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Niyama Maldives announces visiting wellness practitioner programmes
Niyama Private Islands Maldives has announced a roster of visiting wellness practitioners.
Drift by Niyama offers a unique take on spa journeys, with the latest in beauty from the world’s leading brands and a visiting roster of wellness practitioners from Beverly Hills to Dubai. The schedule of visiting practitioners for the rest of the year and early next year include:
Inner peace and outer beauty with Katrina Valente (October 20 to November 10)
Join the Hollywood A-list with Intraceuticals oxygen facials – the first in the Maldives – and Dermapen mesotherapy, treatments which deliver tailored nutrients directly to the skin. Indulge in soothing massages such as raindrop therapy, originating with the Lakota Native Indians.
Katrina’s philosophy begins with the maxim that beauty radiates from the inside out. Her facials and anti-ageing treatments combine the latest medical innovations, 100 percent organic aroma products and the healing powers of holistic medicine. Each personalised consultation with Katrina begins with colour therapy to individualise treatments based on each individual’s chakras.
Trained at the Burghley Academy of Beauty in Cambridgeshire, Scottish-Italian beauty Katrina Valente is a master practitioner of reflexology, crystal therapy, Shamanic reiki and pranic healing, and has spent the last two decades based in Dubai giving holistic beauty treatments to royalty and socialites alike.

Non-surgical facelifts with Dr Alessi (December 22 to January 2, 2018)
Remove wrinkles and folds, contour and shape the planes of your face, or correct asymmetrically aligned features. Using a combination of Botox for crow’s feet and frown lines; Juvederm and Perfectha hyaluronic fillers to lift and contour cheeks, minimise nasolabial folds, wrinkles and skin depressions, and add volume to and contour lips; and Kybella, the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment to improve the appearance of impurities beneath the chin by physically destroying fat cells. Treat yourself to a facelift without the invasiveness of surgery, all under Dr Alessi’s artistic hands.
As the founder and medical director of the Alessi Institute for Facial Plastic Surgery, Beverly Hills, Dr Alessi is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. Magician to the stars, Dr Alessi has appeared on Larry King Live, ABC News, CBS News, NBC News and CNN for his expertise in facial contouring.

Perfect health with Paulo Fernandes (December 27 to January 17, 2018)
Paulo will be hosting complimentary workshops on The Ten Steps for Perfect Health at Drift by Niyama. A holistic look at the combination of diet, hydration, detoxing and exercise, Paulo also introduces the wonders of nutritional microscopy and an alkaline lifestyle.
Discover the inner workings of your body, with a live blood analysis illustrating your nutritional needs, deficiencies and imbalances. Learn about targeted super foods and herbs to increase your energy levels. Sign up for a bamboo massage to melt away muscle pain, or a session of lymphatic detox with cavitation to remove accumulated toxins and break up localised fat deposits and cellulite with ultrasound.
Paulo Fernandes is a health coach certified by the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in Manhattan. Competing in international swimming from a young age, Paulo joined the Marines at 18 and became a Navy Seal officer. After receiving his PhD in sports, Paulo specialised in nutritional microscopy, naturopathy, raw nutrition and biontology. Paulo has travelled the world, from Los Angeles to London to Dubai, helping the elite reach their goals of maximum health and fitness.

Niyama, a popular A-list hideaway nestled in the Dhaalu atoll, offers guests exclusive access to its twin islands – Chill and Play – conveniently connected via a picturesque bridge.
The family-friendly retreat, surrounded by picturesque shorelines and lush vegetation, has nine deluxe room categories ranging from spacious beachfront studios and one-bedroom water pavilions to three-bedroom family beach pavilions with two private pools, jacuzzi and a personal spa treatment room. With state-of-the-art amenities, in-room fridges filled with gourmet treats, a private butler plus the magic of the Maldivian island, this is the ultimate antidote to city life.
The jewel in the resort’s crown is the magnificent Crescent, a playground of five ultra-chic villas, all with private pools, for up to 14 adults and eight children. Boasting a private chef, two butlers, a housekeeper and a host of complimentary activities including a sunset dhoni cruise and movie under the stars, this over water sanctuary is the perfect paradise treat for extended families, honeymooners and discerning travellers.
With nine dining destinations, including tree house restaurant Nest and the world’s first underwater playground Subsix, guests can enhance their stay at Niyama with surreal gastronomic experiences.
Young VIPs will adore the Explorers Kids Club with its range of activities including nature expeditions around the tropical isles to MasterChef classes, while adventure-seeking teens and adults will be inspired by the resort’s excellent water sports offerings such as surfing, scuba diving and jet-skiing. Wellness devotees looking to indulge in a spot of indulgent pampering can retreat to the tranquil Drift by Niyama spa while enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise sea views from the six overwater treatment rooms.
Featured
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives collaborates with Maldivian artist Ahmed Aleem
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection has announced a collaboration with Ahmed Aleem Shakoor, who is currently in residence at the resort, introducing a creative element to the guest experience.
Aleem, a self-taught artist, is known for work that combines maritime themes, surrealism and symbolism. His practice spans watercolours, acrylics and mixed media, drawing inspiration from the Maldives’ history and ocean landscapes, often expressed through the use of light, depth and narrative.
During his residency, Aleem is working with the resort to develop a series of artistic and cultural experiences aimed at engaging guests. These include live painting sessions, informal interactions with the artist and workshops designed to encourage creative participation.
The programme forms part of the resort’s wider activities, with offerings such as mini canvas painting, coconut painting and creative art sessions available to guests. In addition, Tales Painted in Sunlight combines elements of Maldivian folklore, storytelling and visual art, providing further insight into local culture.
The collaboration reflects the resort’s approach to incorporating local artistic talent into its programming, while offering guests opportunities to engage with creative activities in a relaxed setting. The residency is designed to allow guests to explore artistic expression as part of their island experience.
As part of its seasonal programme, selected artistic activities are also included in the resort’s Easter offerings, providing additional opportunities for guests to take part in creative experiences during their stay.
Awards
Amilla Maldives wins ‘Most OutThere Initiative’ award for Inclusive Travel
Amilla Maldives has been named a joint winner in the Most OutThere Initiative in Inclusive Travel category at the Experientialist Awards 2026, following a Highly Commended recognition in the same category in 2025.
The Experientialist Awards recognise organisations shaping travel through inclusivity, individuality and design, with the inclusive travel category highlighting initiatives that address not only accessibility, but also how journeys are experienced by guests.
At Amilla Maldives, accessibility is integrated into the overall guest experience. The resort adopts an approach that begins at the planning stage and continues throughout the stay, with a focus on understanding individual guest needs and adapting experiences accordingly.
Aligned with its In Harmony with Purpose philosophy, the resort has introduced a range of measures aimed at improving accessibility. These include villa features designed for ease of use, accessible pathways across the island and adaptive experiences such as inclusive snorkelling and wellness sessions.
As an IncluCare Verified resort, Amilla Maldives continues to develop its offering through feedback and collaboration, with the aim of enhancing inclusivity across its operations.
Commenting on the recognition, Morgan Martinello said the resort remains focused on creating travel experiences that feel natural and accessible. He noted that the continued recognition reflects the resort’s ongoing efforts to improve inclusivity.
The award from OutThere, a platform focused on diversity and inclusion in travel, marks a further step in the resort’s efforts to create accessible and inclusive guest experiences.
Featured
One year on: Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives marks milestone
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, part of Centara Hotels and Resorts, has marked its first anniversary, highlighting a year of operations as a luxury island resort within The Atollia development.
During its first year, the resort has received international recognition, including being named among Favourite Overseas Leisure Hotels in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 and listed among the Top Ten Best Maldives Resorts in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.
Since opening, the resort has offered a collection of beachfront and overwater villas, along with two- and three-bedroom residences designed to provide privacy and space. Accommodation options include private pools or Jacuzzis, with design elements incorporating contemporary architecture, natural materials and Thai-inspired influences.
The resort’s concept draws on Thai heritage, reflected across its wellness, dining and guest experiences. At SPA Cenvaree Retreat, treatments are inspired by traditional Thai wellness practices. Dining options across the resort include live cooking experiences at The Gallery, Mediterranean-inspired seafood at Bluefin, and beverage offerings at venues such as Sunset Social, The Club and Coco Drift.
Guests can also take part in a range of leisure and recreational activities, including water sports and marine experiences. The resort caters to a variety of travellers, offering facilities for families, including a kids’ club and an entertainment zone for teenagers, as well as spaces for private events, group stays and corporate gatherings.
Commenting on the milestone, Jorge Fernandez said the resort combines elements of Thai heritage with the Maldivian environment to create a distinct guest experience. He noted that recognition received during the first year reflects the resort’s approach to hospitality, sustainability and service, while also acknowledging the role of guests and staff in its development.
As it marks its first anniversary, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives continues to focus on delivering curated guest experiences, with an emphasis on hospitality, design and sustainable operations within the destination.
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