Celebration
Six Senses Laamu reveals exciting program for Aqua Season 2016
Maldives.net.mv – Six Senses Laamu is preparing for Aqua Season 2016, from May 1 to October 31, with a series of aqua, wellness and culinary events. These include the celebration of International Surfing Day, Global Wellness Day, World Turtle Day and others. With the turtle-nesting season starting in March, the resort also looks forward to welcoming this year’s hatchlings at the start of Aqua Season.
Surfing Season and International Surfing Day – Surfing season starts in April and lasts until early November. The Yin Yang, one of Maldives most famous surf breaks, is just a few minutes away from the resort and offers fantastic waves for experienced surfers. For those eager to learn, surf instructors offer lessons on one of the smaller breaks. On June 20, International Surfing Day is a celebration of surfers around the world to commemorate the oceans for providing this unique natural environment experience. Together with resort’s partner Ocean Dimensions, a day full of surfing will be organized for guests, hosts and the local school and surfing club students.
The Manta Trust – The Manta Trust is once again on site this year offering unique “Diving with Mantas” experiences along with Ocean Dimensions. Being fortunate to have a year round active manta ray cleaning station just a few minutes away from the resort, dives are offered daily and experienced divers are encouraged to join the team and learn more about photographing and photo-identifying manta rays. The Manta Trust team also offers guests weekly presentations on the conservation and behavior of manta rays and, for younger guests, offers educational activities at The Den.
A Spa Chef – Samantha Gowing is an accomplished chef and nutritionist and generally known as Australia’s Spa chef. She will be visiting Six Senses Laamu from May 2 to 9, offering workshops on Food Healing and Spa Food in Six Senses Spa, along with a wellness dinner at LEAF on May 5. She is an avid surfer and diver, so when not cooking, guests may be able to ride a few waves with her and find out more about her exciting wellness and culinary experiences.
Turtle Nesting and Hatching Season – While diving, snorkeling or simply sitting on the deck, guests can frequently see Green and Hawksbill turtles on the reefs surrounding the resort. Between March and July, the female Green turtles return to the beaches on which they were born, to lay their eggs. Following an incubation time of 50 to 70 days, little hatchlings use a carbuncle (temporary egg tooth) to help break open the shell. After hatching, the young turtles may take three to seven days to dig their way to the surface. To witness this little life marvel is a magical experience and one that the resort is exceptionally excited to share with guests each year. World Turtle Day takes place on May 23 and special events and talks will be organized for this day.
Celebrity Chefs – The resort is very excited to welcome two Danish Michelin-stared chefs this Aqua Season who are both offering exclusive signature culinary experiences. Geranium’s Chef Rasmus Kofoed will be back to Six Senses Laamu in March offering four signature dinners in LEAF on March 24, 26, 30 and April 2. Jesper Koch, from the famous Restaurant Koch, will be offering four signature dinners at LEAF on July 21, 23, 24 and 25. In addition to these two Danish personalities, the resort welcomes the return of UK Celebrity Chef Anton Manganaro. Chef Anton will be offering two signature dinners at LEAF on August 10 and 11 and an exclusive barbecue on the beach on August 13.
Harvest Week – September is traditionally the month of Europe’s grape harvest. Chef Martin, the resort’s executive chef, and Karim, the head sommelier, have put together a series of organic and biodynamic wine dinners between September 12 and 18. The experience begins with cocktails including ingredients from the resort’s organic garden, and then guests will join a shared table to enjoy a menu based on organic and local ingredients. The dinners will follow four themes based on the climate types and how they influence wine: Cool Climate wines and their method of harvest, Continental Climate and its influence in the vineyard, Mediterranean Climate and its link to food and Warm Climate and the struggle to keep the balance intact.
Visiting Practitioners at the Six Senses Spa – Dr. Gopal, a visiting Ayurvedic and naturopathic doctor who specializes in Chinese acupuncture and moxibustion, Indian head massage and naturopathy, will be back at Six Senses Spa from May 1 to 31 and from August 16 to September 30. Jill Banwell and Claude Simard return to Six Senses Spa from July 1 to August 14, offering crystal healing and deep tissue massages respectively, among other treatments. From October 15 to September 30, Sommai, a passionate holistic therapist specializing in Tibetan Singing Bowls, acupuncture and tai chi will also be available at Six Senses Spa.
Global Wellness Day – The resort is excited to join this global movement every year on June 13, being true to one of its core values, “Pioneering Wellness”. On this day the wellness and fitness experts at Six Senses Spa will be offering complimentary classes, which include aerial yoga, fitness sessions, island running and much more.
International Day of Yoga – On June 21, all guests are invited to Six Senses Spa to enjoy a series of complimentary yoga classes throughout the day. These include aerial yoga, hatha yoga, yoga nidra, pranayama and more.
Conservation Photography – Joanna Lentini is welcomed to Six Senses Laamu this Aqua Season. Joanna, an accomplished photographer who is passionate about the natural world both above and below the surface will be visiting Six Senses Laamu from May 20 to 30. With a focus on conservation photography and the ‘Blue Economy’, Joanna will be offering guests insights and talks on sustainability and marine conservation topics.
Resident DJs – Starting March 7 to June 3, the resort is excited to have Sven van Hees on the decks of Chill Bar. His music is described as “a timeless soundtrack to an endless summer”. His chill out tunes create a true relaxing tropical island ambiance to blend with the Maldivian sunsets. Matthieu B will be taking over the turntables next and will be presenting from June 5 to August 31. His Maldivian inspired mellow tunes are known for creating unique emotions and magical sunset musical journeys. From September 1 to November 26, Mathieu Modeste, known as Matmac, will be the resident DJ at Chill Bar. Matmac uses his travel experiences to some the world’s finest beaches and most stunning sunsets as inspiration for his music.
This Aqua Season, Six senses Laamu has the summer offer package available for guests. The package includes, among others, one complimentary night for every three nights booked, with half board meal plan included.
Celebration
Patina Maldives unveils festive season of culinary delights and unforgettable experiences
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, a trailblazer among tropical island destinations, is redefining seasonal celebrations with a festive program that blends classic Christmas traditions with a contemporary Maldivian flair. Highlights include a net-zero dinner by candlelight, a Japanese-Scandinavian sake experience, captivating performances by international artist Kelis, and ancient healing practices led by renowned practitioner Yuki Nishikubo. This enchanting lineup invites travellers to create lasting memories with loved ones.
From December 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the resort will present a range of tailored experiences, events, and pop-ups, encompassing gastronomy, wellness, sports, and family fun. Festivities begin on December 15 with the grand opening of Santa’s House—an enchanting wonderland of gifts and seasonal delights at the Fari Art Atelier—culminating in the highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 21.
On December 22, the Fari Beach Club Party will feature a sizzling BBQ feast, a laid-back coastal ambiance, and live performances by Hong Kong violinist Olivia Xiaolin and DJ Arthur Yeti. Christmas Eve will be celebrated with a special seasonal dinner at Portico restaurant, accompanied by live jazz from Indonesia’s Batavia Collective. Christmas Day will include holiday fun such as trivia, cocktails, canapés at Fari Beach Club, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, culinary adventures will continue. On December 26, the Net Zero Candlelight Dinner at Roots restaurant will offer a starlit, eco-friendly dining experience accompanied by a performance from British singer-songwriter Portia Emare. The menu, inspired by slow food philosophies, highlights pure, seasonal ingredients. December 27 will see Helios restaurant hosting a Bedouin Night, featuring Middle Eastern flavours, fire and belly dancers, and live music.
On December 28, a Sake pairing dinner at Kōen will merge Japanese culinary artistry with Scandinavian emphasis on premium ingredients, creating a sophisticated dining experience paired with sake by the resort’s sommelier. The Fari Marina Village Festival on December 29 will bring together traditional Christmas market charm and vibrant local culture, with live music, performances, and local vendors.
As the new year approaches, beachside sundowners at the Stargazing Pier on December 30 will set a relaxing tone for the evening, featuring craft cocktails, canapés, and a curated wine selection. The New Year’s Eve celebration promises a spectacular farewell to 2024, featuring global cuisines, performances by local and international musicians, and dazzling midnight fireworks. Grammy-nominated artist Kelis will headline the evening at Amarta, a Skyspace installation by artist James Turrell, with DJ Tom Yeti leading an electrifying countdown to 2025.
The new year will begin with an exclusive creative collaboration between Japanese artist and designer Verdy and Patina Maldives. On January 4, Verdy will take over the decks at Fari Beach Club’s poolside party as part of the Fari Marina Festival. From January 5-10, Verdy’s Osaka-meets-NYC pizzeria, Henry’s PIZZA, will pop up at Farine, serving sensational slices and limited-edition Verdy x Patina Maldives merchandise.
Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy a range of treatments featuring products from Noble Panacea and Haeckels throughout the festive period. Renowned practitioner Yuki Nishikubo will return for a holistic wellness residency, offering shiatsu and acupuncture treatments to promote relaxation, stress relief, and increased energy.
Families can look forward to a host of activities designed to foster connection and joy, including a family football contest, padel and tennis tournaments, the Patina Triathlon, and the “Amazing Race.” Additional offerings include gingerbread house decoration, a family movie night under the stars, and a dedicated kids’ adventure zone.
Celebration
Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s festive journey begins with Cake Mixing ceremony
Sun Siyam Olhuveli marked the highly anticipated start of the festive season with a lively Christmas Cake Mixing ceremony held on the picturesque Watersports Beach, set against the stunning backdrop of a Maldivian sunset. The event, which took place on November 15, 2024, continued the resort’s cherished tradition of welcoming the holiday season, drawing inspiration from the classic European Rumtopf practice, where seasonal fruits are soaked in rum to create festive treats.
Under the vibrant hues of the evening sky, guests joined in the time-honoured ritual of mixing dried fruits, spices, and spirits, creating a flavourful base for the Christmas cakes and seasonal delicacies to be served during the festivities. The engaging atmosphere was enhanced by the active participation of the resort’s culinary team and management, who guided attendees through the experience while sharing insights into the tradition’s origins and its role in building excitement for the holidays.
Following the cake mixing ceremony, the resort hosted an exclusive Management Cocktail event to express gratitude to its guests for choosing Sun Siyam Olhuveli as their holiday destination. This intimate gathering featured a curated selection of beverages and canapés, providing a relaxed setting for guests to connect with fellow travellers and members of the resort’s management team. The evening was made even more special with the distribution of prizes and gift vouchers, adding an element of surprise and joy.
Commenting on the occasion, Hassan Didi, Executive Chef at Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, stated, “With the cake mixing ceremony, we set the tone for a season of joy, togetherness, and celebration. It’s a cherished tradition that brings our guests and team together, creating unforgettable memories as we head into the holiday season.”
This year’s festive celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli will feature an extraordinary theme, AstroFest 2024-2025, running from December 21, 2024, to January 8, 2025. This interstellar-inspired event promises a series of unforgettable activities and experiences, including stargazing sessions on the beach, celestial-themed gala dinners, and stellar performances. Designed to capture the wonder of the cosmos, AstroFest offers guests a unique blend of luxury and enchantment beneath the breathtaking Maldivian night sky.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli looks forward to welcoming guests to this cosmic celebration, setting the stage for a holiday season filled with joy, imagination, and festive cheer.
Celebration
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives unveils spectacular Christmas and New Year offerings
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives invites travellers to escape to a tropical paradise for an unforgettable festive season, offering stays from December 22, 2024, to January 7, 2025. The resort promises a stunning lineup of events, gourmet dining, and activities for all ages.
Nestled on a pristine natural island, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives provides an idyllic setting for families, couples, and groups of friends to celebrate Christmas 2024 and welcome the New Year. Located just a 40-minute scenic speedboat ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, the festive experience begins the moment guests arrive. The resort’s dedicated team ensures a seamless and memorable holiday from start to finish.
“At Kandooma, every detail is designed with our guests’ comfort and joy in mind, from festive celebrations to tranquil island escapes. To enhance the experience, we’ve created an e-brochure that highlights all the exciting activities available during the festive season,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
The resort, situated on a peaceful private island, offers a serene escape exclusive to its guests, ensuring privacy and safety for families. Dining options include the vibrant international buffet at Kandooma Café, the elegant Asian Kitchen with its fresh seafood and Asian-inspired dishes, and the Hibachi Table-Top Barbecue experience. Guests can enjoy poolside snacks at Bokkuraa Pool Deck, refreshing drinks at the BAR-aveli Beach Bar, or stunning views at the rooftop Sunset Bar, perfect for watching Maldivian sunsets.
For the festive season, the resort offers exclusive accommodation packages with Half Board, Full Board, or All-Inclusive options. The All-Inclusive package includes premium beverages, afternoon snacks, and free scoops of ice cream during specific hours.
The island features a range of villas to suit different preferences, from Overwater Villas for romantic getaways to 3-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas for families or groups. The two-story Beach Houses offer direct beach access, while Beach Villas feature stunning sea views and outdoor hammocks. Garden Villas, nestled in lush greenery, include open-air showers and private outdoor seating. Festive season rates start at $394++ per night for double occupancy in a Garden Villa, with a minimum four-night stay. Additionally, kids under 13 stay and eat free. Mandatory Gala Dinners during the festive period add an elegant touch to the celebrations.
The culinary team at the resort has crafted holiday meals that blend international flavours with Maldivian specialties. On Christmas Eve, the Gala Dinner at Kandooma Café features a lavish feast and live entertainment, priced at $250++ per person, with complimentary dining for children under 13. Christmas Day celebrations include a bonfire gathering at Surf Corner and a Sand Snowman competition at the Kandoo Kids’ Club, complete with a visit from Santa distributing festive treats.
The resort’s New Year’s Eve celebrations include a Glittering Gala Dinner poolside at Kandooma Café, featuring a sumptuous feast under the stars and live entertainment. Guests can dance into 2025 with live music and DJ performances. The Gala Dinner is priced at $350++ per person, with children under 13 dining for free. Both Gala Dinners follow an “All White” theme, encouraging guests to dress in white for a magical evening.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a popular destination for Russian guests celebrating Orthodox holidays. On January 7, the resort will host a special Russian Orthodox Christmas celebration, featuring a vibrant beach party with a live DJ, music, dancing, and oceanfront festivities.
Throughout the festive season, the resort offers a full schedule of activities for all ages. Children can enjoy the Kandoo Kids’ Club, complete with a water playground, indoor craft zones, and island adventures. Parents can relax knowing their children are engaged and entertained while they enjoy the festive atmosphere of the island.
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