News
Asia Capital and Belluna to develop Miriandhoo resort
Maldives.net.mv – Asia Capital PLC (ACAP) from Sri Lanka has announced plans for a resort project in the Maldives together with Belluna Co. Ltd. of Japan.
The project, which is expected to cost approximately $ 45 million, envisions the development of a 70-room luxury property on the island of Miriandhoo, situated in the Baa Atoll.
The scope of the project covers developing accommodation and other associated facilities with particular attention being focused on guest services, staff facilities, and other related guest and infrastructure facilities which are expected from a star class resort. As part of the development of resort facilities, the project also entails building support service facilities in the resort.
Speaking about the potential for this project, Asia Capital PLC Group Chief Executive Officer Stefan Abeyesinhe said: “Given the rapid growth in tourist arrivals experienced by Asia and the Pacific as well as the Maldivian government’s support to investors, several new development projects have been initiated in the Maldives. However, the increase in bed capacity may not be adequate to cater to the faster growing tourism industry; hence, ample opportunities are available for new investments into the Maldivian tourism industry. Investing into Maldives is a new area of focus for Japanese investors and we are happy to partner with Belluna to assist them in this endeavour.”
International tourism set a new record by the end of 2014 as 1.1 billion international tourists were recorded as travelling the world. The target, 1.2 million arrivals by 2014, set for the Maldives was achieved as a total of 1,204,857 tourists visited the country during the year; an increase of 7.1% compared with that of 2013. The growth rate was in line with the South Asian tourist arrival rates and outpaced global tourist arrivals.
Established in 1968, Belluna Co., Ltd. operates in the mail order industry in seven segments: General Mail Order, Specialty Mail Order, Retail Store Sales, Solution, Finance, Property, and Other and is headquartered in Ageo, Japan. The company possesses a comprehensive database and other management resources that have been cultivated through its mail order business, and has expanded into related fields to realise steady and continuous growth.
Asia Capital PLC is the largest investment bank in Sri Lanka to be listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange. As a group, Asia Capital has identified strong potential in the property, leisure and real estate sectors and is focused on these avenues of growth. However, whilst focusing on the leisure sector, Asia Capital continues to maintain its strong footing in investment banking operations.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu shine at Seven Star Awards
Coco Collection, a leading Maldivian resort brand, has been honoured at the 2024 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, with both Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu recognised for their excellence in luxury hospitality.
Seven Stars Luxury and Hospitality Awards, celebrated as the premier authority in luxury recognition, serves as a trusted guide for the discerning travellers and lifestyle enthusiasts globally, particularly from India and Middle East.
Coco Bodu Hithi, known for its romantic charm and ambiance, has been named the Best Luxury Honeymoon Resort in the Maldives, highlighting its exceptional service and unforgettable experiences for couples seeking an idyllic escape.
Welcoming high-profile celebrities from India such as Mouni Roy and Surbhi Jyoti highlights the resort’s ability to cater to diverse guest profiles and needs, offering curated experiences that elevate every stay. Some of the most notable experiences include the Sunset Cruise and the intimate Dinner Under the Stars in a private pergola.
In addition, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, known for its environmental values, was honoured as the Best Barefoot Luxury Resort in the Maldives at the Seven Stars Awards. This recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, even 25 years after its inception.
These core island principles, built on ecological measures, have helped the resort achieve multiple accolades at this year’s World Luxury Hotel Awards and be recognised in prominent categories that Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu passionately advocates for.
This winter, embrace the sunshine at Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu with the Discover Coco deals offering up to 40% off on spacious and comfortable villas. To reserve, contact reservations@cococollection.com and secure your extraordinary getaway.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
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