News
PATA appoints new CEO
Maldives.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.
News
Milaidhoo Maldives marks Mental Health Awareness Month with wellness series
This May 2026, Milaidhoo Maldives gently turns the spotlight toward what matters most – mental wellbeing. In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, the island introduces a meaningful series of experiences designed not only for its guests but equally for its cherished Milaidhoo Family. Rooted in care, connection and quiet joy, this thoughtfully curated week-long programme reflects a deep belief: when minds are nurtured, everything else flows.
Surrounded by the natural calm of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo becomes a sanctuary for reflection and renewal. Mental wellness is woven into daily life, found in unhurried mornings, in genuine conversations and in the supportive spirit shared among the team. This month, that philosophy comes alive through a thoughtfully curated calendar that celebrates presence, balance and human connection which reflects the spirit of the island.
At the heart of this initiative is a sincere expression of appreciation for the Milaidhoo team, the people whose warmth and dedication shape every guest experience. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to pause and to give back to them with experiences that uplift, energise and inspire.
Guests are warmly invited to take part, creating a shared journey where wellbeing becomes a collective experience rather than an individual pursuit.
Programme Highlights:
11th May 2026 – Aqua Tai Chi at Compass Pool (06.00 – 07.00)
Soft sunrise movements guide the mind into stillness, blending breath with the gentle rhythm of water.
12th May 2026 – Soulful Salad-Making with the Chef at the Chef’s Table (12.30 – 13.30)
A nourishing, mindful culinary moment celebrating the connection between food and emotional wellbeing.
13th May 2026 – Wellness in a Glass with Nikhil at Compass Pool Bar
A creative exploration of mood-boosting elixirs designed to refresh both body and mind.
14th May 2026 – Underwater Unwind with Martina (16.00 – 17.00)
A unique sensory escape beneath the surface, encouraging calm, focus and gentle release.
15th May 2026 – Ice Bath Therapy with Jessica & Jonathan at the Football Ground
(15.00 – 16.00)
An invigorating practice supporting resilience, clarity and mental strength.
16th May 2026 – Mindful Breathing at Yoga Pavilion (19.00 – 20.00)
Guided breathwork to ease stress, quiet the mind and restore inner balance.
17th May 2026 –Mindful Aqua Yoga at Compass Pool (06.00–07.00)
A serene floating practice bringing lightness, presence and gentle closure to the week.
Through these experiences, Milaidhoo Maldives invites both guests and the family members to slow down, reconnect and care for their mental wellbeing in a setting where every detail is designed with intention and heart.
Discover more about the spirit of Milaidhoo Maldives and begin planning your island escape here.
Action
Dhawa Ihuru to celebrate marine heritage with Rannamaari Dive Fest this May
A story long resting beneath the surface returns this May, as Dhawa Ihuru invites guests and ocean enthusiasts to experience the Rannamaari Dive Fest 2026, taking place on 23 May 2026.
Set against one of the Maldives’ most accessible and vibrant house reefs — recognised among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia (2025) and awarded Best Dive Resort by Travel Trade Maldives (2025) — Dhawa Ihuru offers a compelling setting for discovery both above and below the surface.

At the centre of the experience lies the Rannamaari Shipwreck, a former dredger deliberately sunk in 1999 just off the island’s shore. Today, it has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, drawing an abundance of marine life and offering an accessible yet captivating dive site for both beginners and experienced divers.
On 23 May, the island comes alive with a full-day programme designed to bring this underwater legend to life. Guests can explore the wreck through guided dives led by the resort’s PADI-certified Dive Centre, alongside activities such as underwater treasure hunts, marine discovery sessions, and interactive experiences with the resort’s Marine Lab.

Founded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort’s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project — the Maldives’ first electric reef, launched in 1996 — and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.

Beyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru’s easy-going, all-inclusive approach – where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.
“The Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck – it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives’ deep connection with the ocean,” said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.
News
Angsana Velavaru introduces curated day visit packages
Angsana Velavaru has introduced a curated collection of day visit experiences, inviting guests to step into the rhythm of island life, even if only for a day. Designed for those seeking a brief yet meaningful escape, the new offerings combine relaxation, dining, and wellness within the resort’s expansive lagoon setting.
Set against the backdrop of white sands and turquoise waters in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru’s day visit experiences present an opportunity to pause, unwind, and reconnect. Guests may choose to spend their day by the pool, enjoying access to the resort’s facilities while taking in uninterrupted ocean views. A leisurely lunch unfolds at either Kaani restaurant or Kuredhi bar, accompanied by a selection of beverages, creating a relaxed and effortless dining experience by the sea.
For those seeking a more private retreat, the beachfront villa day experience offers a tranquil setting framed by lush greenery and direct access to the beach. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and seclusion, the beach villa experience allows guests to enjoy their own space while still being connected to the island’s vibrant surroundings.
Wellbeing remains at the heart of the experience, with guests invited to indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, complemented by exclusive privileges throughout the day. Whether spent lounging poolside, enjoying a private villa escape, or simply embracing the natural beauty of the Maldives, each experience is shaped by a sense of ease and balance.
Available from 01 May to 30 September 2026, the day visit package offers a seamless way to experience Angsana Velavaru’s distinctive island setting within a limited timeframe, making it an ideal option for residents and visitors alike.
At its core, the day visit experience reflects Angsana Velavaru’s philosophy of creating moments that are both simple and memorable—where time slows, and the essence of island life can be felt in every detail.
To learn more about Angsana Velavaru, please visit the resort’s website.
-
Featured1 week agoWestin Maldives Miriandhoo introduces Family Fun Summer package
-
News1 week agoThe Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands expands Summer Collective programme for 2026
-
Cooking1 week agoCROSSROADS Maldives brings back ‘No Guests, Just Chefs’ event
-
Awards1 week agoReethi Faru Resort recognised in four categories at 2026 Haute Grandeur Awards
-
News1 week agoSun Siyam Iru Veli organises tree planting activity for Earth Day
-
News1 week agoThe Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort engages guests in Earth Day initiatives
-
News1 week agoRAAYA by Atmosphere marks Earth Day with sustainability summit
-
News6 days agoMachchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives unveils Eid al-Adha getaway packages


