News
Joint Meeting of the Two Commissions in Asia Pacific and UNWTO Regional Ministerial Conference
The 27th Joint Meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for East Asia and the Pacific (CAP) and the UNWTO Commission for South Asia (CSA)& UNWTO Regional Ministerial Conference on Positioning Tourism in a Wider Socio-Economic Contextwas hosted in Maldives from 3rd-4th June 2015, at Bandos Island Resort& Spa, Maldives. Countries from East Asia and South Asia were represented in the commission meeting, with affiliated members and numerous international organizations.
The Opening Ceremony held on 3rd June 2015 at Bandos Island Resorts & Spa, was enhancedby the presence of His Excellency President Abdul Yameen Abdul Gayoomas the Guest of Honor, and comprisedof some very special and important events for the Maldives tourism industry. This includes the Visit Maldives 2016 Year Campaign being nationally launched by His Excellency Yameen Abdul Gayoom. This campaign is a destination marketing initiative by the Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC) with the objective of increasing tourist arrivals to the Maldives. This event was followed by the endorsement of the Open letter campaign by the Maldives, during the ceremony where the Dr. TalebRifai, Secretary General of UNWTO presented the open letter to His Excellency President Yameen Abdul Gayoom. This campaign is a joint effort by UNWTO and World Travel and Tourism Council (WTCC) to maximize travel and tourism’s contribution economic growth and development. By accepting this open letter, His Excellency endorsed this campaign geared towards encouraging world leaders to acknowledge tourism’s potential to generate growth, development and employment.
The Ministerial Conference on Positioning Tourism in a Wider Socio-Economic Context was held in conjunction with the Joint Commission meetings with two main objectives:
To take stock of the event to which UNWTO’s Open Letter initiative has achieved its main objective of advocating that countries duly recognize the socio-economic contribution of tourism to their national economies;
And to examine national policies that will engender strategies to ensure that the projected growth in tourism demand will translate into socio-economic benefits for non-tourism sectors of the Asia-Pacific economies.
Ministers of Tourism, Deputy Ministers and senior government officials discussed and debated the next steps in strengthening government awareness and support to enable advancement of the tourism sector. Stimulating discussions enabled open sharing of national and regional insights, experience and expertise from various tourism experts. The main focus of the Joint Commission Meeting and the Ministerial Conference was on the developments in the world tourism industry, remarks and milestones achieved by the tourism industry and also the challenges and obstacles faced by the industry and how to overcome those challenges were also discussed.
Honorable Minister of Tourism, Mr. Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Gafoor, hosted a special Gala Dinner on 3rd June, honoring and welcoming the delegates to the Maldives. Ministers, senior government officials, Maldivian tourism industry pioneers and a huge number of industry participants also attended the dinner and were part of this social function. A very significant ceremony also took place during the dinner, where Maldivian Industry leaders signed the Private Sector Commitment to Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (GCET) and the five prominent enterprises and associations signing this commitment included the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), Crown &Champa Resorts, Sun Island Resorts & Spa, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives and Canareef Resort Maldives. Private By signing this commitment they pledge their commitment to observe the principle of the Code; respecting human rights and cultural heritage, protecting the environment and vulnerable groups, working towards social inclusion, gender equality, and accessibility – that is, abiding by highest moral values that we as a society have accepted as fundamental in the 21st century.
The CAP-CSA Joint Commission meeting is UNWTO’s principal annual event in the Asia Pacific Region, and the meetings took place in Bandos Island Resort & Spa on 4th June 2015. The Joint Commission Meeting was chaired by Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State, Culture and Tourism, India and was co-chaired by Mr. Rolando Cañizal, Assistant Secretary of Tourism, of Philippines. Honorable Minister of Tourism, Mr. Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Gafoor lea the delegation from Maldives for the joint commission meeting. Key topics discussed during the meetings this year included UNWTO’s program of work for the region, Asia’s use of TripAdvisor as a source of consumer’s data and other statutory issues related to the UNWTO Asia-Pacific Member States.Mr. Mohamed Umar Maniki, Chairman of MATI, honoring the delegates and extending them to warm hospitality of Maldives, hosted a farewell dinner on the evening of 4th June at Bandos Island Resorts & Spa. The efforts of the chairman were complimented with participation from senior government officials and tourism industry leaders in this social gathering.
The events were concluded with a special technical tour organized by Ministry of Tourismfor the delegates on 5th June 2015, aimed at exposing the participants to the unique Maldivian tourism products and the Maldivian hospitality. The first half of this technical tour included a photo flight excursion, where the delegates took a tour of the Male’ atoll area in the Twin Otter seaplanes of Trans Maldivian Airways, flying over the pristine lagoons and islands of Maldives, taking a closer look at the scenic details enabling them to truly appreciate the beauty of the paradise on earth.This was followed by a high tea organized by Kuramathi Island Resort, where the locals where exposed to the outstanding Maldivian hospitality.
News
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives unveils Eid al-Adha getaway packages
As Eid Al Adha fast approaches, with it comes one of the longest breaks of the year. To make the most of this extended holiday, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection is ready to welcome guests to experience a different kind of escape shaped by nature, discovery, and meaningful moments. Just a short flight from the GCC, the island oasis offers the perfect setting for those looking to fully switch off and make the most of their time away.
At Machchafushi, every stay is an opportunity to step into what the resort describes as the ‘Machchafushi Universe’, a living ecosystem where life unfolds both above and below the water. The destination is home to a range of intricate coral formations, thriving marine habitats, plenty of tropical birdlife, and ever-changing ocean horizons, giving the island a sense of immersion that transforms a simple getaway into a true journey of discovery.
Just steps from the shoreline lies a vibrant underwater world. The award-winning house reef shelters a diverse community of marine life, from delicate hard and soft corals to schools of reef fish moving like living currents through the lagoon. Blue-tip Acropora and Maze Coral form captivating underwater landscapes, while sea fans sway gently in the current, creating habitats for seahorses, crustaceans, and a kaleidoscope of marine species.
For those seeking unforgettable experiences this Eid, the island’s marine encounters take centre stage. Guests can swim alongside whale sharks and manta rays, glide past reef sharks and stingrays, or explore the iconic Kudhi Maa shipwreck, now home to lionfish, batfish, and glassfish. Each moment offers a deeper connection to the ocean, making longer stays all the more rewarding.
Above the water, another world unfolds. Towering palms and lush vegetation create a natural sanctuary for a variety of birdlife, including Grey Herons, White-breasted Waterhens, and Black-naped Terns that glide effortlessly across the lagoon. Kayaking across crystal-clear waters, paddleboarding at sunrise, or discovering the magic of night snorkelling reveals a new rhythm of island life with each passing day.
For moments of reflection, the island’s 200-year-old Banyan Tree offers a meaningful and immersive ritual. Guests can take part in a sacred thread ceremony, setting personal intentions and connecting with the island’s heritage in a quiet moment that resonates deeply with the spirit of renewal.
Back on shore, the resort’s 112 beachfront and overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, blending island charm with contemporary comfort. Days unfold between immersive dining experiences across six restaurants and bars, and moments of relaxation at SPA Cenvaree, where Thai-inspired therapies offer a restorative pause.
To complement the experience, guests can take advantage of a selection of curated offers, ideal for those planning a longer stay.
Extended Stays with Added Value
With one of the longest breaks of the year on the horizon, guests can also make the most of their time on the island through a range of flexible stay offers, featuring added-value inclusions and exclusive benefits across longer stays.
To explore the full range of current stay offers, please visit the website here.
Your Seamless Journey to an Island Escape
Begin your getaway in style with the resort’s ‘A Machchafushi Summer’ offer, designed to elevate your arrival while rewarding longer stays. Guests booking a stay of four nights or more can enjoy 25% off seaplane transfers, while those looking to extend their sojourn can take advantage of 50% off seaplane transfers for stays of nine nights or longer.
Booking Period: From now until August 31st
Stay Period: From now until September 30th
Offer: Enjoy 25% savings on seaplane transfers with a minimum stay of four nights, or 50% savings on seaplane transfers when staying for nine nights or longer
Terms & Conditions:
- Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
- Guests must remain the same throughout the stay; offer is non-transferable
- Cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
- All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
- The resort reserves the right to amend terms and conditions without prior notice
- In case of dispute, the resort’s decision is final
For bookings and more information, please click here.
Moments of Relaxation with Spa Credit
Elevate your next break from the ordinary and unwind with rejuvenating treatments at SPA Cenvaree, where Thai-inspired therapies are designed to restore balance and relaxation. As part of selected plans, guests can enjoy spa credit to enhance their stay, allowing for heightened levels of serenity that promise to transport you to a realm of complete relaxation.
Booking Period: From now until June 30th
Stay Period: From now until December 31st
Offer:
- Half Board Plus: USD 30 spa credit per person per stay
- Full Board Plus: USD 40 spa credit per person per stay
Terms & Conditions:
- Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
- Guests must remain the same throughout the stay; offer is non-transferable
- Cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
- All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
- The resort reserves the right to amend terms and conditions without prior notice
- In case of dispute, the resort’s decision is final
For bookings and more information, please click here.
Love
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives unveils romantic getaway offers
Nestled within The Atollia by Centara Hotels and Resorts, just a short speedboat journey from Malé, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives unfolds as the perfect island destination for honeymooners and couples seeking seclusion, privacy, and truly immersive experiences. Surrounded by tranquil lagoon vistas, the resort offers an intimate escape where every moment is designed to be shared, savoured, and remembered.
To elevate the experience, couples can enjoy a range of curated offers including seamless speedboat transfers, spa credit inclusions, and flexible stay packages, allowing them to tailor their escape to suit their ideal pace of travel.
Thoughtfully designed for togetherness, the resort’s collection of elegant beachfront and overwater villas offers a sense of space and exclusivity, allowing couples to retreat into their own private sanctuary. Expansive decks, private pools or Jacuzzis, and uninterrupted views of turquoise waters create a setting where time slows, inviting quiet mornings, unhurried afternoons, and evenings beneath starlit skies.
For honeymooners, each day at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is an invitation to connect more deeply. Private dining experiences by the ocean’s edge, sunset cruises across endless horizons, and thoughtfully curated moments of intimacy set the stage for memories that linger long after your stay. Culinary journeys are equally enchanting, with five distinct outlets offering everything from international flavours to teppanyaki and tandoor grills, Asian cuisine, and modern Mediterranean fare. A range of meal plans is available to suit every preference, and depending on the selected plan, couples can also enjoy access to the culinary offerings at the neighbouring underwater-themed Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, adding even more immersive and memorable dining experiences.
Wellness and discovery are at the heart of the resort. Couples can unwind with holistic wellness journeys at SPA Cenvaree Retreat, inspired by Thai healing traditions, or explore the vibrant marine world together through immersive water sports and marine adventures. Each experience is designed to be shared, remembered, and to linger long after your stay.
Beyond honeymoon escapes, the resort offers a timeless setting for couples at every stage of life. Intimate celebrations and vow renewals unfold against turquoise waters and golden light, creating deeply personal moments that are meaningful and memorable.
Rooted in Thai-led hospitality, every detail is delivered with warmth, care, and intuitive attention, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the rhythm of the island and experience the Maldives at its most serene and captivating.
Your Seamless Journey to a Romantic Island Escape
Elevate your arrival with a seamless start to your island escape. Designed to enhance longer stays, enjoy a complimentary speedboat transfer for two adults on all stays of four nights or more. This exclusive offer allows guests to experience the Maldives with added ease, where every detail, from arrival to departure, is taken care of.
Booking Dates: From now until June 30th
Stay Dates: From now until October 15th
Offer: Complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers for two adults on stays of four nights or more
Terms & Conditions:
- Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
- Guests must remain the same throughout the stay
- This offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
- All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
- Centara Hotels & Resorts reserves the right to amend terms without prior notice, with final decision in case of dispute
For bookings and more information, please click here.
Holistic Moments with Spa Credit
Sink into another realm of serenity and immerse yourself in a journey of relaxation and renewal, where lagoon living meets holistic wellbeing. With added spa credit on a range of room types, this experience brings together curated dining and restorative spa rituals, creating a stay that is as rejuvenating as it is indulgent.
Booking Dates: From now until June 30th
Stay Dates: From now until December 31st
Offer: Guests on Half Board Plus, Full Board Plus, All-Inclusive, and Atollia Destination meal plans, or those who book direct, enjoy a spa credit of USD 60 per person per stay
Terms & Conditions:
- Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
- Guests must remain the same throughout the stay
- This offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
- All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
- Centara Hotels & Resorts reserves the right to amend terms without prior notice, with final decision in case of dispute
For bookings and more information, please click here.
Flexible Stay Offers for Every Romantic Escape
Alongside these experiences, guests can choose from a variety of tailored stay offers designed to suit different travel preferences, with added-value inclusions and exclusive benefits.
To explore the full range of current stay offers, please visit the website here.
Featured
Westin Maldives Miriandhoo introduces Family Fun Summer package
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has introduced its Family Fun Summer offer, aimed at families seeking longer island stays built around shared activities and rest. The offer is available for booking from 15 April to 15 June 2026, with a minimum stay of four nights for travel through to 20 December 2026.
Located within Baa Atoll, the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is positioning the offer around family wellness, marine experiences and time spent together in a natural island setting. Seasonal snorkelling with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay remains one of the area’s key attractions, while the resort’s collection of beach and overwater villas is designed to accommodate families looking for space and flexibility during their stay.
For larger families and groups, the resort also offers the two-bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence, which includes a living room, kitchen and dining area intended to support longer and more relaxed island stays.
The resort says the guest experience can be shaped around both activity and downtime, supported by Westin’s Sleep Well concept and Heavenly Bed. Children have access to the Westin Family Kids Club, which includes a children’s pool and pirate ship, while parents can make use of Heavenly Spa by Westin.
Away from the villa, the resort is also promoting shared family experiences through Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy activities focused on the culture and environment of Baa Atoll. These include traditional lacquer craft workshops, visits to local islands and guided marine activities in surrounding waters.
The Family Fun Summer package includes three meals per day, with children under 12 dining free of charge. It also includes a one-time dolphin cruise for two adults and two children, a 30-minute photography session with one printed photo, and a USD 150 resort credit.
-
News1 week agoCOMO Cocoa Island blends wellness and ocean experiences for guests
-
Featured1 week agoFour Seasons Resorts Maldives blend family travel with marine discovery
-
News1 week agoMandara Spa celebrates 30th anniversary with focus on Maldives growth
-
Featured6 days agoELE|NA expands sustainable wellness approach for World Earth Day
-
Featured6 days agoThe Nautilus Maldives brings back Ocean Discovery Week
-
Awards5 days agoGrand Park Kodhipparu retains Green Globe Certification for seventh year
-
News5 days agoRAH GILI MALDIVES secures EarthCheck Bronze Benchmark following opening
-
News1 week agodusitD2 Feydhoo launches retro-themed island party event



