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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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Kandolhu Maldives introduces revamped Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas

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Kandolhu Maldives has announced the completion of its latest refurbishment, which includes the transformation of its Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas into luxurious retreats of comfort and style. Designed to maximise privacy and relaxation, these newly upgraded villas now feature a fresh, contemporary design, complete with private pools and stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

Spanning 120 square metres, the redesigned Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas offer a spacious bedroom, a bright and airy bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the ocean, and a private outdoor deck. The deck includes sun loungers, a sun umbrella, and a new 23-square-metre private pool. For added indulgence, a hammock suspended over the water invites guests to relax while soaking up the tranquil ocean views.

The villas retain the signature minimalist aesthetic of Kandolhu, originally envisioned by renowned Maldivian architect Mohamed ‘Sappe’ Shafeeq. Seamlessly blending with the island’s natural beauty, the design incorporates high ceilings, open spaces, rich textures, and a calming palette that exude understated elegance. Modern amenities, such as Bluetooth speaker, espresso machine, and in-villa wine fridge, add a touch of convenience and luxury.

The refurbishment further cements Kandolhu Maldives’ reputation for offering an exceptional combination of zen-like design, privacy, and natural beauty. These enhancements aim to provide guests with an elevated experience, ensuring their stay is as relaxing and memorable as possible.

For more information or to book, please visit www.kandolhu.com.

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Rediscover island living through suite experience at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives

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From private beaches to overwater sanctuaries, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives invites guests to rediscover paradise through a suite lens that celebrates space, connection, and contemporary island sophistication.

Across two extraordinary islands, Kuda Huraa, and Landaa Giraavaru, the art of living large takes on new meaning. Whether it is families gathering for sunset dinners, couples enjoying lagoon-front serenity, or friends toasting milestones beneath starlit skies, each suite becomes a backdrop for moments that feel deeply personal and effortlessly extraordinary.

Surf-chic style for water lovers

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa A garden island that flows to the rhythm of the sea, Kuda Huraa is an ocean lover’s dream. From six world-class surf breaks to the reef-lined lagoon, this surf-chic sanctuary pairs barefoot ease with contemporary design inspired by the spirit of a traditional Maldivian village.

Big, bold and beachside, the Three-Bedroom Kuda Estate is Kuda Huraa’s most coveted address. Perfect for extended families or groups of friends, its three standalone villas are connected by open-air living spaces, a 138-square-metre (165-square-yard) infinity pool, and the island’s only sea view gazebo overlooking a private 40-metre (44-yard) beach.

For those drawn to the lagoon, the Three-Bedroom Water Suite, available with either sunrise or sunset views, offers premium ocean-top living. With wraparound decks, a 278-square-metre (332-square-yard) terrace, and bright interiors made for entertaining, it is ideal for guests who crave both seclusion and space to socialise.

Families will find their perfect fit in the Family Two-Bedroom Water Suite, complete with a lap pool for young swimmers, steps into the lagoon, and spacious outdoor decks for playtime and starlit storytelling. Every detail encourages connection, whether splashing in the shallows or sharing sunrise pancakes over the water.

Beyond the suites, Kuda Huraa delights with its water-centric lifestyle, from surfing with Tropicsurf pros and diving through coral gardens to sailing from the private marina. After days of adventure, guests can unwind at The Island Spa or join the Junior Marine Savers program, open to children aged eight and above, for a hands-on introduction to reef conservation.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Leader in Marine Conservation

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Landaa Giraavaru is a wild island sanctuary where luxury and learning go hand in hand. Vast, unspoiled, and deeply connected to nature, it is a place where space itself becomes an experience.

The Four-Bedroom Landaa Estate sits along 80-metres (87-yards) of private beach, offering a 20-metre (22-yard) lagoon-front pool, generous al fresco living areas, and a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset cocktails, private parties, or relaxed lounging beneath the stars. Ideal for milestone celebrations or multi-generational stays, this oceanfront estate blends relaxed tropical style with refined seclusion.

The Two-bedroom Royal Beach Villa combinesoriginality with energy through its three-pavilion enclave surrounding a central pool and private treehouse, perfect for dining with elevated views across the horizon. It is ideal for guests who seek both privacy and proximity to Blu Beach Club’s vibrant coastal scene.

For those who dream of horizon-to-horizon views, the Three-Bedroom Water Suite, available with sunrise or sunset orientations, delivers the epitome of overwater living. Its vast decks, semi-submerged loungers, and panoramic sea vistas make it a serene choice for couples or friends seeking uninterrupted tranquillity.

As a pioneering leader in marine conservation, Landaa Giraavaru invites guests to engage deeply with its natural world. The Marine Discovery Centre is a living classroom where guests can help transplant coral, meet rescued turtles, and learn from resident scientists. Teenagers aspiring to become marine biologists can enrol in the Trainee Marine Biologist Program, gaining real-world conservation experience within one of the world’s most biodiverse atolls. Wellbeing seekers will also find sanctuary at AyurMa, the resort’s award-winning haven of healing and planetary care, guided by ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science.

A Suite Stay Worth Dreaming About

Seamless arrivals, round-the-clock dining, and the intuitive care of Four Seasons ensure that every moment flows with ease. Whether beachside or above the lagoon, family-style or serenely secluded, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives transforms space into sanctuary and stays into stories worth telling.

To find a suite spot in the Maldive with Four Seasons, click here.

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Coco Bodu Hithi wins Best Waterside Hotel at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2026

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Coco Bodu Hithi has been recognised on the global stage, winning Best Waterside Hotel (Riverside, Lakeside, Seaside) at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2026, held on 3 November 2025 in the UK. It is the second consecutive year the resort has been honoured by the publication, following last year’s win for Best Service, reaffirming its focus on heartfelt Maldivian hospitality and refined island living.

Described by Condé Nast Johansens as an “over-water, over-indulgent Maldivian island outpost,” Coco Bodu Hithi offers an intimate retreat of comfort and calm. The resort’s 32 Water Villas and 24 Coco Residences, each measuring 184 square metres and featuring private pools, provide secluded spaces set above the lagoon, where nature, design, and comfort come together to reflect the island’s romantic ambience.

Known for contemporary design infused with Maldivian heritage, the resort continues to welcome travellers seeking time by the sea, complemented by culinary collaborations with celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs. The experience balances privacy and comfort throughout a guest’s stay. With turquoise waters, quiet spaces, and experiences designed for connection and shared discovery, the resort presents a considered take on island living.

Located 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the island combines accessibility with seclusion—close enough for convenience, yet removed for privacy and serenity. As part of Coco Collection, the resort offers bespoke experiences, attentive service, and sustainable practices, shaping stays that feel personal and reflective of relaxed, authentic island life.

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