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Anantara’s romantic oasis fully refurbished in Maldives

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Anantara Veli

Maldives.net.mv – Those in search of the ultimate romantic getaway will find that the paradise island of their dreams Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives has been fully refurbished and will be fully opened in January 2014. Located in the South Malé Atoll just half an hour from Malé International Airport, Anantara Veli is a destination created for couples to experience the exquisiteness of being together amid one of the most stunning natural environments in the world.

At Anantara Veli couples can unwind on endless white sand beaches, palm-fringed islands and pristine coral reefs and find the true meaning of tranquillity. The resort is located on Veligandu, an island with mature tropical forest and sweeping vistas of the Indian Ocean. Anantara Veli offers the luxury of time to contemplate the beauty of the Maldivian light as it evolves from morning glow to evening dusk – bathing the coconut thatched roofs in subtly-changing hues, and glittering off the clear waters just beneath the private bungalows.

The marvels of nature are complemented by the chic simplicity of the design, and the idyllic seclusion is balanced by all modern conveniences one would expect of a luxury resort. Anantara Veli features 36 Over-Water Bungalows, 14 Deluxe Over-Water Bungalows, 7 newly built Ocean Pool Bungalows, and 10 brand new Deluxe Ocean Water Pool Bungalows.

Each 62-square-metre Over-Water Bungalow has a contemporary design with local Maldivian touches including hardwood flooring and a coconut thatch roof. Maldivian fabrics stretch across the bed, tropical flowers and jasmine scents float through the elegant bathroom. The private sun terrace offers views of coral garden and easy access to the gentle waters of the lagoon.

The Deluxe Over-Water Bungalow offers an expansive 92 square metres of luxury overlooking the vast seascapes. Bathrooms include a luxurious terrazzo bathtub for two by the lagoon and a rain shower that leads into the sundeck. At Anantara, luxury is standard. Guest can enjoy all the comforts of home and then some, including high-speed internet access, espresso machine, minibar, personal surround-sound stereo with flat-screen TV, CD/DVD/MP3 player and 24-hour room service.

Anantara Veli

The new luxurious and private Ocean Pool Bungalow offers a magnificent plunge pool accompanied by 125 square metres of inviting indoor and outdoor space, with beach and lagoon access only a short stroll away. Designed with hardwood flooring, island inspired decor and a wealth of signature comforts, these charming hideaways are charcterised by intimacy, natural style and breathtaking ocean panoramas. Guests sleep in a sumptuous king size bed that is dressed in the finest linens. Bathroom is fully air-conditioned and includes a generous bathtub that can be enjoyed with your favourite iPod tracks played in the background, while unobstructed views of rolling waves can be admired through floor to ceiling glass doors. A spacious veranda allows guests to bask under the sun on a lounger or refresh in their personal plunge pool in a tranquil world of their own.

The newly built and idyllically romantic Deluxe Over Water Pool Bungalow is poised directly above a turquoise lagoon with its deck slipping directly into the azure waters below. Guests can take a dip in the private plunge pool while enjoying the breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean. Unravelling 125 square metres of sumptuous space, Deluxe Over Water Pool Bungalow blends signature Anantara comforts with destination inspired design and all the comforts of a five star resort. A spacious bedroom, where hardwood flooring lends a stylish feel, includes a king size bed dressed in the finest linens, which is idyllic for admiring a panorama of jewel coloured ocean meeting endless blue sky.

Anantara Veli offers the opportunity for guests to discover new culinary horizons with an array of casual and fine dining options unmatched anywhere in the Maldives. The beauty of the island sets the tone for memorable dining experiences that combine sophisticated international tastes with the best of local flavours.

Inspired Thai cuisine comes to the sublime beauty of Baan Huraa, a beautiful over water teak restaurant perched right on the ocean. Baan Huraa serves a unique dining experience concocted by the resort’s Thai chefs. Signature dishes include coconut curries from Thailand’s southern provinces as well as hot and spicy dishes from the north, bound together by an authenticity of flavour. Baan Huraa is the finest Thai restaurant in the Maldives.

73 Degrees is an enticingly light and airy Maldivian style pavilion where you can feel the sand between your toes on the naturally soft sand floor. Serving a sumptuous breakfast buffet every morning, guests can enjoy a selection of fresh tropical fruits and juices, cereals, homemade breads, grilled meats, vegetables and made to order omelettes. In the evenings, the restaurant transforms into a seafood market buffet, where one can select fish plucked straight from the ocean.

Kick back by the pool at Dhoni Bar. Swim up to the bartender and savour cocktails and chill vibes. Settle into the infinity-edge pool and take in the seascape as you unwind with other honeymoon guests. At Origami (formerly Geckos), a modern Japanese restaurant with a rustic touch, guests can enjoy fresh sashimi, Teppanyaki and Robotayaki prepared right before them. This casual yet chic outlet is a perfect spot for light casual dining on inventive dishes with intimate alcoves and outdoor seating options. With Dining By Design, guests can enjoy a banquet on the beach, a candlelit picnic on their own stretch of sand or desert island or even a barbecue with a personal chef on the terrace.

Unique activities and excursions provide guests with ample opportunities to explore the extraordinary natural beauty and cultural soul of the Maldives. Sail away in a traditional Maldivian Dhoni on a thrilling dolphins safari. Climb aboard a speedboat to explore uninhabited islands and enjoy a picnic in splendid romantic seclusion. Spend a few hours deep-sea fishing and discover the ancient ways of local fishermen and hear fascinating sea lore.

Dive into an exciting discovery of the Maldives’ famous coral reefs, or enjoy water-skiing in the placid lagoon, scenic seaplane flights or an array of water sports diversions. Meet Anantara Veli’ resident marine biologist and visit the renowned coral sanctuary. The 5 star resort also features its own onsite surfing school and a PADI Dive Centre to guide guests through one of the world’s premier diving destinations.

While staying at Anantara Veli, guests are treated to an array of inspired culinary creations so we offer them an opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade with ‘Spice Spoons’ cooking class from our resident master chefs. Participants can recreate traditional Maldivian or Thai and fusion dishes and then settle down to enjoy the fruits of their labours.

The Anantara Garden Spa is an idyllic retreat designed in perfect harmony with its location amid the verdant majesty of the lush tropical forest. Escape the cares of everyday with indigenously inspired luxury treatments to pamper mind, body and soul. Indulge in a traditional Thai massage, authentic Ayurvedic treatment or local therapy. The comprehensive spa menu features timeless rituals designed to enrich and detoxify using both indigenous and international elixirs and oils.

For more information please email veli@anantara.com

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Silent DJ brings music and movement to Madifushi Private Island

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Madifushi Private Island has introduced a new Silent DJ experience, inviting guests to enjoy an evening of music, movement and connection in a way that remains true to the resort’s serene island character.

Set within the resort’s dedicated Silent DJ and Karaoke Lounge, the experience gives each guest a wireless headset and the freedom to choose between multiple music channels. Guests can switch channels whenever they wish, dance to their own soundtrack or tune into the same channel and share the beat with family and friends.

With the music delivered directly through individual headsets, there is no need for amplified DJ sound to fill the surrounding area. The concept therefore allows participating guests to immerse themselves in the energy of the evening while helping to minimize ambient noise and preserve the calm enjoyed by others across the island.

“Madifushi Private Island is known as the Island of Serene Wonders, and every new experience we introduce should complement that promise. Silent DJ gives our guests the freedom to celebrate, dance and enjoy music together while respecting the tranquility that makes the island so special. It is lively on the inside, peaceful on the outside, and unmistakably signature to Madifushi Private Island,” said Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager, Madifushi Private Island.

The room also offers a dedicated Karaoke experience. Using wireless microphones and a curated song library, guests can perform solo, sing together as a group or combine Karaoke with Silent DJ for a more varied private event.

The introduction of Silent DJ reflects Madifushi Private Island’s wider approach to thoughtful luxury: creating memorable experiences that feel personal and joyful while remaining sensitive to the setting. It also offers an inventive response to noise disturbance, showing that entertainment and tranquillity can comfortably coexist when an experience is designed with intention.

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COMO Resorts Maldives brings marine experts, artists and wellness specialists to its islands

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For the remainder of 2026, COMO Maalifushi and COMO Cocoa Island will offer an inspiring calendar of COMO Journeys and visiting practitioner residencies, bringing together leading experts, artists and wellness specialists from around the world.

Rooted in ocean stewardship, artistic expression and holistic wellbeing, each programme is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the distinctive character of its island setting. Through immersive experiences and expert-led encounters, guests are invited to discover the Maldives in new ways, deepening their appreciation of the natural world while cultivating creativity, balance and personal renewal.

At COMO Maalifushi, COMO Journey with Guardians of the Reef will take place from October 20th to November 2nd 2026, with Sharks4Kids. Led by marine biologist Jillian Morris and Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Duncan Brake, the family-focused programme explores the world of sharks through guided reef adventures, marine education, citizen science and underwater storytelling.

The resort will also feature two visiting practitioners, the first, “Holistic Reset for Body and Mind” will take place from September 21st to October 5th 2026, and will include personalised treatments by physiotherapist and osteopath Martina Wegscheider. These treatments will combine osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, energy alignment, and mindful movement.

The second residency, “Balance and Harmony” is scheduled from December 1st to January 10th, 2027. Wellness practitioner Kimberly Rose Kneier will lead this program, which will integrate various holistic practices, including acupuncture, Qi Gong, breathwork, and craniosacral therapy.

At COMO Cocoa Island, COMO Journey with Ocean Culture Life takes place from October 19th to October 31st 2026. This event will be led by award-winning photographer Matt Porteous and environmental advocate Tamsin Raine, who are the founders of Ocean Life Culture. The residency will combine photography, ocean film, storytelling, and conservation efforts. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in photography workshops, youth sessions, marine capture experiences, film nights, and discussions that explore the connection between people and the sea.

The island will host “The Art of Japanese Healing”, featuring practitioner Yuki Nishikubo from November 16th to December 27th 2026. With over 25 years of experience, Nishikubo will provide personalised Japanese acupuncture and Shiatsu treatments to promote relaxation, balance, and overall well-being.

The final event of this year’s creative programme is “From Sea to Self”, a COMO Journey featuring acclaimed artist and Paralympian Gregory Burns, taking place from December 8th to December 27th 2026. Through open studios, intimate conversations and hands-on workshops, Burns will explore the relationship between art, nature and personal transformation. The programme will culminate in an exhibition showcasing the works created during his residency.

“Meaningful travel is about creating experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Through our COMO Journeys and residencies of visiting practitioners, we hope to give guests a deeper connection to the Maldives, whether through the ocean, creativity, conservation or wellbeing, while celebrating the people and ideas that make each experience unique,” says Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Resorts, Maldives.

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Theatre, dining and creativity shape festive season at JOALI Maldives

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JOALI Maldives, the Maldives’ first art-immersive resort, has announced its 2026 festive theme, Life is a Theatre – The Island Takes the Stage. Inspired by the grandeur, artistry and enchantment of historic theatres, the island will transform into a living stage for a season shaped by spectacle, emotion and creative living.

From 20 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, each corner of the island will reveal a new scene: candlelit gatherings and theatrical feasts, celebrated visiting experts, hands-on creativity, marine conservation, wellbeing rituals and joyful adventures for every generation. Guided by JOALI Maldives’s philosophy of the Joy of Creative Living, the programme invites guests to step beyond the everyday and become part of an unfolding festive story beneath the Maldivian sky.

The opening acts: treasured festive traditions

The season begins with the island’s first illumination at the Christmas Tree Lighting, followed by the opening of the Gingerbread House and Santa’s much-anticipated arrival. These cherished traditions lead into a series of signature celebrations, each interpreted through the language of theatre and brought to life with JOALI Maldives’s distinctive sense of artistry and togetherness.

Three gala celebrations take centre stage

Christmas Eve Gala Dinner | 24 December. Inspired by the splendour of grand European theatres, Christmas Eve unfolds as an opulent celebration of exquisite cuisine, live performance and heartfelt connection.

New Year’s Eve Gala | 31 December. The year reaches its cinematic finale through a film-noir-inspired evening of mystery, glamour and allure. Dramatic monochromes and glimmers of gold set the scene for exceptional dining, live entertainment, fireworks and a thrilling countdown to midnight.

Orthodox Christmas Gala | 6 January. Regal traditions inspire an elegant island gathering featuring global flavours and a warm, luminous setting in which guests can come together and cherish the spirit of Orthodox Christmas.

World-class expertise, from the court to restorative touch

Former World No. 1 and Grand Slam champion Ana Ivanović will host exclusive master tennis classes on select days, helping guests refine technique, agility and confidence while experiencing the precision and joy of world-class tennis.

Visiting practitioner Zoa Aviño Hernandez will guide guests through deeply restorative therapies informed by healing traditions from Bali, Thailand and Mexico. From Reiki and reflexology to Kobido, each treatment brings intuitive care and refined technique together to release tension, restore balance and support freedom of movement.

A culinary programme made for the spotlight

Dining becomes a performance of its own through intimate chef-led journeys and generous family-style feasts. Seasonal highlights include Sparkle O’Clock, Mediterranean Dream, The Pasta Performance and Once Upon a Sake, inviting guests to discover new tastes while sharing familiar favourites.

Throughout the stay, themed cocktail invitations will appear across the island, setting the scene for speakeasy evenings, jazz gatherings, island sundowners and other spirited moments designed to surprise and delight.

Island creations with purpose

At the Ceramics Studio, guests can work with JOALI Maldives’s Resident Artist to shape raw clay into a personal artwork inspired by their time on the island. The festive programme also continues the resort’s Christmas Corals tradition, inviting guests to add coral fragments to a Christmas tree-shaped frame and participate in JOALI Maldives’ ongoing commitment to protecting and restoring the Maldivian marine ecosystem.

Movement, wellbeing and the natural theatre of the ocean

Beyond the headline celebrations, guests can find their own island rhythm through padel, holistic treatments at JOALI BEING Cure and an extensive collection of ocean adventures. Snorkelling, private marine excursions and exhilarating experiences above and across the lagoon reveal the natural beauty surrounding Muravandhoo Island.

The Sunset Dolphin Cruise presents the ocean as nature’s theatre, as playful dolphins flip, spin and glide beneath the glow of the setting sun. Families can also join spirited challenges designed around agility, memory, teamwork and creativity, or form a team for Santa’s Football League and compete in a joyful series of holiday matches.

A festive world for younger guests

Muramas Kids Club will host a daily programme of festive crafts, games, parties, sports and colourful adventures centred on four themes: Create, Play, Discover and Move. Young explorers will also meet Pico the Heron, Mermie the Mermaid and other island friends as they connect with nature, express their creativity and celebrate together.

Guests planning a festive escape can enjoy a selection of exclusive benefits for stays from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027. Guests staying seven nights or more in any Overwater category will receive 5% off the applicable room rates, alongside an Early Bird saving of 10% for bookings confirmed 120 days prior to arrival, or 5% for bookings confirmed 60 days prior to arrival.

Additional benefits include complimentary return seaplane transfers for children aged 0–6 years on stays of seven nights or more. For stays of 12 nights or more, complimentary return seaplane transfers are extended to two adults and children aged 0–6 years.

The offer is available to book until 10 October 2026. A minimum stay of seven nights applies to all Beach categories, while five nights applies to all Overwater categories.

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