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Anantara wins Leading International Resort Brand in the Maldives

Maldives.net.mv – Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas’ Maldives resorts shined on the awards carpet at a special edition of the Maldives Travel Awards held during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on 5th May 2015.
The Maldives Travel Awards is organised by the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) to highlight and reward members of the travel sector that have made the greatest contribution to the industry over the past year. Now in its 4th year, a special edition of the awards was held during the Arabian Travel Market thereby allowing key members of the industry from around the world to attend the ceremony.
Ten of this year’s top categories were presented at the special edition of the awards. Recognised as the Leading International Resort Brand in the Maldives Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, proudly received this new category, presented by Mr Mohamed Khaleel, Chairman of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC).
Receiving the award on behalf of Anantara, Ali Nihad, Director of Sales for Anantara Kihavah Villas, Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa and Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, states, “As a Maldivian, I am extremely proud to represent an international company that operates with great respect for the local culture and ensuring every guest leaves with a special connection to the people and islands.”
Commenting on the Leading International Resort Brand award, Nicholas Downing, VP Operations – Indian Ocean for Minor Hotel Group, who was present at the awards ceremony, praised his associates and the three Anantara resorts in the Maldives, saying that this recognition stands as a testament to their professional and personal dedication and commitment. “They exemplify the heartfelt hospitality that lies at the core of every Anantara experience.”
The Maldives Travel Awards are judged through a process of online voting as well as a jury assessment of presentations and site inspections. All the winners will be announced at the grand finale of this year’s MATATO awards to be held in The Maldives on September 26th, 2015.
News
The Cocoon Collection launches Cocoon Circle: New loyalty programme offering exclusive rewards in Maldives

The Cocoon Collection has introduced Cocoon Circle, its new loyalty program designed to reward returning guests. This program offers exclusive benefits, curated experiences, and luxurious perks across the collection’s award-winning resorts in the Maldives.
Inspired by the natural beauty and warm hospitality of the islands, Cocoon Circle invites guests to join a community that values wanderlust and a dedication to barefoot luxury. The program aims to enhance each return visit with personalized touches and meaningful rewards, whether it’s a sunset cruise, a surprise room upgrade, or a candlelit dinner by the ocean.
According to Ahmed Jihad (Jay), Chief Operating Officer and a program ambassador, the company is excited to launch a program that demonstrates its gratitude towards guests. He stated that Cocoon Circle is more than just a points system; it’s about creating memorable experiences with every stay.
Guests can easily and freely sign up for Cocoon Circle through The Cocoon Collection website and begin earning rewards immediately. Enrollment is straightforward and complimentary, allowing guests to unlock access to exceptional rewards starting from their very next stay.
The program operates with a simple One Tier, One Earning Scheme. For every eligible stay of a minimum of five nights at any Cocoon Collection resort after enrollment, members will earn one complimentary night to redeem for future visits.
Cocoon Circle members can anticipate a range of privileges, including:
- Complimentary Nights with Every Stay: Members can earn complimentary nights for future escapes with every qualifying stay at any Cocoon Collection resort. The more they stay, the more they receive, celebrating their loyalty.
- An Exclusive Welcome Experience: Upon arrival, Cocoon Circle members are greeted with an elegant presentation of fresh tropical fruits, sparkling beverages, and personalized amenities, designed to make them feel at home in their island sanctuary.
- Flexible Check-in & Check-out Options: Valued members can enjoy the convenience of early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability, allowing them to maximize their time without the constraints of rigid schedules.
- Personalized Touches Throughout Their Stay: The team ensures each moment feels personal and meaningful through bespoke room arrangements and thoughtful surprises tailored to the guest’s preferences, passions, and the spirit of Maldivian hospitality.
- Dedicated Island Host or Butler Service: Guests can enjoy seamless service with their own dedicated Island Host or Butler, who will assist with arranging excursions and fulfilling every aspect of their ideal holiday.
- Access to Member-Only Special Offers and Signature Experiences: Cocoon Circle members gain access to exclusive privileges, including private event invitations and special resort promotions, enhancing their journeys with curated experiences.
Complimentary nights are redeemable at any property within The Cocoon Collection in the Maldives, subject to availability and booking conditions. These free nights apply exclusively to entry-level room categories and are valid for three years from the date they are earned.
The company will soon introduce an enhanced loyalty experience under the Repeater Program, offering additional privileges such as private dinners at Palm Beach, curated cruises, customized excursions, and more personalized surprises to further celebrate returning guests.
The Cocoon Collection is a luxury brand that provides memorable experiences in stunning destinations. With resorts in the Maldives and Zanzibar, the collection blends design with local culture and natural beauty. The brand is committed to sustainability and community through initiatives like the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation, which supports local communities in Zanzibar, and the Cocoon Foundation for initiatives in the Maldives.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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