Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty visited the Maldives with her family this week, enjoying her stay at Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island. The actress shared glimpses of her vacation on Instagram, featuring activities she experienced alongside her husband, Raj Kundra, and their children.

Shilpa tried jet skiing for the first time, despite her hesitation with driving on land. Guided by her husband, she embraced the challenge of riding the waves. She also took part in a submarine adventure, allowing her to explore the ocean depths, and attended a sushi-making class. In her Instagram post, she described these experiences as personal milestones, noting the importance of learning new skills and seizing opportunities.

In addition to vacation updates, Shilpa shared her fitness routine with her followers. A video showed her practicing squats under the guidance of a trainer, emphasising perseverance and consistency.

During her visit, Maldives Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal and senior officials of Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) met with the actress and welcomed her back to the country. Shilpa had previously vacationed in the Maldives at Kuda Villingili Resort in November 2023.

Her posts highlighted the range of activities available in the Maldives, showcasing how the destination caters to families and individuals seeking unique experiences.

Amilla Maldives invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a luxurious and romantic getaway package.

Guests will enjoy a seamless arrival and departure via seaplane before being welcomed into a private pool villa, where a bottle of chilled champagne and canapés await. Each morning begins with an indulgent breakfast buffet at Fresh Café, followed by dinners at a choice of four restaurants. On Valentine’s Day, a specially curated chef’s menu enhances the romance, with the evening culminating in a beautifully decorated bed to set the mood.

The experience includes a guided snorkelling excursion, offering the opportunity to explore Amilla’s Blue Hole or House Reef and witness the stunning marine life of the Maldives. Guests can also capture unforgettable moments with a complimentary 30-minute portrait photo session to take home cherished memories.

Available for stays from 10 to 19 February 2025, the ‘Romancing Amilla’ package promises a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and romance. This Valentine’s season, Amilla Maldives provides the idyllic backdrop for creating timeless memories.

Kandolhu Maldives offers couples an idyllic romantic retreat this Valentine’s Day. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches, this exclusive island presents a range of curated experiences designed to create lasting memories.

Guests can begin their celebration with a Valentine’s Breakfast at The Market, featuring a delectable beachfront spread. For those in search of ultimate relaxation, the Varu Spa Double Delight Package provides a soothing 30-minute back massage followed by a refreshing 15-minute head massage, available for $149++ for two. This limited-time offer offers the perfect opportunity to unwind in a serene sanctuary.

The romantic journey continues with a Valentine’s Cocktail Cruise. This 30-minute voyage across the Maldives’ crystal-clear waters includes sparkling wine and live music by local artist Falih Adams, creating a magical atmosphere. The cruise is priced at $49 per person and sets the tone for a memorable evening.

Back on the island, guests can savour specially crafted Valentine’s cocktails at Vilu Bar from 6 pm or indulge in a romantic BBQ Dinner on the beach. Featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, antipasti, salads, house-made sauces, and a decadent Valentine’s dessert, the dinner is prepared live by expert chefs. The BBQ is priced at $59++ per person and is included for guests on the À La Carte Dining and Ultimate Inclusions plans.

Kandolhu Maldives invites couples to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable by celebrating love in paradise.

In February 2025, Kuramathi Maldives will welcome guests to explore the art of live illustration with renowned artist Jo Bird. Recognised for turning memories into treasured keepsakes, Jo will be on the island conducting live portrait sessions for couples and families from 10 to 16 February.

With nearly a decade of expertise in capturing personal style, Jo’s career journey has included studying at Kingston University, representing artists in advertising, and creating live portraits for prestigious brands such as Chanel and Dior, as well as exclusive events hosted by Ralph Lauren and Jo Malone.

This Valentine’s Day, Jo will bring her distinctive talent to the tropical paradise of Kuramathi. Whether guests are celebrating a romantic escape or creating special family moments, her relaxed and conversational approach promises to make the experience as delightful as the portrait itself. In under 30 minutes, she will craft personalised portraits, offering visitors a bespoke memento of their stay – an ideal keepsake to frame and cherish.

Guests are encouraged to dress in their most stylish outfits and get ready to pose—or simply chat—as Jo Bird transforms each holiday moment into a work of art.

Bookings will be available upon arrival. This unique Valentine’s Day experience is not to be missed.

The Calm Spa Sanctuary at JA Manafaru, situated within a lush tropical forest, has announced a series of renovations designed to enhance the guest experience and solidify its reputation as the Maldives’ premier wellness retreat. Renowned for its seamless integration of nature and tranquillity, the spa’s recent upgrades are set to enrich every aspect of the guest journey, from soothing treatments to transformative fitness and yoga offerings.

This sanctuary has long been a haven of peace, where the sounds of nature create a calming atmosphere and energy flows harmoniously throughout the grounds. In response to increasing demand for greater luxury and comfort, significant upgrades have been made to its spa rooms and facilities. Nine private treatment rooms now feature redesigned interiors, complete with added wardrobes and thoughtfully curated furnishings that amplify the sense of calm and indulgence. The changing rooms, equipped with plunge pools and enhanced amenities, offer a more immersive and seamless transition between treatments, elevating the overall sense of luxury and ensuring guests feel completely pampered during their wellness journey.

In line with its dedication to expanding wellness offerings, the spa has introduced a new yoga and Pilates studio. Surrounded by natural beauty, this thoughtfully designed space provides a serene environment that fosters relaxation and mindfulness. The studio is bathed in natural light, creating an atmosphere of peace and calm. It is equipped with a Pilates reformer, a punching bag, and functional fitness equipment, offering guests the opportunity to deepen their practice or explore new challenges. Whether seeking restorative yoga sessions or dynamic Pilates workouts, guests can now enjoy a wider range of fitness activities in a space designed to nurture both mental and physical well-being.

The spa continues to offer an extensive variety of treatments and packages tailored to individual and group needs. Guests can partake in bespoke wellness programmes, from personalised yoga retreats to therapeutic treatments inspired by Dhivehi Beys, an ancient Maldivian tradition that uses local herbs and plants to create natural, healing products. These offerings provide a deeper connection to nature while delivering luxurious therapies that draw on Eastern and Western healing practices. The holistic approach ensures relaxation, rejuvenation, and physical renewal within the spa’s tranquil and immersive environment.

With these latest improvements, The Calm Spa Sanctuary maintains its position as a benchmark for wellness retreats in the Maldives. Its unique combination of luxury, natural surroundings, and expert care creates transformative experiences for every guest. From indulgent spa treatments to invigorating fitness sessions and serene yoga retreats, this sanctuary remains an unparalleled destination for those seeking a ‘Heaven on Earth’ experience at JA Manafaru.

Sirru Fen Fushi, the Private Lagoon Resort and celebrated member of the Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) collection, is inviting couples to leave the everyday behind and enjoy an unforgettable castaway adventure this February, as it sets the scene for enchanting Valentine’s escapes. 

Nestled amid the sparkling seas of the Maldives’ Shaviyani Atoll, Sirru Fen Fushi is a sanctuary of luxury, serenity and sustainability where loved ones can unwind together, surrounded by the beauty of nature. With a choice of thatched pool villas, either nestled on the soft, sandy beach, within the lush jungle or perched over the crystal-clear lagoon, sweethearts can connect with each other complete privacy.  

Within this tropical oasis, an amazing array of activities await, on land and at sea. For the ultimate castaway experience, Sirru Fen Fushi’s Finolhu Crusoe Sandbank Excursion will escort couples to a pristine sandbank, reserved exclusively for them for the duration of their booking, where a personal chef

will prepare a magical BBQ dinner, with a selection of meats and seafood served alongside a bottle of Champagne and unlimited beer and soft drinks. As barefoot bliss meets adventure, this creates the perfect opportunity to pop the question or simply rekindle the flames of love. A private butler is on hand to respond to every whim or wish. This experience is also possible on board Sirru Fen Fushi’s private luxury yacht for an even more special occasion.  

Active couples can feel the spray of the ocean waves with paddle-boarding and kayaking, uncover the vibrant underwater world with snorkelling or diving, and explore The Coralarium, the world’s first tidal art exhibition and interactive sculpture that highlights the importance of marine conservation. Eco-conscious wildlife encounters can be enjoyed with a Dolphin Safari, while a Sunset Cruise will let loved ones soak up the stunning Maldivian scenery as the last rays of sun cast a warm glow across the sea – a wonderfully romantic way to end a day of discovery. 

After dark, couples can cuddle up and watch a movie under the stars in the cosy ambience of the Jungle Cinema. Or, for a deeply evocative spectacle, guests can simply gaze up and watch the wonders of the universe with a Stargazing evening, either from the comfort of their villa or from the stargazing roof of the resort’s Sustainability Lab. 

Chef Girish Sharma, Sirru Fen Fushi’s recently appointed Executive Chef, is inviting guests to elevate their Valentine’s Day dinner to new levels of excellence with a choice of culinary occasions. Having trained at the Michelin three-star Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester in London, Chef Girish is now showcasing his epicurean artistry at five fantastic restaurants, plus curated In-Villa or Destination Dining experiences, including a candlelit table for two under the stars or an island-hopping picnic. 

Lukasz Prendke, General Manager at Sirru Fen Fushi, said, “At Sirru Fen Fushi, we understand that for many people, true romance isn’t just about hearts, flowers and chocolates; it is about enjoying shared experiences and making lasting memories. With our beautiful villas, breath-taking scenery and one-of-a-kind activities – including castaway adventures and private island escapes – all woven seamlessly into the natural scenery, we can help every couple deepen their bonds of love and create moments that will be cherished forever.” 

The Sirru Fen Fushi Finolhu Crusoe Sandbank Excursion is available to all guests and can be booked through the resort. Prices start at USD1,500++ per couple.

One&Only Reethi Rah introduces the newest gem to its collection of eight distinctive culinary experiences with the debut of Tapasake in the Maldives. The new concept offers Japanese cuisine with Mediterranean influences – a fresh take on culinary excellence. With breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Indian Ocean and the venue’s unique style, the new experiential gastronomic destination delivers a truly unforgettable experience to its One&Only clientele.

Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy from Denniston International, Tapasake is a 3665m2 venue suspended over the Indian Ocean’s sapphire surface. Expressive interiors draw the eye in every direction: up to the furthest reaches of the soaring see-through wine cellar; down beneath glass-bottomed floor panels in the sunken lounge to glimpse reef sharks darting across the shallows; left to take in wall-high artworks, intricate panelling and ephemera from the natural world. Playfully composed, Tapasake’s atmospheric surroundings encourage unbridled exploration. Light meets dark. Soft tones meet striking textures. Monochrome elements reflect Japanese design sensibility, while Mediterranean accents are captured in bright splashes of red, orange and yellow. Sweeps of wood, granite and stone ground the space in the essence of the Earth. Water is central to the flow of the design, glimmering in the reflection pool above the sway of the rolling tides. The wind blows a soft sea breeze, energising each new breath, while the fire lights up cigars sourced from the world’s best tobacco regions. This is a setting to savour with every sense.

Golden Hour was made for gathering on the Grand Terrace to toast another remarkable day amid the lush landscape. Here, the inventive cocktail menu mirrors the bold pigments that cloak the coastline at sunset with fragrant violet liqueur, passionfruit and pineapple setting a tropical mood.

A signature One&Only dining experience, Tapasake takes its name from the Spanish “tapas” and Japanese “sake,” with distinctive Mediterranean influences. Guests are invited to indulge in a concept that celebrates the art of sharing, featuring dishes that combine flavours from Japan and the Mediterranean for a truly unique culinary journey.

The sushi area, and teppanyaki grill stations beckon for intimate meals, grand gatherings and everything in between. Tender Wagyu beef meets the heat of the grill in a spectacle of sizzle before your eyes, while uni (sea urchin), otoro (bluefin tuna belly) and tai (sea bream) provide a flavour of the delicacies sourced from a tapestry of celebrated Japanese culinary provinces. Elsewhere, Mediterranean-inspired seafood fresh from local waters sits beside gyoza, Tokyo-style ramen, and traditional tapas, inviting you to mix and match flavours on your own epicurean adventure.

In the evening, Tapasake transforms into a vibrant hub, enhanced by DJs and live music to elevate the energy after dark. Enjoy multi-national cigars and signature whiskey cocktails in Sombra Lounge, or sip limited-edition sake inspired by the location, produced in collaboration with Yumegokoro Sake Brewery in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture, this clean, light and fragrant Naraman Junmai Daiginjo has a Champagne-like profile shaped for celebrations.

Satisfy your wildest whims with bespoke events or delve deeper into your passions with a mixology class, tea ceremony or sake-tasting session. Celebrate milestones in style in private dining rooms that accommodate up to 12 guests, allowing for ultimate seclusion while basking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Three spectacular spaces infused with distinctive character bring something extra special to your stay. Yuugen, meaning the mysterious sense of the beauty of the universe, provides a private portal to the mesmerising marine life beneath the ocean’s symphony of blues, with a glass floor to draw your gaze while you dine. Tenkei, meaning heavenly scene, positions you for awe-inspiring views of the horizon to backdrop your experience with the magic of the Maldivian sunset. Mesa Secreta translates as Secret Table and invites you into a world of wonder, tucked away to transform your evening into one that won’t be forgotten.

“Tapasake is a fantastic addition to One&Only Reethi Rah’s impressive selection of eight specialty dining venues. This beautiful setting, paired with the restaurant’s elevated food-sharing concept, makes Tapasake the Maldives’ premier experiential gastronomic destination, promising to delight the senses of luxury leisure seekers from around the globe,” said Jan B. Tibaldi, General Manager of One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives.

Planting a tree is more than just placing roots in the earth—it’s a promise of growth, a symbol of nurturing bonds, and a gesture that carries hope for the future. At Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, guests are invited to make this timeless act part of their most treasured moments. Whether celebrating a proposal, renewing vows, or marking a special milestone, planting a palm tree at the resort transforms these personal celebrations into a meaningful contribution to the island’s ecosystem.

A guest at the resort recently found the experience profoundly personal: “planting a palm tree here felt like rooting a part of our love story in paradise. Every time we think of our tree, we’ll remember this beautiful place and the promise of a greener future.”

The initiative is more than just a sentimental experience but a call to action. As one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, the Maldives faces mounting challenges from rising sea levels and coastal erosion. Palm trees, with their deep root systems, play a crucial role in stabilising the soil and protecting shorelines, making them essential in safeguarding the islands for future generations.

This ethos aligns seamlessly with the Maldives’ national “5 Million Trees Planting Programme,” launched on World Environment Day 2024. With over 450,936 trees already planted as of December 2024, the programme reflects the nation’s dedication to combating climate change.

At the heart of this initiative is Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to sustainability through its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. The palm tree planting activity at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is not merely an offering for guests but a conscious effort to educate and involve them in the preservation of the Maldives’ delicate ecosystem.

Rajeeva Rajapakse, General Manager of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, expressed the importance of this initiative: “We want every guest to feel connected—not just to our island but to the values we stand for. When they plant a tree here, they aren’t just creating a memory; they’re joining us in shaping a more sustainable future for the Maldives.”

This unique opportunity allows guests to leave more than footprints in the sand. Every tree planted is a story, a contribution, and a step towards making tourism more responsible. It’s a chance to take home the knowledge that even small actions—like planting a palm tree—can ripple out into a lasting impact.

So, whether you’re celebrating love, life, or simply the joy of being in paradise, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers a way to turn your moments into legacies. Root your story here, and let it grow for years to come.

Atmosphere Core, a leading figure in the hospitality industry, has announced a unique collaboration with award-winning Italian lifestyle winery Bottega SpA. A 4th generation family estate which first started producing grappa in the 17th century, Bottega presents an enviable portfolio of wines and liqueurs, made world-famous by its iconic GOLD Prosecco DOC.

Driven by shared core values of quality, authenticity, distinctive design, and all-encompassing service styles, this innovative partnership is set to inspire a new wave of wine hospitality in the Maldives. On top of direct product shipments from the Bottega estates for the supply of wines solely to its 9 private-island resorts, Atmosphere Core will also introduce South Asia’s first Bottega Prosecco Bar, a concept created by Sandro Bottega himself to enhance and share Italy’s great wine, genuine food and convivial lifestyle, offering travellers from around the globe a taste of true Italian sparkling life in highly fashionable environments.

Testimony to the quality and popularity of Bottega labels, the family’s estates have won more than 450 awards and accolades with their products now available in over 160 countries worldwide. In 2022, IWRS reported Bottega’s GOLD Prosecco DOC as the top-selling sparkling wine in the Duty-Free channel world-wide.

Commenting on the new collaboration with Bottega, Atmosphere Core Group Managing Director, Salil Panigrahi, stated, “We are committed to providing the best possible guest experiences, and meticulously curate the culinary journeys within our resorts to offer the highest quality of authentic food and beverage concepts, so our guests can return home with life-long memories. We can only achieve this by collaborating with the most dynamic wine producers in the world, and our announcement to partner with Bottega SpA in 2025 is a landmark moment for our company. I wish to personally thank Mr Sandro Bottega for granting Atmosphere Core this opportunity which goes beyond the presence of his labels in our resorts, but also provides us with an exciting platform to explore new immersive lifestyle hospitality concepts”.

With the intent set firmly on growing wine culture, Atmosphere Core regularly hosts partner winemakers and winery owners at its Maldives resorts to lead exclusive and immersive masterclasses for guests, while reciprocating this exchange with wine partners sponsoring resort colleagues to travel and visit their vineyards across the world.

Sandro Bottega, President and CEO of Bottega SpA, comments, “I’m proud to start a partnership with such a prestigious hospitality group as Atmosphere Core. Our main aim is to bring the Italian oenological culture to South Asia. Maldives is a luxury destination, that embraces the same values of quality and elegance of our flagship product: Bottega GOLD Prosecco DOC. Furthermore, we hope to also introduce our Bottega 0 Rosé and White, both without alcohol, they offer the same consumption rituality of the sparkling wines, respecting teetotallers and all those who, for any reason, choose to be cautious in their consumption of alcohol. I’m also excited of the opportunity to open a branded Bottega Prosecco Bar, that will represent an ambassador for Italian cuisine in the islands”.

Wine enthusiasts, global travellers, and valued partners can look forward to a year-round calendar of enriching and immersive wine-focused experiences that embody Atmosphere Core’s commitment to exceptional hospitality and authentic storytelling, fostering genuine connections between guests and partner wineries from 1er Cru Champagne, Stellenbosch, Galicia, the Canary Islands and now Italy.

Kandima Maldives invites you to celebrate love in all its beautiful forms this February 2025, set against a backdrop of azure waters and swaying palm trees. Step beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in a world of exciting adventures and delightful surprises with the Kandima’s “An Island of Endless Firsts” Valentine’s Day programme. Whether it’s romantic love, cherished friendships, or self-love, discover endless ways to connect, explore, and craft unforgettable memories in this refreshingly playful paradise.

Rev up the romance and fuel your love story at Fast Track, Kandima’s thrilling new entertainment attraction. Experience love in the fast lane as you and your partner race head-to-head on the ocean-front karting track in an unforgettable challenge. The exclusive Valentine’s Combo treats you to 30 minutes of high-speed excitement, topped off with a playful photo session to capture your shared joy and laughter. For couples with a competitive streak, the Couple Karting Mini Grand Prix on Valentine’s Day is your chance to win a complimentary 10-minute karting session. Get ready to race, laugh, and fall in love all over again!

For couples craving a secluded, Kandima’s own Lover’s Island Castaway Retreat, where you and your partner can enjoy a secluded private island with a sun-drenched beach all to yourselves. Indulge in a chilled bottle of bubbly and a fresh fruit basket as you soak in the romance of this idyllic hideaway. For those seeking adventure, Kandima offers captivating marine explorations, including a sunset cruise. Choose between a lively group experience or the intimacy of a private yacht, complete with a curated selection of delicious drinks and canapés. As the sun dips below the horizon, keep an eye out for the magical encounters with turtles, dolphins, and other fascinating marine life.

Take your love to new heights with Kandima’s Romantic Fly-Away aerial experience at Aquaholics. Soar together on a mesmerising parasailing adventure during the golden sunset hour, from 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM. As you ascend, marvel at the Maldives’ stunning lagoons below, bathed in vibrant hues as the sun dips into the horizon.

As night falls, cosy up for a Movie Under the Stars, complete with a chilled bottle of bubbly and cupid-mix popcorn. For couples not ready to call it a night, Forbidden Bar Beach’s DJ-spun Afterparty will keep the sparks flying till midnight. Don’t forget to join the Valentine’s 3D Hand Casting workshop before you leave. Craft a unique ornament of you and your partner’s intertwined hands, an adorable keepsake for your unforgettable Kandima experience to take home.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Picture-Perfect Picnic by Aroma Lake, where a camera-ready hamper awaits. Filled with Prosecco, savoury snacks, and delightful goodies. Sip on thematic Cupid’s Cocktails throughout the day at Breeze Bar &

Beach Club or, surprise your partner with a heart-shaped Red Velvet cake and speciality coffee at Aroma and Deli, a limited-time item on the menu.

As the evening unfolds, indulge in a fiery Valentine’s BBQ at Zest Beach, where romance meets culinary delight. Savour a delectable set menu under a starlit sky, beginning with fresh oysters and a pre-dinner cocktail, complemented by a bottle of Prosecco with a gourmet dining experience, all with spectacular sea views as the perfect backdrop.

End your day with ultimate pampering at EsKape Spa’s Romantic Retreat, a luxurious 120-minute journey designed for couples. Begin with a soothing signature foot ritual, followed by a full-body massage and rejuvenating Indian head massage that dissolves deep tension and stress. Immerse yourself in a fresh coconut body polish and tropical flower bath, complete with sparkling wine for the perfect toast to love and future adventures. Surprise your loved one with an immersive in-room romantic set up complete with a personalised message. With just 48 hours’ notice, Kandima’s Krew can transform your bed with a blanket of rose petals, or completely transform your villa into a lover’s haven with bespoke top-to-toe villa décor.

At Kandima, love isn’t limited to February. With the LuvPerk offering, celebrate Birthdays, anniversaries, or romantic getaways of three and seven nights up. Delight your loved one with special touches like a sumptuous floating breakfast served on your private deck or a magical candlelit dinner on the beach. Whether it’s February or any time of the year, Kandima is where love gets playful, adventurous, and endlessly exciting. Come for the thrills, stay for the feels!

Have a look at the detailed Valentines programme here: An Island of endless firsts.

Lead-in rates for a stay at Kandima in February 2025 start from $300/night++ for a Studio and from $515/night++ for a Beach Villa, book direct online for extra savings and discounts on water sports, excursions, spa and many tailored options as per your travel needs.