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Jumeirah Vittaveli appoints Executive Committee members
Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives, an award-winning luxury island resort recently named Global Hotel of the Year by the World Luxury Hotel Awards, has appointed Ramesh Moorthy as Director of Finance and Natwar Patel as Director of Engineering.
“We are continuously working on enhancing guest experience, and with the recent opening of the new and extended B4R, the new overwater lounge Cyan, and the addition of the Private Ocean Retreats, as well as the upcoming opening of the Cave at B4R, our new underground tasting room for rare whiskeys and artisan chocolates, we rely on a strong Executive Committee to support all of our endeavours. I am confident that Ramesh and Natwar will contribute to the continued success of Jumeirah Vittaveli, based on their wealth of experience in leading properties around the world,” Amit Majumder, the General Manager, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
An Indian national, Ramesh Moorthy started his career in finance in his native Chennai in 1996, from which he moved on to Goa, and then joined Starwood in Mauritius. After returning back home to India to work for Leela Hotels and then Hilton Worldwide, Ramesh ventured to the Maldives to join St Regis, his most recent position before becoming part of the Jumeirah family.
Ramesh’s strengths are pre-opening operations including setting up of all financial policies and procedures, and the balancing of budgetary control with a maximisation of high quality purchasing. He is a pro-active visionary with a drive for real time results with experience in all aspects of accounting, finance, and audit matters.
A professional engineer with 30 years’ experience, Natwar Patel hails from Fiji, so he is intimately familiar with the challenges and benefits of living and working in an island destination.
He has had broad exposure in the electrical field, with the largest sugar mill in Fiji, as well as extensive experience in senior management roles in the hotel industry. Having held single property as well as cluster Director of Engineering positions in resorts and hotels in Fiji, Australia, Asia, the United Kingdom and Maldives, Natwar brings a host of experience in project management, hotel pre-opening and maintenance projects.
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 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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The Calm Spa Sanctuary at JA Manafaru unveils new upgrades
The Calm Spa Sanctuary at JA Manafaru, situated within a lush tropical forest, has announced a series of renovations designed to enhance the guest experience and solidify its reputation as the Maldives’ premier wellness retreat. Renowned for its seamless integration of nature and tranquillity, the spa’s recent upgrades are set to enrich every aspect of the guest journey, from soothing treatments to transformative fitness and yoga offerings.
This sanctuary has long been a haven of peace, where the sounds of nature create a calming atmosphere and energy flows harmoniously throughout the grounds. In response to increasing demand for greater luxury and comfort, significant upgrades have been made to its spa rooms and facilities. Nine private treatment rooms now feature redesigned interiors, complete with added wardrobes and thoughtfully curated furnishings that amplify the sense of calm and indulgence. The changing rooms, equipped with plunge pools and enhanced amenities, offer a more immersive and seamless transition between treatments, elevating the overall sense of luxury and ensuring guests feel completely pampered during their wellness journey.
In line with its dedication to expanding wellness offerings, the spa has introduced a new yoga and Pilates studio. Surrounded by natural beauty, this thoughtfully designed space provides a serene environment that fosters relaxation and mindfulness. The studio is bathed in natural light, creating an atmosphere of peace and calm. It is equipped with a Pilates reformer, a punching bag, and functional fitness equipment, offering guests the opportunity to deepen their practice or explore new challenges. Whether seeking restorative yoga sessions or dynamic Pilates workouts, guests can now enjoy a wider range of fitness activities in a space designed to nurture both mental and physical well-being.
The spa continues to offer an extensive variety of treatments and packages tailored to individual and group needs. Guests can partake in bespoke wellness programmes, from personalised yoga retreats to therapeutic treatments inspired by Dhivehi Beys, an ancient Maldivian tradition that uses local herbs and plants to create natural, healing products. These offerings provide a deeper connection to nature while delivering luxurious therapies that draw on Eastern and Western healing practices. The holistic approach ensures relaxation, rejuvenation, and physical renewal within the spa’s tranquil and immersive environment.
With these latest improvements, The Calm Spa Sanctuary maintains its position as a benchmark for wellness retreats in the Maldives. Its unique combination of luxury, natural surroundings, and expert care creates transformative experiences for every guest. From indulgent spa treatments to invigorating fitness sessions and serene yoga retreats, this sanctuary remains an unparalleled destination for those seeking a ‘Heaven on Earth’ experience at JA Manafaru.
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Celebrate Valentine’s Day with live portraits by Jo Bird at Kuramathi Maldives
In February 2025, Kuramathi Maldives will welcome guests to explore the art of live illustration with renowned artist Jo Bird. Recognised for turning memories into treasured keepsakes, Jo will be on the island conducting live portrait sessions for couples and families from 10 to 16 February.
With nearly a decade of expertise in capturing personal style, Jo’s career journey has included studying at Kingston University, representing artists in advertising, and creating live portraits for prestigious brands such as Chanel and Dior, as well as exclusive events hosted by Ralph Lauren and Jo Malone.
This Valentine’s Day, Jo will bring her distinctive talent to the tropical paradise of Kuramathi. Whether guests are celebrating a romantic escape or creating special family moments, her relaxed and conversational approach promises to make the experience as delightful as the portrait itself. In under 30 minutes, she will craft personalised portraits, offering visitors a bespoke memento of their stay – an ideal keepsake to frame and cherish.
Guests are encouraged to dress in their most stylish outfits and get ready to pose—or simply chat—as Jo Bird transforms each holiday moment into a work of art.
Bookings will be available upon arrival. This unique Valentine’s Day experience is not to be missed.
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Unforgettable Valentine’s experiences at Kandolhu Maldives
Kandolhu Maldives offers couples an idyllic romantic retreat this Valentine’s Day. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches, this exclusive island presents a range of curated experiences designed to create lasting memories.
Guests can begin their celebration with a Valentine’s Breakfast at The Market, featuring a delectable beachfront spread. For those in search of ultimate relaxation, the Varu Spa Double Delight Package provides a soothing 30-minute back massage followed by a refreshing 15-minute head massage, available for $149++ for two. This limited-time offer offers the perfect opportunity to unwind in a serene sanctuary.
The romantic journey continues with a Valentine’s Cocktail Cruise. This 30-minute voyage across the Maldives’ crystal-clear waters includes sparkling wine and live music by local artist Falih Adams, creating a magical atmosphere. The cruise is priced at $49 per person and sets the tone for a memorable evening.
Back on the island, guests can savour specially crafted Valentine’s cocktails at Vilu Bar from 6 pm or indulge in a romantic BBQ Dinner on the beach. Featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, antipasti, salads, house-made sauces, and a decadent Valentine’s dessert, the dinner is prepared live by expert chefs. The BBQ is priced at $59++ per person and is included for guests on the À La Carte Dining and Ultimate Inclusions plans.
Kandolhu Maldives invites couples to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable by celebrating love in paradise.
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