News
Sun Siyam Chairman Predicts an Exciting New Era for Maldivian Hospitality
Maldives.net.mv – The Chairman and Managing Director of Sun Siyam, Mr Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, recently announced bold new plans to expand his luxury hospitality brand in the Maldives and beyond. In a speech at the HICIO conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka that focussed on the challenges and opportunities for developing in the Maldives and taking Maldivian brands abroad, Mr Siyam revealed a new large-scale project currently in development on the island of Dhigurah in the Maldives as well as an additional The Sun Siyam property in Sri Lanka.
Mr Siyam, who launched his first Maldivian resort in 1998, manages the The Sun Siyam and Sun Aqua brands, with three luxury properties in the Maldives and one in Sri Lanka. His newest project on Dhigurah Island is, he revealed, his most challenging and ambitious project yet. The 600-room resort with 14 different room categories, no fewer than 15 F&B outlets, family-friendly accommodations and an underwater restaurant and wine cellar is evidence that the country is on the verge of a massive repositioning. It marks the Maldives’ turning point from a destination primarily for Europe’s rich to one that can accommodate a wide range of visitors from markets around the globe. On completion, the resort will be the largest tourism offering in the Maldives, creating more than 2,500 jobs for the local Maldivian community.
Sun Siyam brands will also be expanding across Sri Lanka, Mr Siyam announced. In addition to the Sun Aqua Pasikudah – the first 100% Maldivian owned and operated resort on foreign soil – Sun Siyam will be developing an overwater villa resort in Kalpitiya. This project comes at the perfect time for overseas expansion of Maldivian brands, Mr Siyam said.
“We have something really special in our island nation that can enrich both guests’ experiences and property investors’ portfolios,” he stated in his speech. “The Maldives has a form of home-grown service culture and industry know-how that is currently not being fully utilised to its full potential domestically, and certainly not on the international stage. Just like the well-known Swiss, Indian and Thai forms of hospitality, Maldivian hospitality can create desire and demand in any region.”
Though constructing luxurious resorts in remote areas such as the Maldives and Sri Lanka presents many challenges, such as access and logistics, these difficulties are worthwhile to overcome. International travellers, Mr Siyam stated, are seeking authentic experiences “based on love, romance, warmth and intimacy.” It is no longer necessary to recreate a Western travel experience in the Maldives; the time is now ripe for Maldivian developers to create truly Maldivian resorts both on home soil and abroad.
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Exclusive offers and curated experiences at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives
Imagine a tiny island nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, where warm sand meets gently lapping waves, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Whether celebrating love or finding time to reconnect, this idyllic dream can become a reality with a limited-time offer at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives. Guests can enjoy discounts of up to 75% and partake in curated experiences designed to make every moment as memorable as the surroundings.
A recent guest at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives recounted his enchanting experience on the Platinum Island. He described being dropped off at a secluded sandbank in the middle of the vast ocean—just the waves, the sky, and the two of them. As he knelt and opened the ring box, the look on his partner’s face made the moment truly unforgettable. Her “yes” became the pinnacle of their journey, leaving him feeling like the luckiest person alive.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts specialises in crafting dream proposals with impeccable attention to detail. From a pathway illuminated by flickering candles to an elegantly set table under the open sky, every aspect is meticulously arranged. Fresh floral decorations and chilled sparkling wine are thoughtfully included, ensuring a magical experience for those looking to make a life-changing declaration.
For couples not planning a proposal, the resorts offer numerous ways to elevate romantic getaways. Guests can indulge in a decadent four-course lobster dinner paired with sparkling wine or enjoy a private beach BBQ night, where freshly grilled seafood and premium meats are prepared to perfection.
For travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, the Maldives provides an unparalleled playground. Diving enthusiasts can explore the vibrant house reef at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Meanwhile, adrenaline seekers can enjoy activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, or surfing at the iconic Pasta Point near Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives. Those preferring a slower pace can opt for a sunset dolphin-watching cruise or experience the thrill of big-game fishing in the Indian Ocean. One notable catch involved a majestic sailfish, nearly 1.5 meters in length, which left both the guest and the resort’s expert fishing guide in awe.
With January to March offering the Maldives’ finest weather and picturesque days, this is the perfect time to turn dreams into reality. The offer is available for bookings made between January 17 and February 2, 2025, for stays from January 17 to March 31, 2025. Guests can unlock up to 75% off their stay and discover the Maldives just as they have always envisioned it.
Whether it’s about reconnecting, celebrating milestones, or indulging in the beauty of paradise, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts provides the perfect canvas for extraordinary memories.
News
Welcome in Year of the Snake at Amilla Maldives
Welcome in the Year of the Snake with celebrations and a vibrant programme of festivities at Amilla Maldives from 26th to 30th January 2025. Designed for guests of all ages, the programme features creative workshops, engaging games, family adventures, and indulgent dining experiences.
Celebrations throughout the week include a treasure hunt, family fun run, snorkelling adventures, pool party, and a movie every evening for the children at Amilla Odeon, the movie theatre under the stars. Teens and adults can participate in art workshops and table tennis tournaments, while children will delight in interactive games like Catch the Dragon’s Tail and themed craft-making sessions.
The highlight of the festivities will be on Tuesday, 28th January 2025 when the resort will be offering art classes, craft classes, making of Chinese New Year lucky envelopes, and lively family beach games. In the evening there will be guest cocktails at sunset, where guests will be entertained by a vibrant lion dance. The night continues with a Lunar New Year of the Snake Chinese Buffet Dinner to mark the occasion.
Join Amilla Maldives from 26th to 30th January for a celebration filled with joy, creativity, and cherished moments.
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Family fun meets Premier League coaching: Kuramathi and Campioni experience
Families seeking the ultimate summer escape in 2025 will find the perfect destination with Kuramathi and Campioni. These two exceptional partners offer a holiday experience where children can combine their love for football with the thrill of training alongside former Premier League players and UEFA coaches at breathtaking resorts. The exclusive Campioni football training camps cater to children aged 4-15 years, running across two weeks with three football legends. Liverpool and England star John Barnes MBE, accompanied by a UEFA coach, will lead sessions from July 28th to August 1st. Meanwhile, England icons Harry Redknapp and Stuart Pearce MBE will join from August 4th to August 8th, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for budding young footballers.
Campioni’s ethos, “Train Like A Pro,” offers a unique chance for children to be coached for two hours daily by some of English football’s most celebrated figures. These interactive and engaging sessions focus on fundamental skills while emphasising teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With personalised guidance provided throughout, participants gain invaluable insights from the experts and create unforgettable memories.
While children hone their skills on the pitch, parents are free to unwind in a variety of ways. They can relax on the beach, explore the island, work out in the gym, visit the spa, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the training sessions from the sidelines.
The Campioni experience extends beyond football. Families are invited to participate in additional activities, such as welcome drinks at the start of the week, a mid-week parents’ game featuring the football legends, and an end-of-week medal and certificate presentation. These events ensure everyone in the family enjoys a dynamic and engaging holiday.
Kuramathi, a renowned Maldivian resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for this unique experience. Famous for its winding white sandbank and tropical jungle spanning the 1.8km island, the resort features 12 room categories, 12 restaurants, 6 bars, evening entertainment, and an array of facilities. Options range from one-bedroom Beach Villas and Two-Bedroom Beach Houses to overwater villas perched above the island’s turquoise lagoon, making it a perfect choice for families.
Off the field, Kuramathi’s complimentary Bageecha Kids’ Club caters to children aged 3-12 years with indoor and outdoor play areas, arts and crafts, splash pads, and a large swimming pool. Activities for older children include badminton, football, ping pong, baseball, and basketball. For couples seeking a romantic evening, extended kids’ club hours are available at an additional charge, alongside 24-hour babysitting for younger children.
The resort also offers unique environmental activities, such as eco-centre presentations, hermit crab trails, tree planting, and visits to hydroponics gardens, encouraging younger guests to learn about sustainable practices.
For adventurous families, Kuramathi provides a fully equipped dive school with multilingual instructors who guide participants through PADI and SSI courses, including options for children as young as eight. Guests can also explore the ocean through snorkelling safaris, turtle discovery trips, dolphin excursions, and semi-submarine tours. Water sports such as windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and catamaran lessons are available for children aged 12 and above.
While children are occupied, parents can relax at the spa or enjoy evening cocktails at the Champagne Loft or pool bars. Dining options include international cuisine at the buffet restaurant and specialty venues like The Reef, La Belle Vie, and Siam Garden. Nightlife on the island is vibrant, with live music, beachside movie nights, DJ performances, and more.
Kuramathi and Campioni promise a summer holiday filled with excitement, learning, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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