News
International Symposium hosted by Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru leads commitments to save sharks and rays
Maldives showed its commitment to preserving the world’s sharks in 2010, when it established a shark sanctuary in its waters. To build on that, the Maldives government and The Pew Charitable Trusts brought leaders from nations in the region together on October 25 and 26, 2015 for a ministerial symposium focused on shark and ray conservation in the Indian Ocean.
Ministers and senior officials from the Maldives, an archipelago southwest of India, welcomed counterparts from Sri Lanka and the Seychelles to talk about the global crisis facing these animals. With 100 million sharks killed annually around the world, attendees discussed the urgent steps needed to safeguard these important species.
The Maldives exhibited global leadership by declaring its waters a shark sanctuary, where all sharks and rays are fully protected and used for profitable ecotourism. Shark and ray ecotourism is now a key part of the country’s economy, with one study estimating its annual value at USD 2.3 million. Research has shown that sharks are worth far more alive than when killed for their fins and meat.
“It is highly encouraging to see Indian Ocean island nations come together to discuss the economic benefits of sustainable shark and ray ecotourism,” said Daniel Fernando of the Manta Trust, which advocates for conservation of manta rays and their habitats.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru hosted the symposium, which drew shark experts from around the world to one of the epicentres of sustainable shark and ray ecotourism. Presentations and discussions allowed the region’s ministers to witness firsthand why tourists travel from all over the world to see the manta rays, reef and whale sharks that are abundant in the protected Maldivian waters.
“It’s fantastic to see these governments gather and work together to develop solutions to protect sharks and rays,” said Luke Warwick, who directs Pew’s shark conservation efforts. ‘”Through the development of shark sanctuaries, such as the one here in the Maldives, along with international protections and strong legislation wherever sharks and rays are caught, these imperiled species can survive.”
The Sri Lankan government announced at the symposium that it has submitted a proposal to list all species of thresher sharks on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) for consideration at next year’s meeting of the wildlife trade convention in South Africa. This international conservation leadership from Sri Lanka builds on the listing last November of thresher sharks on theConvention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Thresher sharks have been identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as the world’s most vulnerable family of sharks, so the proposal by Sri Lanka is badly needed.
“This action will help ensure that thresher sharks survive,” said Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, Sri Lanka. “We see severe declines in our waters and have acted to fully protect these slow-growing sharks. We want to make sure that governments around the world work together to either fully protect or limit the catch of thresher sharks to sustainable levels, so that they survive for generations to come.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, the ministers agreed on a declaration stating their joint aim to protect the Indian Ocean’s sharks and rays, both in their own waters and through collective, international action. This declaration included further leadership from the Maldives, who committed to support this Sri Lankan thresher shark proposal, and also take decisive action themselves by proposing that the silky shark is also offered protection under CITES.
“With huge quantities of sharks still killed in the region annually, the commitments made in this declaration, and the follow-up actions that need to happen in the coming months and years will be crucial if sharks are to survive and recover in the Indian Ocean,” said Mohamed Shainee, Maldives Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture.
“The Maldives has already taken a lead in regional shark management through the creation of a shark and ray sanctuary, so these species are protected in our waters. We now are reaping the benefits of a thriving ecotourism sector. We now want the world to join us in protecting sharks and rays, starting with the adoption of these CITES Proposals at the CoP next year,” Minister Shainee added.
“As noted in the declaration, the Maldives will be proposing that silky sharks are protected through a CITES Appendix II listing – these are key sharks that keep our tuna fisheries healthy, and we want to see them protected and sustainably managed globally,” added Thoriq Ibrahim, Maldives Minister of Environment and Energy.
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites guests to celebrate the Chinese New Year with its event, ‘Lunar Reflection: An Uplifting Beginning in the Year of the Wood Snake’. Situated within the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort provides a serene environment for a rejuvenating holiday that harmoniously combines Maldivian hospitality with vibrant New Year festivities.
From January 28 to February 12, 2025, the resort offers a range of thoughtfully curated experiences. The celebrations commence with the Prosperity Buffet Dinner at Island Kitchen, featuring an Asian-inspired menu in a festive atmosphere. For a more intimate dining experience, the Taste of Asia at Hawker showcases a family-style sharing menu infused with regional flavours.
Festivities continue with a Lunar Pool Party, where music, cocktails, and festive cheer create a lively atmosphere under the Maldivian sun. As the evening unfolds, guests can enjoy a buffet dinner blending international and Chinese cuisines at Island Kitchen. Additional culinary highlights during the celebration include Izakaya Night at Pearl and the exclusive Chef & Sommelier Dinner, where Executive Chef Fahdrul and his team present a meticulously crafted menu paired with fine wines.
The Heavenly Spa by Westin offers rejuvenation through the ‘Lunar Detox Ritual’, available throughout the celebration period. This restorative spa package includes a detoxifying green tea body wrap followed by a 60-minute massage with a herbal poultice, designed to leave guests refreshed and invigorated for the year ahead.
Families are also catered to with engaging activities at the Westin Family Kids Club. Children can participate in creative workshops such as crafting Hong Bao, making snake puppets, and designing lanterns. Adventure seekers can explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs of the Baa Atoll using complimentary snorkelling and ocean kayaking equipment, immersing themselves in the underwater wonders that make the region a diver’s paradise.
Renowned for its thoughtful design, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort emphasises comfort and sustainability. Its spacious overwater and beach villas, featuring the award-winning Heavenly Bed and panoramic ocean views, offer a luxurious retreat. Guests are encouraged to embrace the resort’s wellness pillars, which promote eating, sleeping, moving, feeling, and playing well.
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites couples to celebrate love this Valentine’s season with its exclusive Romantic Escape Offer. Set on the picturesque island of Furanafushi in the North Malé Atoll, this luxurious five-star resort is a haven of tranquility and romance. Enveloped by crystal-clear lagoons, powder-soft white sands, and thoughtfully curated amenities, the resort offers an idyllic sanctuary for creating unforgettable memories.
Nestled within a secluded natural paradise, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa provides an intimate escape designed to inspire connection. Guests can retreat to elegant Overwater Villas, each designed in timeless Maldivian style and offering direct access to a serene lagoon. With a harmonious blend of Robinson Crusoe-inspired rustic charm and modern comforts, the resort epitomises barefoot luxury. The soothing rhythm of the ocean invites relaxation, while snorkelling adventures and breathtaking views set the perfect stage for love stories to unfold.
The resort pampers couples with a journey of rejuvenation at Shine Spa for Sheraton, a serene sanctuary set on its own private island amidst tropical greenery. The experience begins with a 50-minute aromatherapy massage for two, followed by two additional bespoke treatments. Using ingredients sourced from the surrounding ocean and gardens, each treatment ensures an immersive and restorative escape. The calming sounds of rolling waves enhance the tranquil atmosphere, creating an oasis of serenity.
Evenings at the resort are transformed into a feast for the senses. A private, five-course degustation dinner under-the-stars, complemented by premium wines, delivers an intimate dining experience. For an added touch of romance, the resort has curated bespoke events to enrich the Valentine’s celebration. On February 13, couples can gather around a crackling bonfire to toast s’mores beneath the Maldivian night sky. On Valentine’s Day, couples can savor a candlelit beach dinner, accompanied by the soothing symphony of waves. To conclude the festivities, February 15 features a sunset wine tasting, offering a chance to sip fine wines while watching the sun sink below the horizon.
Celebrate love in the most idyllic setting imaginable. Book the Romantic Escape Offer today and let Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa craft the perfect Valentine’s Day experience, turning dreams into cherished memories.
For more information, visit the website at sheratonmaldives.com or book your Romantic Escape here.
Awards
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives wins ‘Best Overseas Hotel’ award at Voyage Best Hotel & Resort Awards 2024
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives has received the prestigious title of “Best Overseas Hotel” at the 2024 Voyage Best Hotel & Resort Awards. This esteemed recognition ranks the resort among the top 50 hotels most cherished by the Chinese travel market.
This award reflects The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives’ exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and distinctive hospitality that deeply resonates with Chinese travelers. The recognition is based on the hotel’s excellent online reputation, built through glowing reviews and feedback from Chinese guests, highlighting its unwavering commitment to providing extraordinary guest experiences.
“We are thrilled and deeply honored to receive this recognition from Voyage Magazine,” said Amar Lalvani, President & Creative Director, Lifestyle Hyatt Hotels Corporation. “The Chinese travel market is a key focus for The Standard, and this award underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences tailored to our guests. It is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team. We look forward to further strengthening our connection with Chinese travelers and welcoming more guests to discover the unique charm of The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives.”
Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, The Standard offers a perfect blend of tropical tranquility and vibrant energy, making it a sought-after destination for global travelers. With this award, the resort continues to cement its reputation as a premier choice for luxury and innovation in the hospitality industry.
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