News
Maldives celebrates the 1st tourist arrival of Visit Maldives Year 2016
The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation together with Ministry of Tourism commenced the Visit Maldives Year 2016 campaign today, the 1st January 2016 by welcoming the very first tourist to visit the country of the new celebratory year. In an event organized to honour and mark the first arrival of a tourist in to Maldives, the Acting Managing Director of MMPRC, Haris Mohamed awarded a free holiday from Outrigger Konotta to Kate Holmes from United Kingdom. Officials attended the ceremony from MMPRC and Ministry of Tourism, as well as a number of invitees of the industry. The first arrival flight to the Maldives was on Oman Air at 0650hrs.
In the event to celebrate the arrival of the very first tourist, a special stamp of the celebratory year was introduced, which will be stamped on all the passports along with the arrival stamp throughout 2016, as a token of the special campaign. Boduberu and dancers accompanied the 1st tourist to the VIP arrival hall, where refreshments were served. The event displayed the Maldivian tradition and uniqueness as all the staff of MMPRC and MOT were dressed in the Maldivian traditional dresses. The tourism industry will also be celebrating the arrival of every 500,000th visitor during the year 2016.
The Visit Maldives Years 2016 will be a yearlong campaign to boost the tourism of the country, targeting a total of 1.5 million tourist arrivals during the year. A number of international and national events, competitions and awareness programs will be carried out by Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation together with the Tourism Industry to display the richness of Maldives as a destination and portray Maldives as the exotic place it is, to the world. The competitions and attractive prizes are aimed to create a hype to visit Maldives and experience the sunny side of life.
The 1st visitor of VMY2016 was awarded to a tourist from United Kingdom, which is prominent market to the Maldives. By the end of November 2015, the UK held 7.5% of the market share with a total of 83,244 arrivals recorded. Tourism being the most important industry for Maldivians, the VMY2016 campaign is expected to strengthen and heighten the gains of the country, while creating unity within. This campaign will be celebrated nation wide in many colourful events to be looked forward to.
Awards
Three-year winning streak: Canareef Resort Maldives honoured by HolidayCheck again
In a significant achievement for the hospitality sector in the southern atolls, Canareef Resort Maldives has been officially recognised as a Recommended Resort for 2026 by HolidayCheck, the leading travel review platform for the German-speaking market. This prestigious accolade continues a remarkable winning streak, as the resort consistently earned this same recommendation in 2024 and 2025. This consecutive recognition underscores a steady commitment to service and guest satisfaction that resonates with travellers year after year.
As a primary guide for international travellers, HolidayCheck is considered a gold standard for guest trust because its recommendations are earned purely through authentic guest reviews rather than industry panels. To be “Recommended on HolidayCheck,” a resort must maintain a high recommendation rate and strong ratings from verified visitors, making it one of the most reliable endorsements for travellers worldwide. For the global community, this award serves as a clear indicator of consistency, ensuring that the experiences shared by previous guests are backed by a proven track record.
Located in the unique and intimate Addu Atoll, Canareef Resort Maldives offers a distinct 4.5km island experience that highlights the natural beauty and biological diversity of the region. The resort has become a favourite for international visitors seeking a complete tropical escape that caters to every interest. Guests can explore world-class diving sites and engaging excursions, or find balance through yoga and aqua aerobics. For those seeking relaxation, the spa provides a serene sanctuary, while the tennis courts offer the perfect space for active recreation. From the excitement of the water sports centre to the peaceful nature trails that wind through the island’s lush interior, guests can explore vibrant house reefs, enjoy the local heritage of the southern atolls, or relax in one of the 271 villas that offer a sense of space and privacy.
The management of Canareef Resort Maldives noted that receiving this recognition for the third consecutive year is a testament to the hard work of the entire team. They expressed gratitude to the global guests whose reviews have highlighted the resort as a welcoming destination and emphasised that this award motivates them to continue showcasing the authentic charm of Addu Atoll to the world. As Canareef looks ahead to 2026, it remains a top-recommended choice for those seeking a high-quality and memorable Maldivian getaway.
Cooking
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO unveils chef-led 9-Hands Dinner experience
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has announced a 9-Hands Dinner event scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 May, offering a curated dining experience as part of its guest programme.
The event will feature a multi-course menu developed by three chefs representing Egypt, Madeira and the Maldives. Each chef will present dishes reflecting their respective culinary backgrounds, combining different techniques and flavour profiles within a single dining concept.
The dinner is positioned as an interactive culinary experience, bringing together elements of storytelling and presentation alongside the menu. According to the resort, the concept is designed to highlight both innovation and traditional influences in cuisine.
The experience will be included within the resort’s plan for in-house guests, forming part of the overall stay offering.

Commenting on the event, General Manager Alain Trefois stated that the initiative reflects the resort’s focus on expanding guest experiences beyond standard dining formats. He noted that the event provides an opportunity for guests to engage with culinary presentation in a structured setting.
Anupam Banerjee, Vice President Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core, said the collaboration brings together different culinary influences, combining regional ingredients and techniques into a single dining programme.
Located in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is known for its house reef and marine environment, offering a range of activities alongside its accommodation and dining options.
The resort has indicated that availability for the 9-Hands Dinner event will be limited, with advance booking recommended for guests wishing to attend.
Featured
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef rolls out Wellness Week from 15–22 June
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, has announced plans to host a Wellness Week from 15 to 22 June 2026, in conjunction with Global Wellness Week. The programme will be led by international creative and fitness practitioner Ilariia Auvitu.
Ilariia Auvitu, whose background spans multiple countries and disciplines including acting, modelling and fitness, will guide a series of sessions focused on structured wellbeing practices. Her approach combines physical activity with routines aimed at supporting mental balance.
A key component of the programme is the Tech-Free Sunrise Yoga and Breathwork Ritual. The session is designed to provide a period of structured activity without digital devices, with a focus on breath control and guided movement aimed at supporting mental regulation.
The schedule will also include Morning Yoga with Flow sessions, intended to establish physical rhythm and energy for the day. In addition, Pool Fitness sessions will be conducted in the resort’s pool area, offering water-based exercise.
Selected evenings will feature Sunset Pilates and Stretching sessions. These will include low-impact exercises focused on strength and flexibility, followed by guided stretching.
Through the Wellness Week programme, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is offering a series of activities aligned with the observance of Global Wellness Week, combining structured fitness sessions with a setting designed to support rest and recovery.
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