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Chunky Mathew appointed W Insider at W Maldives

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W Retreat

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

Awards

Reethi Beach Resort wins Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award

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Reethi Beach Resort has announced that it has been recognized in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2025. This achievement celebrates businesses that consistently deliver fantastic experiences to travelers around the globe, earning great traveler reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the past year has been, Reethi Beach Resort stood out by continuously delighting guests in one of the world’s most inspiring destinations.

This recognition marks yet another consecutive win for Reethi Beach Resort, a testament to its longstanding legacy of excellence and the unwavering support of its global guest community.

“We are truly honored to be named among the top 10% of hospitality establishments worldwide,” said Valentin Osolos, General Manager of Reethi Beach Resort. “This award reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to every team member who made this possible. From the warm welcomes to the smallest thoughtful details, your commitment continues to shape magical moments for our guests.”

In a poetic turn of timing, this award announcement arrives on the final day of operating as Reethi Beach Resort before the property enters a temporary closure. The resort will reopen in December 2025 under its exciting new identity: NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort. While the name may change, the heart of Reethi Beach — the team, the spirit, and the soul of hospitality remains unwavering.

“Congratulations to Reethi Beach Resort on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2025,” said Kristen Dalton, President, Tripadvisor. “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience.”

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo earns prestigious spot in TripAdvisor’s top 10% global hotels

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has been honoured with a prestigious accolade, being named among the top 10% of hotels worldwide in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This esteemed recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and earning rave reviews from travellers across the globe.

Selected from hundreds of thousands of listings, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo’s inclusion in the prestigious list is a testament to its dedication to offering authentic, heartfelt experiences for its guests. The resort’s personalised service and its ability to deliver unique, memorable stays have made it a favourite among travellers seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Situated in the pristine Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is an adults-only boutique resort that blends local Maldivian culture with modern luxury. The resort features 68 beautifully designed villas that offer guests the ultimate in privacy and comfort. Known for its house reef teeming with vibrant marine life, the resort provides an immersive experience in the Maldives’ natural beauty. Guests can explore the coral reefs, enjoy a variety of international dining options, and indulge in a genuine sense of discovery.

With its focus on providing a serene escape for couples and solo travellers, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has become a cherished destination for those looking to unwind and recharge in an idyllic setting. Its recent recognition from TripAdvisor further underscores the resort’s exceptional reputation in the hospitality industry.

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Americans dreaming of Maldives: honeymoon searches soar in 2025 rankings

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Maldives has once again secured its place as one of the world’s most coveted honeymoon destinations, ranking second globally among Americans planning their post-wedding getaways in 2025.

According to a new study by UK-based swimwear brand Pour Moi, which analysed Google search data across the United States, the Maldives received 73,700 annual searches from honeymooning Americans eager to escape to its world-famous turquoise waters and luxury overwater villas.

The Indian Ocean paradise trails just behind Seychelles, which claimed the top spot with nearly 75,000 searches. Greece, Costa Rica, and Italy rounded out the top five.

The research examined over 490 global destinations to uncover where newlyweds are dreaming of heading this year. With its postcard-perfect beaches, serene lagoons, and opulent resorts offering private pools, spas, and gourmet dining, the Maldives continues to stand out as the ultimate destination for romance, relaxation, and indulgence.

“This stunning group of islands remains one of the most sought-after spots for couples who want an unforgettable start to married life,” said Marina Nicoli, Marketing Manager at Pour Moi. “The Maldives offers that rare combination of seclusion, natural beauty, and luxury that honeymooners crave.”

While entire countries were ranked based on interest, individual destinations within these countries also caught the spotlight. Santorini, Greece, emerged as the top individual honeymoon destination, followed by Bali in Indonesia and Italy’s Amalfi Coast. However, the Maldives’ reputation as an all-encompassing destination—offering entire islands as private resorts—cements its appeal to Americans looking for the perfect blend of privacy and pampering.

The Maldives’ second-place ranking highlights a continuing trend among U.S. couples seeking intimate, far-flung getaways. Pour Moi’s findings show a shift away from traditional city escapes toward nature-rich retreats that promise rest, romance, and Instagram-worthy moments.

Top 10 Countries for U.S. Honeymoon Searches in 2025:

  • Seychelles – 74,960 searches
  • Maldives – 73,700 searches
  • Greece – 49,100 searches
  • Costa Rica – 47,000 searches
  • Italy – 36,900 searches
  • Thailand – 25,800 searches
  • Fiji – 25,600 searches
  • Japan – 24,500 searches
  • New Zealand – 18,300 searches
  • Iceland – 15,180 searches

With the Maldives already a firm favourite among international travellers, this new data reaffirms its global status as a dream destination—especially for couples ready to celebrate the start of their forever.

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