Featured

Neil Shorthouse on inter-resort collaboration, training locals in Maldives fast-growing tourism industry

Published

8 years ago

August 31, 2017

When Neil Shorthouse first arrived in the Maldives in early 2008 as the Cluster Director of Human Resources at Anantara Resorts Maldives, the Maldives tourism industry was an altogether different story. New investments, tightly controlled and directed by the government, were made mostly by a handful of seasoned local and foreign hoteliers. Growth was impressive and return on investment was unmatched. But for travellers, accommodation options were limited to luxury resorts that cost tens of thousands of dollars for a night’s stay.

Fast forward 10 years, and the industry has inevitably evolved. A plethora of new properties has come into play, with the backing of a combination of local and international entrepreneurs and seasoned hoteliers. Dozens have forayed into new and untapped segments of the market, greatly expanding the scope of an industry that was previously exclusive to luxury tourism. Tourist arrivals have crossed the one million milestone and is on course to reach an ambitious target of 1.5 million.

This rapid expansion in a short period of time poses several challenges, especially in getting enough skilled individuals to fill up managerial positions. Resorts are forced to bring in professionals from abroad to an industry already dominated by expatriates or promote individuals without giving them proper training and guidance.

“Some people will pick up very quickly and are very good at that role. But some people are put there because there is no one else to do it and they don’t necessarily have the skill set to do their job. This means that if they go to another property, they may actually fail,” Neil, whose 20-year long career in hospitality involves working with a variety of top luxury brands such as Regent Seven Seas, The World, Soneva, Six Senses, Anantara Resorts and Cheval Blanc Randheli by LVMH, says, in an interview with Maldives Insider.

Neil poses for a photo with the participants of a training programme he conducted at the Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) in Maldives. PHOTO/ HIH

Smaller resorts have to bear the brunt of the current deficit in getting skilled Maldivians for senior positions, as international hotel chains have the luxury of moving employees within its hotel portfolio. For new resorts, especially those owned and operated by up and coming local hoteliers, apprenticeship programmes run by industry leaders could be the answer.

Apprenticeship programmes for the hospitality industry are growing in popularity in countries such as the UK. In the Maldives, Four Seasons and Minor Hotels have been running their own apprenticeship programmes for years, and leading local resort operators such as Universal Resorts are formally getting into the game with their own apprenticeship and internship programmes for aspiring locals. These programmes have already enabled several young Maldivians to enter into the industry; starting at the very bottom and climbing up the ladder to achieve their goals.

“It’s all about getting to understand that when you start from the bottom and move up the ladder in the right pace, you appreciate it far more and you have a better understanding of the operation. So, if you want to be a chef, you start as a commis or in any other similar position. This way, they understand what it’s like to work at the very bottom and to move their way up,” Neil explains.

“What a great place it is to study hospitality when you have over a 100 resorts to get your work experience from. Almost every international brand is here. The experience students will get here in the Maldives is phenomenal.”

Neil conducts a training programme.

However, apprenticeship programmes are not enough to bridge the gap that currently exists, especially in light of the number of new resorts opening up across the Maldives. With dozens more expected to come into market in the next few years, Neil believes that resorts should collaborate with established local educational institutes such as the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Studies of The Maldives National University to offer courses as well as internship opportunities.

This collaboration needs to extend to inter-resort cooperation as well. Industry stakeholders should come together, and share information and ideas in an attempt to find ways to better adapt to the fast-changing trends.

“When I first came to the Maldives 10 years ago, it was very collective. Everyone spoke to each other. Everyone was involved and willing to assist. Nobody would say we can’t do this, we can’t do that. We had that trust and respect for each other,” Neil, who has worked in countries such as the UAE, Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Seychelles and the US, says.

“Nowadays it has become very secular in the sense that only some properties will talk to certain properties, or if there is a request for information, people don’t want to provide information to anymore. With the market becoming so challenging, it’s almost silly that no one speaks to each other and shares ideas. It maybe because it’s growing so big, that there are so many resorts, that it’s becoming more difficult to coordinate. But we need to have the inter-resort collaboration we used to have.”

Despite the challenges, Neil, who now runs his own hospitality consultancy firm Shorthouse Hospitality International (SHI), believes that training locals to take over managerial roles is the only way forward. Having worked with some “phenomenal” Maldivians who have gone onto become General Managers and HR Managers at reputed resorts across the country, he says that Maldivians can do every single task just as well as their colleagues from abroad if given the right skill set and opportunities.

“If you go to Thailand or any other destination, you can see a lot of locals in senior management positions. So, even from the guest perspective, having more locals in your workforce, especially in senior positions, is key. They are coming to the Maldives and they want to see locals. I think guests get more excited when they see that the resident manager is a Maldivian, or when they see a Maldivian chef or a Maldivian GM,” he explains.

“Those of us who are foreigners working here, are here as a guest. We have been given a work permit to work. I try to make sure that there is always a local capable of taking over my position. In my view, it’s all about giving back. It’s all about giving the skill set that they may or may not already have so as to ensure that they succeed.”

Neil (R-5) attends a networking session organised by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in London. PHOTO/ SHRM

The expansion of the tourism industry is set to continue, as local hoteliers and international hotel chains keep announcing new developments almost every month or so. With these developments, the uniqueness of the Maldives is changing as well; it is no longer the luxury, high-end destination that can only be accessed by the ultra-rich from the world over. New segments such as the booming guesthouse sector have opened up the Maldives to budget travellers and made the luxury resorts more affordable as well.

In this fast-growing industry, cooperation amongst properties and developing a capable workforce comprising a local majority are the key to survival. As Neil says, “We all make mistakes, but we need the opportunity to make mistakes in our career. If you don’t give the opportunity to locals, you won’t know their capacity.”

Editor’s Note: Shorthouse Hospitality International (SHI) is a luxury management and consultancy company headquartered in London, with operations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Indian Ocean and South Pacific Islands. SHI provides a hands-on approach to services focused on operations, corporate audits, human capital, and significant projects. Specialty vertical markets include boutique hotels and resorts, cruise lines and private member clubs, yachts and residential estates. Working from an individual project basis to full retained consultancy, SHI assists in identifying “who you are”, “where you want to be” and “how to get there”. The international hotels and resorts and luxury properties are not only each exquisite in their own way; but are all culturally authentic, emotionally compelling and completely unique. SHI was founded by Neil Shorthouse in 2014 following more than two decades of experience in creating industry-leading, revenue driving platforms for companies from start-ups to Fortune 500s. He has launched business endeavours for multi-national corporations and led world-class teams of hospitality professionals. His portfolio includes The Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, The Soneva Group, The World, Six Senses Hotels & Resorts and Cheval Blanc Randheli by LVMH-Hotel Management.

Featured

Summer escape starts here: discover Centara’s dream destinations in Maldives

Published

3 days ago

June 16, 2025

m@ldives

The warmer season has officially arrived in the GCC, and for those still planning a summer getaway, Centara Hotels & Resorts’ Maldivian destinations offer the perfect escape. With something to delight every traveller, guests can book a stay at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives or Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, both located within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, where endless adventure awaits. For an adults-only retreat, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives provides a serene paradise, while Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, invites travellers to explore a world of underwater wonders and rejuvenating wellness experiences.

The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts

Surrounded by a shimmering lagoon, The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts is a multi-island, world-class destination that hosts two distinct resorts. Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is a popular choice for families, featuring a lazy river, water playground, a vibrant kids’ club, and a selection of oceanfront or overwater villas along with diverse dining options. In contrast, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers an idyllic island escape with elegant overwater and beach villas and residences, exceptional culinary experiences, tranquil pools, and the acclaimed SPA Cenvaree Retreat.

Regardless of the chosen property, guests enjoy access to both resorts, ensuring a unique and flexible holiday experience. To further enhance their stay, visitors can select The Atollia Destination Full Board Plus package—ideal for sampling the island’s culinary offerings—or opt for the All-Inclusive package, which includes a daily replenished minibar.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives invites guests to secure their next escape with its Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Available for bookings made until 30th June 2025 for stays through 15th October 2025, guests can enjoy a relaxing four-night getaway while paying for only three nights, or extend their escape with the Stay 7, Pay 5 offer. Adding to the appeal, this exceptional promotion includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary sparkling wine and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, and additional benefits for CentaraThe1 members, among other perks

Booking dates: From now until June 30^th

Stay dates: From now until October 15^th, 2025

Offer: Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 OR pay for 5 and stay for 7

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives invites families to enjoy an unforgettable summer escape with a special introductory offer. Guests can take advantage of exclusive rates, with up to two children aged 11 and under staying, playing, and dining for free. To ensure a smooth and stress-free holiday from arrival to departure, the offer also includes complimentary airport transfers and triple CentaraThe1 points for members.

Guests can settle into one of 145 stylish, beach-inspired rooms, each featuring a dining table and a private outdoor bathtub, jacuzzi, or pool. The resort offers endless excitement with thrilling activities, a vibrant kids’ club, a tropical lazy river, and rejuvenating treatments at the world-class SPA Cenvaree—along with playful mini treatments for children at the colorful Candy Spa. With fun and adventure for all ages, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is the perfect place to escape the summer heat, Maldivian style.

Booking dates: From now until June 30^th

Stay dates: From now until October 31^st, 2025

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives presents an exclusive adults-only retreat, where indulgence and tranquillity harmoniously come together. Guests can unwind in a private beachfront villa, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach, or relax beside the shimmering lagoon under the summer sun. The resort also offers vibrant marine exploration through snorkelling, along with a variety of resort-wide activities, beach games, and water sports.

This summer, travellers are invited to refresh and rejuvenate with a distinctive escape to this private island paradise, where all villas are available at 30% off and CentaraThe1 Members receive an elevated discount of 45%. To begin the getaway in style, guests staying 2 to 4 nights can enjoy 50% off transfers, while those booking an Overwater Villa will be welcomed with a bottle of sparkling grape and a fruit basket.

Enhancing the experience even further, guests can delight in world-class cuisine with 20% off food and beverages throughout their stay, or indulge in a three-course poolside dinner, available for guests on Half Board plans and above. Additional perks include 10% off water sports and excursions, as well as complimentary access to snorkelling, pedalo, and kayaking activities—perfect for creating lasting memories. No visit is complete without a relaxing session at SPA Cenvaree, where guests can enjoy a buy-one-get-one offer on select treatments.

Booking dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Stay dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Offer:

45% off on all villas for CentaraThe1 Members
30% off for non-members
50% off on transfers with a minimum 2 nights to a maximum 4 nights
Sparkling grape & fruit basket upon arrival in Overwater villas
One 3-course poolside dinner under the stars for Half Board Plus and above
Buy one and get one on select spa treatments
Special evening turndown service with bed decoration on arrival night
20% discount on Food & Beverage from all outlets’ a la carte menu
10% discount on water sports and excursions
Complimentary use of Snorkelling gear, pedalo, and kayak

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

Situated in the South Ari Atoll, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, is more than just a destination—it is a living expression of the Maldivian way of life, where nature and culture exist in perfect harmony. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, the resort encourages guests to disconnect from the outside world and embrace a life in sync with their surroundings. Guests can choose from 112 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater villas, each offering sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the nearby UNESCO-protected marine reserve.

During their stay, visitors are invited to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life through activities such as snorkelling, semi-submarine tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A highlight of the reef is a shipwreck located just 30 metres from the harbour channel, teeming with glassfish, resting nurse sharks beneath the hull, and stonefish camouflaged along the deck. For those seeking a deeper connection, the resort also offers the Blessing Ritual—a reflective tradition held beneath a 200-year-old sacred tree, where guests can tie personal wishes to its branches in a symbolic act of clarity, intention, and connection.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives offers an extraordinary escape, with CentaraThe1 members enjoying 45% off flexible rates on meal plans, and non-members receiving 30% off, along with an additional 30% discount on seaplane transfers. From the moment of arrival—greeted by handmade chocolates and fresh tropical fruit in the villa—guests are immersed in the magic of island life. Days can be spent snorkelling vibrant reefs, paddling through turquoise waters, or exploring the lush landscapes, followed by relaxing spa treatments with a buy-one-get-one offer, or cocktails at 20% off across all à la carte dining venues.

Families can enjoy a complimentary picnic lunch, while couples are treated to a romantic three-course dinner under the stars. Additional enhancements include floating breakfasts served in private pools, beautifully decorated beds upon arrival, and generous savings on water sports. With complimentary stays and meals for children aged six and under, as well as free use of snorkelling gear, kayaks, and pedalos, this island sanctuary delivers the perfect setting for an unforgettable Maldivian escape.

Booking dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Stay dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Offer:

45% off Flexible Rates on Meal Plans for CentaraThe1 Members
30% off Flexible Rates on Meal Plans non-members
30% discount on seaplane transfers for all guests with a minimum stay of 2 to 6 nights
Homemade chocolates & fruit basket upon arrival in Overwater and Club Pool Villas
One free picnic lunch – for the whole family (Half Board Plus and above) or one 3-course private beach dinner under the stars for couples (Half Board Plus and above)
Buy one and get one on select spa treatments
Kids 6 years and below Stay & Eat for Free as per the meal plan booked by parents
20% special discount on indulging floating breakfast (Only in Club pool villas)
Special evening turn-down service with bed decoration on arrival night
20% discount on Food & Beverages in all outlets on the à la carte menu
10% discount on Water Sports and Excursions
Complimentary use of snorkelling gear, pedalo and Kayak

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

Drink

Sommeliers and hospitality leaders to gather at Ifuru Island for exclusive Liquid Tasting Event

Published

3 days ago

June 16, 2025

m@ldives

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the upcoming Raa Atoll Liquid Tasting, an exclusive gathering of sommeliers, F&B professionals, and hospitality leaders scheduled for 26 June 2025. This distinguished event is being presented in collaboration with The Liquid Concept, a premium beverage platform celebrated for its concept-driven approach to wine and spirits curation across the Indian Ocean region.

Established in 2021, The Liquid Concept delivers a comprehensive 360-degree beverage experience. Its portfolio includes fine wines, artisanal spirits, grower and grand marque Champagnes, vermouths, low- and no-alcohol alternatives, and innovative beverage solutions designed for hospitality and lifestyle destinations. The platform’s mission is to transform the beverage experience through purposeful curation, sustainable innovation, and immersive storytelling.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ifuru Island, the tasting event will feature over 40 exceptional wine labels sourced from around the world. These selections, drawn from The Liquid Concept’s intentionally curated portfolio, invite attendees on a sensory exploration of diverse terroirs, winemaking philosophies, and compelling narratives.

Enhancing the tasting experience, guests will be treated to a specially crafted three-course menu, thoughtfully designed to complement and elevate the wine pairings. This harmonious fusion of food and beverage aims to showcase the artistry of hospitality and refined palate engagement.

As part of a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, Ifuru Island and The Liquid Concept will also introduce the Bermar Wine & Champagne Preservation System during the event. This advanced technology enables the preservation of opened wines and champagnes, offering resorts a smart, eco-conscious solution to minimise waste and improve wine-by-the-glass service.

The Raa Atoll Liquid Tasting is an invitation-only event, poised to become a signature occasion that reflects Ifuru Island’s dedication to elevating the culinary and beverage scene in the Maldives.

Excursions

Underwater adventure awaits at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa’s Aqua Week 2025

Published

3 days ago

June 16, 2025

m@ldives

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa is inviting travellers to experience the extraordinary with the unveiling of its vibrant Maamutaa House Reef — a thriving underwater ecosystem situated just 100 meters from the resort’s shoreline. Boasting rich marine biodiversity and easy access, this reef presents a rare opportunity to explore the aquatic wonders of the Maldives without venturing far from shore.

The reef is home to an impressive array of marine life, including graceful green and hawksbill turtles, blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, schools of colourful parrotfish and angelfish, as well as occasional sightings of eagle rays and octopuses. According to the resort’s in-house marine biologist, the reef is not only highly accessible but also remarkably active, offering guests the chance to engage directly with a thriving marine ecosystem.

Visitors begin their journey with a swim through a flourishing seagrass bed — a crucial habitat in its own right — before reaching the reef drop-off, where the underwater spectacle unfolds. The reef’s hard and soft coral formations remain in excellent condition, protected by the atoll’s geography and sustained by strong ocean currents.

From July 13 to 20, 2025, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa will host Aqua Week 2025, an immersive celebration of underwater discovery, innovation, and environmental responsibility. This event marks the official launch of Phase 1 of the resort’s Seagrass Mapping & Awareness Project, offering guests the opportunity to participate in guided snorkeling tours, collect visual data, and learn about the importance of seagrass meadows in supporting marine biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

Aqua Week will also feature several high-profile collaborations. Insta360 will lead underwater content creation workshops, enabling guests to capture their marine adventures in 360-degree detail. Edge K5 will provide smart drive underwater scooters for a more dynamic exploration of the reef. Additionally, certified mermaid Gloria Xue will offer mermaid classes, host underwater photoshoots, and perform captivating mermaid shows in the resort’s Aqua Villa.

Bringing together sustainability, technology, and immersive storytelling, Aqua Week 2025 promises to be a memorable celebration beneath the waves.

As part of its broader commitment to environmental sustainability and in line with Green Globe’s certification standards, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has launched a comprehensive three-phase Seagrass Mapping & Awareness Project. The initiative aims to highlight the ecological significance of seagrass meadows, which serve as nurseries for marine life and play a key role in carbon sequestration.

The project includes:

Phase 1 (July): Seagrass identification and mapping in collaboration with resort staff and guests.
Phase 2 (August–September): Guided snorkeling tours to collect visual data and raise awareness, continuing during Aqua Week.
Phase 3 (October): The premiere of a short documentary film that captures the project’s progress and outcomes.
This initiative not only contributes to the protection of a vital marine habitat but also encourages guest participation in meaningful conservation efforts.

The reef at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa serves as the foundation for a range of signature guest experiences designed to educate, inspire, and engage:

Expert-led guided snorkeling tours
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) sessions directly from the beach
Night snorkeling under UV light to reveal biofluorescence
Citizen science programs focused on seasonal seagrass research
Kids’ Ocean Explorers — a playful educational program tailored for young marine enthusiasts

Whether seasoned divers, casual snorkellers, or curious beginners, guests at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa can enjoy direct access to the wonders of the Indian Ocean with ease and unforgettable reward.