Featured
Huvafen Fushi unveils The Playpen, The Grand Beach Pavilion
Glamorously grown-up Maldivian hideaway Huvafen Fushi has revealed the latest stunning chapter in its coming-of-age, The PlayPen, The Grand Beach Pavilion.
An exquisite architectural hymn to pleasure, The PlayPen weaves fluid New York loft-style living spaces with a nostalgic neo-Parisian penchant for vintage pieces and an eclectic collection of handpicked furniture. Opened on March 20, the two-storey, 445 sqm PlayPen starts from USD 17,000++ per night for minimum five-night stays.
Upstairs, an open-plan chamber-cum-‘playroom’ features a centrepiece bed, oversized ocean view bath and wet area with steam and sauna. A panoramic west-facing balcony draws the eye over the burgundy floodlit lava-stone infinity pool and private jetty to sunsets over the house reef.
Accessed via a dramatic private courtyard, the ground floor is a fluid, unconstrained living and entertainment space. The lounge and dining area — think Bang & Olufsen sound system, plasma TVs and bottomless cocktail bar — and culinary gallery flow seamlessly out to the private deck. Daybeds, outdoor shower and a private BBQ area frame that striking infinity pool and the beach beyond.
Discerning pleasurists staying in the PlayPen arrive via a breathless dalliance with Huvafen Fushi’s dashing 45’ Italian luxury speedboat Veloce. Once ensconced in their private paradise, guests can expect to be pampered with 24/7 butler service courtesy of the resort’s signature thakurus; enjoy a sensuous massage in PEARL, Huvafen Spa’s legendary underwater treatment area, and discover a bespoke intimate gift box from Maison Mika.
Opened over a decade ago, Huvafen Fushi built a deserved reputation amongst dynamic connoisseurs, seduced by the sensuous embrace of this iconic island. Now in the arms of The Small Maldives Island Co, the perennial poise and allure of this fashionable global icon has been lovingly rekindled; reinvigorated for a new generation of sophisticates drawn irresistibly by the promise of a glamorously grown-up rendezvous.
The adults-only island’s 44 enrapturing, naturally modern villas – all with private pools – are refreshed; the famed spa resculpted and enhanced by celebrated wellness practitioners from PURE Massage to Teresa Tarmey. New culinary experiences include modern Japanese cuisine with a Latin twist at Feeling Koi and designer drinks dreamt up by mixologists from London’s PURL, complimenting the established gastronomic lineup including subterranean wine trove Vinum, alfresco Italian Forno and relaxed deck dining at Celsius.
Featured
MMA fighter Piotr Szeliga’s unforgettable escape at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives recently hosted Piotr Szeliga, widely recognised in Poland as Szeli, a renowned MMA fighter, former hockey player, and bodybuilder. Stepping away from the ring, Szeliga embraced the resort’s serenity, luxury, and warm hospitality, creating cherished memories to begin the New Year.
A highlight of his visit was a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach, an experience that exemplifies the resort’s commitment to crafting magical moments for its guests. Szeliga expressed particular admiration for the gourmet crab soup, describing it as a culinary masterpiece that surpassed his expectations. He noted, “In Poland, when you order crab soup, it’s just cream and nothing else. But here, it was full of crab meat and tasted absolutely delicious!”
During his stay, Szeliga immersed himself in the Maldives’ natural beauty, spending hours exploring the vibrant marine life in the resort’s pristine lagoon. From swimming among colourful fish to thrilling encounters with sharks and manta rays, his underwater adventures became an unforgettable aspect of the trip. He also took time to appreciate the thoughtful design and luxurious amenities of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, including its stunning overwater villas and the wide array of activities and attractions available to guests.
With opportunities to explore rich marine life, indulge in world-class cuisine, unwind in the comfort of overwater villas, or retreat to the exclusive Platinum Island designed for adults seeking tranquillity, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers an idyllic escape for travellers in search of an unforgettable getaway.
Featured
Villa Haven takes flight with Virgin Atlantic’s inflight entertainment
Villa Resorts has launched a global campaign through Virgin Atlantic’s inflight entertainment system, introducing travellers on all routes to Villa Haven, its newest luxury flagship property located in the Maldives.
Virgin Atlantic, renowned for its exceptional service and modern fleet, connects passengers to over 30 destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, including iconic cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and London.
Shumaes Rasheed, Associate Director of PR & Marketing, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that the campaign provides passengers with a glimpse into the serene beauty of the Maldives. Villa Haven, Rasheed noted, embodies refined and serene living, offering a sanctuary where privacy, luxury, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience. As the latest addition to Villa Resorts, Villa Haven enhances the Maldives’ appeal as a one-of-a-kind retreat.
Located in the picturesque South Ari Atoll, Villa Haven features 73 private villas and residences, each designed to offer expansive beachfront views, private pools, and a harmonious blend of contemporary style and natural tranquility. The resort aims to provide a personalised retreat that captures the essence of a tropical paradise.
This campaign follows Villa Resorts’ previous marketing success, which included a television campaign in Virgin Atlantic’s premium Clubhouse lounges at major hubs such as London Heathrow, New York JFK, Washington DC, Boston, San Francisco, and Johannesburg.
Entertainment
Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell bring intimate performances to Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in collaboration with event organisers Music in Paradise, has announced that Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell will perform at the private island resort from September 6 to 13, 2025. This week-long event offers a blend of tropical island relaxation with three intimate performances set on the beach and at the resort’s rooftop Sunset Bar, along with exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. Additionally, rumours suggest that the duo, known for their love of Espresso Martinis, might make a surprise appearance behind the bar.
Anthony Callea, an ARIA Award-winning artist, is celebrated as one of Australia’s most accomplished vocalists and entertainers. With a career spanning two decades, he boasts eight albums, TV concert specials, numerous tours, and appearances at major events and on television. His latest album, ‘FORTY LOVE*’, released in October 2022 to commemorate his 40th birthday, debuted at No. 5 on the ARIA album chart. Over the years, Callea has performed for HM Queen Elizabeth II, Luciano Pavarotti, and other notable figures, while also touring with music legends such as Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross.
Tim Campbell is widely recognised as one of Australia’s most versatile and beloved entertainers, excelling in acting, hosting, musical theatre, and recording. He is best known for his role as Dan Baker in ‘Home & Away’ and Tom Parker in the Logie Award-winning series ‘House Husbands’. Campbell’s extensive musical theatre repertoire includes roles such as Roger in ‘Rent’, Johnny O’Keefe in ‘SHOUT! The Legend of the Wild One’, Bobby in ‘The Boyfriend’, Fiyero in ‘Wicked’, and Corny Collins in the national tour of ‘Hairspray the Arena Spectacular’. As a recording artist, his debut album, ‘High School Disco’, released in 2014, debuted at No. 25 on the ARIA charts.
In 2023, Callea and Campbell joined forces for their ‘Up Close & Unpredictable’ live concert tour across Australia. They also performed a series of shows at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall and the Sydney Opera House, celebrating the music of Elton John and George Michael.
A VIP Experience package for this exclusive event is available for A$3,890 per person (twin share) and includes seven nights in a two-story Beach House at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. The package features:
- Entry to three exclusive events
- Three intimate performances
- Meet-and-greet with Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell
- A professional photo with the performers
- Music in Paradise welcome bag
- Event poster and commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Daily buffet breakfast at Kandooma Café
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water replenished daily in the villa
- A group yoga session
- A group “Learn to Surf” experience
- Complimentary snorkel trip and snorkelling gear use
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
This unique event promises an unforgettable experience, combining world-class entertainment with the serene beauty of the Maldives. Additional package details can be found at Music in Paradise’s official website.
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