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.
Featured
Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience
Coco Collection, a Maldivian-owned resort brand, has invited guests to experience a more conscious approach to luxury at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Bodu Hithi.
Across its two island resorts, Coco Collection has incorporated environmental responsibility into the guest experience through its Coco Cares philosophy. From nature-led experiences inspired by the islands’ ecosystems to culinary offerings based on fresh, locally grown ingredients, the resorts have been designed to reflect the natural setting of the Maldives while integrating sustainability into daily operations.
At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this commitment is reflected in the Maldives’ veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which is operated in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. As a founding partner of the facility, the resort provides care for injured sea turtles and supports marine conservation awareness. Since its establishment, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, with a rehabilitation success rate of 60%. The resort also continues seagrass preservation efforts aimed at protecting marine habitats and supporting biodiversity in the surrounding waters.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also applies low-waste practices, mindful sourcing, and resource-conscious operations across the resort. This approach extends to Coco Farm, where homegrown produce, handcrafted preserves, and garden-to-table dining experiences are used to bring local flavour and seasonality to the table.
At Coco Bodu Hithi, the same approach is reflected in its food and beverage offerings. To mark Earth Day, the resort has introduced a green-inspired cocktail experience focused on eco-conscious mixology, using fresh ingredients grown on the island.
The resort said its low-waste approach informs all aspects of the guest experience, with attention given to responsible resource use. From the choice of herbs and fruits to preparation and presentation, the offering is intended to reflect respect for the natural environment.
This approach also extends across the resort’s wider culinary programme, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, house-made preserves, and dishes inspired by the Maldives’ natural produce. Through seasonal menus, conscious sourcing, and resource management, Coco Bodu Hithi aims to offer an experience that combines hospitality with environmental responsibility.
News
Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives marks Thai New Year across island portfolio
This April, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives invites guests to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Songkran, rooted in its rich Thai heritage, in a setting where turquoise lagoons and white sand shores meet time-honoured traditions. As a brand deeply inspired by Thailand’s culture and hospitality, Centara brings the essence of the Thai New Year to its collection of distinctive island resorts, where each celebration reflects authenticity, warmth, and a true sense of togetherness.
Across the Maldives, Songkran is thoughtfully reimagined through immersive experiences that honour these traditions while embracing the natural beauty of the islands, creating moments of joy, connection, and celebration. From family-friendly festivities to intimate beachfront gatherings, each resort offers a unique interpretation of Songkran, where water becomes a symbol of renewal and togetherness, and every experience is curated for you and yours.
At Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, nestled within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, celebrations unfold in a lively, family-centric atmosphere. Days are filled with playful water activities, beachside games, and vibrant poolside gatherings, while afternoons bring the energy of a colourful Songkran carnival by the sea. As the sun sets, guests are invited to savour the bold and authentic flavours of Thailand through immersive dining experiences, where the spirit of the festival comes alive in a setting designed for shared moments and lasting memories.
At Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, the celebration embraces both tradition and togetherness. Guests can take part in a vibrant beachfront parade and traditional Thai games, capturing the joyful essence of Songkran against the backdrop of the island’s serene lagoon. As evening falls, the festivities continue with an enchanting Thai-inspired dining experience, complemented by cultural performances and lively entertainment. Younger guests are also invited to join in the celebration through playful and imaginative activities, ensuring a truly inclusive experience for all.
For those seeking an adults-only escape this Songkran, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives offers a unique take on the celebration. Inspired by the Thai concept of joy and togetherness, the resort brings guests together through light-hearted beachside experiences and playful moments by the sea. Evenings unfold into vibrant culinary journeys and lively entertainment, where music, flavour, and atmosphere combine to create a celebration that is both elegant and spirited.
This Songkran, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives presents a celebration that goes beyond tradition, where each moment is an invitation to reconnect, to celebrate, and to create memories that linger long after the festival ends.
News
St. Regis Maldives expands and upgrades Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has introduced its newly reimagined Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa, thoughtfully redesigned to offer an elevated experience for families looking to balance privacy with shared time together in a pristine natural island setting.

Now expanded from 334 square metres to an impressive 380 metres meters, the villa features an additional 66 square metres of refined indoor living space. This enhancement creates a more generous environment for families to gather, relax, and spend time together in comfort.

The layout has also been thoughtfully arranged, with a master bedroom located on the ground floor offering direct ocean views, while the second bedroom is positioned on the upper level and features two beds—ideal for children or friends travelling together.

Seamlessly blending contemporary design with the surrounding environment, the villa is fully equipped with intuitive iPad controls, allowing guests to personalise lighting, climate, and entertainment at the touch of a button.

At the heart of the transformation is the villa’s outdoor experience. The private pool, previously 15 square metres, has been re-envisioned as a striking 30-square-metre infinity pool, seamlessly extending toward the horizon and framing expansive views of the Indian Ocean. The beachfront has also been enhanced, offering a wider, softer stretch of pristine sand that flows effortlessly from the villa’s deck to the turquoise lagoon beyond.

True to the St. Regis legacy, guests will also enjoy the signature St. Regis Butler Service, ensuring that every detail of their stay is thoughtfully anticipated and effortlessly delivered—from personalised dining arrangements to bespoke island experiences.
Spacious, elegant, and serene, the redesigned Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa with Pool, offers a comfortable and well-balanced setting for families and friends to relax and reconnect, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
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