News
Maldives participates at the Korea World Travel Fair (KOTFA) 2014
The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) together with representatives from the tourism industry are taking part in Korea World Travel Fair (KOTFA) held in Seoul, Korea from 29th May to 1st June 2014. The Maldives delegation is headed by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Hussain Lirar.
This fair is an open market for buyers, sellers and industries to exchange views, news, trends and ideas related to the world tourism industry. This year’s KOTFA consists of participants from many international tourism related organizations. The main purposes of these meetings are to identify opportunities to build strong ties between two countries and to identify strategies in order to increase the number of tourist arrivals from Korea. KOTFA is the perfect platform to present all of the tourism attractions that Maldives has to offer. The prospect of sharing information about our sublime destination with the other side of the world represents an amazing opportunity for the improvement of the country’s public relations.
As KOTFA celebrates its 29th world class fair this year, there are approximately 2,850 exhibitors from more than 60 countries participating with an anticipated 120,000 visitors. KOTFA aims to promote the exchange of travel information by sharing new ideas, products and services with travel professionals and the public, to promote domestic and international travel by introducing
travel attractions and products and to introduce consumer travel trends and to help develop travel products suitable to the market. They also aim to publicize the participating companies and the fair itself by inviting overseas travel writers and tour operators in cooperation with the tourism related organizations in Korea.
Since the 1960s, South Korea has achieved incredible and rapid economic growth. With the swift growth over the years, the South Korean market was expected to grow by 5% by 2014. South Korea bounced back strongly from the global economic crisis in 2010 to see its outbound travel market break new records in 2012 with more than 14.9 million trips, according to the Global Tourism Watch (GTW).
The tourist arrival statistics show that the arrivals of Korean tourists have increased by 33.4% compared to the same period of 2013. The Korean market contributes to 3.3% of the market share. Also during the period from January-April, arrival of Korean tourists have increased to approximately 10,374 tourist while statistics from the same period of 2013 shows arrival of approximately 6,911 tourist, which is an increase of 50.1% in 2014 compared to 2013.
News
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru honour women with curated experiences
This International Women’s Day, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru celebrate the important women in our lives through meaningful island experiences inspired by connection with self, nature and our loved ones.
The celebration begins beneath the surface of the sea with a Women’s Snorkelling Session, bringing guests from both resorts together for a guided exploration of the house reef. Guided by the resorts’ Marine Lab, explore vibrant coral gardens and observe marine life flourishing within one of the Maldives’ most carefully preserved reefs – a reflection of Banyan Group’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship since the island first welcomed guests more than three decades ago.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: A Day of Meaningful Connection to the Nature and Wellbeing
In the afternoon, Saffron presents a Women’s Day Cooking Class, where fragrant herbs and vibrant spices come together in a hands-on journey through authentic Thai flavours.
As the golden sunset colours the sky, a beachfront yoga session invites a moment of stillness. Guided by breath and gentle movement, the rhythm of the waves deepens your connection with nature and the beauty of being fully present.

In the evening, Sangu Garden, the resort’s beachfront restaurant, presents a Special Women’s Day Buffet Night, where live BBQ stations showcase freshly grilled seafood and international flavours beneath the evening sky. Ocean breezes, cosy ambience and the aroma of the grill create a warm tropical setting, while each female guest is welcomed with a special surprise gift during the evening.

Dhawa Ihuru: Vibrant Island Flavours
Across the lagoon, Dhawa Ihuru brings its lively island energy to the occasion with experiences designed for fun and connection.
Later in the day, after the snorkel safari to the house reef, savour a Women’s Day Special BBQ Lunch at Riveli Restaurant, where vibrant island flavours and international favourites come together in a lively beachfront setting.
In the afternoon, a Sri Lankan Cooking Class invites guests to discover bold spices and traditional techniques in a lively hands-on culinary experience.

Together, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru offer a meaningful way to celebrate the women who inspire us, through moments of exploring wellness, discovery and joyful connection surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.
News
Fushifaru Maldives celebrates Women’s Day with art, community and ocean conservation focus
Fushifaru Maldives is marking International Women’s Day 2026 with a series of activities under the theme “Waves of Kindness – #GivetoGain,” celebrating empowerment, community and ocean conservation.
The programme reflects the resort’s message of being “Empowered by Kindness, Inspired by the Ocean,” bringing together guests and team members through art, appreciation and shared experiences.
As part of the celebrations, the resort will welcome artist Rachel Brooks, who will host a live art workshop on 7 March. During the session, Brooks will create a painting inspired by marine life, drawing attention to the colours and forms found beneath the ocean’s surface.
Her work highlights the connection between creativity and environmental awareness, emphasising the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The workshop will also serve as an opportunity for guests and residents to engage with the artist and learn about the inspiration behind her work.
The celebrations will continue on 8 March with activities marking International Women’s Day alongside the resort’s residents and guests. The theme #GivetoGain focuses on mutual support, the creation of opportunities, and the empowerment of women through collaboration and shared encouragement.

In the evening, Fushifaru Maldives will host a Women’s Day Cocktail Party, where gentlemen will present roses to women on the island, including guests and team members. The gesture is intended as a sign of appreciation and respect.
The celebration will continue with a DJ evening, providing a setting for guests and staff to gather and mark the occasion together.
According to the resort, the event is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women within the Fushifaru community. Female guests, residents and team members from different backgrounds and cultures will be acknowledged as part of the celebrations.
The resort said the initiative reflects the diversity and individuality of the women who form part of the Fushifaru Maldives community, while reinforcing the broader message of kindness, empowerment and environmental awareness associated with this year’s International Women’s Day.
Drink
German winemaker Patrick Jacklin to host exclusive tasting at Constance Moofushi
Constance Moofushi Maldives is set to welcome Patrick Jacklin of Weingut Heitlinger, Germany, for an exclusive wine tasting experience on 9th March from 06:00pm to 07:30pm. Set on a sunset sandbank, this unique experience will feature a curated selection of biodynamic wines, paired with refined canapés in an unforgettable Indian Ocean setting. During his visit, Patrick Jacklin will also conduct a dedicated masterclass with the resort’s sommeliers, offering an opportunity to further expand their knowledge and understanding of biodynamic wines and viticulture.
At Constance Hotels & Resorts, wine is an integral part of the guest experience, shaped by passionate sommeliers and a long-standing culture of discovery. At Constance Moofushi, this dedication is reflected in Alizée Restaurant being recognized by The World of Fine Wine for its Best All-Inclusive Wine List, highlighting the resort’s carefully curated selection and pairing philosophy. This intimate tasting continues that spirit, celebrating terroir, craftsmanship, and meaningful encounters between guests and winemakers.
Raised in the Kraichgau region of Baden, Patrick Jacklin comes from a family deeply rooted in winemaking. Alongside his brother Philip, he represents the next generation of the Weingut Heitlinger bringing fresh energy and vision to the estate.

Passionate about biodynamic viticulture Patrick plays an active role in shaping the estate’s style and guiding its evolution in both cellar and vineyard.
Located in Östringen‑Tiefenbach, Weingut Heitlinger, is recognised among Germany’s leading organic and biodynamic estates. The winery is also part of the VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter) Since 2012, Germany’s most respected association of top-quality wine estates — a distinction that reflects a shared commitment to origin, craft, and rigorous standards.
“This evening with Patrick Jacklin is a celebration of what we love most – exceptional wines, generous sharing, and the magic of a Maldivian sunset. We look forward to welcoming our guests for this intimate moment of discovery,” says Mevin Ramasamy, General Manager of Constance Moofushi.
-
News1 week agoPulse Hotels & Resorts unveils Aura Maldives, a mindful luxury sanctuary
-
Cooking1 week agoPatina Maldives hosts Chef Shannon Bennett for exclusive April residency
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Mirage Lagoon Maldives named Luxury Family Friendly Resort of the Year
-
Island Goers1 week agoIsland life at your own pace at Cocomo Maldives
-
Family1 week agoMasters of the skies: Tom Kerss joins The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for Easter 2026
-
Action1 week agoSun Siyam Olhuveli invests in staff wellbeing with upgraded sports facilities
-
Drink1 week agoAward-winning mixologist Dirk Hany brings Bar am Wasser to Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
-
Cooking1 week agoIfuru Island Maldives positions itself as leading culinary destination


