News
Nominees announced for SATA 2016
Maldives.net.mv – South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) opened up for nominations on 30th June 2016 have received overwhelming support from major hospitality brands present in India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
While announcing the final nominees of SATA 2016, Mr. Tuan Saabir Vaffoor, Vice President mentioned that: SATA is the first Hospitality Award brand recognized by regional organizations including Federations of Chambers of Commerce in Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Confederation of Associated Tour Operators (CATO, India), Association of Tourism Trade Organizations of India (ATTOI), Association of Travel Agents (ATA, Maldives) and Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM).
Mr. Tuan added, undoubtedly SATA will be a great event and an amazing brand. We have already started communicating with 2017 hosting destination as we have got a tremendous number of international and National brands together with us to celebrate the best of South Asian Hospitality.
SATA has also appointed major regional tourism medias including Asian Traveler as premium media partner and Asian Diver, Asian Geographic, Floating Asia and Maldives.net.mv as media partners of the event scheduled to take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka during late October.
SATA Nominees 2016 :
Visitors Choice Categories :
(nominated by organizer : based on types of participation from respective destinations)
Leading International Airport:
- Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka
- Ibrahim Nasir International Airport , Maldives
- Trivandrum International Airport, India
Leading Honeymoon Destination :
- India
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
Leading Diving Destination:
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
Leading Surfing Destination
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
Leading Heritage Destination
- India
- Sri Lanka
Leading Beach Destination
- India
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
Leading Cruising Destination
- India
- Maldives
Leading MICE Destination
- India
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
—
Self Nominated Categories :
(Brands and Services nominated by the brand / property)
Leading International Airline :
- Singapore Airlines
- Mega Maldives
Leading City Hotel :
- Casa Colombo Collections , Sri Lanka
- Ceylon City Hotel, Sri Lanka
Leading Airport Hotel :
- Hulhule Island Hotel, Maldives
Leading Transport Provider :
- Flyme , Maldives
Leading Guest House / Tourist Inn
- Shamar Guest House and Dive, Maldives
- Surf View Raalhugandu, Maldives
- Canopus Retreat, Maldives
- Yonder Retreat, Maldives
- Velana Beach , Maldives
- Aqua Inn, Sri Lanka
- Kaani Village & Spa, Maldives
- Kaani Beach Hotel, Maldives
Leading Liveaboard Brand :
- Emperor Divers, Maldives
- Scuba Spa, Maldives
- Voyages Maldives
- Blue K Safari , Maldives
Leading Liveaboard :
- Emperor Voyager,Maldives
- Scuba Spa Ying, Maldives
- Scuba Spa Yang , Maldives
- Gurahali , Maldives
- Soleil2 , Maldives
Leading House Boat :
- Marvel Cruise, India
- Spice Routes Luxury Cruise , India
Leading House Boat Brand :
- Marvel Cruise, India
- Pepper , Spice Routes Luxury Cruise, India
- Cinnamon , Spice Routes Luxury Cruise, India
- Ginger , Spice Routes Luxury Cruise, India
- Clove , Spice Routes Luxury Cruise, India
- Cardamom , Spice Routes Luxury Cruise, India
Leading Beach Hotel / Resort:
- Finolhu , Maldives
- Paradise Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Adaaran Club Rannaalhi, Maldives
- Park Hyatt Handahaa , Maldives
- Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, Maldives
- Como Hotels Cocoa Island , Maldives
- Como Hotels Maalifushi, Maldives
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
- Amari Havodda Maldives
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Royal Palms Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka
- Uday Samudra Beach Hotel & Spa, India
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Tangerine Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka
- Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes,Sri Lanka
- Uga Bay by Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka
- Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
- Amaya Beach Passikudah, Sri Lanka
- Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, Maldives
- Heritance Negambo, Sri Lanka
Leading Meetings & Conference Resort / Hotel :
- Paradise Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Uday Samudra Beach Hotel & Spa, India
- Leading Business Hotel :
- Best Western Elyon Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Taj Samudra, Sri Lanka
- The Kingsbury, Sri Lanka
Most Romantic Resort:
- Amilla Fushi, Maldives
- Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru, Maldives
- Royal island Resort& Spa, Maldives
- Coco Boduhithi , Maldives
- Conrad Maldives at Rangali Island, Maldives
- Adaaran Prestige Vaadoo, Maldives
- Jumeirah Dhevenafushi, Maldives
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Hunas Falls by Amaya, Sri Lanka
- Langdale by Amaya, Sri Lanka
- Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, Maldives
- Outrigger Konotta Maldives
- Serene Pavilions , Sri Lanka
- Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, Maldives
- Heritance Tea Factory , Sri Lanka
Leading All Inclusive Resort / Hotel:
- Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Vivanta By Taj -Coral Reef, Maldives
- Adaaran Select Meedhupparu , Maldives
- Constance Moofushi, Maldives
- Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
- Turyaa Kalutara , Sri Lanka
Leading Designer Hotel / Resort :
- Amilla Fushi, Maldives
- Park Hyatt Maldives
- Amari Havodda Maldives
- Casa Colombo Collection, Sri Lanka
- Heritance Negambo, Sri Lanka
Leading F&B Hotel/Resort:
- Dusit Thani Maldives
- Cinammon Bey Beruwala, Sri Lanka
- Centara Rasfushi , Maldives
- Centara Grand IslandResort & Spa , Maldives
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Uday Samudra Beach Hotel & Spa, India
- The Kingsbury, Sri Lanka
- Outrigger Konotta Maldives
- Sun Aqua Pasikudah , Maldives
- The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Maldives
- Heritance Ahungalla , Sri Lanka
Leading Luxury Hotel / Resort:
- Dusit Thani Maldives
- Amilla Fushi, Maldives
- Coco Boduhithi, Maldives
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
- Vivanta By Taj -Coral Reef, Maldives
- Adaaran Prestige The Water Villas, Maldives
- Park Hyatt Maldives Handahaa
- Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, Maldives
- Royal Palms Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Ulagalla by Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka
- Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes,Sri Lanka
- Residence by Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka
- Chena Huts by Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka
- Uga Bay by Uga Escapes, Sri Lanka
- Casa Colombo Collection , Sri Lanka
- The Kingsbury, Sri Lanka
- Sun Aqua Pasikudah , Sri Lanka
- Heritance Negambo, Sri Lanka
Leading Family Hotel/Resort:
- Dusit Thani Maldives
- Amilla Fushi, Maldives
- Angsana Velavaru , Maldives
- Royal Island Resort & Spa , Maldives
- Sun Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Como Hotels Cocoa Island, Maldives
- Como Hotels Maalifushi, Maldives
- Royal Palms Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
- The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Maldives
- Turyaa Kalutara, Sri Lanka
Leading Wellness & spa Hotel / Resort:
- Dusit Thani Maldives
- Amilla Fushi, Maldives
- Centara Rasfushi, Maldives
- Vivanta By Taj -Coral Reef, Maldives
- Park Hyatt Maldives Handahaa
- Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, Maldives
- Como Hotels Maalifushi, Maldives
- Amaya Lake, Dhambulla , Sri Lanka
- The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi , Maldives
- Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel, India
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
Leading Wellness & Spa Brand :
- Araamu Spa, Maldives
- Como Shambala , Maldives
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Uday Samudra Beach Hotel & Spa, India
- Chi, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
- Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, Maldives
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa , Maldives
Leading Dive Hotel / Resort:
- Holiday Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Vivanta By Taj -Coral Reef, Maldives
- Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Maldives
- Angsana Ihuru , Maldives
- Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
- Park Hyatt Maldives Handahaa
- W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Constance Moofushi, Maldives
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, Maldives
Leading Eco Resort / Hotel :
- Cocopalm Dhunikolhu, Maldives
- Leopard Trials, Sri Lanka
- Park Hyatt Maldives Handahaa
- Sun Island Resort and Spa , Maldives
- Sonevafushi, Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Heritance Kandalama, Sri Lanka
- Leading CSR Programme
- CocoPalm Dhunikolhu Maldives
- Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Royal Palms Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka
- Uday Samudra Beach Hotel & Spa, India
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- The Kingsbury, Sri Lanka
Leading Surf Hotel / Resort :
- Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, Maldives
- Como Hotels & Resorts , Maldives
- Cinnamon Dhonveli , Maldives
Leading Dive School / Center :
- Sea Splash , Dusit Thani Maldives Dive School
- Dive Oceanus , Maldives
- Dive Point, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Maldives
- Blue Journeys, Park Hyatt Maldives
- Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives
- Down Under, W Retreat & Spa, Maldives
- Meridis Dive & Relax , Maldives
- Sun Diving School, Maldives
Leading Activity / Water Sports Center :
- Meridis Dive & Relax , Maldives
- Outrigger Maldives
- Q-Adventure , Maldives
- Watersports Point, Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Maldives
- Park Hyatt Maldives Handahaa
- WAVE., W Maldives Retreat & Spa, Maldives
Leading Convention Center .
- Bandaranaike Memorial International Conventions Halls (BMICH), Sri Lanka
Leading PSA / GSA Partner , Handling Agent :
- Avia Maldives
- Marvel Tours, India
- Go Maldives
- Cyprea Private Limited
Leading Travel Agent :
- OV Holidays, Maldives
- Classic Travel, Sri Lanka
- Capital Travel, Maldives
- Flyinstyle , Sri Lanka
- Splendid Asia , Maldives
- Maldives Holiday Collections, Maldives
- Travel Connections Maldives
- Resort Life Maldives
- Let’s Go Maldives
- Gateway Malabar Holidays , India
- Moodhu Holidays, Maldives
- Sun Travel & Tours , Maldives
Leading Tour Operator :
- Viluxur Holidays, Sri Lanka
- Classic Travel , Sri Lanka
- Cyprea Hotels & Travel, Maldives
- Flyinstyle, Sri Lanka
- Maldives Holiday Collections, Maldives
- Splendid Asia , Maldives
- Travel Connections , Maldives
- Capital Travel , Maldives
- Moodhu Holidays, Maldives
- Marvel Tours , India
Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives has marked a significant milestone as Essens Spa celebrates its first anniversary. Since its launch in June 2025, Essens Spa has redefined the luxury wellness landscape in the Maldives, welcoming guests of all ages on a transformative journey of relaxation, rejuvenation, and renewal set against the breathtaking natural beauty of Kanifushi Island.
Over the past year, Essens Spa has established itself as one of the most sought-after wellness destinations in the premium Maldives segment. Nestled amidst lush tropical foliage and a tranquil beachfront, the spa has delivered thousands of immersive wellness journeys, holistic rituals, and signature treatments to guests from around the world, earning recognition for its unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, and care.
In its first year, Essens Spa has carved a distinctive identity within the Maldives wellness space. As the only spa in the premium segment to offer ELEMIS BIOTEC facials, Essens has set a new benchmark in advanced skincare, with therapies including ultrasonic peels, microcurrent sculpting, and LED light therapy attracting discerning global travellers.
The signature Essens Spa Journey—a 150-minute immersive ritual featuring a coconut scrub, full-body massage, traditional haircare ritual, and coconut milk bath using locally sourced Maldivian ingredients—has become one of the resort’s most celebrated experiences. Equally acclaimed is the Healing Touch Massage, which uses warm Maldivian sand compresses to deliver deep relaxation and restoration.
Beyond individual treatments, Essens Spa has evolved into a holistic wellness destination offering yoga sessions, Ayurvedic programmes, detox rituals, couples’ therapies, and a comprehensive salon experience. Each offering reflects the spa’s core philosophy: wellness is not a moment, but a journey.
A defining pillar of Essens Spa has been its commitment to inclusive wellness. From thoughtfully curated Kids Spa Experiences introducing younger guests to self-care, to Teen Wellness Rituals supporting balance and well-being, and intimate Couples’ Journeys designed for connection, Essens Spa has created a rare sanctuary where every member of the family feels welcome. This inclusive approach has resonated strongly, with families forming a meaningful segment of the spa’s growing loyal clientele.
The first anniversary also reflects a moment of heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the collective effort behind Essens Spa’s success. From the dedication of the spa team and the continued support of the resort’s operations, to the invaluable contributions of partners and collaborators, Essens Spa stands as a testament to shared commitment and passion. At its core lies a belief in creating meaningful, lasting experiences for guests, guided by inspiration, teamwork, and a deep-rooted vision that continues to evolve with every passing year.
Commenting on the occasion, Ram Bhoyroo, General Manager, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives said “When we launched Essens Spa, our vision was to create a space where every guest regardless of age could genuinely reconnect with themselves and the natural world around them. One year on, that vision has become a reality, and it has surpassed even our own expectations. The warmth and dedication of our spa team, combined with the extraordinary natural setting of Kanifushi, has made Essens Spa a truly special place. We are deeply proud of what has been built here in just one year, and we are excited about the chapters still to come.”
Kamroon, from the ownership, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, added, “Essens Spa was born from a deeply personal belief that true luxury is not simply about beautiful spaces or exceptional service, but about how a place makes you feel when you leave it. From the very beginning, our intention was to create a wellness sanctuary that carried the soul of the Maldives within every treatment, every ritual, and every moment of stillness it offers its guests. One year on, seeing Essens Spa flourish touching the lives of so many guests from around the world fills me with immense pride and gratitude. This is only the beginning of a journey we have always believed in deeply.”
As Essens Spa enters its second year, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives remains committed to further elevating its wellness offering. Plans are underway to introduce new signature rituals, expanded Ayurvedic programmes, and curated wellness retreats designed to meet the evolving needs of its global guests.
This anniversary marks not only a celebration of what has been achieved, but also a renewed commitment to the journey ahead—one defined by healing, intention, and the timeless beauty of the Maldives.
Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort has been nominated in both the Condé Nast Traveller (UK) and Condé Nast Traveler (US) Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, reflecting recognition across two of the travel industry’s established global platforms.
The annual awards highlight hospitality brands based on guest feedback, with nominations reflecting performance across areas such as service, design, wellness and overall guest experience.
Located within one of the Maldives’ larger resort lagoons, Sirru Fen Fushi is known for features including the Coralarium, an underwater art installation, as well as its approach to sustainability and wellness. The resort said the dual nomination reflects its continued focus on delivering guest experiences aligned with international expectations.
According to the property, its offering combines accommodation, dining and wellness programmes within a natural island setting, supported by service and curated activities.
In a statement, resort management said the nomination acknowledged both the contribution of its team and the support of its guests.
“We are honoured to be nominated in both editions of the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards,” the resort said. “This recognition is a testament to our dedicated team and the heartfelt support of our guests. We remain committed to creating experiences that resonate long after our guests return home.”
Voting for the Condé Nast Traveler (US) Readers’ Choice Awards and Condé Nast Traveller (UK) Readers’ Choice Awards is open until 30 June 2026.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has introduced a new padel court as part of its ongoing development of wellness and recreational facilities, expanding its racquet sports offering alongside the existing tennis court at Vommuli House.
The addition reflects increasing global interest in padel and forms part of the resort’s approach to providing activity-based experiences for guests within its island setting. Located within landscaped surroundings, the court is available for both casual play and structured sessions, including coaching with a resident padel professional.
According to the resort, the facility is intended to cater to a range of skill levels and provides an option for guests seeking to incorporate physical activity into their stay.
The introduction of the padel court is part of a broader expansion of the resort’s wellness programme. Guests also have access to fitness and wellbeing activities including Tabata and boxing sessions, reformer Pilates, and guided yoga and meditation classes held at the Yoga Sala.
In addition, the resort has upgraded its fitness centre with equipment from Technogym, including the Artis Cardio, Skillrun and Strength series. The facility is designed to maximise natural light and views of the surrounding ocean environment.
The upgraded gym also includes the Technogym Checkup System, which provides assessments of body composition, posture and performance, allowing for the development of personalised fitness programmes for guests.
Through these additions, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to expand its wellness and recreation offering, with a focus on integrating fitness, sport and wellbeing into the guest experience.
-
Featured1 week agoWestin Maldives Miriandhoo introduces Family Fun Summer package
-
Awards1 week agoReethi Faru Resort recognised in four categories at 2026 Haute Grandeur Awards
-
News1 week agoMachchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives unveils Eid al-Adha getaway packages
-
Cooking7 days agoYou & Me Maldives announces gourmet week with Chef Andrea Berton
-
Love1 week agoCentara Grand Lagoon Maldives unveils romantic getaway offers
-
Awards5 days agoAnantara Kihavah Maldives Villas named to 2026 T+L 500 list
-
Awards7 days agoInterContinental Maldives Maamunagau secures Readers’ Choice Awards nomination
-
News5 days agoGrand Park Kodhipparu introduces Maldives’ first resort membership concept