Connect with us

Featured

Anantara Maldives hosts mini triathlon for breast cancer awareness, raises funds for Cancer Society

Published

on

Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Naladhu Private Island Maldives have joined forces to host the first Anantara Mini Triathlon, raising money for the Cancer Society of Maldives.

On October 29, 36 participants entered the competition, swimming, cycling and running in possibly the most stunning triathlon setting in the world. The competitors ran two laps around Veli and Naladhu, swam across the lagoon to Dhigu, then finished up with three laps cycling around the island.

The winner of the competition completed the course in just 24 minutes, a stunning achievement. Little kids also joined in on bicycles for a fun family day for all.

The event finished with a cocktail party and awards ceremony on the beach, with Chairperson of the Cancer Society of Maldives, Juwairiya Saeed, sharing a few heartfelt words: “I would like to thank the competitors, the resorts, and the 46 volunteers who dedicated their time and energy into making today a great success. Not only do such events highlight the unique beauty of our nation, but they also bring much needed awareness and funds to help those in need. Here’s to many more years of partnership.”

Situated on Dhigufinolhu Island in the South Male Atoll is Anantara Dhigu, where luxury meets simplicity. The resort comprises of the most spacious of luxury villas coupled with private plunge pools while just being a quick 35-minute speedboat ride away from the main Velana International Airport.

Anantara Dhigu provides a harmonious combination of both the romantic, adventure and family friendly. Upon arrival guests can peer into the crystal waters below the jetty at puffer fish, sting rays and baby reef sharks.

Choose between villas perfectly positioned to catch the sunrise or sunset, or those that have their own private plunge pool. Among Maldives luxury accommodation, Anantara Dhigu is outstanding with its choice of stylishly designed villas and suites. A number of these villas come with direct access to the powdery white beach and all only steps away from the tranquil lagoon.

Parents can relax while little ones are entertained for hours and spoilt for choice with Anantara’s kids club and numerous activities available. Thrill the family with adventures that include water bobbing, surfing and deep sea fishing. Families can even take a short pontoon ride to the island of Guli Fushi, picnic on the deserted beaches and experience some of the best snorkelling in the Maldives!

The cuisine at Anantara Dhigu is an inspiring Maldives restaurant gastronomic experience. Dining is relaxed and informal, with an array of seafood and meat grills, fine Italian cuisine and varying themed buffet dinners, to lighter meals poolside for lunch.

Anantara Dhigu’s evocative location is matched by a tranquil island design approach that feels like home away from home while providing guests with their every need.

Anantara Veli, located very close to Anantara Dhigu, is one of the few adult-only islands in the Maldives where white sand and azure waters provide the perfect setting. The resort is perfectly suited to couples or groups of friends looking for a relaxing island hideaway where turquoise waters beckon from a choice of intimate accommodation bungalows, some with direct lagoon access.

Relax with a loved one in the over water bungalows, as a spectacular plethora of sea life swims in the crystal-clear lagoon beneath or unwind on a sun deck overlooking the palm fringed island and pristine coral reefs in the South Male Atoll, just 35 minutes from Velana International Airport. For guests who wish to experience ultimate relaxation, exclusive access to Sundari Ayurvedic Spa will provide a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

Anantara Veli also boasts convenient dining options, such as international cuisines at 73 Degrees and Thai food at the esteemed Baan Huraa, which will re-open in May following an extensive refurbishment. In the evening, add an element of gourmet dining with a unique menu designed by guests and the chef, served on a deserted sandbank that has a backdrop of a breathtaking Maldivian sunset.

For seekers of exclusivity and privacy, nestled on a stunning small island is Naladhu Maldives, an idyllic location that offers the best retreat for couples looking for the ultimate romantic hideaway.

Naladhu, taken from the Dhivehi word meaning “beautiful little island,” is a luxurious, intimate island resort located on Velighandu Huraa in South Male Atoll.

The award-winning resort offers a unique holiday home-like feeling, underpinned by a utopia of seclusion that is created by private and tailored services. This combined with 19 Houses and one Residence, facing the lagoon or the ocean that each pay homage to a blend of colonial style interiors, taking influence from India, Sri Lanka and of course the Maldives. Each house is hidden away in pristinely kept vegetation, entwined with sandy paths that seem to wind endlessly, along with your imagination and dreams.

Naladhu guests have the exclusive option to mix and match fine wines, ocean breezes and excellent cuisine choices. Overlooking the lagoon, The Living Room is an elegant beachfront dining scene. Discover the complex aromas combined with the depth of flavours as the resident Wine Guru shares the secrets and timeless tales of great wine through the centuries.

Featured

Experience timeless Maldivian elegance at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

Published

on

Machchafushi, meaning ‘Fish Island’ in Dhivehi, encapsulates the essence of this serene retreat in South Ari Atoll. As part of The Centara Collection, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa embodies the true spirit of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate connection with the ocean, marine life, and the island’s cultural heritage.

Situated within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a UNESCO-recognised site, Machchafushi provides year-round access to remarkable marine experiences, vibrant coral ecosystems, and unforgettable underwater explorations, including the famous Kudhimaa shipwreck. Once a secluded, uninhabited island, Machchafushi holds a special place in the cultural landscape of the Maldives. Today, as part of this protected marine reserve, it continues to remain authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its natural surroundings.

Marine life is at the heart of the Machchafushi experience. The island offers some of the world’s highest whale shark resighting rates, with encounters available throughout the year. Guests may also encounter graceful manta rays and a colourful abundance of tropical fish drifting through crystalline waters. Encircled by a renowned house reef—stretching nearly five times the island’s size—the area is home to over 1,000 species of fish and 200 varieties of coral, creating an underwater paradise.

South Ari Atoll is celebrated as one of the Maldives’ finest diving regions, featuring over fifty dive sites teeming with marine life. Kudarah Thila presents a UNESCO-protected labyrinth of overhangs and swim-throughs populated by fusiliers and snappers, while Broken Rock captivates divers with its dramatic canyon of corals and macro life, ideal for underwater photography. Dhigurah Beyru and Maamigili Corner are noted for encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins. The 52-metre Kudhimaa Wreck has evolved into a thriving coral habitat, now home to lionfish, batfish, groupers, and the well-camouflaged stonefish and frogfish. Nearby, Anemone Alley flourishes beneath the seasonal seaplane platform, forming a vibrant ecosystem that draws snorkellers and divers alike. The house reef remains the beating heart of Machchafushi—a world-class natural wonder beneath the waves.

Beyond the ocean, the island tells a story of its own. At its centre stands a centuries-old Banyan Tree, known locally as the Ummeedhu Tree, or ‘Wish Fulfilment’. This living symbol invites guests to pause and reflect, taking part in the Sacred Thread Ceremony, where wishes and intentions are tied to the tree’s branches—creating a bond that endures long after their stay.

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Machchafushi’s philosophy, ensuring the preservation of both its natural beauty and cultural legacy. Every sunrise, dive, and golden thread tied to the Ummeedhu Tree becomes part of a continuing narrative—one that celebrates the Maldives’ heritage and invites guests to create lasting memories in harmony with nature.

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Spooky celebrations await at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with ‘The Return of the Mummy’

Published

on

Sun Siyam Olhuveli will transform into a realm of ancient legends and eerie excitement this Halloween with its themed celebration, The Return of the Mummy. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in two days of themed activities, family games, and live entertainment throughout the resort.

The highlight of the celebration will be a beachfront performance by Swedish DJ and rising international talent Caroline Roxy. A multifaceted artist—DJ, singer-songwriter, producer, fashion designer, and former model—Caroline is known for fusing energetic electronic beats with pop-inspired rhythms. Drawing on her musical upbringing and experience performing at festivals in cities such as Stockholm and Los Angeles, she is set to deliver an electrifying performance that promises to bring a captivating energy to the shores of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

The festivities will begin on 31 October 2025 with a Halloween Beach Fest, featuring mummy-themed games, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treat adventures, and the popular Mummy Dance Freeze for younger guests. As night falls, the Lagoon Bar will become the centre of the celebration, with flickering lights, pulsing music, and a much-anticipated DJ set by Caroline Roxy. Her performance will combine haunting melodies with powerful electronic rhythms, setting the tone for an unforgettable Halloween evening.

Celebrations will continue on 1 November 2025 with treasure hunts, themed cupcake and marshmallow workshops for children, and a sunset pirate cruise. Adults can take part in a Halloween boot camp before the evening concludes with a fire show and live music by Hightides at the Lagoon Bar.

Blending ancient Egyptian mystery with island charm, The Return of the Mummy at Sun Siyam Olhuveli invites guests to experience a unique Halloween adventure where the legends of the past meet the magic of the Maldives.

Continue Reading

Excursions

From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Published

on

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.

Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.

The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.

Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.

“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.

For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.