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Kandima Maldives becomes more colourful with KULA art initiative

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Kandima Maldives has introduced its KULA art initiative, turning the “kool” island resort into the trendiest, most happening art centre in the Indian Ocean.

KULA, which means “colours” in local Dhivehi language, is envisioned as a long-term initiative to support the full spectrum of the contemporary creative arts — from local crafts, fashion, digital photography, videography to music — and open up new horizons for the local art community like never before.

A local artist showcases her talent at Kandima Maldives. PHOTO/ KANDIMA

The entire resort will be a glorious art gallery, and thanks to a collaboration with Maldives Artists Community (MAC), a local art NGO with over 100 members, Kandima is set to host regular exhibitions and exciting performances by local artists. There will be live art demonstrations and guests can unleash their inner Picasso with classes at Kandima’s very own Art Studio.

Set on the edge of a natural lake, the Art Studio will be one of the most peaceful locations on the island, giving both guests and artists the inspiration and calm space they need to create their masterpiece.

“We want to create extraordinary and innovative experiences for our guests which in turn will positively impact our local communities,” Mohamed Shafraz Hafiz, PR and Communications Manager at Kandima who is leading the initiative, was quoted as saying in an announcement issued by the resort.

“This seemed like the perfect match. There are hundreds of talented artists that come from the local Maldivian islands but their work isn’t seen or appreciated because they don’t have a platform. It’s our vision that this programme will change that. We want KULA to promote and nurture local artistic talent and creativity and essentially open up new horizons for the local art community like never before.”

Kandima team poses for a photo with some of the artists that showcased their talent at the resort. PHOTO/ KANDIMA

KULA is very much a community affair as it will support local schools and artists with equipment, grants and masterclasses. Kandima will give USD 1 per occupied room night to the KULA Fund and guests can make their own donations.

The KULA fund will also prosper and increase from the artists themselves. When a piece of art is sold, the artist will contribute a small percentage of the sale to the KULA fund to help it grow. The remainder goes personally to the artist, with no profit to Kandima.

A local artist showcases his talent at Kandima Maldives. PHOTO/ KANDIMA

The opportunity to be involved is one that local artist Atikey is grateful for.

“KULA is a dream come true. It’s a platform that the whole art community has been waiting for, for a long time. This will not only help local artists display their work in the Maldives, but also on an international stage. It’s an exciting new beginning for us that we hope will grow from strength to strength,” Atikey, who was amongst a group of local artists that hosted art classes at Kandima last month, said.

Local artists showcase their talent at Kandima Maldives. PHOTO/ KANDIMA

According to Kandima, additional dimensions of the KULA initiative will be activated over the next few months, making its way through local crafts, photography and music. The plans include hosting the first KULA exhibition in December with work from 20 local artists — a first for any resort in the Maldives — and introducing the KULA Awards in 2018, giving the local art community a platform to showcase to a global audience.

Located on a lush tropical island in Dhaalu Atoll, Kandima offers a choice of 274 stylishly designed studios and villas, with 11 different categories to choose from, all of which have a private terrace and endless tropical views to enjoy.

The four star plus resort has first class infrastructure, boasting the largest pool in
 the Maldives, tennis courts, an art studio, a marine biology school, a kids club, a game room, a library, a gym, a yoga studio and a spa. There is plenty to keep everyone occupied and the array of activities and events on offer is endless, including a huge choice of watersports, diving or snorkelling near the house reef, yoga, Zumba, bicycles, beach volleyball, petanque, arts and crafts lessons, and much more.

The island also offers one of the largest selection of F&B outlets in the country, with an incredible choice of ten restaurants and bars, all featuring unique and individual menus offering flavours of the world from Chinese and Japanese to authentic Maldivian and Mediterranean. So be it tropical or traditional, Kandima has something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Entertainment

World-renowned guitar duo Café del Mundo to perform at Patina Maldives Fari Islands

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Patina Maldives Fari Islands has announced three exclusive live performances by Café del Mundo, the renowned guitar duo, scheduled for October 28, October 30, and November 1, 2024.

Café del Mundo, featuring Jan Pascal and Alexander Kilian, is celebrated for its captivating fusion of flamenco, classical, jazz, and modern pop music. The duo will bring their distinctive sound to the Maldives, promising an unforgettable musical journey under the stars.

Drawing over ten thousand concertgoers annually, receiving standing ovations, and amassing millions of online fans, Café del Mundo’s performances are known for their magnetism. Jan Pascal and Alexander Kilian’s exceptional mastery of the guitar—combining the authenticity of Paco de Lucía with the energetic style of artists like Coldplay and U2—has earned them international acclaim. The duo has performed alongside the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and recorded at Abbey Road Studios, delivering concerts that transcend genre boundaries and evoke pure joy and passion.

Music is a core element of the guest experience at Patina Maldives, with curated playlists and live performances designed to enrich each stay with immersive, transcendent moments. As a private sanctuary emphasising originality and discovery, these performances by Café del Mundo aim to connect conscious travellers through creative and meaningful experiences.

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Celebration

Celebrate the holidays with a galactic twist at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s AstroFest

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli is preparing to embark on an intergalactic journey this festive season as the island transforms into a celestial oasis with AstroFest 2024-2025, taking place from December 21st, 2024 to January 8th, 2025. This year’s theme is a cosmic celebration of space, featuring floating astronauts, glowing planets, and celestial decor that transport guests into a dazzling universe. With twinkling fairy lights adorning every corner and celestial-inspired activities, the island is set to become a galactic paradise where adventure and celebration await under the stars.

The festivities will begin on December 21 with the Christmas Tree Light-Up Ceremony, setting the stage for the magical season ahead. On Christmas Eve, December 24, a special evening will unfold with the Gala Cocktail Session at sunset, followed by live performances from DJ Jeremiah and belly dancer Vika Kolesnyk, creating a vibrant atmosphere for this special night.

On December 25, Christmas Day will feature Santa Claus’ Interstellar Arrival, a spectacular cosmic entrance that will delight guests of all ages. The evening will include a Christmas Beach BBQ under the stars, where guests can indulge in a delicious culinary feast.

AstroFest will also offer plenty of family-friendly activities. Guests can participate in the colourful and vibrant Olhuveli Galaxy Colour Run on December 26, a cosmic race filled with fun and laughter. On December 27, families can join the exciting Cosmic Quest Day, a day-long treasure hunt with hidden celestial surprises scattered across the island. These activities are designed to bring a sense of adventure and discovery to the festive celebration.

New Year’s Eve on December 31 will be the highlight of AstroFest. Guests will be invited to enjoy an exclusive Gala Cocktail Session, followed by a lavish Gala Dinner at the resort’s beachfront, offering an unforgettable dining experience under the Maldivian celestial sky. The Galactic New Year Bash will set the stage for a spectacular night, headlined by Amber Na, one of Asia’s top-ranked DJs, known for her explosive EDM sets. DJ Jeremiah will return with his energetic beats, and performances from Italian pop sensation Matilde G, and talented singer-songwriter TEJMUSIK from India, will keep the celebration alive as the island counts down to 2025.

The festivities will continue into the new year with special performances by renowned belly dancer Alla Kushnir on January 2 and 7, adding her signature grace and elegance to AstroFest. Russian singer Tanya German, known for her energetic pop and dance performances, will captivate audiences on January 4 and 7, while the Wild Fire Arts Collective will mesmerise guests with their cirque-style entertainment, blending acrobatics, creativity, and visual artistry on January 7.

For guests seeking a more relaxed experience, the II Sense band will perform soothing acoustic sets on December 22, 29, and January 5, creating the perfect ambiance for celestial stargazing.

Sports enthusiasts will have their turn on January 2 with the Olhuveli Open Tennis Masters, where participants can showcase their tennis skills in a thrilling tournament. On January 3, the Snowman at the Beach Competition will offer a playful twist on the traditional snowman, encouraging families to get creative with sand sculptures.

For the younger guests, the Little Astronauts’ Adventure on January 6 will provide a fun-filled day of space-themed games and crafts, ensuring young explorers are fully entertained. With something for everyone, AstroFest promises that each day will be packed with adventure, joy, and celebration.

AstroFest will conclude with a Cosmic Farewell Party on January 8, where guests will bid adieu to this unforgettable festival under the stars, enjoying live music from High Tide for one final night of celestial celebrations.

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Celebration

Festive journey of luxury and sustainability: holiday highlights at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Vilu Reef

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The festive season at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef promises unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. Both resorts have curated distinct themes to celebrate the holidays, focusing on transformation and sustainability while providing luxurious experiences for their visitors.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli: Metamorphosis – A Festive Transformation

This year, Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s festive theme, “Metamorphosis,” symbolises growth and renewal. The resort has embraced a journey of transformation, offering elevated services and experiences while maintaining the core values that its guests cherish. From family-friendly Christmas fun to wellness journeys and a celebratory Christmas dinner, every aspect of this festive period is designed to showcase the beauty of change and renewal. Christmas Day activities include a Whale and manta shark snorkeling trip in the morning, followed by Santa’s arrival at Dolphin Beach, and a Christmas Cinema Paradise for Kids & Family at Chemistry in the evening. Adults can also start their Christmas morning with yoga and pilates classes as part of a wellness activity.

For New Year’s Eve, DJ Toni Mesas will set the stage for an energetic evening. An international DJ from Barcelona, Toni is known for his love of electronic music, particularly techno house. Following his performance, the Wildfire Arts Collective, premier cirque-style entertainers from Los Angeles, will deliver a breathtaking fire show during the cocktail party and New Year’s countdown.

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef: Island Harmony – Eco-Friendly Festive Splendour

At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, this year’s theme, “Island Harmony,” embraces an eco-friendly celebration with a focus on cultural sustainability. The island will be adorned with decorations made from coconut, bamboo, and palm leaves, reflecting the resort’s commitment to eco-conscious luxury. Christmas celebrations will include Santa’s arrival at Aqua Beach, live music, and beach games for families and children, such as sand sculpting for kids and a family movie night. Island excursions, sunset fishing, and a variety of watersports will also be available.

On New Year’s Eve, DJ Cosmicatx, Saudi Arabia’s first female superstar DJ and producer, will lead the festivities with her music. Additionally, the world-renowned LED artists, SuperLEDShow, will perform mesmerising acts to ring in the new year. Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes will deliver electrifying, tightly-choreographed sessions mixing mind-melting projections, lights, acrobatics, and pure artistry—ensuring a memorable night for all in attendance.

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