News
Walter Butti appointed as Cluster Executive Chef for Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli and Naladhu Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – Anantara has welcomed Walter Butti as Cluster Executive Chef at their three resorts in South Male Atoll. Chef Walter brings 22 years of international experience to his role in the culinary industry across Australia, Germany, Ghana, Switzerland, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Having worked with highly regarded chefs such as Frédy Girardet, Jackie Donatz, Thomas Byrne and Werner Martin, Chef Walter brings an added dimension of interest and acclaim to the resorts.
In his role Walter oversees all culinary aspects of the food and beverage, including Baan Huraa, Origami, Dhoni bar and 73 degrees on Anantara Veli, Aqua Bar, Fushi Café, Terrazzo and the rebrand of Fuddan to Sea Fire Salt on Anantara Dhigu, The Living Room on Naladhu, as well as In-Room and Residence Dining and the signature Dining by Design private events for Anantara guests.
A native of Switzerland, Chef Walter brings his “Swissness” to the breakfast tables with Bircher muesli selections as well as specialty cheeses. Traditional cuisine is served in its purest form for French and Italian meals, fusion only in the technical presentation but not in taste, and light cuisine for healthy indulgences such as potato foam on eggs benedict in place of hollandaise sauce. Plenty of vegetables, pulses, quinoa and the herb garden full of fruit, spices and everyday goodness is how Chef Walter is directing his culinary team of 120 strong.
“My vision for this unique cluster of 3 resorts in one lagoon is to bring the guest’s dining experience to another level.” he says. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with some really inspirational chefs over the years. and I am looking forward to sharing some of this with Anantara and Naladhu guests.”
Guests staying at Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli and Naladhu Maldives will enjoy interacting with Chef Walter as he does his daily rounds through all restaurants.
Awards
Manta Air named ‘Best Seaplane Company – Indian Ocean Islands’ at 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards
Manta Air has been honoured with the title of Best Seaplane Company – Indian Ocean Islands at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards.
Now in its fifth year, the World Luxury Travel Awards recognise and celebrate excellence across the global travel and tourism industry, spotlighting organisations that deliver outstanding experiences and set new standards in service and innovation. Winners are selected through a combination of public voting and industry evaluation, reflecting both guest satisfaction and professional merit.
This accolade highlights Manta Air’s continued commitment to redefining domestic air travel in the Maldives through reliability, comfort, and service excellence. Since its launch in 2019, Manta Air has transformed the way travellers experience the Maldives’ scenic journeys between islands, offering both scheduled domestic flights and seaplane transfers that seamlessly connect resorts and atolls across the archipelago.
With a strong focus on passenger experience, Manta Air introduced Maldives’ first premium seaplane service, featuring pre-assigned seating, comfortable lounges, and a consistent flight schedule designed to enhance convenience for resort partners and guests alike. The airline’s growing fleet and operational reach have positioned it as one of the country’s leading aviation innovators.
Commenting on the award, Manta Air stated that the recognition reflects its ongoing efforts to raise the bar in aviation standards and customer satisfaction. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining world-class operations while continuing to elevate the Maldives’ reputation as a luxury travel destination.
The recognition from the World Luxury Travel Awards underscores Manta Air’s role not just as a carrier, but as an integral part of the Maldivian hospitality experience — one that begins the moment guests take flight.
News
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives transitions to five-star adults-only resort
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives has been reimagined as a five star, adults only sanctuary, setting a new standard for refined relaxation amidst the Maldives’ pristine surroundings. This repositioning ushers in a fresh chapter for the resort, unveiling thoughtfully designed spaces, curated dining experiences, and enhanced leisure facilities, all reflecting its promise – For Those Who’ve Outgrown Ordinary.

Dining
The resort’s culinary landscape has been completely reimagined with the introduction of two signature restaurants.
Summer, the resort’s open-air, beachfront restaurant, is set to open in late November. Capturing the vibrant energy of southern coastal cuisine, it brings to life a lively grill concept inspired by the laid-back charm of Louisiana. The menu celebrates flame-grilled specialities, gourmet burgers, and hearty comfort dishes, served in a beach-style setting that transitions effortlessly from the warmth of the afternoon to the relaxed rhythm of the evening.

Corals, opening in mid-December, introduces a semi-fine dining experience within an elegantly enclosed, air-conditioned space inspired by the island’s underwater world. Its menu highlights refined global and French influences, complemented by a carefully curated wine selection and live jazz performances that enhance the restaurant’s sophisticated ambience.

Wellness & Recreation
Further enriching the guest experience, the newly expanded Sports and Recreation Centre, set to open in mid-November, features a badminton court, newly introduced pickleball and tennis courts, and a dedicated table tennis hub, catering to the growing demand for social and wellness-focused experiences. These enhancements bring a renewed sense of energy and connection to the resort, ensuring every guest can find the perfect balance between activity and leisure during their stay.

Guest Experience Enhancements
Recognising the importance of comfort and connection throughout the guest journey, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives has unveiled a thoughtfully designed Guest Waiting Lounge for travellers arriving early or departing late. The lounge features plush seating, soft lighting, signature teas and coffees, Wi-Fi access, and a curated reading corner, complemented by washroom and shower facilities, providing a tranquil space to unwind before the next leg of the journey.

Speaking on the reopening, Rajeeva Rajapakse, General Manager of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, shared, “Our vision was to create a sanctuary where adults can reconnect, relax, and rediscover the magic of island life in an elevated yet effortless setting. Every space, from our new dining venues to our wellness and recreation facilities, has been designed to celebrate experiences that feel personal and inspiring.”
With these enhancements, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives invites guests to experience an island escape where contemporary elegance meets Maldivian charm which is perfectly crafted for those who’ve outgrown the ordinary.
For more details and bookings, visit www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamon-hakuraa-huraa-maldives.
News
Czech actress Simona Krainová enjoys island retreat at Brennia Kottefaru Maldives
Brennia Kottefaru Maldives recently had the pleasure of welcoming renowned Czech actress and model Simona Krainová and her family for a relaxing island getaway, in collaboration with Colours of Maldives, a leading travel brand with over 28 years of experience promoting the Maldives.
Born on 19 February 1973 in Havířov, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), Simona is best known for her roles in There Once Was a Cop (1995), Dodgeball (2015), and Kapitán Exner (2017). During their stay, Simona and her family enjoyed diving and snorkeling adventures, exploring the Maldives’ stunning marine life and crystal-clear waters.
Nestled in the heart of Raa Atoll, Brennia Kottefaru is home to 187 spacious villas, surrounded by lush nature, panoramic beaches, and a turquoise lagoon. The resort’s passionate hosts ensure that every stay is personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
To learn more, visit www.brennia.com and for reservations, please email info@brennia.com.
-
Cooking1 week agoAtmosphere Core, BBM to host Michelin-starred events with Chef Pasquale Palamaro
-
Meditation7 days agoJW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, Soulful Feasts by Stephanie Zubiri announce Thanksgiving wellness retreat
-
News5 days agoAutograph Collection Hotels debuts in Maldives with The Halcyon Private Isles: Signature retreat of individuality, immersion
-
Awards1 week agoBanyan Tree Vabbinfaru celebrated as a top 4 resort in Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler 2025
-
Awards1 week agoSO/ Maldives shines bright with 3 wins at 2025 Global Awards Season
-
News1 week agoVelaa Private Island introduces newly redesigned Kuredhi Residence by Winch Design
-
Drink7 days agoConstance Moofushi Maldives celebrates fine wine excellence with Creation Wines
-
Awards6 days agoCentara Mirage Lagoon Maldives wins top family hotel honour at Little Steps Family Travel Awards



