News
The Small Maldive Island Co. launches Finolhu: a revival of classic beach chic
Maldives.net.mv – A stylish and eclectic retreat with a buzzy bon-vivant vibe, Finolhu, opening in June 2016, will be a refreshing, retro-inspired burst of fun for the region, bringing toes-in-the-sand relaxation to fun-loving beach-erati alongside the best DJs, live acts and most fabulously chic parties in the Maldives.
Having shaken up the hospitality scene in the Maldives with the launch of Amilla Fushi, which into its second year is pulling in an elite cult following amongst the cognoscenti, the Small Maldives Island Co. are continuing to make waves with their second venture.
Taking an unexpected cue from the halcyon days of the classic glamorous getaway, Finolhu recalls the heady allure of vintage beach vacations with its classic design, retro touches and laid-back ambiance. Set within the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Baa Atoll (served by the new Baa Atoll airport or accessible via a 30-minutes seaplane ride from Malé) Finolhu has all the hallmarks of paradise. Translucent waters, 1.8km long whitesand bank and perma-clear skies aside, what really sets it apart from its Maldivian competitors is its effortlessly stylish surrounds and beach clubby-ness.
The ultimate island experience for chic couples, fun-loving families and groups of friends alike, Finolhu’s 125 villas come on the ocean, the lagoon or by the beach, with or without pool, and are outfitted with Instagramworthy interiors and vintage-style Marshall speakers, while bathrooms and spa facilities are stocked with all natural, organic products from Neal’s Yard Remedies.
SPLASH AND PLAY
For power junkies and action seekers, situated on Palm Beach, Thunderball is home to a variety of water sports, beach games and a cool teens hangout. The Oceaneers Club, close by BAA BAA Beach Club, is ideal for tots to teens, with activities specially created to suit the kids who are on island, rather than a proscribed menu. From sports and games, cooking classes and crafts, and activities in and on the water, Finolhu Oceaneers (kids) won’t be bored – meaning parents can confidently check out of childcare for a few hours. Finolhu’s Marine HUB (i.e. Home of the Underwater Biosphere) hosts epic water activities including diving, snorkeling trips and excursions under the watchful eye of the Marine bio team.
The Cove Club is a happening hub of pastel-coloured beach Divans and a mellow retro revival area where massage, movement and chilling is medicinal – just drop anchor and relax! 10 chandelier-lit treatment Divans – each celebrating an iconic diva of the 60s and 70s- are complimented by a fitness centre, movement pavilion and outdoor ‘Palm Beach gym’. The island’s natural environment is the inspiration for fitness activities at The Cove Club, from capoeira and paddle boarding to ballet and kickboxing, while the facilities will also include a relaxation area overlooking the beach, steam/sauna, wellness areas, salon and retail pavilion.
GRAZE AND GROOVE
Finolhu offers laid-back yet elegant dining options, with the chilled-out Baa Baa Beach Club at its heart. Made for lounging away afternoons, sipping and nibbling from a daybed, Baa Baa is the place to be, day or night. Whether poolside or on the beach, the day starts with a leisurely long breakfast, grazing from the live cooking stations; all day tunes are the backdrop for cocktails created by world-class mixologists behind the decks and the bar.
For those who like their food with a side of fun, the Fish & Crab Shack is an oasis of rustic chic deliciousness halfway along Finolhu’s stunning 1.8km sandbar, just a swim, stroll or Dhoni ride across the lagoon: lipsmacking buckets of prawns, stunning sharing platters of fresh crab, vegetables and local seafood are served under coconut trees, accompanied by crisp glasses of rosé or crafted cocktails from the beach bar.
Located on the tip of the island with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, Finolhu’s star dining venue Kanusan spans three areas: a vibrant overwater bar area; a relaxed indoor space and an al fresco lower deck for an archetypal Maldivian experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of the sea. An open kitchen puts the cuisine centre stage, embracing the theatricality of Kanusan’s Asian spirit.
Classic favourites of Mandarin roasted duck and Larb Gai are given a refreshing Kanusan twist, while newly created signature dishes include steamed snapper and lobster, black truffle roast duck and sliced blue abalone in Kanusan sauce.
Bringing magical Maghreb flavours to the Maldives, the boutique-style Baahaa Grill restaurant will celebrate the legendary spice blends of pre-Moorish North Africa, where a town’s finest spice sellers were as famous as its rulers. Starting with mezze, this is a spice odyssey of mixes, rubs and marinades from Ras el Hanout to Baharat and Adwiya, where select cuts are spiced and grilled to perfection.
Playtime starts as nightfall draws the crowds to the magnetic two-storey Beach Club Bar. Every night is an invitation to step back in time and discover new fun and games. Nightly foodie showcases are matched with world-class wines – at refreshingly quaffable prices – from the island’s Wine Vault. Cinema Retro screens classic movies and live international sports action; gamers can hit the bar’s old school arcade for classic Pinball or PacMan action; or soak up 180 degree views from the panoramic upstairs bar and viewing lounge. Baa Baa Beach Club keeps things fresh with a nightly, weekly and monthly entertainment and events programme, including the weekly Retro Pool Party, the monthly Full Moon Tribal sandbar party… and, just four times per year, vibe-defining “Finolhu Blhu” events – exclusive one-off extravaganzas featuring appearances from the world’s coolest performers and hottest DJs.
Finolhu’s old-school tuck shop, Milk Bar is tantalisingly located on the corner where The Cove Club, Thunderball on Palm Beach and the tennis courts meet. Treats range from guilt-free wraps, smashed avocado and acai bowls, smoothies, juices, and Bodyism Shakes to carefree ice creams and chocolates, amazing coffees, cool beers and wine by the glass. Milk Bar is also a godsend for holiday ‘essentials’, stocking a seemingly telepathic variety of bathroom amenities, nick nacks and reading material.
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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