News
Coco Collection appoints General Manager for Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – Coco Collection has announced the appointment of Paul Vincent Benedict Brown as the General Manager of Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island, the ultimate private island retreat reserved for only the most discerning travellers. Secluded, secret and serene, Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island is one of the world’s most exclusive private islands and the pinnacle of the Coco Collection experience. Comprising one split-level Master Residence and 5 guest accommodations, the island offers ample space for a family or group of friends. With an infinity pool, a private Jacuzzi, Dining Room, Library, Cocktail Bar, and Gym, nothing but the sparkling waters of the surrounding lagoon and the colorful house reef will be able to beckon guests to endeavor beyond the island, and explore the riches of the natural beauty of the Maldives.Apart from cultivating an exceptional stay by ensuring nothing but royal treatment for his guests, Paul will oversee the efficient operation of Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island while working closely with Armand Chaudhary, the newly appointed COO of Sunland Hotels and Coco Collection. Trained by the Household of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Paul is the founder and owner of White Glove Consultancy Services, a company that specializes in educating resorts, villas, private households and butlers on everything pertaining to first class service. During his time at Buckingham Palace, Paul’s duties bestowed him with the privilege to serve at Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s pleasure, as well as taking care of visiting Heads of State. On numerous occasions, Paul was also chosen to work privately for individual members of the immediate Royal Family in Buckingham Palace and at their private residences. Paul received The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic as well as the President of Iceland’s Medal of Honor in 1990.
After his departure from Buckingham Palace, Paul served as House Manager and Butler for Timothy Landon in the UK and for notable TV producer Aaron Spelling in the USA, before deciding to move to Asia, where he joined The Royal Phuket Yacht Club as Director of Guest Services and was personally responsible for the VIP guests while training and managing the butler service team at the club. Before joining Coco Collection this June, Paul inhabited the role of Executive Assistant Manager at The Village Coconut Island in Thailand, where he oversaw the day to day operations of the property.
“I am excited to have taken on the responsibilities of General Manager here at the magnificent Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island in Maldives, and it is with great pleasure that I look forward to working with the team that has so successfully launched this extravagant island. With my experience of etiquette and protocol in the performance of butlering duties, I am confident that we will elevate service levels to new heights, ensuring a Uniquely Coco stay for our guests!” comments Paul Brown, General Manager at Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island.
Paul’s primary focus will be to warrant that guests of the island will be treated like true royalty and to create a sense of familiarity and intimacy for each guest that genuinely embodies the vision of Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island Maldives: Your time. Your space.
Awards
Three-year winning streak: Canareef Resort Maldives honoured by HolidayCheck again
In a significant achievement for the hospitality sector in the southern atolls, Canareef Resort Maldives has been officially recognised as a Recommended Resort for 2026 by HolidayCheck, the leading travel review platform for the German-speaking market. This prestigious accolade continues a remarkable winning streak, as the resort consistently earned this same recommendation in 2024 and 2025. This consecutive recognition underscores a steady commitment to service and guest satisfaction that resonates with travellers year after year.
As a primary guide for international travellers, HolidayCheck is considered a gold standard for guest trust because its recommendations are earned purely through authentic guest reviews rather than industry panels. To be “Recommended on HolidayCheck,” a resort must maintain a high recommendation rate and strong ratings from verified visitors, making it one of the most reliable endorsements for travellers worldwide. For the global community, this award serves as a clear indicator of consistency, ensuring that the experiences shared by previous guests are backed by a proven track record.
Located in the unique and intimate Addu Atoll, Canareef Resort Maldives offers a distinct 4.5km island experience that highlights the natural beauty and biological diversity of the region. The resort has become a favourite for international visitors seeking a complete tropical escape that caters to every interest. Guests can explore world-class diving sites and engaging excursions, or find balance through yoga and aqua aerobics. For those seeking relaxation, the spa provides a serene sanctuary, while the tennis courts offer the perfect space for active recreation. From the excitement of the water sports centre to the peaceful nature trails that wind through the island’s lush interior, guests can explore vibrant house reefs, enjoy the local heritage of the southern atolls, or relax in one of the 271 villas that offer a sense of space and privacy.
The management of Canareef Resort Maldives noted that receiving this recognition for the third consecutive year is a testament to the hard work of the entire team. They expressed gratitude to the global guests whose reviews have highlighted the resort as a welcoming destination and emphasised that this award motivates them to continue showcasing the authentic charm of Addu Atoll to the world. As Canareef looks ahead to 2026, it remains a top-recommended choice for those seeking a high-quality and memorable Maldivian getaway.
Cooking
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO unveils chef-led 9-Hands Dinner experience
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has announced a 9-Hands Dinner event scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 May, offering a curated dining experience as part of its guest programme.
The event will feature a multi-course menu developed by three chefs representing Egypt, Madeira and the Maldives. Each chef will present dishes reflecting their respective culinary backgrounds, combining different techniques and flavour profiles within a single dining concept.
The dinner is positioned as an interactive culinary experience, bringing together elements of storytelling and presentation alongside the menu. According to the resort, the concept is designed to highlight both innovation and traditional influences in cuisine.
The experience will be included within the resort’s plan for in-house guests, forming part of the overall stay offering.

Commenting on the event, General Manager Alain Trefois stated that the initiative reflects the resort’s focus on expanding guest experiences beyond standard dining formats. He noted that the event provides an opportunity for guests to engage with culinary presentation in a structured setting.
Anupam Banerjee, Vice President Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core, said the collaboration brings together different culinary influences, combining regional ingredients and techniques into a single dining programme.
Located in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is known for its house reef and marine environment, offering a range of activities alongside its accommodation and dining options.
The resort has indicated that availability for the 9-Hands Dinner event will be limited, with advance booking recommended for guests wishing to attend.
Featured
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef rolls out Wellness Week from 15–22 June
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, has announced plans to host a Wellness Week from 15 to 22 June 2026, in conjunction with Global Wellness Week. The programme will be led by international creative and fitness practitioner Ilariia Auvitu.
Ilariia Auvitu, whose background spans multiple countries and disciplines including acting, modelling and fitness, will guide a series of sessions focused on structured wellbeing practices. Her approach combines physical activity with routines aimed at supporting mental balance.
A key component of the programme is the Tech-Free Sunrise Yoga and Breathwork Ritual. The session is designed to provide a period of structured activity without digital devices, with a focus on breath control and guided movement aimed at supporting mental regulation.
The schedule will also include Morning Yoga with Flow sessions, intended to establish physical rhythm and energy for the day. In addition, Pool Fitness sessions will be conducted in the resort’s pool area, offering water-based exercise.
Selected evenings will feature Sunset Pilates and Stretching sessions. These will include low-impact exercises focused on strength and flexibility, followed by guided stretching.
Through the Wellness Week programme, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is offering a series of activities aligned with the observance of Global Wellness Week, combining structured fitness sessions with a setting designed to support rest and recovery.
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