News
Conrad Maldives Wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel and Indian Ocean’s Leading Culinary Hotel
Maldives.net.mv – Conrad Maldives Rangali Island takes home two highly respected awards at this year’s annual World Travel Awards, winning the hot spot in two highly coveted categories: Indian Ocean’s Leading Culinary Hotel and Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel. These distinguished awards are voted for by travel and tourism professionals worldwide, and both accolades serve to recognise the commitment to excellence which Conrad Maldives has demonstrated over the past twelve months, not just as a hotel leader in the Indian Ocean, but also as the leader in this region from a gourmet and culinary perspective.The awards round off a great season of recognition for Conrad Maldives, as the World Travel Awards closely follow the resort being named to TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame as a recipient of the site’s Certificate of Excellence for the past five consecutive years – the result of positive feedback received from guests on TripAdvisor.
“We are incredibly honoured to have been recognised as the leading hotel in the region for both culinary and overall hotel experiences,” said Lyle Lewis, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. “The recognition is a testament to what we deliver to our guests on a daily basis – the finest food and beverage with the widest variety available in the Maldives; personalised and anticipatory service; and an intimate connection to the lush surroundings of the Maldives and the Indian Ocean. For our world-class chefs and resort staff on the island, the awards from the industry via the World Travel Awards along with the recognition from guests via TripAdvisor lend encouragement to continually deliver the best for our guests each day.”

These awards mark an extremely exciting time for Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. The gourmet aficionados ‘go-to’ destination in the Indian Ocean, the resort provides no less than 12 restaurants and bars. Leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of culinary offerings, restaurants range from the applauded Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, to the spa-inspired cuisine at Mandhoo, and the latest addition to the gourmet portfolio, Ufaa by Jereme Leung. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the globally recognised Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (celebrated this past April) – which has played a significant part in the resort’s repute as a dining destination to travel for. Youngest addition to the culinary scene, Ufaa by Jereme Leung, is the Maldives first celebrity chef restaurant heralded by renowned Chinese chef, Jereme Leung. Ufaa is an innovative Chinese concept offering authentic experiences highlighting the iconic flavours of China, and celebrates its first anniversary this September.
Conrad Maldives’ title as Leading Culinary Hotel in the Indian Ocean is underpinned by the worldly variety of cuisines on offer. From Japanese-style live cooking at the open-air Koko Grill, to 101 cheeses imported from the world over in The Cheese and Wine Bar and up to 1,400 different wine labels found in The Wine Cellar, Conrad Maldives understands that a remote location need not act as a barrier to fine dining and world-class wines. The resort’s array of culinary experiences promises to delight the palate of any discerning food lover.
Beyond food and beverage, Conrad Maldives offers exceptional accommodation, service, and environments that help to explain how it claimed the title of Leading Hotel overall in the Indian Ocean. The luxury resort offers three different experiences across two islands: the typical get-away-from-it-all Maldivian hideaway on tiny Rangali Island; the larger and livelier main island (linked to it by a 500m bridge), Rangalifinolhu, featuring water sports and various other facilities; and the over-water destination The Spa Retreat that operates as a resort-within-a-resort set 100m off the tip of the main island. No matter where they stay, guests can enjoy all the resort’s facilities in full, and will also benefit from the world-class anticipatory service of the resort’s exceptional staff – whether via simple bespoke requests or through full wedding and event planning available on the island.
News
Bandos Maldives marks 53 years of hospitality with guest celebration
Bandos Maldives marked its 53rd anniversary on 10 December 2025 with a heartfelt celebration alongside in-house guests. The celebration honoured more than five decades of service since the resort first opened on 10 December 1972, becoming one of the earliest pioneers of Maldivian tourism.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager Ismail Rasheed thanked everyone who has been part of Bandos’ journey, including long-time guests, partners, and the dedicated team that has carried the resort forward. He noted that reaching 53 years is a remarkable achievement built on consistency, care, and the spirit of hospitality that Bandos is known for. He also shared that the resort is preparing for an exciting phase of improvements in the years ahead.
Bandos has continued to grow its reputation recently, earning multiple international awards over the past years for its exceptional service, family experiences and diving. The resort is also proud to be a Green Globe certified property, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism
Bandos has plans for upgrades with focus on fresh designs, improved comfort, and modern amenities to elevate the overall guest experience while maintaining the classic charm that many loyal visitors love.
With its long heritage, strong values, and continued focus on innovation, Bandos Maldives remains committed to offering memorable island experiences for travellers from around the world.
Entertainment
Hulhule Island Hotel names 2ofus as New Year’s Eve 2026 headline act
Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced 2ofus as the main entertainment for its New Year’s Eve 2026 festive events. The highly sought-after musical band has partnered with HIH to bring an unforgettable night of performance, energy, and celebration to guests.
Known for their exceptional talent and stage presence, 2ofus has reached remarkable heights in the music scene, participating in and performing at international competitions and concerts. Their collaboration with HIH marks an exciting addition to the hotel’s festive lineup.
Renowned as the most popular festive destination in the Greater Malé Area, HIH continues its tradition of delivering vibrant, world-class celebrations. This year, the hotel once again promises a festive season filled with elegance, entertainment, and the signature warmth HIH is known for.
Commenting on the partnership, Group General Manager, Ali Shakir said: “Signing with 2ofus for New Year’s Eve is truly special for us. They are one of the most in-demand acts during the festive season, and we are delighted to have them onboard. Their energy and talent are unmatched, and we are confident that HIH will once again be the place to be this New Year’s Eve. Our team is committed to creating a celebration that brings our guests joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories.”
For 2026, HIH unveils exclusive celebrations, granting guests access to multi-venue experiences, curated staycation packages, diverse multi-cuisine dining, and a range of thoughtfully designed festive highlights.
With limited slots available, guests are encouraged to secure their bookings early for the best experience.
For more information or reservations, please contact +960 762 2667 or email events@hih.com.mv
News
The Standard, Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification after rigorous audit
The Standard, Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification, recognizing the resort’s comprehensive and continuous dedication to sustainable operations and management. This monumental achievement underscores the property’s commitment to protecting the pristine Maldivian environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility across all aspects of its unique island experience.
The certification follows a rigorous auditing process that evaluated The Standard, Maldives’ performance in energy and water conservation, waste management, social responsibility, and sustainable procurement. A key highlight of the resort’s innovative sustainability initiatives is the introduction of the Zero Capsule Machine System for Coffee. By replacing traditional single-use capsules with eco-friendly coffee balls, the resort has achieved an estimated reduction of over 25,000 pieces of non-biodegradable coffee capsules annually, substantially minimizing plastic and aluminium waste and setting a new, greener standard for in-room and dining beverage service.
Furthermore, as part of our commitment to local support and Green Globe sustainability standards, The Standard, Maldives has actively strengthened its local supply chain. For the past three months, the resort has been consistently sourcing fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and lettuce from a local farm, Maldivian Mermaid, on a nearby island. This initiative not only strengthens our relationship with the local community but also:
- Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation.
- Supports regional agriculture and local island economies.
- Optimizes logistical efficiency by easing storage demands on regular supply boat from Malé, ensuring imported items are kept at the correct temperature. The redefining agriculture farm delivers directly to the resort using their own boat, streamlining the process.
“Achieving Green Globe Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who embody our commitment to sustainability every day,” says Justin Swart, General Manager The Standard, Maldives. “Our goal is to demonstrate that lifestyle, luxury and responsible travel can, and must, go hand in hand. Initiatives like the Zero Capsule Machine System and our growing partnership with local farmers like Maldivian Mermaid, show our proactive approach to finding practical, impactful solutions that preserve the incredible natural beauty surrounding us for generations to come.”
Moving forward, The Standard, Maldives will continue to implement and expand its sustainability programs, focusing on marine conservation, further reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing local community engagement, all while ensuring guests enjoy the playful, yet mindful, hospitality the brand is known for. The resort looks forward to contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives and the broader travel industry.
-
Awards6 days agoMaldives again named World’s Leading Destination
-
Action1 week agoSiyam World achieves snorkelling world record with 307 participants
-
Awards6 days agoTrans Maldivian Airways named World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025
-
Featured6 days agoNoku Maldives unveils long-term Sea Turtle Conservation Programme
-
Featured6 days agoFrom spa rituals to sunrise yoga: Angsana Velavaru champions mindful living
-
Cooking3 days agoMaakeyolhu: RAH GILI MALDIVES launches signature dining experience honouring Maldivian fishing culture
-
Featured5 days agoBlue Mind Theory brought to life at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau
-
Awards5 days agoHulhule Island Hotel extends global leadership with 14th consecutive World Travel Award



