News
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives wins awards & accolades at the International Culinary Challenge Maldives 2016

Maldives.net.mv – Holiday Inn Resort® Kandooma Maldives – for the 2nd consecutive year, hauled the most medals and awards during the recently concluded Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2016 held at Maldives September 4th – 7th 2016.
Holiday Inn Resort® Kandooma Maldives Executive Chef Vincent Tan, together with his Culinary Brigade of 14 Chefs and 2 Bar Mixologists recently participated in the 12th Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2016 – dubbed as the ultimate culinary challenge held in Male, Maldives.
For the 2nd consecutive year Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives hauled the most medals and awards offered during the competition. The team’s accolade reached a first ever 28 medals which included 8 Gold, 13 Silver & 7 Bronze and 4 “Best in Class” awards. Each team participant brought back medal’s that justifies their hard work and passion which reflects on their well-deserved medals and awards.

The “Best in Class” awards were given for the following categories: Dessert, Creative Asian Dish, Perfect Steak and Omelet and Tea Challenge. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place for the “Perfect Steak” and “Perfect Omelet” Challenge was a clean sweep from the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. This category tests the chef’s basic skills; technique, temperature control and timing.
A new category this year was the “Tea Challenge” which Holiday Inn Resort bagged the 1st and 2nd place respectively. Jasmine Pham who topped the Challenge has won herself complimentary air ticket, accommodation and 3-day training at TWG Tea Institute in Singapore.
Chef Ronnel Go, the Resorts Executive Sous Chef received the award being placed in the top 3 “Most Outstanding Chef in Maldives” – an award that more than 500 chefs from over 40 hotels and resorts who participated in the competition sought for.
“I congratulate and give thanks to the whole culinary team, competitors and staff that without their passion, teamwork and support, achieving these great results would be impossible. A big gratitude for our General Manager and management’s support and encouragement. It really helps to motivate the staffs to perform well in the competition! I was very happy with the results this year as there were many first timers in the team, their hard work really paid off. And our results this time was far better than last year in terms of quantity and quality of awards achieved by the team.” Chef Vincent Tan said.
Meanwhile, Joseph Della Gatta, the Resort General Manager expressed his appreciation on the latest accomplishments by the Resort Culinary Team. “I am so proud on the team’s success in this year’s Culinary Challenge. They have demonstrated gastronomic greatness and excellence, I look forward on having the award winning dishes on the Resort menus to be sampled by our guests”, said Joseph.
Holiday Inn Resort® Kandooma Maldives’ delegation includes chefs Vinh Co, Min, Rungsimet, Ronnel, Dat, Kalim, Hui, Chee Ken, Phuong, Laiju, Cam Nga, Yen & Lucas and the Resort Mixologists, Jasmine and Dinesh.
News
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort introduces new luxury all-inclusive offering
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort has introduced a new Luxury All-Inclusive experience, inviting guests to embrace elevated living, exceptional dining, and a seamless island escape. Set within the tranquil Emboodhoo Lagoon and just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the private island resort offers a luxury Maldives all-inclusive stay defined by effortless access and a sense of calm. Rooted in JW Marriott’s philosophy of mindful living, the experience is designed to encourage presence, balance, and meaningful connection.
Crafted for ease and intention, the Luxury All-Inclusive experience allows guests to fully unwind, with every detail thoughtfully considered from sunrise to starlight. Days begin with a leisurely breakfast at Veyo, the resort’s all-day dining venue, followed by a three-course lunch with the option to dine poolside at Wahoo bar. For dinner, guests can explore a world of flavours, from international favorites to South American grill, and Indian Ocean inspired cuisine. Each venue presents a distinct culinary perspective, drawing on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce.
The experience is complemented by a curated beverage program featuring premium Champagne, a selection of wines from renowned regions, and crafted cocktails. Guests may also enjoy a range of premium spirits, selected beers, and non- alcoholic beverages, from fresh juices and smoothies to specialty teas and handcrafted mocktails.
“True luxury is the ability to be present and experience each moment with ease,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “Our Luxury All-Inclusive offering invites guests to fully immerse themselves in the destination while creating meaningful memories with those who matter most.”
Beyond the table, the experience extends into moments of discovery. Guests can explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives through guided snorkelling excursions, or enjoy the use of paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. A state-of-the-art fitness centre open 24 hours supports wellness at every pace.
For children, Family byJW™offers a vibrant kids club experience designed with young explorers in mind. Through an enticing program of daily activities, children are whisked into adventure, discovering the magic of the underwater world and the rhythms of island life in an engaging environment.
At the overwater SPA by JW, guests are invited into a tranquil sanctuary featuring BABOR precision skincare products. Each treatment is tailored to individual needs, creating space for restoration and renewal.
Available for stays from March 10 to December 20, 2026, The Luxury All-Inclusive offering at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort redefines island living, where every experience is seamlessly woven together–allowing guests to focus on what truly matters.
Click here to book the Luxury All-Inclusive package or contact reservations.maldives@jwmarriott.com. For more information, please visit jwmarriottkaafuatoll.com.
Drink
Felice Capasso returns to The St. Regis Maldives for exclusive November residency
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is set to welcome back celebrated mixologist Felice Capasso, Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, for a series of exclusive appearances this November as part of the resort’s distinguished Tastemaker Series.
Renowned for his refined technique and imaginative approach to flavour, Capasso will host a curated programme of intimate masterclasses and a signature bar takeover, inviting guests to explore the artistry behind world class cocktails in one of the Maldives’ most iconic settings.
Taking place at the resort’s dramatic overwater Whale Bar, inspired by the graceful form of a whale shark and suspended above the turquoise lagoon, guests will experience Capasso’s award winning style against sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the resort’s private coral reef. His appearances will reflect the balance of classical precision and contemporary creativity that has defined his global reputation.
The programme begins on 7 November, with a complimentary Master Cocktail Class at the Whale Bar, where Capasso will guide guests through the foundations of modern mixology, sharing insights into technique, balance and storytelling behind exceptional drinks.
On 9 November, a more intimate Master Cocktail Class with Canapés will be hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s signature overwater teppanyaki venue. Limited in capacity, this exclusive session pairs Capasso’s bespoke cocktails with refined culinary accompaniments, creating a multi sensory tasting experience.
The series culminates on 10 November with a three hour Bar Takeover at the Whale Bar, where Capasso will debut a specially curated cocktail menu crafted exclusively for the evening. Guests can enjoy innovative flavour combinations, refined presentation, and the vibrant energy of a world class bartender in residence.
Situated on a private natural island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is celebrated for its iconic architecture, bespoke St. Regis Butler Service, and exceptional hospitality. The resort features 77 villas—33 on the beach and 44 overwater—each with a private infinity pool and uninterrupted ocean views. At its pinnacle sits the John Jacob Astor Estate, the Maldives’ largest three bedroom overwater villa, offering expansive living spaces, a private spa suite, and a 92 square meter infinity pool.
Felice Capasso’s residency continues the legacy of the Tastemaker Series, which brings leading global talents across mixology, gastronomy, fine wine, wellness and sport to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. The programme is designed to offer guests privileged access to influential voices shaping contemporary culture, creativity and craftsmanship.
Event Details
- Master Cocktail Class | Whale Bar (Complimentary experience): 7 November | 15:00 – 16:00
- Intimate Master Cocktail Class with Canapés | T•Pan: 9 November | 15:00 – 16:00
- Bar Takeover | Whale Bar: 10 November | 17:00 – 20:00
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
Drink
Kevin Armstrong to appear at The St. Regis Maldives for exclusive December residency
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort welcomes Kevin Armstrong, owner of London’s acclaimed Satan’s Whiskers Cocktail Bar, for an exclusive two-day appearance this December as part of the resort’s celebrated Tastemaker Series.
A globally respected figure in modern cocktail culture, Armstrong brings more than 25 years of beverage, business, and operational expertise to the Maldives, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the philosophy and precision behind one of the world’s most influential cocktail bars.
Events will take place at the resort’s signature Whale Bar, a striking overwater destination inspired by the form of a whale shark and set above the turquoise lagoon with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Known for its refined yet relaxed atmosphere, Whale Bar provides the perfect setting for Armstrong’s meticulous, method driven approach to cocktails.
On 7 December, guests are invited to a Master Gin & Martini Class, a complimentary session exploring the elegance, balance, and technique behind two of cocktail culture’s most enduring styles. Drawing on his deep knowledge of classic preparation and modern execution, Armstrong will guide guests through flavour, structure, and best practice, offering insight into how simplicity, when done well, becomes exceptional.
Across 8 and 9 December, Armstrong will take over the Whale Bar for two evenings, presenting a Satan’s Whiskers Bar Takeover. Guests can enjoy a specially curated menu of cocktails inspired by the bar’s celebrated ethos—focused on quality, consistency, and method—while experiencing the energy and craftsmanship of a true London institution reimagined in a Maldivian setting.
Kevin Armstrong is the founder and owner of Satan’s Whiskers, a multi award winning cocktail bar in East London, consistently recognized among the best bars in the world. An entrepreneur, educator and consultant, he is co author of Round Building, a respected guide to practical bartending technique. His career includes senior beverage and operations roles with some of London’s most influential hospitality brands, including Milk & Honey, as well as extensive experience across restaurants, street food markets, festivals, and large scale events.
Armstrong’s work in bar design, consultancy, and bartender education has seen him deliver seminars in over 30 countries and contribute to the opening of more than a dozen venues worldwide. Fiercely passionate about beverage quality and execution, his approach continues to champion clarity of flavor, disciplined technique, and exceptional guest experience.
Set on a private natural island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is renowned for its Iconic design, bespoke St. Regis Butler Service, and exceptional hospitality. The resort offers an all villa experience, with both beach and overwater villas featuring private infinity pools and uninterrupted ocean views. At its pinnacle sits the John Jacob Astor Estate, the Maldives’ largest three bedroom overwater villa.
This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential global talents in mixology, gastronomy, fine wine, wellness and culture to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations, offering guests rare access to the world’s leading creative voices.
Event Details:
- Master Gin & Martini Class | Whale Bar: 7 December | 15:00 – 16:00
- Bar Takeover | Whale Bar: 8–9 December | 17:00 – 20:00
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
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