind and movement. The programme begins on 22 January with Resilience and Flow, a sunrise HIIT session on Recreation Beach. On 23 January, guests can join Igniting Inner Strength at Mystique Garden, followed by Lightness and Freedom on 24 January in the natural surroundings of Uthuru Garden. The series concludes on 25 January with Stability and Strength, a HIIT fusion class held within The Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Oscar Postma, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Madison McFerrin and to welcome back Jacy Cunningham to our Masters of Crafts programme. Their commitment to artistic expression, movement, and wellbeing provides guests with a rare chance to connect meaningfully with both craft and nature.”

Set against the tranquil landscape of the North Malé Atoll, the residency invites guests on a sensory journey shaped by music, movement, and the surrounding natural environment. It offers an opportunity to depart feeling both renewed and inspired, with lasting impressions of experiences rooted in harmony with the Maldives.

The beginning of a new year offers a natural pause for reflection and intention. At Angsana Velavaru, this transition is marked not by haste, but by experiences that honour time, place, and the quiet beauty of island life.

Situated within a wide private lagoon in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru is known for its sense of space, calm, and considered hospitality. As 2026 begins, the resort invites guests to welcome the year through its 101 Things to Do, a curated collection of experiences that emphasise exploration, connection, and balance.

Each activity is created to mirror the rhythm of the island. Mornings may open with gentle movement beside the sea or peaceful moments as the horizon brightens. The lagoon presents opportunities for discovery, from snorkelling and diving among coral reefs to leisurely cruises that reveal the Maldives in its most elemental form. Evenings unfold at a slower pace, shaped by unhurried conversations and lingering sunsets.

Wellbeing remains central to the Angsana Velavaru offering. At Angsana Spa, restorative treatments draw upon long-standing Asian traditions, delivering an approach to renewal that extends beyond the spa experience. Elsewhere, wellness is expressed through mindful movement, expansive open-air spaces, and the freedom to slow down, enabling guests to reconnect with themselves and the natural surroundings.

Accommodation at the resort reflects thoughtful design and a deep connection with nature. Beachfront villas provide immediate access to white sands and sheltered garden spaces, while the distinctive InOcean Pool Villas offer an elevated sense of privacy and perspective. These overwater residences feature infinity pools that blend seamlessly with the horizon and double-storey layouts crowned with rooftop terraces, providing uninterrupted views of the ocean, sky, and shifting light.

Culinary experiences form an integral part of the stay. With offerings ranging from Maldivian cuisine to Indian, Pan-Asian, and international dishes, dining at Angsana Velavaru highlights both variety and careful preparation. Flexible all-inclusive options and curated leisure programmes allow guests to shape their experience according to their personal pace.

At its core, the 101 Things to Do serve as a celebration of meaningful travel. They encourage guests to engage deeply, appreciate moments both modest and significant, and begin the year with a sense of clarity and renewed purpose.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved Green Globe Certification, following an independent audit conducted after a focused six-month programme. Officially awarded on 23 December 2025, the resort attained an 86 per cent compliance score, marking an important step in its ongoing sustainability efforts.

Green Globe Certification is recognised as one of the world’s leading sustainability standards for the tourism sector. To be certified, organisations must demonstrate verified compliance with more than 40 criteria covering environmental stewardship, social responsibility, cultural heritage and sustainable management. The process prioritises transparency, measurable progress and continuous improvement, making the certification a notable accomplishment within the global hospitality industry.

General Manager Mark Eletr noted that the result reflects both strategic intent and collective commitment across the resort.

He stated: “We are very pleased with this achievement and with the steps taken to prioritise sustainability at Kandooma. That focus was evident from the outset through the expansion of two key roles within the team, ensuring sustainability leadership and accountability were firmly in place.”

As part of this approach, the resort introduced a combined Sustainability Officer and General Manager’s Executive Assistant role to lead operational implementation, supported by enhanced strategic guidance from the Director of Marketing, who recently completed tertiary studies with a strong sustainability focus.

Mark Eletr added: “An Executive Assistant role is traditionally heavily administrative. By streamlining my own processes and integrating AI tools to improve efficiency, we were able to redesign the role to place sustainability at its centre. Broadening our Director of Marketing’s remit has further strengthened strategic direction by adding genuine expertise and commitment. With both positions reporting directly to me, sustainability is clearly elevated across the resort, and the structure has proven highly effective.”

He also highlighted that the certification journey itself has been one of the most valuable outcomes.

“This was a whole-resort effort. It required commitment, collaboration and a shared vision for Kandooma’s long-term direction. We have now established strong policies, processes and measurement frameworks that will endure beyond the current leadership team, forming a key part of our annual planning cycle.”

The certification aligns closely with IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Journey to Tomorrow framework, the group’s global sustainability strategy centred on people, communities and the planet. It sets targets related to carbon reduction, water stewardship, waste management, responsible sourcing and community impact across IHG’s worldwide portfolio.

With an 86 per cent score against Green Globe’s criteria, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives demonstrated strong performance in areas such as energy and water efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, marine ecosystem protection, responsible procurement, colleague wellbeing and community engagement. Initiatives including coral conservation, marine education, colleague sustainability training and newly introduced guest sustainability pledges highlight the resort’s integrated approach to responsible tourism.

Reflecting on the process, Mark Eletr said: “The past few months have been challenging, but the outcome has been worthwhile. This certification gives us a clear improvement plan and a roadmap for the future. We did not want a symbolic certification—we chose Green Globe because it is rigorous and evidence-based. Some said it would be too difficult, which is exactly why we pursued it. We wanted a standard that pushes us to improve, now and in the years ahead.”

Green Globe Certification provides an ongoing framework to support continuous improvement, ensuring the resort evolves its sustainability practices year after year. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives remains committed to advancing responsible tourism, encouraging guests to make sustainable choices, and contributing positively to the protection of the Maldives’ natural and cultural heritage.

Amilla Maldives is offering guests a curated selection of transformative wellness experiences in the coming months with some exceptional healers and practitioners from around the world. These unique journeys will immerse guests in holistic therapies, martial arts and spiritual healing, each designed to promote wellbeing, personal growth, and inner peace.

Pallavi Sawant brings her expertise as an Osho disciple and holistic healer to Amilla Maldives until 8th February 2025. Offering a blend of traditional and modern wellness therapies, including Chi Nei Tsang (Internal Organ Massage), Tibetan Sound Healing, and Anti-Gravity Yoga, Pallavi’s sessions are designed to rejuvenate the body, release emotional blockages, and promote deep relaxation. Additional offerings like Full Moon and New Moon Rituals to foster spiritual growth are also available.

Lisa Eve will guide guests from 1st to 10th February 2025 through deeply healing experiences focusing on self-love, clarity, and empowerment. Her therapies include Intuitive Lifestyle Coaching, and Holographic Kinetics, aimed at helping guests release emotional blocks, restore balance, and gain clarity. Lisa’s intuitive approach to wellness encourages to create lasting inner peace and transformation.

Dr. Sohal Shah, affectionately known as Soho, will offer his unique blend of traditional and modern therapies from 10th February to 10th March 2025. A Melbourne-based holistic healing expert with Ayurvedic roots, Dr. Sohal’s expertise spans five countries. Known for his celebrity-favourite Cosmetic Acupuncture and Hypno-Meditation sessions, he combines ancient practices with modern techniques like Acupuncture and Cupping, promoting the body’s natural healing in the serene environment of Amilla Maldives.

Karol Krauser Hasegawa is our next wellness expert bringing over 35 years of experience, to our program. From 11th March to 30th April 2025, Karol will guide guests through a unique blend of traditional martial and healing arts, paired with mindful movement practices and stress reduction. Combining modern sports medicine with traditional healing arts, Karol offers personalized sessions in Filipino Kali, Kuntao Silat, Tai Chi & Qigong, kickboxing, and restorative bodywork to strengthen both body and mind.

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa offers guests an opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a romantic all-pool villa retreat in the Indian Ocean. A selection of heartfelt experiences has been designed to inspire and create cherished new memories.

The day can begin with a floating breakfast served in the privacy of each villa’s pool. Beautifully adorned with fresh island blooms, the tray includes a basket of heart-shaped pastries and a chocolate cake. Luxurious additions such as red and white wine, as well as Champagne, are available to enhance the experience. Another indulgence includes the Vine and Velvet Romance set, featuring decadent chocolate-dipped strawberries accompanied by a bottle of Champagne, sparkling wine, or rosé. Delivered directly to the villa, this treat serves as a sweet daytime surprise or a romantic conclusion to the evening.

For those who appreciate cocktails, the resort’s resident mixologists have curated a selection of rose-colored signature drinks available throughout the day at Aura Pool Bar. These include the Scarlet Kiss, an indulgent blend of vanilla-infused Absolut Elyx and strawberry Campari, topped with luscious Champagne foam; Whisper of Romance, a delicate mix of lemongrass-infused Botanist gin, fresh citrus, and Prosecco; and La Vie en Rose, a sophisticated combination of Malfy Pink Gin and Chambord, with clarified pink guava, rose syrup, and clarified yuzu.

Eden, the adults-only overwater champagne and gin bar, presents a special Sundowner Session, featuring live DJ music and breathtaking views of the Maldivian sunset.

As evening falls, an array of elevated dining experiences awaits. Beach Shack provides a relaxed island setting with its Seaside Rendezvous set menu, which includes the rich flavours of Maldivian lobster complemented by a marble and caviar sauce, as well as garlic-crusted ocean trout served with gnocchi and Champagne beurre blanc. At the overwater specialty restaurant Origin, Chef Dario Raia offers authentic Italian dishes, with the Amore Mio add-on ensuring a table on the coveted lower deck and elegant floral arrangements enhancing the atmosphere. Habitat presents a bountiful buffet featuring a diverse selection of international dishes.

For a particularly special evening, the Starlit Lovers experience is available, limited to four tables. The carefully crafted menu begins with fresh oysters topped with cured salmon roe, yuzu, and jalapeño sauce, concluding with Two Hearts, a dessert featuring Belgian chocolate and hazelnut crunch, Ivoire chocolate and raspberry crémeux, raspberry gelato, and milk chocolate Chantilly. To conclude the night, a cozy beachside cinema experience, Romantic Reels, invites guests to enjoy a film under the stars.

Amingiri Spa & Hammam introduces a signature treatment for the month of February, where couples are treated to a tranquil flower petal foot soak followed by a side-by-side chocolate wrap, enveloping the senses in soothing aromas. The experience concludes with a hot stone fusion massage, designed to relieve tension and foster a sense of deep relaxation and connection.

For wellness enthusiasts, an extensive Sleep Wellness menu is available, aimed at guiding the mind and body into deep, rejuvenating rest. Options include a calming signature massage on the spa’s Skye deck, an evening hammam ritual in the modern hammam room, or an in-villa session incorporating guided meditation, yoga, and breath-work.

Constance Hotels, Resorts & Golf has once again been recognised in the prestigious Booking.com Traveller Review Awards, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence and outstanding hospitality. Among its properties, the resorts in the Maldives have achieved remarkable scores, highlighting their dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences.

The Maldives properties have received the following ratings out of 10:

• Constance Halaveli Maldives – 9.7
• Constance Moofushi Maldives – 9.6

These impressive scores underscore the high standards of service, luxurious accommodations, and unique experiences offered at these renowned Maldivian resorts.

Jean-Jacques Vallet, CEO of Constance Hotels, Resorts & Golf, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “These awards are a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team, who continually go above and beyond to provide guests with a vibrant atmosphere, high-quality experiences, and exceptional value.”

With these accolades, Constance Hotels, Resorts & Golf further cements its reputation as a leading luxury hospitality provider in the Maldives, ensuring guests an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

As a part of UNESCO’s Youth as Researchers programme in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, youth researchers selected for the programme documented their perspectives on social issues in the Region and beyond. These perspectives have been published in the form of “Youth as Researchers: Perspectives from Sri Lanka and the Maldives,” a publication launched online on the UNESDOC platform in February 2024. By harnessing their unique insights and experiences, these young individuals have contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of various issues affecting their communities.

The Youth as Researchers (YAR) initiative was developed to offer comprehensive training and mentorship, guiding youth on research approaches to generate evidence-based findings on topic that are relevant and important to young people. By instilling a sense of depth and purpose in their research endeavors, YAR empowers young researchers to effectively advocate for issues that resonate with them, thus driving meaningful impact and positive societal change.

In Sri Lanka and the Maldives, UNESCO's YAR programme took on a special significance, focusing on strengthening youth-led action research and evidence-building, particularly related to issues of peace and social cohesion. The initiative sought to amplify youth voices on peace and security matters, ensuring their inclusion in decision-making processes and documenting successful youth-led solutions to identified local challenges.

From the pool of talented young individuals, 79 youth researchers were shortlisted and underwent training and mentorship, learning essential research skills and methodologies to conduct meaningful social research. UNESCO, in collaboration with its local project partner Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) - also associated with UNESCO as Co-Chair, UNESCO Chair on Community Based Research and Social Responsibility in Higher Education - organized a comprehensive six-day training program spread over nearly three months. The training aimed to equip participants with a thorough understanding of community-based participatory research, covering a range of topics including political participation, mental well-being, economic crisis and its implications, social cohesion, and gender equality.

Youth constitute a significant demographic globally, contributing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to society. Their voices are essential in decision-making processes as they directly experience the impacts of policies and initiatives on education, employment, healthcare, and the environment. Engaging youth in discussions on contemporary challenges such as climate change and social justice ensures their ownership by empowering them to participate actively in shaping policies and programs that directly affect their lives, fostering a sense of responsibility and investment in the outcomes.

Looking ahead, UNESCO remains committed to supporting youth-led initiatives like YAR, which play a vital role in advancing youth empowerment, promoting positive youth development, and fostering inclusive societies. Through continued collaboration and partnership, UNESCO aims to amplify youth voices, address pressing social issues, and nurture inclusive communities. 

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, who is determined to remove Indian troops from the country, appears to be moderating his stance a bit under pressure from the public and opposition parties in the archipelago nation. Muizzu, who is pro-China, last month gave a deadline of March 15 to India to withdraw about 80 troops stationed there. After returning from his first China visit, he also launched a broadside against India saying, in the presence of Indian Ambassador Munu Mahawar, "We may be small but that doesn't give you the license to bully us."

However, Muizzu has now said Male cannot produce results by being short-tempered during talks for the removal of Indian soldiers from the Maldives, local news organisation Adhadhu reported on Thursday. "These are things that can be achieved by talking nicely and properly explaining in a manner that everyone could believe that our country is an independent and democratic country," Muizzu said. "You can't achieve things by being short-tempered."

Also read: 'Maldives' economy in trouble': Muizzu says can't launch development projects due to high debt
  
Muizzu came to power on an 'India Out' campaign. After taking over as President, he visited China instead of New Delhi, which was the tradition. His government also ordered Turkish drones to patrol the exclusive economic zone, which was so far patrolled jointly with the Indian Navy.

But Muizzu's verbal attack on India has upset his countrymen and opposition parties, who believe the Maldivian President should not have gone so far as to call New Delhi a 'bully'. They also said that Muizzu should have followed proper diplomatic rules while conveying his grievances to New Delhi.

On Thursday, the Maldivian President admitted that established rules and norms should be followed to produce results. "It will be very easy to criticize from afar. Anyone can do that. But reality doesn't change because of that criticism. Things can be achieved when you do things the way it's supposed to be done," he said.

Muizzu also tried to contain the diplomatic fallout by saying he was not the enemy of any country. He said other people were trying to pin that label on the government. "We are not being an enemy. It is other people who want to create that enmity. They want to use that label. I say what I say very clearly, very directly, so clearly that you can't take a second meaning from it," he was quoted as saying by Adhadhu.

Ex-President Yameen blames deputy ministers for strained ties with India

Meanwhile, former President Abdulla Yameen, who also favoured China during his term from 2013 to 2018, has said that Male's long-standing friendly relations with India deteriorated due to the derogatory remarks by three deputy ministers against PM Modi. He said he had no hostility towards New Delhi despite launching the "India Out" campaign to remove Indian soldiers from Maldives. "To a level that we cannot accept, three people who were in responsible positions used insulting language and made derogatory remarks. That is what the Indian government cannot accept," he was quoted as saying by Adhadhu.

Jumhooree Party (JP) leader Qasim Ibrahim said Muizzu must formally apologize to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his verbal attacks. Qasim referred to Muizzu's statement where he said the Maldives was not in the backyard of any particular country and that the Maldives would not allow other countries to "bully". 

Indian Troops in Maldives

India has 77 Indian soldiers in Maldives besides 12 medical personnel from the Indian armed forces. These soldiers provide help with humanitarian aid and medical evacuations for the residents. New Delhi has given Male two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft, which are mostly used for marine surveillance, search and rescue operations, and medical evacuations. The Indian troops manage these operations.

Most Indian tourists appear to be heading to Sri Lanka after a diplomatic row between India and the Maldives. As a result of this, Sri Lanka received more tourists than Maldives in January 2024. Male-based news outlet Adhadhu reported that tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka lagged behind the Maldives over the past four years. But in January, Sri Lanka surpassed Maldives in tourist arrivals. Last month, 192,385 tourists visited the Maldives, while 208,253 tourists visited Sri Lanka - up by over 1 lakh recorded in last January. 

In January, a row broke out between Male and New Delhi following some comments by Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Indian tourists reacted sharply and started a 'boycott Maldives' campaign. 

Also read: Amid diplomatic row, Maldives sees massive drop in Indian tourists in first 3 weeks of January

Adhadhu said a massive surge in Indian tourists visiting was one reason behind the 100 percent increase in tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka in January. In January last year, 13,759 Indians had visited Sri Lanka but that number jumped 2.5 times to 34,399 this January. While the number of Indian tourists to Sri Lanka surged, Maldives recorded a significant drop from 17,029 last January to 15,006 this year. 

India also emerged as the top source of tourists to Sri Lanka in January.

Meanwhile, the Maldives have witnessed a decline in the number of Indian tourists, who till recently topped the list of visitors to the island nation. From being the top tourist group visiting the Maldives, Indians slipped to fifth position in the last three weeks of January, according to the data analysed by news agency PTI. 

In the last three years, over 2 lakh Indians visited Maldives annually - the highest from any country post-Covid. However, India's contribution which was highest till recently slipped to the fifth position. According to the statistics, Maldives received over 1.74 lakh tourists till January 28 this year, of which only 13,989 were Indians.

Russia topped the chart with 18,561 tourists from the country visiting Maldives, followed by Italy (18,111), China (16,529), and the UK (14,588). Germany is in the sixth spot followed by the USA, France, Poland and Switzerland. Over 17 lakh tourists visited the island nation in 2023, of which the maximum were Indians (2,09,198) followed by Russians (2,09,146) and Chinese (1,87,118). The number of Indian visitors to Maldives was more than 2.4 lakh in 2022 and over 2.11 lakh in 2021. 

On 15th January 2025, Fushifaru Maldives delighted dessert enthusiasts with ‘Sweet Escape,’ an exclusive dessert-tasting experience curated by renowned Italian celebrity chef Damiano Carrara. The event proved to be a resounding success, captivating guests with exquisite flavors and artistic excellence.

Damiano Carrara, widely recognised as a leading figure in the culinary world, impressed attendees with his expertise and charm. Known for his role as a judge on Bake Off Italia and co-host of Cake Star, he has earned a reputation for his dedication to pastry craftsmanship. In 2024, he further cemented his celebrity status by winning Pechino Express, a popular Italian reality adventure show, alongside his brother Massimiliano.

During the tasting, guests indulged in five handcrafted petit four desserts, each exemplifying Carrara’s renowned artistry and innovation. Every creation presented a story of elegance and finesse, offering a unique exploration of flavour and texture.

In addition to the event, Carrara took the opportunity to relax and enjoy the island with his family, describing his stay at Fushifaru as “really amazing” and expressing how much they enjoyed their time there.

The success of ‘Sweet Escape’ has further reinforced Fushifaru Maldives’ reputation as a premier destination for extraordinary dining experiences, leaving guests with unforgettable memories during their stay on this exquisite island.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is set to host the ultimate Valentine’s getaway from February 10 to 16, 2025, offering indulgent dining, rejuvenating spa experiences, and unforgettable adventures in the Maldives. Couples visiting the resort can take advantage of the Romantic Escape Offer, which includes exclusive villa savings in a picturesque island retreat. Enhancing the celebration, DJ Natalie Brogan will headline on Valentine’s Day, promising an unforgettable night filled with love, music, and enchantment.

Guests will have the opportunity to start their day with a Cupid Floating Champagne Breakfast, available at an exclusive 20% discount, or enjoy a Lover’s Premium Hot Pot Lunch for an intimate midday dining experience. As the evening progresses, romance will take centre stage with the Saint Valentine’s Lobster Beach BBQ, complemented by live music to create an enchanting atmosphere. For those seeking a more private experience, the Valentinus Cabana Private Dining option will provide an intimate beachfront dinner, accompanied by the soulful melodies of a live saxophone performance.

A night of high-energy entertainment is also in store as DJ Natalie Brogan takes the stage for the Lover’s Party at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. With a distinguished career spanning 15 years and an eight-year residency at Zero Gravity Dubai, she has performed alongside world-renowned DJs such as David Guetta and MK. Bringing her signature sound and electrifying beats to the Maldives, she will ensure an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration in 2025.

For guests looking to incorporate adventure into their romantic escape, the Dive into Love package presents a unique opportunity to explore the Maldives’ stunning underwater world. Those who book a Try Scuba dive at Nemo Garden will be able to witness breathtaking marine life in crystal-clear waters. To enhance the experience, couples will receive a complimentary romantic underwater photo, capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment beneath the ocean’s surface.

Wellness enthusiasts can take advantage of exclusive spa offers, including the ‘Token of Love’ promotion, where a $499 spa gift voucher grants an additional 40% value, allowing treatments worth up to $700. Couples can also benefit from a 30% discount on signature experiences such as ‘Romance at Iru Fushi’ and ‘Honeymoon Escape.’ Additionally, with the ‘Treat Yourself” offer, guests who book three 60-minute massages will receive one complimentary session, along with a 20% discount on retail spa products to extend their relaxation beyond their stay.

The Exclusive Romantic Escape Offer provides couples with the chance to create unforgettable memories at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. The package includes up to 30% off all villa categories, with guests booking at least four nights receiving a complimentary shared seaplane transfer for one and a one-time floating breakfast for villas with pools. Furthermore, those who book a 90-minute spa treatment will receive a complimentary upgrade to 120 minutes. Non-motorised water sports and snorkelling equipment will also be available at no additional cost throughout their stay. This offer is valid for bookings made between January 11 and February 15, 2025, for stays extending until December 23, 2025.

The expected arrival of a Chinese research ship in the Maldives this week has escalated tensions between Beijing, Delhi and Male.

Officially, the vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 is there to "make a port call, for rotation of personnel and replenishment". In short, an entirely innocuous stop.

But that is not how it is being seen in Delhi. Instead, the ship's presence is at the very least a diplomatic snub. At worst, some fear, it could be a mission to collect data which could - at a later date - be used by the Chinese military in submarine operations.

China experts, however, have shrugged off their concerns.

"The Chinese ships carry out scientific research work in the Indian ocean. Its activities on the high sea are entirely legitimate," Zhou Bo, a former People's Liberation Army Senior Colonel, told the BBC.

"Sometimes the ships need replenishment - like fuel, food and water. So, they berth in a third country port, which is normal. So, the Indian government shouldn't make any fuss about it. Indian Ocean is not India's Ocean," asserted Mr Zhou, who is now with the Tsinghua university in Beijing.

But this is not the first time that China - which competes for influence with Delhi in the Indian Ocean amid a long-standing dispute over their Himalayan border - has sent one of its ships sailing close to Indian waters.

Two Chinese naval submarines made a port call to Colombo in 2014 and two Chinese research vessels visited Sri Lanka, close to the tip of southern India, in the past two years, much to the displeasure of India.

The arrivals came as China, which has loaned billions of dollars to Colombo, made significant inroads into Sri Lanka.

The research ship, Xiang Yang Hong 3, had in fact originally planned to visit Colombo for replenishment before proceeding to the Maldives. But that has been shelved for now, according to Tharaka Balasuriya, the junior foreign minister of Sri Lanka.

"During this one year we want to develop our technology and expertise so that we can join in these research activities on an equal basis," he told the BBC.

However, Colombo's decision to stop the research vessels is being seen as a response to India's strong objections to such visits by Chinese vessels.

India's objections however, have made little difference in the Maldives.

The Maldives, which consists of about 1,200 coral islands and atolls in the middle of the Indian Ocean, has long been under India's sphere of influence. But Mohamed Muizzu, who took over as president in November and is regarded as pro-China, wants to change that.

He campaigned on an 'India Out' platform, asking Delhi to withdraw about 80 Indian military personnel based on the island. India says the troops are in the island nation to maintain and operate three reconnaissance and rescue aircraft, donated by Delhi years ago.

The Maldivian government has set an ultimatum to Delhi to withdraw its troops by 15 March, two days before the country's parliamentary polls.

Following talks in Delhi last week, the Maldivian foreign ministry said India had agreed "to replace the military personnel" and that the first batch will leave by 10 March and the rest by the second week of May.

In December, Mr Muizzu's administration also announced that it would not renew a hydrographic survey agreement with India that was signed by the previous government to map the seabed in the Maldivian territorial waters.

Relations have in fact deteriorated so much that none of the senior leaders of the Maldivian government attended a recent event organised by the Indian High Commission in Male to mark India's 75th Republic Day.

China, meanwhile, rolled out the red carpet to Mr Muizzu when he went on a five-day state visit to Beijing last month. Since that trip, high-level Chinese officials have visited the Maldives. Mr Muizzu has also announced several Chinese-funded infrastructure projects.

The sudden shift in Male's position towards China has raised concerns in Delhi, which attaches strategic significance to the island nation.

China, with its rapidly expanding naval forces, would likely also want access to such a strategically important location - something India wants to prevent.

"Of course, the Maldives is very important; it is the southern Oceanic flank of India," Shyam Saran, a former Indian foreign secretary, told the BBC.

"Just like we had serious reservations about what was happening in Sri Lanka, we will have serious reservations about that may happen in the Maldives," Mr Saran said.

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and others have been urging Mr Muizzu's government for a course correction, saying it's not in the country's interests to antagonise a giant neighbour like India. Last week the MDP said it was even contemplating moving impeachment proceedings against Mr Muizzu.

As a small island nation, the Maldives depends on India for most of its food, infrastructure building, and technological advancement. Many Maldivians go to India for medical treatment.

"Most people here think that government has taken the hostility against India a bit too far and that it is totally unnecessary," Aik Ahmed Easa, a lawyer in Male affiliated with the opposition MDP, told the BBC.

"The Maldives is a small country. But this is going into a dangerous phase where we are getting into the middle of the Asian superpower rivalry," he said.

The Maldivian President's office and the foreign minister did not respond to requests for comment.

China has greater strategic ambitions and it's likely to send more ships to the Indian Ocean region for oceanographic research or to protect its commercial interests, experts say. For India, the challenge will be how to counter Beijing's growing assertive influence in an area that Delhi perceives as its backyard.

Mr Zhou says Chinese aircraft carriers and their support vessels will eventually reach the Indian Ocean. If India disrupts restocking supplies for these ships in a third country - like Sri Lanka - then Beijing will be "furious", he says.

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Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday said he cannot launch any new development projects due to the debt situation in the country. He said he did not want to mislead the public about the economic situation that his administration "inherited", according to Male-based news outlet Adhadhu.

Muizzu had to disclose the real state of the economy as he was under pressure from the people who had been complaining about stalled projects in the archipelago nation. "The next two months will be the most difficult. This is the most critical time," he said during a visit to one of the country's islands, Guraidhoo. "It will become much easier after July. But we're starting now to do the work necessary to earn income.