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Pioneering underwater artist Andreas Franke brings his Phantasy Fairytale to Huvafen Fushi and Niyama Maldives

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Phantasy Fairytale

Maldives.net.mv – Andreas Franke, one of the world’s most revolutionary artists, is displaying his magical Phantasy Fairytale exhibition for guests at NIYAMA and Huvafen Fushi, giving guests at the resorts the opportunity to experience the depths of the ocean at a completely new level. Phantasy Fairytale will be on display from now until the end of May 2014 as part of Per AQUUM’s renowned Dream Calendar.

Trailblazing another WORLD FIRST, Per AQUUM has simultaneously unveiled four stunning artworks underwater at NIYAMA and Huvafen Fushi, highlighting the brilliance of the underwater structures at both properties. At NIYAMA, the artworks can be viewed from SubSix, the world’s first underwater music club, where guests can to appreciate the hypnotising images whilst dancing the night away or enjoying a long subaquatic lunch. The LIME Spa at Huvafen Fushi will take ocean living to a whole new level as spa goers enjoying treatments will be able to lose themselves in Franke’s artworks as they are being pampered under the sea.

Committed to breaking boundaries, this Per AQUUM and Andreas Franke collaboration spins the typical art exhibition on its head giving the world a mind blowing interpretation of underwater life….. offering views underwater!

Andreas Franke’s fascination with the subaquatic world stems from his two passions in life: photography and diving. His “Sinking World” concept, which he created in 2010 is a natural combination of the two. Years ago, whilst diving on an Austrian shipwreck in Croatia, Andreas took pictures and upon returning home to Vienna, he realised that “something was missing.” That something was the mystical creatures that are recognisable as the protagonists in Franke’s “Sinking World” images and now the “Phantasy Fairytale” works too.

“Phantasy Fairytale” steps away from the shipwreck context that surrounds “The Sinking World” work and moves into a more fantastical realm drawing inspiration from Western fairytale stories, and thus further crossing the borderlines between fantasy and real life. The Snow Queen, Little Red Riding Hood and Snow White will all be present in the “Phantasy Fairytale” exhibition with the beautiful submarine topography of the Ocean creating a perfect atmospheric backdrop.

Coral reefs resembling trees and the underwater vegetation reminiscent of a forest undergrowth bring fantasy and reality together to create an extraordinary finished product, available only to guests at Huvafen Fushi and NIYAMA.

The images are created by Franke undertaking two separate photo shoots; one using an underwater backdrop followed by a secondary studio shoot with real life models that bring the final visual to life. These secondary shots are then superimposed onto the original images to create the finished ‘Phantasy Fairytale’. To secure the art underwater, they will be encased in Plexiglass and suspended from the underwater structures of Subsix at NIYAMA and the LIME Spa at Huvafen Fushi. Franke says his creative work is only the first part of the process. Once the images are submerged, it is up to the sea and nature to create the final finished product. Together with algae and microorganisms, the salt water adorns the pictures from the world above. It is the individual signature of the ocean that embellishes the photographs, a bizarre and beautiful touch of impermanence.

Andreas Franke says of his work: “With my photographs, I want to pull the spectators into unreal and strange worlds. Mystified scenes of a fairytale play within a fictional space. Dreamworlds you can get lost in or that you can identify with. This creates a new and unexpected atmosphere. This work shows very much of myself, since I am always on the lookout for stunning themes to create new images that have never been seen before.”

In line with Per AQUUM’s commitment to environmental awareness within the Maldives, coral regeneration programmes are in place at both NIYAMA and Huvafen Fushi. Franke’s “Phantasy Fairytale” will be sensitively and carefully hung from the underwater structures in order to maintain the harmony of the underwater environment. Following the exhibition, guests will have the opportunity to purchase the art, and a percentage of all proceeds will go to Per AQUUM’s coral regeneration programme.

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Bandos Maldives marks 53 years of hospitality with guest celebration

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Bandos Maldives marked its 53rd anniversary on 10 December 2025 with a heartfelt celebration alongside in-house guests. The celebration honoured more than five decades of service since the resort first opened on 10 December 1972, becoming one of the earliest pioneers of Maldivian tourism.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager Ismail Rasheed thanked everyone who has been part of Bandos’ journey, including long-time guests, partners, and the dedicated team that has carried the resort forward. He noted that reaching 53 years is a remarkable achievement built on consistency, care, and the spirit of hospitality that Bandos is known for. He also shared that the resort is preparing for an exciting phase of improvements in the years ahead.

Bandos has continued to grow its reputation recently, earning multiple international awards over the past years for its exceptional service, family experiences and diving. The resort is also proud to be a Green Globe certified property, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism

Bandos has plans for upgrades with focus on fresh designs, improved comfort, and modern amenities to elevate the overall guest experience while maintaining the classic charm that many loyal visitors love.

With its long heritage, strong values, and continued focus on innovation, Bandos Maldives remains committed to offering memorable island experiences for travellers from around the world.

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Hulhule Island Hotel names 2ofus as New Year’s Eve 2026 headline act

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Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced 2ofus as the main entertainment for its New Year’s Eve 2026 festive events. The highly sought-after musical band has partnered with HIH to bring an unforgettable night of performance, energy, and celebration to guests.

Known for their exceptional talent and stage presence, 2ofus has reached remarkable heights in the music scene, participating in and performing at international competitions and concerts. Their collaboration with HIH marks an exciting addition to the hotel’s festive lineup.

Renowned as the most popular festive destination in the Greater Malé Area, HIH continues its tradition of delivering vibrant, world-class celebrations. This year, the hotel once again promises a festive season filled with elegance, entertainment, and the signature warmth HIH is known for.

Commenting on the partnership, Group General Manager, Ali Shakir said: “Signing with 2ofus for New Year’s Eve is truly special for us. They are one of the most in-demand acts during the festive season, and we are delighted to have them onboard. Their energy and talent are unmatched, and we are confident that HIH will once again be the place to be this New Year’s Eve. Our team is committed to creating a celebration that brings our guests joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories.”

For 2026, HIH unveils exclusive celebrations, granting guests access to multi-venue experiences, curated staycation packages, diverse multi-cuisine dining, and a range of thoughtfully designed festive highlights.

With limited slots available, guests are encouraged to secure their bookings early for the best experience.

For more information or reservations, please contact +960 762 2667 or email events@hih.com.mv

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The Standard, Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification after rigorous audit

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The Standard, Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification, recognizing the resort’s comprehensive and continuous dedication to sustainable operations and management. This monumental achievement underscores the property’s commitment to protecting the pristine Maldivian environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility across all aspects of its unique island experience.

The certification follows a rigorous auditing process that evaluated The Standard, Maldives’ performance in energy and water conservation, waste management, social responsibility, and sustainable procurement. A key highlight of the resort’s innovative sustainability initiatives is the introduction of the Zero Capsule Machine System for Coffee. By replacing traditional single-use capsules with eco-friendly coffee balls, the resort has achieved an estimated reduction of over 25,000 pieces of non-biodegradable coffee capsules annually, substantially minimizing plastic and aluminium waste and setting a new, greener standard for in-room and dining beverage service.

Furthermore, as part of our commitment to local support and Green Globe sustainability standards, The Standard, Maldives has actively strengthened its local supply chain. For the past three months, the resort has been consistently sourcing fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and lettuce from a local farm, Maldivian Mermaid, on a nearby island. This initiative not only strengthens our relationship with the local community but also:

  • Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation.
  • Supports regional agriculture and local island economies.
  • Optimizes logistical efficiency by easing storage demands on regular supply boat from Malé, ensuring imported items are kept at the correct temperature. The redefining agriculture farm delivers directly to the resort using their own boat, streamlining the process.

“Achieving Green Globe Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who embody our commitment to sustainability every day,” says Justin Swart, General Manager The Standard, Maldives. “Our goal is to demonstrate that lifestyle, luxury and responsible travel can, and must, go hand in hand. Initiatives like the Zero Capsule Machine System and our growing partnership with local farmers like Maldivian Mermaid, show our proactive approach to finding practical, impactful solutions that preserve the incredible natural beauty surrounding us for generations to come.”

Moving forward, The Standard, Maldives will continue to implement and expand its sustainability programs, focusing on marine conservation, further reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing local community engagement, all while ensuring guests enjoy the playful, yet mindful, hospitality the brand is known for. The resort looks forward to contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives and the broader travel industry.

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