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Island Goers

The Hidden Fountains of Paradise

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Maldives Promotion House – A southern most haven in the paradise of Maldives, completely secluded from the rest of the country composed of a geography that contrasts with the rest of the archipelago, Fuvahmulah is an atoll island with natives that speak their own dialect of the Dhivehi language of Maldives. Roughly five kilometers by one kilometer with a submerged reef that extends for about three kilometers south east, the island is surrounded by coral boulders and rough waves.

Perhaps the most intriguing features of the island are its two lakes formed from the ancient lagoon in the center of the island. According to the locals the southern end was open, providing a channel connecting the ancient lagoon with the ocean. Due to violent ocean swells and the lack of an outside lagoon the only way into the island was through this channel, providing protection against pirates. However the channel was closed by coral growth and collection of debris. Over the ages, the inner lagoon lost its salinity and all that remains today are two small fresh water lakes, wetlands and marshy taro fields.

Research into the lakes show that the bottoms of the lakes are filled with decayed corals that have turned into white clay. The forefathers of the locals used the clay to shape it into pots and other vessels. The protected lakes are still lined with a thick layer of clay covered by a pinkish layer of minerals known to the locals as “Rai Madu”. The lakes are now listed as protected areas under the law. The locals use the area to spend time with friends and to enjoy. The natives have always spoken of and believed in the heart of their hearts, of the healing abilities of the lake water. Further research into the lake water shows that the water is filled with minerals and perhaps more healthier than mineral water.

The smaller northern lake, known as “Dhandimagu Kilhi”, is preferred by locals who often use the area for recreational and enjoyment purposes during holidays. Picnics are common and local youth often use the lake for swimming. Since the lake is also home to an abundance of small fresh water fish, the lake was used for leisure fishing as well. While damaging the area or disrupting their natural beauty is prohibited by law, the lakes can be used for recreational purposes such as swimming. The tall reeds that grow around the marshy wet land and lake are used to weave mats among other uses.

One of the natives told us a tale, of how his son was healed by the water. “My son has a skin condition, his skin dries and cracks up very quickly. I couldn’t find a permanent cure. So  I took him to the lake. We played and swam. We had fun and we were happy. After we returned I found out that his skin was beginning to get better. Within the following week, his skin had healed and he was perfectly healthy,” a native from “Fuvahmulah” told us his experience of the lake water.

The much deeper and bigger southern lake known as “Bandaara Kilhi” is usually left alone. During earlier times the lake was used for swimming and different areas of the lake were named after different houses of the island. While visitors and locals do visit the lake for its blissful scenery and natural beauty, locals usually don’t use the lake for swimming due to its depth. According to the natives, during ancient times the lake was used to store their harvest and gatherings to keep them safe from animals and pests. The local tales speak of a hut that was built at the center of the lake on stilts. The wooden stilts are still visible beneath the water surface. The fruits and vegetables that were harvested and gathered were then stored inside the hut for transportation to the capital Malé.

The locals also used the “Bandaara Kilhi” to culture fresh water fish. The lake fish was earlier used as food during low fisheries and rough seas. The two lakes of Fuvahmulah can also be used as a tourist attraction as the whole island is unique in its geography. While the island is full of natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage it is a wonder to be beheld. It is a community of people that lived for a long time depending only on the surrounding resources, and separate from the rest of the country. Being isolated they have developed a very different kind of unity, as rather than just islanders they are brothers and sisters.

The lakes are filled with tales of unimaginable romance and happiness. A native told us of his teenage romance tied to the lakes. He began his enthusiastic tale saying that “I was with my girlfriend when we met a friend of mine also with his girlfriend. They were sitting under one of the huge mango trees.”

“The fruits were ripe and they were enjoying the mangoes fresh from the tree. After we had some mangoes we decided to visit the lake. So I went home, changed my clothes and met them at the lake,” he paused as if lost in thought.

“We had fun as we moved through the wet lands spread out in all directions. We collected wood and barbecued while we cooked some soup.  After we enjoyed our meal, we climbed one of the tall trees and made a flag out of a shirt.”

“Then we went into the forest and we would lose ourselves in its natural beauty. It is really difficult to find your way through the forest. But eventually we did, as the flag would show us the way,” I could see the glow in his eyes as he reminisced over his past.

“Afterwards we swam through the lake. I would make my way through the shallow water dragging my girlfriend along, as she floated on the water with her hands around my neck. It was pure bliss, swimming through the water is like a natural spa experience. There is nothing quite like it,” he spoke of those moments engraved in his memory.

“With the clear blue sky spread above, and the fresh lake water spread all around you, as you bask yourself in the warmth of the sun, those memories become etched in your mind. The lake is the heart of our community. It ties the bond between every romance, every family and every person. It is the glue that holds us together.”

Island Goers

Kandolhu Maldives: Dive into Paradise with Noovilu Sports

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Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Kandolhu Maldives offers guests a chance to create unforgettable memories with exciting activities provided by Noovilu Sports. Renowned for its Maldivian-inspired villas, stunning beaches, and vibrant house reef, Kandolhu provides the perfect backdrop for an adventurous or relaxing vacation.

Thrilling Adventures:

For adrenaline enthusiasts, Noovilu Sports offers various water sports like wakeboarding, windsurfing, and kneeboarding. Feel the rush of wind and experience the freedom of gliding across turquoise waters.

Tranquil Exploration:

For a more serene experience, opt for paddleboarding sessions. Explore the calm waters at your own pace, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and reconnect with nature.

Underwater Paradise:

Embark on a guided snorkeling tour led by experienced guides. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and other marine life. Every excursion is a journey into a wondrous underwater world.

Romantic Moments:

Celebrate love or simply enjoy each other’s company with a charming sunset cruise. Toast to your love amidst the stunning backdrop of a Maldivian sunset, creating unforgettable moments.

Beyond the Resort:

Adventure awaits beyond the resort with exciting excursions offered by Noovilu Sports. Witness the majestic Manta Rays on the popular Manta Ray Mission trip, or relax and unwind on a nearby sandbank with the Take it to the Bank trip.

Unforgettable Experiences:

With its diverse range of activities and commitment to exceptional service, Noovilu Sports redefines the guest experience at Kandolhu Maldives. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, embark on a journey of discovery and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Dive into the excitement and explore the wonders of the Maldives with Noovilu Sports at Kandolhu Maldives.

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Celebration

Patina Maldives Announces Unforgettable Easter Celebration

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As Easter approaches, Patina Maldives invites families to experience a tropical spring celebration unlike any other. From beachfront feasts to captivating egg hunts and immersive wellness experiences, the resort offers a thoughtfully curated program designed to create lasting memories.

Culinary Delights Await

Embark on a culinary journey like never before at Patina Maldives. On March 27th, indulge in the “Aegean Odyssey” at Helios, featuring the diverse flavors of Aegean cuisine. Fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and exquisite dishes from Greece and neighboring regions promise to tantalize your taste buds.

Unwind at the Beachside Bash

For an island celebration, join the Fari Beach Club party on March 28th. Savor meticulously crafted cocktails, enticing canapés, and live entertainment for the perfect seaside soiree.

Festivities Galore at the Fari Marina Easter Festival

On March 30th, join the vibrant Fari Marina Easter Festival. Savor delectable treats at live cooking stations, groove to DJ beats, and explore artisanal treasures from local vendors. A dedicated kids’ corner ensures fun for the whole family.

Uncover Easter Eggs on a Tropical Adventure

The highlight of the Easter weekend is the Island Egg Hunt at Helios on March 31st. Guided by the Easter Bunny and the dedicated Footprints team, embark on a tropical adventure to discover hidden Easter eggs and sweet surprises.

Beyond the Celebrations

Patina Maldives offers a diverse range of activities throughout the Easter period. Hone your tennis skills with the Lux Tennis Star Event featuring Nicolas Almagro, unleash your creativity at sketching workshops with artist Tony Jaggas, or participate in family-friendly activities like laser cutting and decorating Easter ornaments.

Seek Wellness and Rejuvenation

For those seeking relaxation, Patina Maldives welcomes visiting practitioner Junko Fujita, offering the unique and rejuvenating experience of Watsu – a combination of massage, stretches, and meditation while floating in warm water.

Create Lasting Memories this Easter

This Easter, escape to Patina Maldives and create lasting memories with your loved ones. For more information and reservations, visit https://patinahotels.com/maldives-fari-islands/easter-celebrations or contact reservations.maldives@patinahotels.com.

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Island Goers

“Leave Better” at the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands with a Spring Escape to Enliven the Senses

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A bucket-list retreat whose very existence is a response to the natural world, from the rhythm of the ocean waves to the rising and the setting of the sun, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands continues to celebrate the seasons with its Spring Festival this half-term. A multigenerational series of experiences at will explore taste and adventure, mind and movement, plugging guests firmly into nature, to inspire and nourish the soul.

A week-long programme will ensure guests of all ages return home version 2.0. Whether exploring new skills on land or water, awakening the senses on a gourmet trail of discovery, or re-balancing the mind and body, the Spring Festival ensures a blissful transition from a season of wintering.

In the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment programme guests will take to the big blue with snorkelling and tank dives designed by its legendary namesake explorer. Fishing expeditions shine light on traditional Maldivian culture, and journeys on water track life-aquatic with pods of dolphins as they dance in to Spring. For mind and body, spa excellence prevails at The Ritz-Carlton Spa with Bamford. Wellness workshops will energise, ease tension and rejuvenate, from bamboo tapping, face yoga, gua sha massage to spa alchemy, while yoga gets dynamic, off the matt and up in the air with group aerial practice.  

On and beyond the resort’s culinary island, unforgettable gourmet experiences are high on the Spring agenda. A chef’s table sake dinner at IWAU honours innovative Japanese cuisine under the stars, while aromatic Middle Eastern flavours of the resort’s Arabesque restaurant are presented in an exclusive pop-up at the magical Mystique Garden. The popular Beach Shack plays host to an indulgent lobster dinner at twilight, and provides the venue for a smooth Sunday beach barbeque where smoky flavours are complemented by crisp rosé. For those looking to create, hands-on workshops will explore the intricacy of spring roll making and the mastery of coffee and barista skills.

Junior guests are promised a spring in their step with a jamboree of activities at Ritz Kids, from garden picnics, treasure hunts to pirate safaris. A kaleidoscope of colour bounces through the week with kite flying on the beach, piñata parties and glow-in-the-dark painting at sundown. 

As the days merge mindfully, the resort’s Defining Moment serenades the sun as it sets each day. A tribute to the cycle of nature, the signature ritual hosted at the iconic Eau Bar channels hypnotic beats of Boduberu drumming and blowing of the Sangu shell. To be enjoyed with a signature sundowner cocktail in hand and lightness of heart.

Browse our Spring Festival Brochure!

For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives and for real-time updates follow the resort on Facebook and Instagram.

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