Lifestyle
Naladhu – a luxury island for yourself

Maldives.net.mv – Imagine your own private island nestled on the edge of a stunning lagoon, in one of the world’s most celebrated tropical havens, ringed by coral gardens and vibrant marine life, where the stunning turquoise hues of the Indian Ocean are complemented by the exotic scent of palm trees. Welcome to Naladhu, Maldives.
Celebrities, sports stars and Fortune 500 Listers have called it their home away from home and both corporate and celebratory groups are buying the island resort out for exclusive use in an increasing trend for those opting for private island breakaways.
According to Naladhu Director of Sales & Marketing, Narelle McDougall, the resort is a popular incentive reward destination and corporate retreat, but she is quick to add that more and more common interest groups are following suit. “We are seeing an increase in common interest group travel, such as family celebrations, to the Maldives and buyout enquiries for special occasions.”
The resort is a luxurious boutique hideaway in the South Male Atoll, a mere 35 minute speedboat journey from the island nation’s international airport, or a scenic 5 minutes by private chartered seaplane.
Naladhu means ‘pretty island’, and each of the nineteen secluded houses incorporates timeless design, idyllic views and an unmatched feeling of home.
With a choice of two house types, each 300 square meters in size, the Beach House or Ocean House provides its own distinct vantage point on the island, while offering identical amenities and luxurious comforts. Generous living, dining and bedroom spaces, a private swimming pool, landscaped garden and vast sundeck make for an exotic experience within the privacy of each enclosure.
To further enhance the experience, all houses are indulged by discreet yet attentive personal House Masters, 24 hours a day to ensure that guests’ every desire is not only met, but also anticipated.
Accommodating up to 38 guests, the resort is the perfect destination for small groups in need of privacy and seclusion in luxurious surroundings. McDougall says that, as a predominantly leisure destination, corporate retreats tend to opt for outdoors settings such as a barefoot meeting in the sand. “Many retreats take the form of team-building exercises with activities under, on and alongside the turquoise Indian Ocean, including kayak races across the lagoon, cooking challenges or even surfing contests. All retreats are tailor made to suit a group’s specific needs, such as spa journeys for a ‘Girls Weekend’ group, or CEO adrenaline junkies diving some of the world’s most treasured reefs.”
A dedicated event coordinator service encompasses all of the client’s accommodation, activity programme and food and beverage requirements. Guests are met by resort representatives at Male International Airport and escorted to the island by luxury speedboat.
Event setups and programmes are tailor made to suit ideals and specific needs, and Naladhu’s personalised ‘Intimate Dining Affairs’ experiences ensure unique occasions in dreamy locations, from an isolated sandbank in the Indian Ocean to a coconut grove – anywhere of the group’s choosing.
McDougall concludes that Naladhu’s tropical setting, exclusive nature and intimate atmosphere coupled with personalised service make it the ideal choice for high-end corporate retreats and special family occasions alike. “Sometimes reserving your private place in luxury isn’t enough; sometimes you just need a luxury island all for yourself.”
For more information, visit www.naladhu.com
Lifestyle
Rosamund Pike escapes to paradise at Patina Maldives

Award-winning British actress Rosamund Pike recently traded the bustle of London for the serene turquoise waters of the Maldives, enjoying a picture-perfect escape at the luxurious Patina Maldives, Fari Islands. The “Gone Girl” star shared a dreamy video on social media, offering fans a glimpse into her idyllic tropical retreat—and it’s everything a Maldivian holiday should be.
In the video, Rosamund is seen immersing herself in the full island experience. From soaking up the sun at a private overwater villa to cruising on a dolphin-watching tour, biking along palm-lined paths, snorkeling with manta rays, and diving alongside sea turtles, it’s clear she embraced the magic of the Maldives. She even took to the waves on a water scooter, channeling her adventurous side in the most scenic setting imaginable.
Pike captioned her post with heartfelt reflection: “I left London on my very last ember and had a holiday of magical dimensions! The Maldives offer a glimpse of paradise, an escape from rush. @patinamaldives is a destination I have sought out three times; to practice doing nothing in preparation for playing Elspeth and this time to recover from doing too much. It is a heaven on your own terms— and I washed all my cares in salt and rinsed my soul in the sea. Here is a glimpse of bliss as I see it.”
Rosamund Pike is no stranger to immersive roles and demanding projects. Known for her powerful performances in films like Pride & Prejudice, Gone Girl, and the fantasy series The Wheel of Time, her career has spanned decades and earned critical acclaim. With such a busy professional life, it’s no wonder she finds solace and renewal at Patina Maldives.Set in the pristine Fari Islands, Patina Maldives is a modern sanctuary that blends understated luxury with a deep connection to nature. Designed by renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, the resort offers minimalist aesthetics, eco-conscious living, and transformative experiences. Its overwater villas and beachfront retreats provide the ultimate in privacy and comfort, while curated wellness, art, and culinary journeys cater to mindful travelers seeking more than just a getaway.
For Rosamund Pike, Patina Maldives isn’t just a destination—it’s a refuge. Her third visit to the resort speaks volumes of its allure, where moments of stillness are as treasured as moments of adventure. As she puts it, it’s “a heaven on your own terms.”Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, indulge in marine adventures, or simply float into a state of bliss, Rosamund’s Maldivian escape is all the inspiration you need.
Entertainment
Ultimate experience of music and magic at Reethi Faru Resort

The stage is set for a one-of-a-kind celebration of artistry, wonder, and sustainable luxury as the Festival of Magic and Melodies arrives at Reethi Faru Resort. Taking place from April 26 to April 30, 2025, the festival promises an immersive journey through the realms of music and magic, all within the serene beauty of one of the Maldives’ most intimate island resorts.
Located on the tranquil island of Raa Atoll, Reethi Faru Resort is known for combining opulence with ecological responsibility. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches, and lush tropical vegetation, the resort provides an idyllic backdrop for this exclusive event. With a strong dedication to preserving the island’s natural ecosystems, Reethi Faru offers guests a unique experience of sustainable luxury.
Headlining the festival are two internationally acclaimed performers who each bring a powerful and transformative artistic vision to the stage.
Swiss violinist and composer Nurdana Ernst will present her celebrated concert Soul Therapy. A graduate of the Haute École de Musique in Lausanne and certified in Music Therapy from Berklee College of Music, Ernst is recognised for blending classical mastery with contemporary expression. Her performances invite audiences to explore inner emotions through the healing qualities of music, creating an atmosphere of deep reflection and emotional connection. With a background as a soloist with prestigious orchestras and a growing international fanbase for her debut singles Tomiris and The Voice of the Heart, Ernst is poised to deliver an unforgettable musical journey.
Sharing the spotlight is French magician and mentalist Nicolas Subra, also known as The Dream Guider. With over 15 years of experience and performances in more than 20 countries, Subra is renowned for his mesmerising stage presence and the philosophical depth behind his illusions. His shows are not just spectacles, but immersive experiences that blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy, offering audiences moments of wonder, inspiration, and introspection.
Together, these two exceptional artists will transform Reethi Faru into a realm where music and magic converge. The Festival of Magic and Melodies is designed to captivate the senses while honouring the natural beauty and sustainable ethos of its island setting.
Guests at the festival will not only enjoy world-class performances but also the chance to connect with nature, art, and themselves in a setting that celebrates mindful luxury.
The Festival of Magic and Melodies offers a rare and enriching escape—an opportunity to indulge in elegance, creativity, and ecological harmony.
Featured
Immersed in nature: marine life encounters at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

As the world comes together to celebrate World Wildlife Day, there is no better time to explore the turquoise waters surrounding Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ four Maldivian properties. These waters, home to some of the most captivating marine creatures, provide a glimpse into a thriving underwater ecosystem brimming with life. Experts from Dive & Sail, the official dive operator at the resorts, share insights into the marine marvels awaiting guests beneath the waves.
“Each of the four resorts in the Maldives by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts boasts a unique marine ecosystem,” says Adam Ali from the Dive & Sail team. He highlights the vibrant coral gardens of Ellaidhoo, the world-famous surf breaks and manta ray encounters near Dhonveli, and the diverse underwater landscapes that make each location a window into the wonders of the ocean.
At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, divers and snorkelers frequently encounter nurse sharks gliding through the waters, while the pristine lagoons of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offer sightings of stingrays and colourful reef fish. The diversity of species across these resorts underscores the Maldives’ rich marine heritage, providing unforgettable underwater adventures.
One of the most sought-after experiences for divers and snorkelers is encountering manta rays and whale sharks. “The Maldives is one of the best places in the world for manta ray sightings, and they are often spotted in the channels near Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives and Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives,” explains Ibrahim Shaah, a seasoned instructor at Dive & Sail. Recalling a particularly memorable dive, he describes being surrounded by half a dozen manta rays, their graceful movements almost hypnotic, with one even looping around the divers as if performing a dance.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, renowned for its house reef, offers some of the best opportunities for close-up shark encounters. “Diving here, especially at night, is a surreal experience,” says diver Mohamad Amjey. He describes a moment of stillness as a school of reef sharks moved past him like shadows in the dark, an exhilarating yet peaceful experience.
Beyond providing exceptional underwater encounters, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts remains committed to marine conservation. “Sustainable diving and snorkelling practices are essential to protecting these fragile ecosystems,” the team at Dive & Sail emphasises. The dive centres educate guests on responsible marine interactions, encouraging them to maintain a safe distance from marine life and avoid contact with corals.
The resort group also plays a crucial role in reef restoration through coral propagation initiatives. By planting coral frames and monitoring their growth, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts contributes to preserving the reefs that support an incredible array of species. Guests are invited to take part in these efforts, fostering a deeper connection with marine conservation.
On this World Wildlife Day, the vibrant marine life of the Maldives is celebrated as a dream destination for ocean enthusiasts. Whether experienced divers or first-time snorkelers, guests at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives are encouraged to discover, appreciate, and safeguard this underwater wonderland. After all, the true beauty of the ocean lies not only in what is witnessed but in the efforts made to protect it for future generations.
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