Featured
Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru launches new Marine Discovery Centre
Four Seasons Maldives Resort at Landaa Giraavaru has opened a brand new Marine Discovery Centre, which has been completely reimagined, restructured and redesigned inside and out.
The new interactive state-of-the art tribute to the resort’s ocean conservation initiatives showcases the fish lab, turtle rehabilitation centre, Reefscapers coral rejuvenation programme and the Manta Trust research station – all within one of the most comprehensive oceanic research and education facilities in the Maldives.
A darkened spot lit interior gives an underwater feel to the indoor exhibition. Big screens, inspiring touch-activated Prezi presentations, and detailed wall displays cover topics such as drowning islands, coral reefs and fish breeding.
In addition, a large (108 cubic feet) aquarium, kids’ touch tank, video wall, naturally styled fish breeding tanks, and portholes into the inner workings of fish lab combine to create a truly immersive experience. Outside, glass fronted turtle tanks enable up close interactions with the inhabitants of the turtle rehabilitation centre.
Guests are invited to join orientation sessions or explore the Marine Discovery Centre at their leisure. They can also visit and help care for the injured turtles, assist the Reefscapers project by sponsoring and transplanting their own coral frame, and join a number of fascinating talks and wildlife snorkel safaris.
With more than 15 marine scientists and researchers working on conservation projects across the two resorts of Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru, Four Seasons is at the cutting edge – and caring heart – of ocean safeguarding in the Maldives.
Operating under the moniker ‘Marine Savers’, the team’s work extends to year-round research programmes, community outreach projects and guest education.
Key achievements include the transplantation of 300,000 coral fragments onto some 5,000 coral frames, the successful breeding of thousands of reef fish, the rescue and successful rehabilitation of 149 sea turtles, mostly injured by drifting ‘ghost’ nets, and the hosting of dozens of local school children on awareness days.
Having already collected and analysed thousands of photographs for the national Turtle ID database, the team is now also developing a new Dolphin ID project – using photos of dorsal fins to identify individuals seen regularly in local waters – already with very interesting results. Other ongoing work involves the support of The Manta Trust (the world’s leading manta ray charity), which began life at Landaa Giraavaru over a decade ago.
Last year saw two further notable highlights: firstly, the gathering of Maldivian ministers and their counterparts from Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Fiji, Mauritania, Senegal and Sri Lanka for a symposium dedicated to the safeguarding of shark and ray populations, and secondly, the ‘Flying Turtles’ project, which made Maldivian and European history with the transfer of four endangered Olive Ridley turtles – deemed ‘non-releasable’ by international standards – to a new forever home at Belgium’s Pairi Daiza Zoo, which is considered to be the finest in Europe.
Dubbed the ‘Flying Turtles’, Kerry, Zahiya, La Petite and Peggy were the first live turtles to fly overseas from the Maldives for conservation purposes and the first of their species to take up residence in a European facility.
Commenting on the completion of the new facility, Marine Discovery Centre Manager, Sebastien Stradal, said: “It’s great to be able to showcase our work in such an exciting way and to draw more attention to over a decade of pioneering conservation work. The ‘Flying Turtles’ event epitomised exactly what can be achieved by a dedicated effort to make a difference – something we hope the new Centre inspires in guests of all ages.”
More information and regular updates on the conservation efforts and projects at both Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa can be seen at the dedicated website www.marinesavers.com. Here, among other things, visitors can see the progress of their sponsored Reefscapers coral frames and catch up on the latest news and photos of the rescue turtles.
Featured
Experience romance and luxury at Amilla Maldives this Valentine’s
Amilla Maldives invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a luxurious and romantic getaway package.
Guests will enjoy a seamless arrival and departure via seaplane before being welcomed into a private pool villa, where a bottle of chilled champagne and canapés await. Each morning begins with an indulgent breakfast buffet at Fresh Café, followed by dinners at a choice of four restaurants. On Valentine’s Day, a specially curated chef’s menu enhances the romance, with the evening culminating in a beautifully decorated bed to set the mood.
The experience includes a guided snorkelling excursion, offering the opportunity to explore Amilla’s Blue Hole or House Reef and witness the stunning marine life of the Maldives. Guests can also capture unforgettable moments with a complimentary 30-minute portrait photo session to take home cherished memories.
Available for stays from 10 to 19 February 2025, the ‘Romancing Amilla’ package promises a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and romance. This Valentine’s season, Amilla Maldives provides the idyllic backdrop for creating timeless memories.
Celebration
Celebration to remember: how Siyam World combined talent, flavour, and adventure
Siyam World’s festive season featured an extraordinary lineup of talent, making it the most remarkable celebration to date. Electrifying performances by DJ Jetro, ONEVIOLIN, URBANTHEORY, DJ Fumez, and DJ LOVRA were complemented by culinary masterpieces crafted by acclaimed chefs Tom Brown, Brad Carter, and Michelin-starred Andrea Aprea. The resort was transformed into a gaming paradise, featuring adventures like the Tomb Raider: Island Quest, Mario Kart-style races, and iconic Mortal Kombat battles, creating an atmosphere of boundless excitement.
Renowned for its unforgettable parties, spectacular events, and unparalleled experiences, Siyam World elevated its festive celebrations to new heights by combining world-class entertainment with culinary excellence.
The festivities began with a magical Santa arrival and a dazzling Gala Dinner showcasing menus designed by UK chefs Tom Brown and Brad Carter. Throughout the season, the chefs hosted exclusive masterclasses and served gourmet feasts, leaving guests in awe of their culinary prowess.
Adding to the excitement, Spanish football legend Fernando Torres participated in the celebrations, joining the Amazing Race and cheering on contestants in the thrilling duathlon—a swim-and-run event around the island, with the winner earning a complimentary stay at the resort.
DJ Jetro set the tone with his signature blend of live saxophone and DJing, creating an energetic atmosphere. ONEVIOLIN added to the enchantment with his electrifying violin performances, merging classical technique with modern beats.
New Year’s Eve marked the highlight of the celebrations, featuring URBANTHEORY, an internationally acclaimed Italian dance crew known for their synchronised, high-energy routines. The night reached its climax as DJ Fumez delivered electrifying beats, powering the countdown to 2025.
Michelin-starred Chef Andrea Aprea further elevated the experience with his innovative creations at The Cube in January. The season concluded in style as German DJ LOVRA energised the crowd with her infectious party tracks, keeping the dance floor alive well into the new year.
With its world-class performances and unforgettable dining experiences, Siyam World’s festive season reaffirmed its reputation as the ultimate destination for creating extraordinary memories and unparalleled celebrations.
Featured
Celebrate Ramadan in ultimate luxury at The Nautilus Maldives
This Ramadan, The Nautilus Maldives, an award-winning private island retreat, invites guests to celebrate the sacred month through an exquisite blend of ultra-luxury, cultural heritage, and meaningful connection. The Nautilus Majlis Iftar Pop-Up offers a distinctive celebration of traditions, flavours, and the spirit of togetherness. Visitors can enjoy this exceptional experience in the privacy of their House or Residence, on the tranquil beachfront under the starlit sky, or at an exclusive sandbank retreat. Every element is meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable journey of indulgence and reflection.
At The Nautilus, time and constraints are set aside, allowing guests to embrace the sacred month of Ramadan at their own pace. Through the resort’s signature 24/7 timeless hospitality and unscripted dining concept, Ramadan celebrations are tailored to reflect personal preferences. This year, The Nautilus introduces a carefully curated Iftar menu, served within the extraordinary boho-chic elegance of the Majlis Pop-Up. Honouring tradition while offering bespoke customisation, each meal transforms into a sensory celebration of the holy month. Every detail is attentively crafted, turning dining into a meaningful and unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Ramadan.
The Nautilus offers exclusive privileges to elevate the Ramadan journey. Guests booking a House or Residence can enjoy up to 30% off the Best Available Rate, along with 15% off treatments at Solasta Spa and 15% off water-sports at AquaNautica.
For those seeking a more indulgent escape, stays of seven nights or more include an additional 10% discount, allowing ample time to fully immerse in the serene beauty of this bohemian ultra-luxury haven. Families are warmly welcomed, with children under 12 staying and dining for free, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
The Nautilus is more than a destination—it is a sanctuary where the spirit of Ramadan is celebrated through cultural immersion, personalised experiences, and bespoke, free-spirited offerings. Beyond the luxury and indulgence, moments of reflection and reconnection are thoughtfully integrated into every aspect of the stay. This Ramadan, The Nautilus offers a retreat like no other—a place where time stands still, and every detail is crafted to elevate the journey.
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