News
Maldives Travel Awards celebrates best of Maldives travel and hospitality
Maldives.net.mv – Maldives Travel Awards 2016 celebrated the very best of Maldives travel and hospitality at the gala event award night held on Sunday, 20th November at the beautiful Olhuveli Beach & Spa.
The event began with welcome speech and word of thanks by Mr. Abdulla Ghiyas, President of Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) followed by awarding of appreciation plaques to panel of expert judges who evaluated the nominations.
This year’s awards received over 300 nominations for 35 categories from 105 resorts, hotels, guest houses and airlines.
The winners of this year’s awards was decided by a judging process which included presentations and onsite visits, along with the SMS and online voting scores. The results were verified by independent audit firm, KPMG.
The chief guest for the Gala Event was the Minister of Tourism, Moosa Zameer. The “Lifetime Achievement Award” was awarded to Hon. FDr Ahmed Siyam Mohamed for his contribution to the Tourism Industry and the country as a whole.
The event included entertainment items popular band Eqauatic Vibe.
Maldives Travel Awards 2016 is the fifth edition of the awards and longest running travel awards label in the Maldives. MATATO is the exclusive organizer of Maldives Travel Awards, and this year’s event was managed by Think Advertising.
Winners
- Leading Private Island : Velaa Private Island
- Leading Luxury Resort : Conrad Maldives Rangali
- Most Romantic Resort : Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
- Leading Beach Resort : Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
- Leading Designer Resort : Velaa Private Island
- Leading All Inclusive Resort : Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa
- Leading Family Resort : Bandos Maldives
- Leading F&B Resort : Conrad Maldives Rangali
- Leading Eco Resort : Sun Island Resort & Spa
- Leading Dive Resort : Bandos Maldives
- Leading Surf Resort : Anantara Dhigu
- Leading Wellness & Spa Resort : The Sun Siyam Irufushi
- Leading Meeting & Conference Resort : Bandos Maldives
- Leading Local Hotel/Resort Brand : Bandos Maldives
- Leading International Hotel/Resort Brand : Conrad Maldives Rangali
- Leading Wellness & Spa Brand/Chain : Araamu Spa
- Leading Human Resource Management : Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
- Leading CSR Program : Soneva Fushi Resort
- Leading Airport/City Hotel : Hulhule Island Hotel
- Leading Guest House : Reveries Diving Village
- Leading Business Hotel : Hotel Jen by Shangri-La
- Leading Liveaboard : Voyages Gurahali
- Leading Liveaboard Brand : Carpe Diem Maldives
- Leading Dive School/Centre : Dive Oceanus
- Leading Activity/Water Sports Centre : Active Water Sports Maafushi
- Leading Innovation in Guest House Design : Reveries Diving Village
- Leading Travel Website : ICOM Tours
- Leading Domestic Transport Provider : ICOM Tours
- Leading Airport Lounge : Leeli Lounge
- Leading Domestic Airline : Villa Air, Flyme
- Leading Low Cost Carrier : Fly Dubai
- Leading International Airline : Srilankan Airlines
- Leading Guest House Island : Maafushi Council
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Photos by Asad Photography
Cooking
Island-inspired plant-based delights await this January at Nova Maldives
Each year, the number of people participating in Dry January continues to grow, with more individuals embracing this alcohol-free movement. Similarly, Veganuary is expected to reach new heights in 2025, surpassing the 25 million participants who took part this year, marking it as a record-breaking year for exploring plant-based foods.
Nova Maldives invites guests to celebrate Dry January and Veganuary 2025 with a variety of plant-based and alcohol-free offerings. These culinary experiences are designed to embody the wellness-focused and island-inspired lifestyle that Nova champions.
Throughout January, Nova’s expert mixologists will host interactive cocktail-making classes, providing guests with an opportunity to refine their skills while enjoying the resort’s tranquil surroundings.
Dining options during this special month include vibrant creations at Soul Kitchen and refreshing mocktails at Wink Bar. Featured dishes include the Maldivian Coconut & Vegetable Curry and Kopee Faiy Salad, both crafted from sustainably sourced local ingredients for an authentic taste of Maldivian culture. Among the alcohol-free beverages are the tropical Solis Sunset Cooler, inspired by the sunsets over South Ari Atoll, and the Cucumber Basil Fizz, a refreshing blend of basil and cucumber flavours.
For those wishing to recreate these dishes and drinks at home, Nova provides full recipes, encouraging culinary exploration inspired by island cuisine.
Featured Recipes:
- Maldivian Coconut and Vegetable Curry (Tharukaaree Riha): This traditional Maldivian dish combines fresh vegetables with creamy coconut milk for a hearty, plant-based meal. The recipe highlights local ingredients and supports sustainable farming practices.
- Kopee Faiy Salad (Kopi Fai): A refreshing side dish made with Kopee Faiy leaves, grated coconut, lime juice, and salt. Simple to prepare, this salad is a burst of freshness and complements any meal perfectly.
- Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Stack with Herb Pesto: Enhanced with crispy slices of fried breadfruit, this dish combines the savoury flavours of grilled vegetables with a homemade herb pesto, offering a nutritious and satisfying option.
Signature Mocktails:
- Solis Sunset Cooler: A tropical blend of passion fruit juice, lime, and coconut water, topped with soda for a refreshing finish.
- Cucumber Basil Fizz: A vibrant mix of fresh cucumber and lemon juices with basil syrup, creating an invigorating beverage.
General Manager Abdulla Aboobakuru emphasises Nova’s commitment to showcasing authentic Maldivian cuisine, “At Nova, we’re passionate about presenting dishes rich in fresh, plant-based ingredients. With the growing global trend toward mindful eating and health-conscious choices, our new recipes not only highlight local produce such as coconuts, spices, and tropical fruits but also cater to those seeking sustainable and nourishing dining options.”
Celebration
Self-love and serenity: The Nautilus Maldives’ Valentine’s Day experience redefined
In 2025, The Nautilus Maldives, an award-winning ultra-luxury private island hideaway, invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a sanctuary for the soul. This year’s celebration transcends traditional notions of romantic love, guiding visitors on a transformative journey of self-love and personal well-being. Set amidst untouched beauty and profound serenity, The Nautilus reimagines love as a connection that begins within, forming the foundation for relationships to flourish with greater depth and meaning.
This Valentine’s Day, The Nautilus emphasises the importance of self-love. Solasta Spa’s exclusive Valentine’s offerings are thoughtfully curated to inspire moments of self-discovery, renewal, and reconnection with both oneself and loved ones. Holistic psychotherapist and life coach Lucía Garcia-Giurgiu, based in New York, highlights the philosophy behind these offerings: “The most important relationship we have is the one we have with ourselves.” In alignment with this belief, The Nautilus encourages guests to explore their personal passions and engage in activities that inspire them, either individually or with a partner.
For those embarking on a personal journey, the Aromatherapy Journey provides a sensory escape that enhances physical and mental well-being. The Four-Hand Synchronised Massage, performed by two therapists in perfect harmony, offers a deeply restorative experience. Couples are invited to join a Self-Care Masterclass, where Solasta Spa’s skilled therapists teach gentle massage techniques for partners to practice on one another. Each couple receives a curated self-care kit—including essential oils, massage oil, and a soothing scrub—enabling them to continue their wellness journey at home.
Among the tailored Valentine’s experiences is a Synchronised Yoga session, where couples are guided through partner-based poses by a skilled instructor, fostering physical closeness and trust. Alternatively, guided meditation sessions focusing on gratitude and presence include synchronised breathing exercises and the calming resonance of Tibetan singing bowls, enhancing connection and mindfulness.
For those drawn to creative pursuits, private art workshops offer a chance to bond through artistic expression. Nature lovers may find peace during a guided barefoot walking meditation, immersing themselves in the island’s pristine landscapes for a grounding and serene experience.
Through these curated experiences, Solasta Spa provides a space where mutual respect and appreciation flourish, celebrating each partner’s individuality and the unique qualities they bring to the relationship. By embracing these differences as strengths, couples can deepen their connection, cultivate appreciation, and nurture a love that grows from within.
As twilight falls over The Nautilus, couples are invited to embark on romantic dining experiences designed to rekindle connection and shared joy. The Secluded Sandbank Journey offers a private sunset cocktail, accompanied by the gentle serenade of a singer, followed by a magical five-course dinner under the stars. Guests can toast with champagne and awaken to a floating breakfast at sunrise, creating an intimate moment to begin the new day.
For those seeking beachside elegance, Thyme Beach hosts a Gourmet Dinner featuring a five-course menu paired with champagne. This experience is followed by breakfast served in the comfort of the guests’ house or residence the next morning. At Zeytoun, the Champagne Dinner showcases Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an enchanting oceanside setting, complete with bespoke turndown touches to conclude the evening. Each culinary journey celebrates connection, blending gastronomic artistry with moments of rediscovered love, creating memories to be cherished long after the evening fades.
Whether guests seek a retreat for self-reconnection or a sanctuary to rediscover love with a partner, The Nautilus offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. Each moment is thoughtfully crafted to honour individuality and connection, inviting visitors to begin 2025 with a renewed sense of meaning. At The Nautilus, every experience is designed to reflect the uniqueness of each love story, leaving lasting memories for the year ahead and beyond.
Featured
Worldwide Kids accreditation highlights Dhigali Maldives’ commitment to exceptional childcare
Dhigali Maldives has announced that its “Play” Kids Club has been accredited by Worldwide Kids, becoming one of only nine such facilities in the Maldives. This recognition underscores Dhigali’s commitment to providing high-quality and inclusive childcare services.
Christian Szabo, the General Manager of Dhigali Maldives, described the accreditation as a significant milestone, emphasising that it affirms the resort’s dedication to offering exceptional and inclusive childcare programs. He expressed pride in joining a network that shares the vision of nurturing young minds.
The “Play” Kids Club caters to children aged 4-12, providing a vibrant array of activities facilitated by certified childcare professionals. This accreditation further solidifies Dhigali’s focus on delivering exceptional family experiences in a safe and stimulating environment.
With this accomplishment, Dhigali Maldives continues to set a high standard for family-friendly luxury, ensuring parents can relax with the confidence that their children are engaged in fun and enriching activities during their stay.
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