Insiders
The Eco Centre at Kuramathi

Maldives Promotion House – Kuramathi is one of the first resorts to open in the Maldives and is part of Universal Resorts of Universal Enterprises Private Ltd. It is also an eco friendly Maldivian resort. Nestled in the turquoise Maldivian waters, Kuramathi is a stunningly beautiful retreat with luxuriant vegetation.
The over ten year old Eco Centre is an important venue in Kuramathi. With a team of professionals including, a Marine Biologist and Horticulturist, the Eco Centre is the focal point for environmental initiatives, integrating eco friendly practices into resort operations.
The Eco Centre is also home to a 16 metre Sperm Whale skeleton, along with a variety of interesting facts about other diverse marine life. Broad insights into the fascinating underwater life through visual and microscopic presentations are organised in English and German to offer an enlightening experience. One of the aims of the Eco Centre is to protect the coral eco system by advocating proper snorkelling etiquette by offering snorkelling lessons and by providing information in different languages.
Kuramathi also has nature appreciation programs. Your pursuit into the depths of nature starts with the Botanic Walk, where you will find an array of plants in a long yet informative pathway. Edible plants, plants used for its medicinal value, plants rich in fragrance and those used for its ornamental properties are few floras you shall find in the Botanic Walk and each is explained briefly all through the pathway.
The Nature Trail is set on an untouched area of tropical Maldivian forest. A long winding pathway exposes you to a natural world where enticing places are set throughout including seed stations, decomposition stations and a dedicated area to showcase the “lifecycle” of a coconut.
The coconut is indeed a remarkable fruit for which, the Maldivians have 12 different names at the 12 stages of its growth. Information boards will enlighten you on the variety of trees, animals and plants that call these forests their home.
Designed for both adults and children, the Hermit Crab Walk is a circular walk, where you find plenty of these wonderful marine crustaceans. One never misses the opportunity to see groups of crabs in different assortments of shells and sizes.
One of the most amazing facts about the Hydroponics Garden stemming under the Eco Centre is that it attributes to about 70 percent of organic greens grown on the island. These include herbs, fruits and salads. Using chemical salts and pure water, this eco friendly practice contributes fresh organic greens for the resort’s kitchen.
Enforcing eco friendly strategies into the resort operations is a significant role played by the Eco Centre. Due to the fact that Kuramathi is a large island, specific measures are undertaken to ensure that efficient energy saving methods are practised.
The usage of solar panels to heat fresh water in guest villas, and using specially designed units on guest air-conditioners are some examples put into practice. In addition, the sewerage treatment facility used on the resort premises is of a world class standard, and contributes recycled water for WC’s in guest villas as well as recycled grey water for gardening purposes.
In this way the Eco Centre also leads the Environment Committee, a group consisting of all operational departments. Devoted to implementing environmental friendly practices into operation, the committee holds brainstorming sessions once a month to further develop feasible eco-friendly ideas.
Regular cleaning of the island, organising reef clean ups, marking special occasions with guests and team members are some of the continuous projects initiated by the Environment Committee. The Eco Centre also works closely in conjunction with local communities to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
News
Crossroads Maldives appoints Frederic Lebegue as General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

Crossroads Maldives has announced the appointment of Mr. Frederic Lebegue as the General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, Mr. Lebegue brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of success in the dynamic realm of the hospitality industry.
Hailing from France, Mr. Lebegue is renowned for his value-driven leadership approach, and his ability to foster development within diverse multicultural teams. His illustrious career includes pivotal leadership roles at esteemed properties such as Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, and Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate in Mauritius, as Cluster General Manager, Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa Fiji Islands, Double Tree by Hilton Fiji, Sonaisali Island as Cluster General Manager, and Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, and Conrad Bali in Indonesia, as General Manager.
His invaluable expertise has also significantly contributed to the Maldives tourism industry, notably during his tenure as General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives (JA Manafaru Maldives), and as the Director of Operations at Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island. Mr. Lebegue’s ability to orchestrate high-performing teams that resonate with the unique rhythm of Hard Rock culture and the wealth of Maldives’ experience he brings as a seasoned senior hospitality professional are truly remarkable.
Mr. Lebegue has consistently demonstrated his expertise in driving commercial, financial, and sustainable performance. His accomplishments extend beyond the conventional notes, encompassing successful tenures at renowned properties, large-scale renovation projects, innovative team development strategies, and the implementation of resonant corporate social responsibility programs. Beyond the spotlight of his professional accolades, Mr. Lebegue is not just a maestro in the hospitality industry; he is a dedicated advocate for community initiatives. As a board member actively engaged with various foundations supporting education and sustainability goals, he sets a standard that perfectly harmonizes with the ethos of the Hard Rock brand as well as one of the core pillars of sustainability goals for the brand – Save the Planet.
“We are turning up the volume of excitement as Mr. Lebegue joins us at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. His extensive experience, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence will be the driving force behind the continued success and growth of our Hard Rock Hotel Maldives,” stated Mr. Michael Marshall, Chief Executive Officer, and Graham Kiy, Area Vice President Hotel Operations EMEA – Hard Rock International. “We eagerly anticipate the positive impact of this much-anticipated addition to our leadership team.”
Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is gearing up for a new era of excellence under Mr. Lebegue’s guidance, where his passion for the industry will be the main riff in delivering unparalleled guest experiences. This appointment marks a key chord in the brand’s commitment to providing a rockin’ stay in the heart of the Maldives.
Gastronomy
Rashid Ahmadzada appointed as Executive Sous Chef at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Rashid Ahmadzada as the new Executive Sous Chef. With an impressive fifteen years of culinary expertise, Rashid brings a wealth of experience and a passion for creating exceptional dishes that reflect culinary excellence.
Before joining, Rashid served as Chef De Cuisine at JW Marriott Absheron in Azerbaijan and held various positions in well-established properties across Kazakhstan and Montenegro, consistently delivering outstanding service throughout his career. He is also known for his leadership in the kitchen, embracing his culinary team to achieve collective goals as a team. He is committed to continuously improving through active participation in various training programs and exposures. His dedication to culinary arts aligns seamlessly with Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa’s promises to provide unparalleled dining experiences with Back to Basic twist boasting across seven dining outlets, In Villa Dining, the curated Destination Dining, as well as banquet and catering.
Beyond the kitchen, Rashid enjoys playing chess, curling himself in good books, and maintaining his fitness through regular exercise. Despite being away from his family, he is excited to embark on this new chapter in the Maldives, captivated by the beauty of the beach and its sunny weather.
Rashid Ahmadzada will be working alongside Executive Chef Riccardo Pinna, and both chefs are enthusiastic about elevating the culinary offerings at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. Together, they aim to bring innovative and delectable dining experiences to guests, making the resort the preferred destination for not only the beauty of its island but also its culinary excellence.
Gastronomy
Simon Joublanc takes the helm as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives

Baglioni Maldives Luxury has announced the appointment of Simon Joublanc as its new Executive Chef. With a culinary career spanning over two decades and a diverse portfolio that includes renowned establishments such as Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-Starred restaurants, Hilton, Marriott, InterContinental, and Six Senses, Joublanc brings a wealth of experience and innovation to his new role.
Originally hailing from France, Joublanc discovered his passion for the culinary arts early on. His journey began with formal education in Hospitality Administration and Management at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, setting the stage for a remarkable career trajectory.
Joublanc’s dedication to his craft became evident during his tenure as Sous Chef at Gordon Ramsay’s esteemed establishments, where he honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of the finer aspects of culinary excellence. His culinary journey has taken him across continents, leaving an indelible mark on some of the world’s most renowned luxury hospitality brands.
In his new role as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives, Joublanc will spearhead menu designs and introduce innovative concepts aimed at elevating the overall guest experience. His responsibilities extend to providing strategic direction for all culinary operations within the resort, ensuring a seamless fusion of flavors that resonate with the resort’s commitment to luxury and excellence.
Known for fostering high-performance teams and a commitment to unique food presentation, Joublanc brings a distinctive touch to every culinary endeavor. His previous role as Executive Chef at Six Senses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia showcased his ability to seamlessly integrate local flavors with international culinary trends, creating a harmonious culinary experience for guests.
Baglioni Maldives is poised to benefit significantly from Joublanc’s culinary expertise, as the resort continues to position itself as a premier destination for luxury, relaxation, and gastronomic indulgence. Guests can anticipate an array of meticulously crafted dishes that reflect Joublanc’s dedication to culinary innovation and excellence.
The appointment of Simon Joublanc reflects Baglioni Maldives’ commitment to providing guests with an unparalleled dining experience, reaffirming its status as a top-tier luxury destination in the Maldives.
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