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Joint Meeting of the Two Commissions in Asia Pacific and UNWTO Regional Ministerial Conference

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UNWTO

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.

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Coco Bodu Hithi recognised for sustainability at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2027

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 Coco Bodu Hithi, part of Coco Collection, has received the Best Commitment to Sustainability award at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2027, in the Africa, Asia & Middle East region. This marks the resort’s third consecutive year of recognition, reflecting its continued efforts to care for the environment while creating meaningful experiences for guests.

The latest accolade follows Best Service in 2025 and Best Waterside Hotel in 2026, recognising different aspects of the resort’s hospitality over the years. Each award holds special meaning for the team, whose dedication and genuine care remain at the heart of the Coco Bodu Hithi experience.

Located in North Malé Atoll, just 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Coco Bodu Hithi is close enough for convenience yet secluded enough to feel a world away. Surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical greenery, the resort features 100 villas, each with a private pool.

Caring for the island’s natural environment is an important part of everyday life at Coco Bodu Hithi. From coral restoration to eliminating single-use plastics, in-house water production and energy-saving initiatives, the resort continues to take thoughtful steps towards sustainability. Guests are also encouraged to participate through marine conservation experiences, educational talks and island clean-ups, fostering a shared appreciation for the environment.

“We are grateful to receive this recognition, marking our third consecutive year at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards. It reflects our team’s dedication and the meaningful steps we continue to take towards protecting our island. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we remain committed to learning, improving and making a positive difference,” said Mohamed Sobe, General Manager of Coco Bodu Hithi.

The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding hotels and resorts worldwide, serving as a trusted mark of quality among travellers and travel professionals alike. For Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Collection, this recognition reflects a shared commitment to preserving the Maldives’ natural beauty, heartfelt hospitality and responsible tourism.

For those planning an island escape, Coco Bodu Hithi invites guests to discover its exclusive Double 11 offer or celebrate the festive season with loved ones through the Coco Festive Celebration. To explore these offers and plan a stay, visit www.cococollection.com or contact reservations@cococollection.com.

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Bandos Maldives lines up festive dining, family activities and entertainment for Christmas, New Year

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Bandos Maldives has announced its festive programme for Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, introducing a Candy Land-themed celebration featuring dining experiences, live entertainment, family activities, cultural performances and island excursions.

Running from 20 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, the programme will bring together seasonal celebrations and the resort’s established recreational activities, with events designed for families, couples and guests of all ages.

The celebrations will begin on 20 December with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Huvan Deck, accompanied by Christmas carols performed by the Bandos Carollers. The opening day will also feature a Christmas cake-mixing ceremony, a Maldivian cooking experience, sunset entertainment by Beatus Duo and a Candy Land Street Food Market at Sea Breeze.

A series of dining experiences will form part of the festive calendar. On 21 December, Umi Yaki will host Tokyo in Maldives, a Japanese-inspired dinner incorporating seasonal elements. Guests can also participate in a festive food and wine pairing experience at Grill Bar on 23 December.

Christmas Eve, on 24 December, will feature a gala dinner at Gallery Restaurant from 7pm to 10pm, with festive decorations and a selection of seasonal dishes. The evening’s entertainment will include Christmas carols, sunset music and a performance by The Notion Band, followed by DJ Katty at Sand Bar.

On Christmas Day, the resort will welcome Santa Claus to Huvan Beach at 10.45am, followed by a programme of family activities. Guests can begin the day with morning yoga and a Christmas breakfast at Gallery before joining the Candy Cane Beach Bash in the afternoon. Sunset entertainment and a karaoke evening will conclude the day’s celebrations.

The culinary programme will continue on 26 December with a Candy Land Beach BBQ at Huvan Beach, featuring grilled specialities in a beachfront setting. Other activities will include pastry-making sessions, vegetable carving demonstrations and mixology experiences, giving guests opportunities to learn from the resort’s culinary and beverage teams.

The programme will culminate in New Year’s Eve celebrations on 31 December, featuring a gala dinner at Gallery from 7pm to 9.30pm. The festivities will continue at Sand Bar with live music, DJ entertainment and a countdown to 2027, accompanied by fireworks.

Guests will also have opportunities to explore the surrounding marine environment during the festive period. Activities include sunset dolphin-watching excursions, sunrise fishing, water sports and a sandbank picnic. The resort will conduct environmental awareness activities under its Eco Adventures programme, introducing guests to its sustainability initiatives and efforts to protect the island’s natural surroundings.

Families travelling with children will have access to an extensive schedule of activities organised through Kokko Club and other areas of the resort. These include gingerbread house decorating, Christmas arts and crafts, costume parades, treasure hunts, beach games, children’s discos and cooking sessions.

Sporting and recreational activities will also feature throughout the celebrations, including tennis challenges, beach volleyball, football matches involving guests and resort staff, water polo, aqua aerobics and morning yoga sessions.

Live entertainment will be a regular feature of the programme, with performances by Beatus Duo, The Notion Band and DJ Katty. Traditional Maldivian music and dance performances are also scheduled, offering guests opportunities to experience local cultural traditions alongside the international festive celebrations.

Following New Year’s Day, the programme will continue with additional dining and entertainment experiences. Umi Yaki will host a Japanese-inspired Sakura Evening on 2 January, while Maldivian cultural performances and family activities will continue during the first week of the year.

On 6 January, Bandos will host an Orthodox Christmas dinner at Huvan Beach, featuring a beachfront barbecue accompanied by live music from Beatus Duo. The festivities will conclude on 7 January with a Candy Land Party Night at Sand Bar.

In his welcome message accompanying the festive programme, Ismail Rasheed highlighted the resort’s focus on creating memories through shared meals, time spent together, exploring the ocean and enjoying island life.

Bandos Maldives is located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Opened on 10 December 1972 as the second tourist resort in the Maldives, Bandos is among the country’s longest-established tourism properties and is known as the Island of Hospitality.

The 18-hectare island features 220 rooms and villas across several accommodation categories, including beachfront rooms, garden villas, beach villas and overwater accommodation. Its facilities include restaurants and bars, Orchid Spa, a diving centre, water sports facilities, a swimming pool, sports and fitness amenities, and Kokko Club for younger guests.

The resort is also known for its house reef and diving experiences, offering access to marine activities within North Malé Atoll. Its combination of family facilities, dining options and proximity to the international airport makes Bandos an established destination for both leisure holidays and short island stays.

Selected festive dining experiences, excursions and activities require advance reservations and are subject to additional charges.

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Niva Kuramathi Maldives celebrates International Men’s Day with spa and fitness experiences

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Throughout November, Niva Kuramathi Maldives turns toward movement and wellbeing. From 1 to 30 November 2026, LIME Wellbeing presents its International Men’s Day Wellness Collection. The collection brings together four restorative treatment packages, complimentary group sessions on 19 November and a three-day retail offer. These are days made for the body to relax, the mind to settle and energy to return.

Restore, 1–30 November

The Executive Recharge is a 60-minute deep tissue massage that reaches the places where stress sits. Tight muscles loosen, and energy returns. The Athlete’s Recovery Package is a 90-minute sports recovery massage. It combines focused stretching with deep muscle work to restore range of motion, so the body remembers how to move with ease. The Gentleman’s Grooming Ritual is a 30-minute express Obsidian facial for the face, neck and torso. Rich in minerals and plant extracts, it deeply cleanses and hydrates. Tension lifts, texture softens, clarity returns. The Total Wellbeing Experience pairs a 60-minute deep tissue massage with a 30-minute Obsidian men’s facial. Muscle recovery flows into skin restoration – body first, then face, then a calm you may not have felt in a while.

Move, 19 November

On International Men’s Day itself, you can join one of two complimentary male group sessions, each designed to build strength, mobility and resilience. The Resistance & Core Group Fitness Class focuses on breath core strength. The Office Yoga Group Session concentrates on gentle stretches to ease stiff shoulders and neck caused by to many long hours spent at a desk.

Obsidian Gentlemen’s Skincare Rituals

At the heart of the collection sits Obsidian, a range designed around the distinct needs of men’s skin. Tailored specifically for men, these treatments offer deep-cleansing, revitalising facials that target the unique needs of men’s skin, leaving you refreshed and perfectly groomed.

Retail, 19–21 November

For three days, all retail products at LIME Wellbeing are 15% off, and select treatments carry exclusive International Men’s Day pricing.

For further information and reservations, please call +960 666 01 50 or email  reservations@nivakuramathi.com.

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