News
Loama blends beach and heritage
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Maldives.net.mv – Loama Hotels and Resorts has opened the newest resort of Maldives on the private island of Maamigili.
Veteran hotelier and Loama Resort’s general manager, Andres Rubio said: “We are creating a place of hospitality … but we add art, culture and heritage to the mix.
“We have established the Maldives’ first gallery of contemporary Maldivian art, Loama Art Gallery, in an over-water pavilion near the resort’s main arrival pier and with the blessing of the National Art Gallery of Maldives in Male.”
Loama Museum has an important collection of artefacts from key periods of Maldivian history, from an extensive collection of 15th Century Chinese porcelain to a pair of 11th Century sunken baths found on the island. These are part of an on-going process of excavation where other ancient artefacts have also been found and put into the museum’s collection.
The main draw are the resort’s over-water villas perched on poles above the shallows of the Indian Ocean.
There are also beach villas with each room bearing its own Maldivian name that reflects heritage and the history of the Maldives.
The resort features six dining options. They include a Thai fine dining restaurant, a Japanese restaurant with sushi bar and teppanyaki at the open-air lounge. Fazaa is an all-day dining restaurant offering Western, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine and for barbecue enthusiasts there is the Athiri Club. At poolside, Iru Café offers Italian cuisine.
Rubio added that the resort’s spa experience would also be special by blending best practices from traditional and contemporary wellness.
Cooking
Chocolate, spirits, and gourmet pairings with Patrick Gelencser at Niyama Private Islands Maldives
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Renowned master chocolatier Patrick Gelencser will bring a touch of indulgence to Niyama Private Islands Maldives, hosting exclusive tasting sessions from February 21-25, 2025.
Born into a legacy of chocolate craftsmanship, Gelencser represents the third generation of the esteemed House of Gelencser. As one of only 15 chocolatiers in France specialising in bean-to-bar production, he has received numerous international accolades. His meticulously crafted creations are so exceptional that they are showcased in a chocolate museum in the Loire Valley, as well as in nearly half a dozen boutiques.
Guests at Niyama will have the rare opportunity to witness Gelencser’s artistry firsthand as he curates a series of tasting experiences set against the resort’s breathtaking backdrops.
- Single-Origin Chocolate & Rum: The terroir of the cocoa bean influences its flavour, resulting in creamy, fruity, citrusy, or nutty notes. Guests will explore the origins of Gelencser’s single-origin chocolates, expertly paired with the finest Caribbean and South American rums, in a setting like no other—perched half a kilometre out to sea amidst the sunset.
- Ganache, Praline & Whiskey: A masterful contrast of textures awaits with smooth, creamy ganache and nutty, complex pralines, complemented by a premium selection of whiskeys. This refined post-dinner experience will be hosted at the heart of the island of Chill.
- Tapas, Chocolate, Wine & Port: For the grand finale, guests will embark on a full gastronomic journey, surrounded by lush tropical beauty. The experience begins with tapas and wine, followed by a curated selection of chocolates and port, personally presented by Gelencser to an intimate gathering of 12 guests.
“We are thrilled to host rarefied events such as these, led by masters of their craft like Patrick Gelencser,” says Thierry Vergnault, Executive Chef of Niyama. “We take great pride in our culinary offerings, creating spectacular experiences found nowhere else, and look forward to hosting many more.”
Featured
Oaga Art Resort’s unique Valentine’s Day celebration
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This Valentine’s Day, Oaga Art Resort is redefining traditional romance, inviting guests to embrace a broader celebration of love—one that honours self-love, friendship, and meaningful connections in all their forms. ‘A Different Kind of Love Story’ at Oaga is more than just an event; it is a movement.
Oaga Art Resort envisions Valentine’s Day as an inclusive celebration, welcoming singles, best friends, and those seeking to deepen their relationship with themselves. By shifting the focus beyond conventional narratives, the resort creates an atmosphere where guests can explore self-worth and celebrate the many dimensions of love.
The resort’s Valentine’s Day program offers curated experiences designed to inspire self-love and joyful connections:
- Self-Love Hours: Rejuvenating sessions at Hoba Spa, promoting self-acceptance and wellness. Guests can participate in a Face Massage Workshop, Harmony and Kindness Meditation, and Hydrotherapy & Skincare Rituals. Pre-booking is required.
- Live Music by Soul Salad: The soothing jazz melodies of Soul Salad set the perfect mood for relaxation and connection.
- Self-Love Celebration: A lively beach party under the stars featuring Digital.flock (Mirah Allly) encourages guests to dance and embrace the joy of self-expression.
- Self-Love Garden: Guests can plant a seedling along with a personal self-affirmation note, contributing to a growing sanctuary dedicated to self-love.
- Dinner for Two: A premium dining experience featuring a curated five- or six-course menu, complemented by wine, live music, and a romantic beachfront setting. Pre-booking is required.
- Colour Splatter Canvas: A large collective art installation invites guests to freely express themselves through painting.
Oaga Art Resort is inviting guests to break free from traditional Valentine’s Day expectations and embrace an unforgettable celebration of self-love, friendship, and joy. By redefining love beyond February 14th, the resort encourages individuals to nurture the most important relationship of all—the one with themselves.
Featured
Dreamy Valentine’s getaway: Hurawalhi’s curated romantic experiences
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Imagine a secluded island in the heart of the Indian Ocean, where the waves whisper love stories and every moment feels like a dream. This Valentine’s Day, Hurawalhi invites couples to immerse themselves in a celebration of romance, indulgence, and unforgettable memories with an exclusive array of curated experiences designed to enchant the heart.
From breathtaking dining under the sea to floating breakfasts in private pools, Hurawalhi transforms Valentine’s Day into an extraordinary journey. Whether couples choose an intimate champagne breakfast, a romantic vow renewal on Dream Island, or a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht, every experience is crafted to create moments of pure magic.
- Champagne Breakfasts: Couples can begin their day with an opulent Champagne Breakfast or indulge in the Floating Champagne Breakfast from the comfort of their private pool villa. Each experience is designed to elevate the morning into a cherished memory.
- 5.8 Undersea Restaurant: The morning can start with an exclusive Private Breakfast in the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant. For an afternoon of gourmet excellence, guests can enjoy a 5-course Lunch or indulge in an exquisite 7-course Dinner crafted by Executive Chef Harshal Anil.
- Surprise Pool Decoration: Guests can transform their villa’s pool into a fairy-tale setting with twinkling lights, floating flowers, and romantic embellishments to delight their special someone.
- Exclusive Valentine’s Day Sulha Spa Bundle: Couples can reignite their connection with 135 minutes of pure bliss, including a cocoa body exfoliation, a rich cocoa butter massage, and a rose milk bath – the ultimate pampering experience for couples.
- Rosé Moment at Champagne Pavilion: Couples can toast to love with a bottle of Louis Roederer Rosé and elevate the moment with a luxurious caviar and oyster upgrade.
For those seeking unparalleled privacy, Dream Island offers a secluded paradise. Couples can start the day with a Private Champagne Breakfast, escape for a Private Picnic with the option to add Taittinger Champagne, or indulge in a Private Dinner Under the Stars, featuring a Maldivian feast prepared by a private chef. Vows can be renewed in the most enchanting way, with a bespoke ceremony on Dream Island. Hurawalhi’s expert wedding coordinator ensures every detail is perfect, making this the ideal setting to reaffirm love in the beauty of nature.
Nothing is more romantic than being whisked away on a luxury yacht. Hurawalhi’s Bella Cruises offer:
- Manta Search Snorkelling: Couples can encounter Lhaviyani Atoll’s majestic manta rays with expert guidance from the Manta Trust.
- Full Moon Cruise: Experience the magic of a full moon shimmering over the ocean.
- Bella Sunset Cruise: Couples can savour champagne and canapés while watching dolphins dance in the golden light of the Maldivian sunset.
The evening ends with a Valentine’s Dinner on the Beach, featuring a live solo performance under a starry sky. Guests can then let loose at Club Cupid, Hurawalhi’s exclusive DJ night at Coco Bar. They can dance barefoot in the sand, sip signature cocktails, and embrace the romance of the night.
A Valentine’s retreat at Hurawalhi promises enchantment, adventure, and exquisite indulgence. Guests can download the Hurawalhi App on Apple and Google Play to explore experiences and pre-book special moments in advance. Let the whirlwind romance begin!
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