News
LUX* Resorts announces new resort ppening in the Maldives
Maldives.net.mv – LUX* Resorts & Hotels has announced the opening of four new properties by 2017 in the Indian Ocean, China and the Middle East, as well as the complete refurbishment of LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives.
Paul Jones, CEO of LUX* Resorts & Hotels, comments on the group’s developments: “Once again, we are experiencing exciting times at LUX* Resorts & Hotels. With four new properties scheduled for opening by 2017, and the remaking of LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives, the group is progressing well towards our international development ambitions.”
LUX* North Malé Atoll Opening in 2016
A second LUX* villa-only Resort in the Maldives is opening during the second half of 2016. Located in the North Malé Atoll, this ultra-modern luxury island resort will comprise of spectacular private villas perched above crystal waters, each with their own private pool, breezy indoor / outdoor living spaces and wraparound decking. Less than an hour away by speedboat from Malé and the international airport, LUX* North Malé Atoll is only 31 nautical miles (56 kilometres) north of the capital of the Maldives.
Miaja Design Group took charge of the hotel design, using hand-polished woods and other natural materials, alongside ample glass to allow natural light to flow throughout. With the idyllic location amid an unexplored reef teeming with extraordinary sea life, LUX* North Malé Atoll takes its style cues and interior design inspiration from the nautical world. An on-site, environmentally conscious marine biology centre will encourage guests to discover the incredible nature and sea life surrounding the property.
Overwater Love Retreats at LUX* South Ari Atoll
LUX* South Ari Atoll (formerly known as LUX* Maldives) will launch the ultimate overwater love retreats, each with a private pool.
The private Water Villas all feature suspended infinity pools, blending contemporary flair with the surrounding nature. LUX* South Ari Atoll enlisted the expertise of award-winning design practice P49 DEESIGN, to inject new life into the resort. The new Signature Water Villas were created with love in mind, giving an entirely new meaning to ‘romantic breaks’. The unique architecture means that these hideaways will not only look chic and progressive, but will feel relaxed, serene and impossibly romantic.
In addition to the LUX* ‘Sleep Tight’ beds, guests will be treated to couples rain-showers, stylish ‘loveseats’ and overhanging ‘love nests’ that float over the lagoon. Subaquatic explorers can take one step from the villa’s balcony directly into the shallow lagoon waters of the protected reef, which is considered the only one in the world with a year-round presence of friendly Whale Sharks.
In addition to properties in Maldives, LUX* is planning to open three more luxury hotels in China, Reunion and UAE.
News
‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives
The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.
A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.
Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.
Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.
Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.
Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.
News
Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities
Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.
For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.
News
Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay
Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.
A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.
Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.
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