News
New boutique resort Milaidhoo Island brings ’50 Chapters of Laidback Island Living’ to the Maldives’ luxury hotel scene

Maldives.net.mv – The opening of the boutique five star Milaidhoo Island Maldives this November is one of most anticipated luxury resort openings of the year. Milaidhoo, due to open its doors in November 2016, promises its guests a new chapter of barefoot island living on its tiny 300m by 180m island set in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Baa Atoll region of the Maldives.
Shunning the current trend for high-gloss name-dropping look-at-me hotel glitz; at Milaidhoo barefoot informality is at the very heart of the island’s ethos where selfie-sticks and drones are not encouraged. Perfectly located to offer the absolute best of the Maldives to its discerning guests, Milaidhoo offers a return to a classic, relaxed Maldivian holiday style on a tiny island with deep soft white sand beaches and a vibrant coral reef where dolphins, whale sharks and manta rays are visitors – a benefit of being in a protected marine area.
This private, luxury island is reached by a scenic 30-minute seaplane flight from the international airport. Standing on stilts over the lagoon are 30 spacious over-water villas (245 square metres) and hidden amongst the tropical greenery are 20 serene villas on the beach (290 square metres). All villas have large private freshwater swimming pools and an island host to attend to the guests’ every whim. Designed by local architect Mohamed Shafeeq, the resort’s 50 villas have been made using materials and fittings custom-made for Milaidhoo in a way that epitomises the true contemporary Maldives style. Spacious outdoor living is the key phrase: the villas open up 180-degrees to allow the natural beauty of the Maldives to become part of the room.
Milaidhoo is the only resort in the atoll that has been created specifically with couples in mind, although children aged nine and above are welcomed. It further differentiates itself from the herd with its ‘Milaidhoo Moments’; a collection of exclusive activities for the luxury traveler seeking meaningful and memorable experiences. Milaidhoo will offer its guests access to Hanifaru Bay, a marine protected area, which attracts the largest seasonal groupings of manta rays in the world.
Milaidhoo is serious about its food. Gourmets will feel at home in the three restaurants and two bars; the resort’s signature restaurant is overwater and shaped like three traditional Maldivian sailing boats. It – uniquely in the Maldives – will offer a modern interpretation of ‘island influenced’ cuisine. Cocktails will be fresh, creative and on point while the wine list has been designed to pique the interest of wine lovers with a choice of much loved classics alongside a selection of wines from lesser-known boutique wine makers. All villas have their own wine fridge where guests can keep their personal favourites.
The island’s spa consists of four treatment suites set on stilts over the lagoon where guests will also enjoy daily complimentary yoga and meditation classes on the custom-built pavilion. And of course perfect beaches, snorkelling on coral reefs, diving, water sports, fishing and cultural excursions to nearby islands and sandbanks will create stories that guests will want to tell forever.
News
Splash of wonder, touch of magic: Holiday celebrations at COLOURS OF OBLU

This December, the festive season takes on a whole new meaning at COLOURS OF OBLU, where four islands present four completely different ways to celebrate. For those yet to plan their year-end holiday, COLOURS OF OBLU offers something for every mood and moment, from the high-energy splash of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, to the romantic elegance of OBLU SELECT Lobigili, the exuberant family fun at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, and the serene, soulful rhythms of OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO.
At OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, the holidays unfold like a video game come to life. Themed around Roblox, the resort transforms into an open-air playground filled with imaginative workshops, poolside foam parties, neon DJ nights, and family movie sessions under the stars. Children mix mocktails and join daily challenges, while New Year’s Eve builds up to a dazzling gala dinner and countdown that feels like one big family celebration.
Across the jetty, sister island OBLU SELECT Lobigili offers something more intimate. This adult exclusive sanctuary invites couples to step into a ‘Timeless Love, a Masquerade of Moments’ themed celebration. Blending indulgence with elegance, the days drift by in ocean exploration, wellness rituals, and decorating gingerbread houses, and nights sparkling with delicious cocktails, candlelit dinners, soft jazz or live saxophone. The highlight is a New Year’s Eve masquerade gala in white and gold, designed for whispered resolutions and slow dances in the sand.
OBLU SELECT Sangeli, meanwhile, is all about rhythm and energy. Its “Waves of Wonder New Year Splash” brings together poolside games, cocktail showdowns, live music, and beach carnivals, filling the island with non-stop festive cheer. Stroll barefoot along white sandy beaches, relish tuna by the waves, jam to merry melodies, and light the Christmas tree. On New Year’s Eve, a colourful gala dinner spills onto the sand with fireworks, DJ sets, and barefoot dancing until dawn.
And for ocean lovers there is OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, where the reef inspires a gentler kind of festivity. With its “Underwater Coral” theme, mornings begin with yoga and snorkelling, afternoons feature reef talks, art workshops, and conservation activities. Evenings come alive with themed culinary spreads ranging from Mekong flavours to Indonesian feasts, building to the “Ring of Fire” New Year’s Eve gala by the sea. It’s festive, but at your own pace — reflective, soulful, and beautifully enchanting.
As the year draws to a close, COLOURS OF OBLU invites travellers to celebrate the festive season in all its vibrant variety. If you haven’t yet decided where to ring in the New Year, now is the perfect time to book a stay at one of these resorts and welcome 2026 amidst the beauty and joy of the Maldives.
Drink
Toast to heritage: JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING host Domaines Ott by Louis Roederer

In October, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING — two of the Maldives’ foremost luxury destinations — hosted Domaines Ott by Louis Roederer for an exclusive series of wine experiences.
The events, held on 1 October at JOALI Maldives and on 3 October at JOALI BEING, offered guests a rare insight into the heritage and craftsmanship of one of the world’s most esteemed winemaking houses.
The evenings were led by Jean François Ott, General Manager of Domaines Ott and fourth-generation custodian of the family estate. Under his guidance, guests embarked on a curated journey through fine rosés and champagnes, uncovering the artistry, legacy, and innovation that define Domaines Ott’s distinguished wines.
Established nearly 130 years ago, Domaines Ott has become a benchmark of Provençal winemaking, producing exceptional rosés, whites, and reds from the Côtes de Provence and Bandol appellations. Guided by a philosophy rooted in respect for terroir and family heritage, the house continues to set the standard for wines of depth and character.
Today, Domaines Ott’s vineyards are certified organic, though the estate’s sustainable ethos long predates formal certification. The artisanal viticultural approach initiated by founder Marcel Ott has endured across four generations, safeguarding the land and inspiring the creation of wines that reflect authenticity, vitality, and timeless quality.
At the helm of Domaines Ott, Jean François Ott has upheld a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. Under his leadership, the estate has achieved global recognition, including the title of European Winery of the Year 2022 by Wine Enthusiast. His philosophy evokes a deep connection to time and place: “Provence is a land of contrasts that offers itself to those who know how to listen and wait. Everything here invites us to reap the benefits of time — the ultimate luxury.”
The collaboration between JOALI and Domaines Ott reflected their shared values of artistry, sustainability, and transformative experience.
At JOALI Maldives, guests were treated to a four-course set menu paired with a curated selection of fine wines, blending gastronomy, design, and culture in an evening that embodied refined island luxury. At JOALI BEING, the celebration aligned with the resort’s philosophy of Well-Living, highlighting organic wines in harmony with nature and sustainability.
Guests savoured rare vintages alongside a five-course dining experience, with each glass revealing a story of heritage and innovation. Against the serene Maldivian backdrop, the evenings offered a journey of discovery — where the art of winemaking met the spirit of island living.
Featured
Lucy Charles-Barclay to host exclusive wellness retreat at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has announced an exclusive opportunity for Marriott Bonvoy members to bid for a one-of-a-kind wellness and endurance retreat with reigning IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay. Curated through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, the experience will take place from 15 to 18 December 2025, offering a harmonious blend of performance, relaxation, and sustainability within the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Baa Atoll.
Lucy Charles-Barclay, one of the world’s most acclaimed triathletes, is celebrated for her powerful swim, exceptional endurance, and numerous titles, including the 2023 IRONMAN World Championship, the 2022 World Triathlon Championship, and the 2021 IRONMAN 70.3 Championship. Beyond her competitive success, she is admired for her holistic approach to wellbeing and her dedication to inspiring athletes to balance performance and recovery.
Over three days, the winning bidder and their guest will embark on a transformative retreat designed to both motivate and restore. Accommodation will be provided in a luxurious Overwater Villa with Pool, inclusive of seaplane transfers from Malé and bespoke wellness amenities upon arrival. The experience will begin with a welcome cocktail at the resort’s Sunset Bar, followed by a curated beach dinner hosted by Lucy.
Each day will feature a combination of endurance activities and restorative experiences. Guests will participate in RunWestin sessions, mobility and breathwork classes on the beach, ocean kayaking alongside Lucy, and a lagoon swimming endurance workshop guided by Lucy and the resort’s AQUA Dive Master. Recovery experiences include a 60-minute couple’s treatment at the Heavenly Spa by Westin and access to a post-training smoothie bar. Evenings will provide intimate moments of conversation and insight with Lucy in a tranquil island setting.
Incorporating The Westin Maldives’ strong commitment to sustainability, the retreat also extends beyond the resort. Together with Lucy, participants will visit the Maldivian Mermaids Anhenunfushi Farm on Anhenunfushi Island for a mini-Olympic challenge, an immersive farm tour, and a traditional island lunch. This cultural experience celebrates the Maldives’ local community and sustainable living initiatives.
“We are delighted to welcome Lucy Charles-Barclay to The Westin Maldives for this inspiring Marriott Bonvoy Moments experience,” said Vijay Kumar, General Manager of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. “Her passion for endurance sport and holistic wellbeing aligns perfectly with our brand ethos, and we are proud to create an experience that unites training, relaxation, and cultural discovery.”
Lucy Charles-Barclay added, “The Maldives offers the ideal environment to combine recovery and performance. I am thrilled to guide Marriott Bonvoy members through this journey, blending endurance, mindfulness, and the opportunity to connect with such a vibrant local culture.”
Marriott Bonvoy members can now bid for this once-in-a-lifetime retreat with IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay, inclusive of a three-night stay in an Overwater Villa with Pool at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, via moments.marriottbonvoy.com
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