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PATA appoints new CEO

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Hardy CraigsMaldives.net.mv – The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced the appointment of Mario Hardy as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective November 1, 2014.

Mr Hardy is currently the Chief Operations Officer of PATA, a position he has held since January 15th of this year. He was approved to succeed Martin Craigs as the CEO by the PATA Executive Board at the last Executive Board Meeting held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in September 2014. Mr Hardy’s appointment will be endorsed by the full PATA Board at the next Annual Meeting.

Through the end of November, Mr Craigs will fulfill obligations made as CEO at various speaking engagements that have been confirmed, including the Brisbane Global Cafe – Tourism’s New Frontiers on Thursday, November 13, 2014, ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brisbane, Australia.

Commenting on his new appointment, Mr. Hardy said, “I am humbled and honored that the PATA Executive Board has entrusted me to take the Association to its next stage of transformation. I have been an active member of PATA since 2009 and I believe that by bringing further engagement with youth the Association will have a long lasting future.”

Mr Hardy is an entrepreneur and serial angel investor with close to 30 years of combined leadership, corporate development and change management experience.

He is also the past Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PATA Foundation, a non-profit organisation with a mission to contribute to the sustainable and responsible development of travel and tourism in Asia Pacific through the protection of the environment, the conservation of heritage and support for education.

Prior to PATA, Mr Hardy worked 14 years for UBM/OAG, a business with a focus on data analytics and events for the aviation sector, and occupied several leadership roles in London, Beijing and Singapore.

He began his career with People’s Express Airlines in 1985, before joining Canadian Airlines in 1987 where he spent 12 years in a number of sales, marketing and operational roles, leading to his appointment in a senior management role heading the Group Sales & Charter division in 1997.

Mr Hardy has a BSc from the University of Montreal, a Public Relations Certificate from L’École des Hautes Études Commerciales de Montréal and an International Trade Certificate from the O’Sullivan College of Montreal. He is a true global citizen who lived on 3 continents, 7 countries and has over 10 years experience working in Asia. A seasoned traveler with a goal of visiting over 100 countries engaging with local communities, he is passionate about travel, innovation, design and technology. Mr Hardy can often be found reading FastCompany, TechCrunch, Mashable, or National Geographic; watching TED Talks; or searching for the latest innovations on Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

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Ifuru Island Maldives’ Social House introduces authentic Indian Thali experience

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Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.

Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.

The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.

“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”

The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.

Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.

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Rediscover wellness, nature, mindful living with Dusit Thani Maldives’ Well-Fest programme

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Dusit Thani Maldives, the five-star luxury resort in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, has announced the launch of Well-Fest, a week-long celebration of holistic wellbeing, set against the breathtaking backdrop of sun, sand, and sea.

Taking place throughout the whole month of June, Well-Fest brings together a curated line-up of wellness experiences that nourish the body, calm the mind, and lift the spirit. Guests will have the opportunity to explore a thoughtfully designed program of sunrise yoga, sound healing, wellness workshops, plant-based cuisine, fitness sessions, and immersive nature-based activities — all designed to restore balance and inspire mindful living.

“Well-Fest is our invitation to guests to pause, reconnect, and embrace wellness in its many forms — all within the natural beauty and serenity of our island,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager of Dusit Hotels & Resorts in Maldives. “From the healing garden of Devarana Wellness to the crystal-clear waters of our coral-rich reef, every corner of our resort is a sanctuary for self-care.”

Highlights of Well-Fest include:

  • Daily Yoga & Qigong in the Garden of Devarana Wellness
  • Plant-Based Culinary Experiences at Sala, the resort’s new organic vegan restaurant
  • Guided Ocean Meditations and Breath-work Sessions
  • Chef’s Garden Tours & Mindful Cooking Classes
  • Sustainable Living Workshops focusing on local produce, zero-waste practices, and eco-conscious travel
  • Family-Friendly Wellness Activities designed for parents and little ones

Guests can also enjoy exclusive Well-Fest Retreat Packages, featuring curated itineraries, spa treatments, and wellness amenities — perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking rejuvenation and connection.

Whether you’re beginning your wellness journey or looking to deepen your existing practice, Well-Fest at Dusit Thani Maldives offers the space, inspiration, and serenity to recharge — inside and out.

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Experience spirit of Eid with vibrant festivities at Amilla Maldives

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Amilla Maldives warmly invites guests to experience a heartfelt Eid celebration from 6 to 9 June 2025, where four days of vibrant tradition and island joy unfold.

The festivities blend colourful parades, rhythmic Boduberu performances, and graceful dances with creative family crafts, soothing spa rituals, and spirited beach games. Guests can unwind with sunset sips by the sea, enjoy friendly volleyball matches, playful colour challenges, local island explorations, and immersive cooking experiences.

A traditional thatched hut village will showcase local crafts such as wooden lacquer work by artisans, alongside workshops and performances that offer guests a genuine connection to Maldivian heritage. Meanwhile, the island will be thoughtfully adorned with festive Eid decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the celebration.

Each day offers opportunities to relax by the sea with complimentary coconut drinks and shisha, as well as spa treatments and wellness moments designed to refresh the spirit. Alongside these celebrations, a variety of excursions and water sports are available, and the Kids’ Club provides engaging activities for younger guests, ensuring a harmonious experience for the whole family.

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