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Football legends Carles Puyol, Scott Parker, Joey Barton play friendly match at Jumeirah Vittaveli
Jumeirah Vittaveli has hosted an all-star celebrity football match, featuring legendary players Carles Puyol, Scott Parker and Joey Barton.
Colleagues and guests were invited to join the match, which took place at the resort’s own BOLI stadium last weekend. It was watched by dozens of guests and colleagues alike, all cheering on the skilful game on the grass.
Puyol and Parker played in one team, while Barton and one of Parker’s sons played in the other, flanked by Jumeirah Vittaveli colleagues and guests. The teams played for two halves of 15 minutes each, and treated their audience to some truly show stopping saves and goals.
The final score stood at 10-7 for the team with Puyol and Parker.
At the end of the match, Puyol, Parker, Barton and Gianluca Zambrotta who joined the match as a spectator were all given commemorative plaques by Amit Majumder, the General Manager of Jumeirah Vittaveli. A football was ceremonially signed by each.
Puyol, the long-time captain for Barcelona and part of the Spanish national squad that won the Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup, is regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, and has captained the Barcelona team for a memorable 10 years.
Puyol spent some quality time with his family at Jumeirah Vittaveli and enjoyed his stay at the Royal Residence, the lavish 3,500 square metre private beachfront retreat that opened in March.
“It’s been a great pleasure to participate in the friendly football match with the colleagues at Jumeirah Vittaveli! I love football and it’s wonderful to see how passionate everyone here is about my favourite sport! To be able to play with such a diverse team, with its members from so many different nationalities, and all that on a tiny island in the Maldives, is truly exceptional. The goalkeeper in my team was especially outstanding and I hope I’ll get to have him on my team again when I come back,” comments Puyol.
“But it’s not just the players, everyone on the resort is so warm and welcoming. We are staying at the Royal Residence and I don’t think I could ask for a more luxurious or comfortable holiday.”
Parker is a former English professional football player who was signed by Chelsea, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspurs and Fulham amongst others. His career spanned 20 years and he played 119 league matches for Fulham in both the Premier League and the Championship.
Parker was so kind to bring memorabilia from his former club, the Tottenham Hotspurs — he brought two of the jerseys he himself used to wear when playing for the club, in addition to two sets of football boots. These thoughtful and generous souvenirs were handed over to the colleagues of Jumeirah Vittaveli, many of whom are passionate football fans and could not believe their luck to be meeting one of their personal football heroes and receiving souvenirs from their favourite club on top of it.
After a quick group picture, Parker immediately went on to start a small training session together with his sons, where he taught some of his special tricks and skills to Jumeirah Vittaveli colleagues.
“This vacation was my first chance to be with my family and travel since I retired last year and I can’t think of a more perfect place to have come to than Jumeirah Vittaveli. My kids love football and to be able to travel to a country where everyone has such a love for the game is amazing. Being able to play football with my sons and have an amazing time on this vacation made it just so special,” said Parker, when handing over the club souvenirs.
Barton is an English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder. He has made 240 appearances in the Premier League, including 130 for Manchester City.
Zambrottais an Italian former professional footballer, who played as a full-back for such notable clubs as Milan, Juventus, and Barcelona. He played at three FIFA World Cups, three UEFA European Championships, and was a key member of the starting line-up of the Italian squad that won the 2006 World Cup.
Located a short 20-minute ride on board a luxurious motorised catamaran from capital, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration, whether you are seeking a romantic getaway or an exotic destination for your family.
In addition to the new Royal Residence, which was recently recognised as Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Hotel Villa at the World Travel Awards, Jumeirah Vittaveli comprises 89 villas and suites each with their own swimming pool and direct access to the beach or lagoon. The private and spacious villas are available with one or two bedrooms making them the ideal accommodation for both families and couples. Highlights are the free-standing Ocean Suites, located only a heartbeat away from the main island and accessible by complimentary boat service.
For the evenings, guests have the choice of a culinary journey through India in the resort’s signature restaurant Swarna, or an overwater fine dining experience featuring French cuisine at Fenesse.
The Talise spa at Jumeirah Vittaveli has been named Best Luxury Wellness Spa in Maldives by the World Travel Awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017. Treatments at the spa are inspired by concepts of light and space connecting with the purity and vibration of ingredients. The team produces their own island made 100 percent pure coconut oil, which is used in treatments and available as a take-home souvenir. The garden and overwater treatment rooms provide romantic spaces for couples who wish to enjoy blissful relaxation, while the spa menu also includes dedicated Mother-Daughter and Father-Son pampering sessions.
For those seeking adventure, the island’s water sports centre offers flyboarding. For those looking to experience the wonder of the underwater world of the Maldives, there are diving and snorkelling excursions to see turtles and magnificent shipwrecks.
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Tennis legend Marion Bartoli leads exclusive lessons at Siyam World Maldives
From December 10th to 14th, Siyam World Maldives will host an unforgettable event for tennis enthusiasts and sports lovers. In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort welcomes former World No. 7 and Wimbledon Champion Marion Bartoli for an exciting LUX Tennis Star Event, featuring private lessons, group clinics, and a Meet & Greet with the tennis legend.
After establishing itself as a premier destination for football camps and hosting some of the sport’s greatest players, Siyam World is now shifting focus to tennis, with Marion Bartoli as the latest star to join its roster of sports icons. Guests will have the opportunity to step onto the court with Bartoli herself, gaining insights and tips from one of the sport’s best, whether they’re experienced players or beginners looking to improve their skills.
In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort offers a diverse range of tennis activities, from private one-on-one lessons to energetic group clinics, catering to all levels of players. Additionally, a Complimentary Meet & Greet session provides fans with the chance to take photos, engage in conversation with Bartoli, and hear about her inspiring journey from professional player to tennis icon.
Marion Bartoli is a celebrated former professional tennis player from France, known for her unique playing style and remarkable career achievements. She captured the prestigious Wimbledon Championships singles title in 2013, becoming the sixth player in the Open Era to win the title without dropping a set. Bartoli was also a Wimbledon finalist in 2007 and reached the semifinals at the French Open in 2011. Throughout her career, she earned seven singles and three doubles titles on the WTA Tour. Recognised for her unconventional approach, she played with both hands on her forehand and backhand, distinguishing her from traditional players. Bartoli reached her career-high ranking of World No. 7 on January 30, 2012, and returned to this ranking on July 8, 2013, following her Wimbledon victory.
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Ayada Maldives introduces the sleek Jet Car experience
Ayada Maldives, renowned for its luxury experiences and stunning oceanic paradise, has introduced an exhilarating new way to explore the island’s turquoise waters: the Jet Car. This innovative, sports-car-inspired watercraft offers guests the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure, providing a one-of-a-kind experience in the Maldivian seas.
The Ayada Maldives Jet Car is more than just a ride; it represents an unforgettable thrill. Designed to resemble a sleek sports car, this watercraft glides effortlessly over the lagoon, offering an exhilarating way to explore the island’s pristine waters in style. Perfect for adventure seekers and luxury enthusiasts alike, the Jet Car presents an unmatched opportunity to experience the breathtaking views and vibrant marine life of the Maldives from an entirely new perspective.
Guests embarking on the Jet Car adventure will feel the excitement as they cruise through Ayada’s stunning waters, creating waves and turning heads along the way. This unique watercraft is not only a visual spectacle but also easy to operate, making it accessible for both experienced water sports enthusiasts and those new to water-based adventures.
The Jet Car experience is available for booking at Ayada Maldives’ Watersports Center, with prices starting from $249 per ride. Each ride promises to be a highlight of any guest’s stay, providing an unbeatable blend of adrenaline and beauty that captures the essence of the Maldives.
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One&Only Reethi Rah welcomes top tennis talents Iga Swiatek and Ugo Humbert for exclusive clinics
One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives is offering tennis enthusiasts of all levels and ages a unique chance to meet and play with two of the world’s top players this November. In collaboration with the global tennis management company LUX Tennis, the resort will host Iga Swiatek, currently ranked No. 2, and Ugo Humbert, currently ranked No. 14, starting from November 21. The event will feature world-class showcases of their skills through clinics, private lessons, and exhibition matches at the exclusive private island resort.
Iga Swiatek, known for her aggressive, all-court play style, powerful serve, and exceptional speed, held the No. 1 ranking globally until recently. Originally from Poland and a favourite on the WTA Tour, she has won an impressive 22 singles titles, including the 2023 WTA Finals and ten WTA 1000 titles.
Ugo Humbert, celebrated for his strong serve and attacking approach, reached his career-high singles ranking of No. 13 in March 2021. Representing France, Humbert has shown his prowess across various ATP tours and ITF circuits, with a remarkable record of six ATP Tour titles from six finals.
The exciting visits of Iga and Ugo add to the tennis program at One&Only Reethi Rah, supported by resident LUX Tennis professionals. Guests can enjoy private lessons and friendly matches on the resort’s superb facilities, which include two floodlit tennis courts and a padel court, all set amidst the stunning Maldivian landscape.
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