Entertainment

Finolhu to kickstart ‘Finolhu Blhu’ events for 2017

Published

8 years ago

March 27, 2017

Finolhu is gearing up to welcome exclusive talent from the world over to the shores of Maldives as part of its vibe-defining “Finolhu Blhu” events for 2017.

“Finolhu Blhu” events, held four times a year, will commence with “Evolution” event extravaganza that will take place from March 27-31 at the island’s 1OAK Beach Club.

For four nights, guests can expect non-stop exhilarating party fun with special themed events every night and world-class, boundary pushing entertainment brought to the Maldives in collaboration with Area 51, Finolhu’s very own crew of entertainers and Imaginoire, a luxe lifestyle events management company from Singapore founded by Jeannette Tan, specialised in creating unique edgy event concepts and curating exceptional talents from across the globe.

Some of the performers and highlights of the festival include:

The Riffs: The acid Jazz band was born in Turin, Italy in 2015. The range from R’n’B to Fusion, Rock, Pop, Lounge, International Repertoire and Hip Hop make Riffs one of the most interesting band of Italy.

DJ Tony Montana: Since 2000 Montana spans the globe, playing the hottest beach clubs in Ibiza, Bali, Maldives and other destinations such as Dubai, Phuket, Sri Lanka, Malta and the Greek Islands.

DJ Jaffa: Since 1998 in the UK, Ibiza, Italy and Thailand, he’s played large festivals and major nightclubs such as the Es Paradis famous water party in Ibiza.

DJ Patrick Olivier: Played through the early 2000s at the regular hot spots on South Beach, Patrick Oliver was soon performing at nightclubs and festivals all over the world; Italy, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, India, China, Germany, Taiwan and Malaysia alongside world-class artists such as Deadmau5, Dash Berlin, Kaskade, LMFAO, Pitbull, and Armand Van Heldan. Today Patrick continues to tour the globe DJing for at top nightclubs and private events from Asia to Europe.

DJ Ono: Constantly touring Asia holding residencies in Bangkok, Japan, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Korea and Taiwan, and is a member of The Heavyhitters, which is one of the leading DJ crews in the world.

Sukki: Known as the modern Asian role model and “one of the most beautiful women in burlesque” (Female First). Mashable has referred to her as “the kind of person who electrifies the internet”, Facebook chose her to represent “what International Women’s Day was all about”, Her World Singapore hailed her as a “firm demonstration of female empowerment”, and her fans include Cherie Blair, Bill Gates, and Buckingham Palace. Even Desmond Tuttu has referred to her as “wonderful.”

I AM: The passionate all female creative collective from New York by American director and producer Kate March, is a global pioneer for immersive dining and interactive experiences in non-traditional performance settings. Using fashion, dance, live art, and music, I AM transports people to a niche world of infinite imagination and redefines the exchange between audience and performer.

Chi Chi Von Tang: A celebrity-loved fashion label from Singapore, which fuses east and west. This bad-ass brand is known for its street-luxe sensibility, melding luxurious materials and workmanship with every day wearable statement pieces. As worn by Mick Jagger, Eve, and Southeast Asia’s Fashion Elite.

Bringing a timeless sense of style to the pristine lagoons and rich waters of the Maldives’ Baa Atoll, Finolhu, which opened last June, is a refined, retro-inspired island paradise for the fun-loving beach-erati, and an unexpected revival of the halcyon days of the classic chic getaway. With its retro themed Maldives island concept, Finolhu, run by The Small Maldives Island Co., caters to guests seeking fun and adventure on a party atmosphere.

Action

Ocean, culture, community: sustainable celebrations at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru & Dhawa Ihuru

Published

2 weeks ago

July 7, 2025

m@ldives

Single-use plastics continue to pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, with over 11 million metric tonnes entering the oceans each year. Since the Banyan Group began its efforts to eliminate single-use plastics in 2018, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru have led the way within the group—achieving a 75% reduction in plastic use, the highest rate across all properties.

This July, guests are invited to participate in a series of sustainability-focused activities designed to create meaningful impact:

12 July: A community clean-up in Malé City in collaboration with CLEAN Maldives, bringing together locals, guests, and team members to reduce marine waste in urban environments.
19 & 26 July: Marine litter snorkelling clean-ups around the house reef, removing plastic debris while protecting marine life and habitats.
29 July: A recycled arts and crafts workshop at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru in partnership with Feyran Craft House, transforming collected plastic into handcrafted artworks.

These efforts support the Banyan Group’s ‘Brand for Good’ sustainability targets, which include the complete elimination of guest-facing single-use plastics by 2025 and full elimination across operations by 2030.

Taking place at Dhawa Ihuru—recognised for having one of the best house reefs in the Maldives (Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2025)—the Rannamaari Dive Fest invites divers and marine enthusiasts to explore the famed Rannamaari Shipwreck, located just metres from the shoreline.

This immersive day features:

Guided dives to the shipwreck
Underwater treasure hunts
Marine conservation talks
Cultural experiences including local arts and crafts, Maldivian cooking classes, and spa rituals

The event pays tribute to the vibrant marine ecosystem that defines Dhawa Ihuru as a premier dive destination.

Observed on 26 July, Maldivian Independence Day commemorates the country’s emergence as a sovereign island nation. In celebration of this historic occasion, both Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru have curated three days of experiences rooted in national pride, community, and tradition.

26 July: Guests may participate in a symbolic swim across the channel connecting the two islands, representing unity and freedom. The day continues with a Maldivian Culture Talk exploring traditions, language, and the significance of Independence Day, followed by a traditional Bodu Beru performance and beach bonfire under the stars.
26–28 July: Three days of beachside “Fun Olympic Games” celebrate island spirit through friendly competition and laughter.
25–31 July: Special dive and water sports promotions of up to 30% will be available. Offers include signature experiences such as diving the Rannamaari Shipwreck and snorkelling excursions with nurse sharks and stingrays.

The July programming forms part of the lead-up to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s official 30th anniversary in September 2025. Each initiative reflects the resort’s founding philosophy: Embracing the Environment, Empowering People. Guests are invited to reconnect with nature, engage with Maldivian culture, and experience the true spirit of the Original Maldives.

Entertainment

Game on! Kandima unveils Maldives’ most exciting all-ages entertainment hub

Published

3 weeks ago

July 1, 2025

m@ldives

Kandima Maldives, the bold lifestyle resort known for redefining island getaways, has once again raised the bar with the launch of PlaySpace – an all-ages entertainment destination transforming the leisure landscape of the Maldives.

Centrally located within the island resort, PlaySpace blends nostalgic retro flair with cutting-edge fun, offering a dynamic mix of activities for families, thrill-seekers, and social guests alike. From action-packed bowling and immersive virtual reality to escape room challenges and private karaoke sessions, the venue strengthens Kandima’s position as the Maldives’ leading active lifestyle destination.

According to Dermot Birchall, General Manager at Kandima Maldives, “At Kandima, we’re constantly evolving the island experience. PlaySpace adds a new dimension – it’s immersive, social, and above all, wildly entertaining.”

Key Highlights of PlaySpace Include:

Bowling Lanes with a Twist: Themed experiences such as Team Challenge, Date Night Deluxe, and Family Blitz, complemented by snacks, drinks, and curated playlists.
Karaoke & Cocktails: Private singing rooms paired with wine, beer, or bubbly under the Karaoke & Cocktails Package.
VR & Arcade Zone: Thrilling VR adventures, air hockey, billiards, and timeless arcade classics.
Escape Rooms: Brain-teasing challenges for up to three guests – ideal for team bonding or friendly competition.
Eats & Treats: A variety of gourmet snacks including paninis and mini pizzas, plus refreshing beverages like Tropical Dreamscape and Lychee Breeze – all alcohol-free.

With its vibrant 80s-inspired design and bold approach to leisure, PlaySpace perfectly reflects Kandima’s playful luxury ethos. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, it promises guests a unique and energetic addition to their island stay.

Adding to the excitement, Kandima has also introduced Fast Track, the Maldives’ first and only oceanfront e-go-kart circuit. Spanning 500 metres with 10 turns and speeds reaching up to 80 km/h, this professional-grade asphalt track brings a high-octane edge to island adventure.

As Kandima continues to innovate and launch new experiences, guests can expect even more surprises in the near future – with fun, flair, and freedom at the heart of it all.

Entertainment

The Presets to ignite nights in exclusive Kandooma Maldives showcase in April 2026

Published

2 months ago

June 5, 2025

m@ldives

Imagine your favourite music festival—but swap muddy fields for white sands, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. In April 2026, acclaimed electronic duo The Presets will trade stadiums and festival crowds for an exclusive beachfront series of shows at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, offering fans an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime island escape curated by Music in Paradise.

From Coachella to Splendour in the Grass, The Presets—Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes—have made their mark on the global stage. But this time, they’re doing things differently. From 11–18 April 2026, fans will experience a week of sun-drenched luxury capped off by three electrifying live performances, including a sunset DJ set on the beach and an exclusive rooftop party at the resort’s Sunset Bar.

“We’re beyond excited to host The Presets at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Their energy, talent, and incredible live shows are a perfect match for our vibrant island setting. Guests can expect something truly unforgettable.”

With a career spanning two decades, The Presets are electronic music royalty in Australia. Their breakout 2008 album Apocalypso went triple platinum and produced the festival anthem “My People.” With multiple ARIA Awards, APRA Songwriter of the Year titles, and collaborations like the RAKA EP with Golden Features under their belt, the duo continues to shape the sound of electronic music worldwide.

Their 2018 album HI VIZ soared to the top of iTunes within hours of release and included hits like “Do What You Want” and “Martini,” both nominated for major Australian music prizes.

Fans can now secure the Early Bird Gold Experience Package for A$3,790 per person (twin share) for seven nights in a Beach Villa—saving over $1,000. This VIP experience includes: