News
Maldives raises destination’s profile at the International French Travel Market, IFTM Top Resa 2016

Maldives.net.mv – The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) together with 12 representatives from the tourism industry of Maldives are taking part at the International French travel Market (IFTM) Top Resa held in Paris, France from 20-23 September 2016. Representatives of MMPRC together with the industry participants will be reaching out to the French speaking market at IFTM Top Resa 2016.
Maldives will be showcased at a 60 Sqm contemporary design setting portraying colourful imagery of the unique aspects of the destination‟s tourism product. Together with the strong destination brand message, “Maldives…the sunny side of life”, the “Visit Maldives Year 2016” are being communicated prominently through branding on Top Resa‟s most prominent spaces such as 10ft Arch at the entrance 5 banners outside the exhibition, sponsorship of floor tiles and advertisements on the cover of the IFTM Top Resa Daily news.
This is the 38 th year of Top Resa and it was first held in Deauville in 1978. It was then targeted for the leisure travellers. In 2008, IFTM Top Resa moved to Paris and became a multi-target show covering all grounds of travel: business, leisure and events. Today, major players in the leisure travel, event management and business travel gather to share and learn through the impressive range of destinations present, and discovering new products and exhibitors of the latest technological solutions sector. A total of 1560 new and returning brands occupying 492 stands took part in IFTM TOP RESA 2015 which is a 30% increase compared to 2015. 160 destinations took part in Top Resa 2015, a trade event attended mainly by French tour operators.
French market has experienced a downfall in the past three years, by taking part in this fair it is aimed to revive and regain the market share. This year‟s marketing plan for the French speaking market have been strategized to strengthen the destination‟s presence in the market and aggressively market Maldives through extensive PR and marketing campaigns targeting the French travel trade and consumers. Whilst positively increasing the arrivals from France, these campaigns will help the destination reach its targets in 2016 and in turn help achieve the target of 1.5 visitors during the Visit Maldives Year 2016.
To boost the number of arrivals from the French market „Interface Tourism‟ was appointed as a PR to overlook the French market and conduct promotional activities. A road show was held from 9-12 May 2016 in Paris, Lille, Lyon and Marseille to showcase Maldives as a tourism destination to the French agents and wholesalers. This was a great platform for the Maldivian resorts, hotels and agents to meet most of the top traders that sell Maldives interact and educate during a uniquely inspired event that took place in all four cities.
42,024 arrivals were recorded from France by the end of 2015. France is among the top 10 generating markets to the Maldives with a 3.9% of the market share, by the end of this period.
Family
Halcyon Private Isles Maldives curates immersive Easter programme
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection invites guests to step into an imaginative island escape this Easter with Halcyon Days in Wonderland—a thoughtfully curated celebration unfolding from 29 March to 7 April 2026. Inspired by the poetic spirit of halcyon days and a whimsical reimagining of Alice in Wonderland, the experience transforms the resort’s two private islands into a world of curiosity, creativity, and quiet enchantment.
More than a traditional festive programme, Easter at The Halcyon is designed as an immersive passage—where time softens, discovery takes centre stage, and each moment is gently layered with storytelling, flavour, and sensory experiences.
At the heart of this year’s celebration is Alchemy of Flavours, a culinary residency by Chef Dmitry Eremeev of Mason Dallos. Throughout the Easter week, Chef Dmitry presents a series of refined dining experiences, from intimate sunset cocktail sessions and curated wine tastings to a signature Four-Hands Dinner alongside the resort’s culinary team at the Fire Pit. His approach blends artistry and technique, transforming each dish into a narrative that reflects both imagination and place. The residency culminates in exclusive dining moments, including a wine dinner and curated gastronomic journeys that highlight the resort’s evolving culinary identity.
The Easter programme unfolds day by day with a rich tapestry of experiences designed for both families and discerning travellers. Mornings begin with gentle rituals such as Island Morning Walks and guided snorkeling through vibrant house reefs—of which the resort is home to two—offering encounters with turtles, coral gardens, and the living rhythms of the Indian Ocean. Marine biology sessions and conservation-led explorations further deepen this connection, revealing the delicate ecosystems that surround the islands.
Creative expression flows throughout the week with hands-on workshops inspired by the Wonderland theme. Guests can take part in bunny origami, egg painting, coconut art, and mini canvas sessions, while younger travellers are invited into a playful world of discovery through treasure hunts, craft ateliers, and interactive games. Signature moments such as the White Rabbit Time Race, Easter Egg Piñata, and themed storytelling sessions bring a sense of whimsy and lighthearted adventure to the island.
Cultural immersion is woven seamlessly into the experience through Tales Painted in Sunlight, where local artists and storytellers share Maldivian folklore, crafts, and traditions. Guests can also learn Boduberu rhythms, explore the origins of Thaana script,
or visit nearby islands for an authentic glimpse into local life—reinforcing the resort’s philosophy of meaningful, place-driven experiences.
Wellness remains an integral part of the Easter journey with The Healer’s Hidden Garden, led by Ayurvedic practitioner Dr. Jubil P. Anil. Guests are invited to reconnect through bespoke therapies and complimentary consultations, designed to restore balance and harmony in tune with the island’s natural rhythms.
As the celebration builds, evenings transition into atmospheric gatherings—from sunset fishing rituals and dolphin encounters to beachfront cinema nights and starlit family feasts. The highlight arrives on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a festive Easter Breakfast Buffet at Thari, followed by a day of curated island experiences that blend indulgence, relaxation, and celebration in equal measure.
The festivities conclude with a series of elegant finales, including an Easter Gala Dinner under lantern-lit skies, High Tea in Wonderland, and a Lobster Dinner by the sea at Yuzu—each moment crafted to leave a lasting impression of the season’s magic.
Set across two private islands and defined by its spirit of discovery and refined simplicity, The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives offers a distinctive Easter escape where storytelling, gastronomy, culture, and nature come together effortlessly.
For families, couples, and curious travellers alike, Halcyon Days in Wonderland is an invitation to wander, to wonder, and to experience Easter not as an occasion—but as a journey.
For any reservations or inquiries, guests are encouraged to contact the resort at ak.mlehp.reservations@marriott.com or +960 682 8800.
Family
Hilton Maldives Amingiri introduces Candyland experience for Easter 2026
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa invites guests to step into a whimsical Candyland this Easter. From April 1 to April 7, 2026, the resort transforms into a vibrant world of color, creativity, and curated experiences designed for families, couples, and groups alike.
Candyland Adventures for All Ages
Recognised as Best for Families in the 2026 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa continues to set the stage for meaningful family escapes. At the Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, young guests can immerse themselves in Candyland-inspired fun. Highlights include Candyland Cupcake Creations and the Sweet Easter Parade & Egg Hunt, a lively celebration filled with music, colourful costumes, and delightful surprises. Families can also enjoy beachside games and friendly challenges, complete with refreshing treats, creating joyful moments by the sea.
A Celebration of Flavours, Reimagined for Easter
Dining takes center stage with exceptional culinary experiences across the island. At Origin, Chef Dario Trevisan presents A Spring Symphony, a contemporary Italian tasting journey inspired by his roots and refined with modern finesse. At Aura, a special Easter Sunday beachfront dinner blends elegant flavours with playful touches, while Aura and Eden, the resort’s adults-only overwater bar, offer The Sweet & Spirited Collection—a whimsical selection of candy-inspired cocktails crafted for sunset indulgence.
Wellbeing in Bloom This Easter
Guests can restore and recharge with the Sleep Wellness Ritual at Amingiri Spa & Hammam, designed for deep relaxation and renewal. Options include a calming signature massage on the spa’s Skye deck, an evening hammam ritual, or an in-villa session incorporating guided meditation, yoga, and breathwork.
Island Retreats Designed for Togetherness
From spacious beach and overwater villas with private pools to the exclusive The Residence, a six-bedroom beachfront estate set within its own private cove, guests can truly feel at home. Spanning over 4,000 square meters, The Residence accommodates up to 12 guests, offering exceptional privacy, generous living spaces, and direct beach access—ideal for multigenerational escapes.
With immersive experiences, elevated dining, and spaces designed for connection, Easter at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa promises a celebration as magical as it is memorable.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty programme for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly on the hotel’s website will have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors app.
For more information or to make reservations, guests may visit the resort’s website or call +960 664 63 64.
News
Sirru Fen Fushi secures multiple nominations at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026
Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort has announced its nomination in three categories in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, a recognition that reflects the dedicated work of the island team and the exceptional experiences crafted for guests.
This year, the resort has been shortlisted in the following categories:
- Resorts for Families
- Most Outrageous Villas
- Resort Pools
Speaking about the nominations, General Manager Gerhard Stutz shared: “These recognitions celebrate the creativity, passion and commitment of our team. Sirru Fen Fushi is a naturally inspiring place and we are proud to see our experiences resonate with travellers across the region. We are grateful to everyone who continues to support our journey.”
Guests, partners, and the wider community are invited to cast their votes and help bring these accolades home. Voting is open until 6 April 2026, and each category can be accessed directly via the links below. Voters may simply search for “Sirru Fen Fushi” after opening each page.
Voting Links:
- Resorts for Families
- Most Outrageous Villas
- Resort Pools
- Guests and supporters may also cast their vote for General Manager Gerhard Stutz in the Resort General Managers category.
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