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Emirates named world’s best airline in Skytrax awards

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Emirates

In a gala ceremony held at Farnborough Airshow, Skytrax presented the 2016 World Airline Awards. The leaders and top management from over 40 airlines from across the globe attended the event, where Emirates was voted the World’s Best Airline by air travellers.

At the awards event, Edward Plaisted of Skytrax commented: “we are honoured to have so many airlines travel here today and receive their accolades after being voted as Best Airlines in many different categories. For many years we have been dedicated to providing a survey and awards process that remains independent, and delivering an event that is aptly known as the Passenger’s Choice Awards. We have seen many familiar names here today appearing as repeat winners, which I guess reflects that in many cases ‘once a winner, always a winner’ in many customers eyes.

Emirates was named the to the prestigious title of best airline in the world, trumping last year’s winner Qatar Airways, which came second. Emirates also scooped up the awards for World’s Best Inflight Entertainment for a record 12th consecutive year, and Best Airline in the Middle East.

Singapore Airlines took third spot, followed by Cathay Pacific, both in last year’s top five, while ANA All Nippon Airways rose two places to come fifth.

The World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2016

  1. Emirates
  2. Qatar Airways
  3. Singapore Airlines
  4. Cathay Pacific
  5. ANA All Nippon Airways
  6. Etihad Airways
  7. Turkish Airlines
  8. EVA Air
  9. Qantas Airways
  10. Lufthansa

In other awards, Qatar Airways took gongs for the world’s best business class, best business class lounge and best airline staff in the Middle East, while Singapore was awarded the best airline in Asia and ANA All Nippon Airways was recognised for offering the world’s best airport services and having the best airline staff in Asia for the second year in a row.

Other accolades included the world’s best low-cost airline handed to Norwegian and the world’s most improved airline won by Thai Airways.

Skytrax World Airline Awards: A-Z of winners

  • Aegean Airlines Best Regional Airline in Europe
  • Aeroflot Russian Airlines Best Airline in Eastern Europe
  • Air Astana Best Airline in Central Asia / India, Best Airline Staff Service in Central Asia / India
  • Air France Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining, Best First Class Comfort Amenities
  • Air New Zealand World’s Best Premium Economy Class Cabin, World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seat
  • AirAsia World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Asia
  • AirAsia X World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Cabin, World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Seat
  • ANA All Nippon Airways World’s Best Airport Services, Best Airline Staff Service in Asia
  • Asiana Airlines World’s Best Economy Class, Best Economy Seat, Best Economy Class Onboard Catering
  • Austrian Best Airline Staff Service in Europe Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras, Best Low-Cost Airline in South America, Best Airline Staff in South America
  • Bangkok Airways World’s Best Regional Airline, Best Regional Airline in Asia
  • Cathay Pacific Airways World’s Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness, Best First Class Airline Lounge
  • Copa Airlines Best Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Regional Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Airline Staff Service in Central America / Caribbean
  • Emirates World’s Best Airline (Airline of the Year), World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment
  • Ethiopian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in Africa
  • Etihad Airways World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Seat, Best First Class Onboard Catering
  • EVA Air Best Airline Transpacific, Best Business Class Comfort Amenities
  • Finnair Best Airline in Northern Europe
  • flyDubai Best Low Cost Airline in the Middle East
  • Garuda Indonesia World’s Best Cabin Crew
  • Hainan Airlines Best Airline in China, Best Airline Staff Service in China
  • Hawaiian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in North America
  • Indigo Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia / India
  • Jetstar Airways Best Low-Cost Airline in Australia / Pacific
  • Juneyao Airlines Best Regional Airline in China
  • Kulula Best Low Cost Airline in Africa
  • LAN Airlines Best Airline in South America
  • Lufthansa Best Airline in Western Europe, Best Airline Transatlantic
  • NorwegianWorld’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe
  • Plaza Premium World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge
  • Porter Airlines Best Regional Airline in North America
  • Qantas Best Airline Australia in Pacific, Best Airline Staff in Australia / Pacific Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering
  • Qatar Airways World’s Best Business Class, Best Business Class Airline Lounge, Best Airline Staff in the Middle East
  • Royal Air Maroc Best Regional Airline in Africa
  • Singapore Airlines Best Airline in Asia, Best Business Class Airline Seat
  • Sky Airline Best Regional Airline South America
  • South African Airways Best Airline in Africa
  • Spring Airlines Best Low-Cost Airline in China
  • Star AllianceWorld’s Best Airline Alliance, World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge
  • Thai Airways World’s Most Improved Airline, Best Airline Lounge Spa Facility
  • Thomson Airways World’s Best Leisure Airline
  • Turkish Airlines Best Airline in Europe, Best Airline in Southern Europe, Best Business Class Airline Catering, Best Business Class Lounge Dining
  • Virgin America Best Airline in North America, Best Low-Cost Airline in North America

Often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry”, the World Airline Awards this year welcomed entries from more airlines than ever before. The winners are then chosen based on what is said to be “the world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey”.

While the figures for this year’s awards are yet to be released, last year’s survey of 18.9 million passengers saw more than 245 airlines measured on 41 key performance standards, from the quality of check-in service and boarding procedures to cabin cleanliness and other indicators.

Source: The Telegraph, London

 

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Meyyafushi Maldives opens with focus on design-led all-inclusive experiences

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Meyyafushi Maldives, a brand-new five-star Premium All-Inclusive Resort, on a natural island, surrounded by world-class dive sites in Lhaviyani Atoll opened its doors on 1st November 2025. It is an all-encompassing, eco-conscious haven, designed to foster connections within and beyond.

Only a 35-minute scenic seaplane journey from the Velana International Airport, Meyyafushi boasts 94 Luxury Villas and Suites with Private Pool. It is a place where luxury combines the tranquility of seclusion with the thrill of adventure, offering an unparalleled and diverse experiences for all ages, such as an Underwater Dining Restaurant – Bubble, an Overwater Padel Tennis Court, a Mini-Bowling Lane and an adults-only Sky Bar & Sunken Lounge crowned by the rooftop glass-bottom infinity pool.

Complementing these unique experiences is the overwater Veyoge Spa, an immersive wellness sanctuary offering aerial yoga, body treatments and restorative rituals inspired by Maldivian healing traditions, designed to balance relaxation with sensory escape. Meyyafushi is also home to a 24-hour overwater fitness centre, a floodlit tennis court and multipurpose sports court, and a fully equipped dive and water-sports centre – ensuring that every stay balances indulgence, movement, and adventure.

Dining at Meyyafushi is a journey across flavours and atmospheres, with a diverse collection of restaurants and bars crafted for every mood and moment. Guests begin their day at Fili, the all-day dining restaurant, with global cuisine through a generous buffet-style breakfast, while Thaana presents refined Mediterranean dining and Alif showcases contemporary Asian flavours. Hatharu Dhan – meaning “24 hours” in Dhivehi – is the island’s jungle spot serving expertly brewed coffee, iced lattes and light bites in a relaxed setting.

For immersive culinary theatre, Sukun delivers an interactive Teppanyaki experience, and Bubble pairs exclusive underwater dining experience with refined gastronomy. Wine enthusiasts can retreat to Raa, an intimate cellar with curated selections, while evenings unfold across the island’s vibrant social venues – from handcrafted cocktails at Baa, the main bar and gathering hub, to sunset drinks at Raagu, and the adults-only Sky Bar & Sunken Lounge, a rooftop sanctuary crowned by a glass-bottom infinity pool. For ultimate convenience, in-villa dining is also available, allowing guests to enjoy exceptional cuisine in the privacy of their own villa.

Distinctive design is woven through every corner of the island. From sculptural restaurant architecture to statement bar concepts and bespoke interior detailing, Meyyafushi stands out aesthetically as one of the Maldives’ most visually unique resorts. Every space has been intentionally created to evoke emotion – not only to be lived in, but to be admired. Throughout the resort, materials have been ethically sourced with a conscious focus on sustainability, reinforcing Meyyafushi’s commitment to responsible design without compromising on luxury.

Each villa, ranging from 185 square metres to 610 square metres, has been thoughtfully crafted to embody understated elegance: soaring ceilings, warm natural textures, golden accents, and carefully curated interiors that balance comfort with architectural beauty. Generous layouts and seamless indoor-outdoor living create spaces that feel both grand and deeply private. Personalised butler service accompanies every villa, delivering intuitive, discreet attention that elevates each stay.

“Meyyafushi was designed to offer experiences guests simply cannot find elsewhere in the Maldives,” says Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager. “Every element – from architecture to facilities – has been crafted to feel distinctive, luxurious, and visually unforgettable, while maintaining the warmth and excellent service our guests associate with our brand.”

Meyyafushi is the sister property to the award-winning Fushifaru Maldives, an established name in boutique island hospitality. Built upon the same operational excellence and guest-focused philosophy that has shaped Fushifaru’s international reputation, Meyyafushi carries forward a proven legacy while introducing a fresh, design-led identity. Together, the two resorts represent an experienced Maldivian hospitality company committed to innovation, quality, and memorable guest journeys.

While design and luxury define the guest experience, Meyyafushi continues to operate under the BeKind values that guide its foundation – reflected in eco-conscious practices, community partnerships, and thoughtful hospitality. These principles remain embedded in daily operations, quietly supporting an experience where indulgence and responsibility coexist naturally.

Meyyafushi Maldives is now open and welcoming bookings. For more information, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.

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Women at heart of kitchen: Milaidhoo Maldives marks International Women’s Day through gastronomy

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At Milaidhoo Maldives, International Women’s Day is observed as more than a calendar occasion; it is recognised as a meaningful celebration of the women whose talent and dedication shape the character of the resort’s intimate island experience.

This year, Milaidhoo highlights not only the women across its wider team, but also the five female chefs who play an integral role within its kitchen brigade. Culinary artistry remains central to the Milaidhoo experience, reflecting both heritage and creativity. Across the resort’s collection of dining venues, from island-inspired fine dining to relaxed beachfront cuisine, food is presented as a narrative of place and people. Menus are conceived as inspiration rather than prescription, with chefs tailoring each dish and dining moment to the individual tastes and curiosities of guests.

On 8 March from 19.00, the resort’s female culinary team will take over the open kitchen at Shoreline Grill, hosting a specially curated International Women’s Day dinner. Designed and executed by five chefs, the evening brings together flavours drawn from their individual traditions and culinary perspectives. More than a dining event, the experience is intended as a moment of connection and shared celebration, reflecting the intimate gastronomic gatherings for which Milaidhoo is known.

International Women’s Day Menu (Available at Shoreline Grill – Sunday 8 March from 19.00):

  1. Sate Lilit: Balinese seafood satay, gently spiced and grilled over charcoal, served with warm peanut sauce – Chef Bintang, Indonesia
  2. Pumpkin & Coconut Velouté: Roasted pumpkin soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, curry leaf oil and crisp garlic croutons – Chef Saaha, Maldives
  3. Curry-Poached Maldivian Coral Lobster: Locally sourced lobster with drumstick mashuni and coconut–passionfruit dressing – Chef Michelle, Maldives
  4. Thai A5 Wagyu Striploin: A5 Wagyu with confit lotus root, green papaya salad and Thai coconut red curry reduction – Chef Prew, Thailand
  5. Baobab & Chocolate Harmony: Baobab mousse, dark chocolate crémeux, peanut crumble, caramelised pineapple and mango gel – Chef Yemuria, Zimbabwe

Each dish reflects a personal culinary story, drawing inspiration from the charcoal grills of Indonesia and the spice markets of Thailand to the flavours of Zimbabwe and the rich culinary heritage of the Maldives. Together, the menu celebrates diversity and the shared pleasure of dining.

At Milaidhoo, meaningful luxury is defined through connection to place, tradition and people. This International Women’s Day, guests are invited to mark the occasion through an evening of exceptional gastronomy that honours the women at the heart of the Milaidhoo experience.

For reservations or further details on Milaidhoo’s culinary offerings, guests may visit the resort’s Culinary Experiences page or contact the reservations team at welcome@milaidhoo.com.

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Easter goes playful at The Standard, Maldives with week-long Angry Birds celebration

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This April, The Standard, Maldives is redefining the traditional Easter holiday with a bold, high-energy island takeover inspired by the playful world of Angry Birds. Taking place from 1 to 7 April, the week-long celebration transforms the resort into a vibrant playground, blending pop culture, family-friendly activities and island indulgence against the turquoise backdrop of the Raa Atoll.

The programme places families at the heart of the festivities, with a variety of interactive experiences designed for guests of all ages. Children and parents alike can take part in “Birds vs. Pigs” puzzle challenges, test their skills at Slingshot Splash, and enjoy creative sessions such as Angry Birds-themed egg painting and chocolate truffle making. Highlights for younger guests include a Bunny Meet and Greet, an island-wide Easter Egg Hunt, and a lively pool party that brings a playful twist to the holiday celebrations.

For guests seeking a more relaxed pace, the resort’s spa offers a curated wellness programme throughout the week. Experiences include Aerial Sound Healing, Chakra Balancing and Therapeutic Yoga, alongside a Family Hammam designed to provide restorative downtime after a day of island activities.

As evening falls, the resort’s social energy comes to life with a dynamic line-up of entertainment. Guests can enjoy LED and fire shows, Full Moon beach parties and sunset cruises, while those with a competitive streak are invited to join Easter-themed music quizzes and bingo nights.

Dining is a central part of the Easter experience, with a diverse culinary programme curated for the occasion. In addition to the signature Easter Brunch, the resort hosts beachside barbecues, healthy food masterclasses and the “Happy Bunnies” Golden Hour, featuring crafted cocktails by the sea. For more intimate moments, private movie nights under the stars and exclusive beachfront dinners are also available.

To ensure a seamless holiday experience, guests may opt for the resort’s Premium All-Inclusive Package, offering access to the full range of activities, dining and beverages throughout the week. With its energetic programming and playful spirit, The Standard, Maldives delivers an Easter celebration that combines sun, sand and entertainment into a distinctive island escape.

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