Featured
Local artists wow guests at LUX* South Ari Atoll

Three local artists have wowed guests at LUX* South Ari Atoll with their artistic talents, as part of a series of art workshops hosted by the resort.
In partnership with local NGO Maldivian Artist Community (MAC), three talented local artists took residency at LUX* South Ari Atoll from June 28-30, where they hosted three classes that focused on their individual skills.
“We are committed to serve the public and local community by giving various opportunities to local talents to promote their arts and craft and other skills. We are proud to have hosted this event at LUX* and received wonderful feedback from all our guests,” Jonas Amstad, the resort’s General Manager, said.
“Three local art events were attended by at least 50 guests over the course of three days. It was well received by all guests who attended the event, including taking the art piece made with them to home as a souvenir from their Maldives holiday.”
Renowned local artist Hussein ‘Iphpha’ Iffal led the series with his signature coffee art class at the resort’s Café LUX*, using freshly roasted coffee. During his two-hour workshop on June 28, Iphpha taught curious guests the techniques in which he is able to create detailed portraits and beautiful scenes from the Maldives landscape using coffee as a medium.
Famous for his underwater painting and coffee art portraits, Iphpha tries to link the popular Maldivian pastime of meeting at cafes and drinking coffee with his own part in this present day cultural trend. Recognised by the local and international community, Iphpha recently held an exhibition in Abu Dhabi with 66 artworks using coffee as a medium. He is also a talented underwater painter.
On the second day of LUX* South Ari Atoll’s art workshop series, up-and-coming artist Insha Hassan hosted a two-hour class on watercolour painting at the resort’s Beach Rouge restaurant. Several young guests at the resort as well as students from a neighbouring island school took part in the workshop, painting scenes from the underwater beauty of the Maldives using watercolour.
Insha currently works as a visual artist in various souvenir shops and guesthouses. Since starting her career in 2016, Insha has exhibited her works at the National Art Gallery and at Kandima Maldives resort’s first ever Kula Art Festival.
The series wraped up on June 30 with a two-hour acrylic art class hosted by popular local artist Ahmed ‘Baachy’ Azmee at the Veli Bar Beach. He used acrylic to wow the participants by creating several pieces of contemporary canvas art that were later exhibited for the resort’s guests.
A self-taught abstract artist, Baachy uses sensual and bright colours as well as various mediums including acrylic, oil and charcoal to create contemporary canvas art. He has participated in various art related events, including the Kula Art Festival at Kandima.
“LUX* South Ari Atoll will have another series of art festival during December 2018 to promote local art and talents,” Amstad said.
“As a core element of our CSR initiatives, LUX* South Ari Atoll will focus on promoting local arts and crafts throughout the year, including the festive of 2018/2019. We have already partnered with the famous coffee artist Iffal to host an Underwater Diving Art workshop during the September LUX* Underwater Diving festival. He will also showcase a Sand Art show during the festive period at LUX*.”
Cutting-edge designer villas and world-class dining can be found only a 30-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport, making LUX* South Ari Atoll one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives.
With 187 private villas dotted at the water’s edge along four kilometres of powder fine beach or perched on stilts above a crystal clear lagoon, these spacious pavilions and villas bring an entirely original vibe of coastal, beach house chic to the Maldives.
Excellent eating and drinking is always a cut above the rest at LUX*, and at LUX* South Ari Atoll, there is authentic South East Asian street food in the Maldives’ only over-the-water gourmet night market and world-class Chinese cuisine at East, along with the Japanese restaurant Umami, which offers live teppanyaki and dazzling selection of sakés.
While the resort has a PADI-certified dive centre, two infinity pools, a floodlit tennis court, a fitness centre and a renowned spa which hosts a wellness concierge and a menu of indulgent treatments, what sets the property apart from its neighbours are surprises, or better known as #ReasonstogoLUX. Designed to create lasting memories for guests, these ‘reasons’ can range from island-roasted coffee in Café LUX* to impromptu movie screenings at cinema paradise and the chance to hang your wishes on the Tree of Wishes.
Family
Island living redefined: Le Méridien Maldives offers enriching family retreat

Set against the backdrop of a tranquil lagoon and unspoilt beaches on the private island of Thilamaafushi in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa provides an ideal setting for multigenerational travel. Emphasising connection, creativity, and discovery, the resort offers families a tropical haven where shared moments unfold effortlessly—from the stillness of sunrise to the warm hues of Au Soleil’s golden hour.
The resort presents two-bedroom beachfront and overwater villas, thoughtfully designed to balance privacy with shared living. Each villa comprises a master bedroom and twin room, a private pool, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, and direct access to either the lagoon or the shoreline. For those seeking greater exclusivity, the three-bedroom Thilamaafushi Beach Villa delivers an expansive indoor-outdoor living experience, complete with a private beach, infinity pool, Jacuzzi, and direct access to the turquoise sea—ideal for larger family holidays or special occasions.
Families are encouraged to build their days around meaningful activities, with curated experiences tailored to all ages. Guests may snorkel the vibrant house reef, take a dolphin cruise, or engage in friendly matches on the padel court. Evenings bring a sense of togetherness, with karaoke, bingo, and open-air cinema creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.
Le Méridien’s sun-drenched Au Soleil offers a vibrant gathering space for families to enjoy live music, refreshments, and signature treats. Poolside games and summery beverages are served alongside ocean vistas, while children can savour Le Scoop homemade gelato in a laid-back beachfront setting—an ideal stop between island escapades.
Reinforcing the resort’s dedication to sustainability, the Marine Conservation Hub provides an engaging educational experience for guests of all ages. Families can explore the local marine ecosystem with the resident biologists and take part in hands-on conservation efforts during their visit.
The Greenhouse, one of the Maldives’ largest hydroponic gardens, complements these efforts. Guests are invited to participate in the Family Foraging experience, where they can learn about hydroponic farming, harvest fresh produce together, and enjoy a communal Harvest Table—an experience designed to spark curiosity and environmental mindfulness in younger guests.
At the Le Méridien Family Kids Hub, children are immersed in a world of creative learning. This vibrant space hosts a variety of daily activities including arts and crafts, junior mixology classes, marine awareness sessions, and a signature kids’ night camping experience. While children are engaged, parents can unwind at the overwater Explore Spa, join a Sip & Paint session at La Vie bar, or enjoy bespoke destination dining. Babysitting services are also available for toddlers and infants, ensuring parents can enjoy peaceful moments throughout their stay.
The resort’s six restaurants and bars offer diverse dining experiences suited to every palate. Mediterranean cuisine is served at Riviera, while Japanese specialities and Teppanyaki are featured at Tabemasu. Velaa Bar + Grill offers wood-fired pizzas, and Turquoise provides a broad international menu. Each venue delivers a unique culinary journey, blending global flavours with locally sourced ingredients.
With sweeping views of the ocean and soft white sands, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa promises an enriching family escape where connection, exploration, and joy are seamlessly woven into each day.
Families booking the Family Adventure offer will enjoy a range of added benefits, including complimentary stays and meals for children under 12, daily half-board for the whole family, access to the Kids Hub, daily marine education sessions, non-motorised watersports, and more. The offer is available for bookings and stays through to 31 December 2025.
Featured
Milaidhoo Maldives celebrated for culturally immersive stays by Wanderlust

Milaidhoo Maldives has earned a coveted spot in Wanderlust Magazine’s ‘Wandersleep’ list, celebrated under the ‘Sense of Place’ category for stays that offer a deep connection to their destination. This recognition highlights the resort’s commitment to authenticity, culture, and meaningful travel.
Nestled in the breathtaking Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo is more than a luxury island retreat—it’s an intimate expression of Maldivian heritage. Thoughtfully designed by a local architect, the resort’s aesthetic draws inspiration from traditional Maldivian homes, featuring thatched roofs, open-air living spaces, and the use of natural materials throughout. This careful attention to design fosters a sense of belonging, allowing guests to engage deeply with the spirit of the islands.
Milaidhoo’s identity is rooted in its local ownership. As a proudly Maldivian family-owned resort, it offers not just exceptional service, but genuine warmth and hospitality that reflect the island’s culture. From coral conservation experiences to fishing excursions with local fishermen, every element of the guest journey is curated to offer a sense of connection—to people, to place, and to purpose.
The island’s gentle rhythm of ‘slow living’ invites guests to unwind and embrace island life at its purest. This ethos extends to the culinary experience at Ba’theli, Milaidhoo’s signature restaurant, where traditional dhoni boats float above the lagoon, serving dishes infused with the spices and stories of the Indian Ocean’s ancient maritime routes.
Milaidhoo’s inclusion in Wanderlust’s ‘Wandersleep’ list affirms its status as a destination that goes beyond luxury, offering travellers a meaningful and memorable stay steeped in a true sense of place.
Featured
Renowned holistic practitioner Ranjith Saj brings healing expertise to NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort

NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort is welcoming Ranjith Saj, a renowned holistic practitioner from Kerala, India, for a limited-time residency offering bespoke Ayurvedic and energy healing therapies.
With over 17 years of international spa expertise and a heritage grounded in traditional Indian medicine, Ranjith is celebrated for his intuitive, integrative approach to mind-body wellness. His treatments blend Ayurveda, reflexology, meridian therapy, and energetic detox techniques—ideal for guests seeking both physical rejuvenation and emotional clarity.
During his residency, Ranjith will present a dedicated signature menu, customised to suit individual wellness needs. Each session begins with a personal consultation and is designed to help restore the body’s natural equilibrium.
Signature Treatments:
- Muscle Energy Rebalance: 60 minutes – USD 135 | 90 minutes – USD 210
- Immune Booster Vedic Therapy: 60 minutes – USD 135 | 90 minutes – USD 210
- Foot Reflexology: 60 minutes – USD 135
- Vital Energy Restoration with Shiatsu: 60 minutes – USD 135 | 90 minutes – USD 210
- Blend of Healing (Detox + Reflexology): 75 minutes – USD 150
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in guided chakra balancing meditations and Qigong movement sessions, enriching their wellness experience and deepening internal harmony.
Set against the backdrop of Havodda’s pristine natural surroundings, these therapies offer a space for profound restoration—where stress melts away, energy realigns, and the body reconnects with a sense of ease.
“This residency reflects our commitment to meaningful wellness,” said the Resort Manager. “Ranjith’s presence offers our guests something more than relaxation — it’s a return to personal connection and inner stillness.”
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