News
Chunky Mathew appointed W Insider at W Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – W Retreat & Spa Maldives has announced the appointment of Mr. Chunky Mathew as the retreat’s W Insider – W Hotels’ version of the traditional concierge.
This vital role is centered on providing guests with all the right inside knowledge of the Maldives, and to go above and beyond to create memories that are a universe away from the norm.
Jennifer Buhr General Manager commented “Guests at W Maldives are here to celebrate a special occasion such as their honeymoon or anniversary and they want ‘Insider Access’ to the Maldives and to the retreat. Chunky gives the retreats’ guests access to all that Maldives has to offer in terms of W Happenings, entertainment, sightseeing and once in a lifetime activities whilst being our honored guests.”
Chunky, a native of India brings to the Maldives a wealth of experience, including 6 years of service with Taj Hotels, Design hotels as well as Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
With a passion for photography and sports, Chunky likes taking sunset pictures for guests and playing table tennis @ WET, our large swimming pool facility. He also plays a mean game of volley ball with any guests willing to take him on. With Chunky as our W Insider, we aim to always amplify and enhance our guests experience throughout their stay at W Maldives”.
Chunky’s Insider Tips:
- Experience breathtaking views as the sun dips over the crest of the Indian Ocean while sipping on a signature cocktail specially prepared by W Mixologist at SIP, the retreats sunset lounge bar.
- Escape to Gaathafushi – the retreats own private island. A short speedboat ride away the deserted island is yours to explore for a few hours, a full day, or an overnight experience. A real ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience.
- Dive around the island with our Dive Instructors from Downunder – W’s dive center. The coral reef around AWAY Spa is a favorite of many guests where the underwater scenery is just steps away from the shoreline. On the way back make sure you pass by our underwater W, bring a souvenir home.
- W Maldives spectacularly memorable nights come to life when night snorkeling around the house reef. One of the very best in the Maldives. You will be surprised by the vibrant and pulsating fluorescent colors of our underwater visitors.
- Cool down from the heat every Friday at WET the retreat swim-up pool bar. Tease your palette with a unique Ice Cream blind tasting while resident DJ Xeum unveils the latest and greatest beats.
Chunky said “I am thrilled to join W Maldives and in true W Insider fashion, I’m promising to deliver an exclusive experience that will be both unexpected & extraordinary. Come and join me in this tropical playground.”
W Maldives is a tropical delight in the Indian Ocean perfect for relaxing, playing, and recharging for your next adventure. Connect with your inner peace and go along with the pace of island life. Succumb to the inviting seduction of dazzling blue waters, spectacular reefs and pristine sands and relax in style – a sublime tonic for both body and soul.
For more information on W Retreat & Spa Maldives, please visit www.wretreatmaldives.com
Cooking
Domenico Carella and Fabrizio Margarita unite for innovative culinary experience at Patina Maldives
Patina Maldives has announces an exclusive culinary pop-up, Ultra Milano by Domenico Carella, taking place from November 9th to November 13th, 2024. This exclusive experience will showcase the innovative culinary and mixology talents of Domenico Carella, a renowned figure in the food and beverage industry.
Carella has built an impressive career as a professional chef, bartender, and manager. With over a decade of experience, he has mastered the art of blending ingredients and flavours to create dishes that perfectly balance texture and taste. His culinary journey has taken him around the world, earning accolades such as Manager of the Year in Asia by “That’s Shanghai” in 2015.
At this event, Domenico Carella’s mixology will complement Fabrizio Margarita’s pizza artistry, reimagining dining with a sustainable flair at Veli Bar in Patina Maldives, Fari Islands.
Carella’s approach to food and beverage emphasises environmental respect and sustainability. His holistic vision ensures that all departments, from the kitchen to the bar, work harmoniously, aligning the procurement of raw materials to create a unified and sustainable operation.
Awards
GO TRAVEL Awards honour Sun Siyam Resorts for excellence in sustainable tourism practices
Sun Siyam Resorts has been awarded the title of “Most Influential Sustainable Hotel Group of the Year” at the 2025 GO TRAVEL Hotel Travel Excellence Awards. This recognition, presented by GOGO Media and Weibo Shanghai, celebrates Sun Siyam Resorts’ exceptional contributions to sustainable tourism in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
This prestigious award highlights the group’s dedication to blending authentic guest experiences with a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility. At Sun Siyam Resorts, sustainability is not just a practice but an integral part of its operations, shaping how the group interacts with the environment and supports local communities.
Central to Sun Siyam Resorts’ achievements is the “Sun Siyam Cares” program, which encompasses various eco-friendly and community-focused initiatives. These include reducing energy and water consumption, managing waste efficiently, supporting local community development, and investing in renewable energy sources. Through these efforts, Sun Siyam Resorts actively works to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact.
The group’s commitment extends beyond environmental conservation to cultural preservation, emphasising the protection of local heritage and traditional practices. By prioritising these sustainable practices, Sun Siyam Resorts contributes not only to environmental well-being but also to the socio-economic growth of the communities where it operates.
This recognition at the GO TRAVEL Hotel Travel Excellence Awards underscores Sun Siyam Resorts’ leadership in sustainable tourism, marking a significant milestone in the group’s journey to create memorable, eco-friendly travel experiences. Through a seamless blend of luxury and sustainability, Sun Siyam Resorts offers guests the chance to enjoy extraordinary vacations while leaving a positive impact on the world.
Featured
Tennis legend Marion Bartoli leads exclusive lessons at Siyam World Maldives
From December 10th to 14th, Siyam World Maldives will host an unforgettable event for tennis enthusiasts and sports lovers. In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort welcomes former World No. 7 and Wimbledon Champion Marion Bartoli for an exciting LUX Tennis Star Event, featuring private lessons, group clinics, and a Meet & Greet with the tennis legend.
After establishing itself as a premier destination for football camps and hosting some of the sport’s greatest players, Siyam World is now shifting focus to tennis, with Marion Bartoli as the latest star to join its roster of sports icons. Guests will have the opportunity to step onto the court with Bartoli herself, gaining insights and tips from one of the sport’s best, whether they’re experienced players or beginners looking to improve their skills.
In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort offers a diverse range of tennis activities, from private one-on-one lessons to energetic group clinics, catering to all levels of players. Additionally, a Complimentary Meet & Greet session provides fans with the chance to take photos, engage in conversation with Bartoli, and hear about her inspiring journey from professional player to tennis icon.
Marion Bartoli is a celebrated former professional tennis player from France, known for her unique playing style and remarkable career achievements. She captured the prestigious Wimbledon Championships singles title in 2013, becoming the sixth player in the Open Era to win the title without dropping a set. Bartoli was also a Wimbledon finalist in 2007 and reached the semifinals at the French Open in 2011. Throughout her career, she earned seven singles and three doubles titles on the WTA Tour. Recognised for her unconventional approach, she played with both hands on her forehand and backhand, distinguishing her from traditional players. Bartoli reached her career-high ranking of World No. 7 on January 30, 2012, and returned to this ranking on July 8, 2013, following her Wimbledon victory.
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