Entertainment
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort to host Maldives first intl magic festival
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa has announced plans to host the first international magic festival in Maldives.
The spellbinding Villingili International Festival of Modern Magic will take place in July, and will see five world-renowned magicians take residency at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa. For adults and young guests alike, the month will see the magicians perform two shows per week on Villingili’s silver sands as well as daily close up magic at guests’ dining tables where sleight of hand will take centre stage.
From July 1-31, five magicians are set to enhance the resort’s beautifully ethereal atmosphere through a range of traditional tricks and more unusual modern illusions and mentalism that will blow guests’ minds away. Each of the five magicians are specialists in their own particular field of magic, ensuring that the festival has a wide range of different types of trickeries, illusions and sorcery:
‘The Conjurer’ Duc Nhien
Nhien has been passionate about the art of magic and puzzles since childhood. In 1981, he became the Belgian champion of the Rubik’s cube, which later gave him inspiration for his unique creation ‘Pixism’. Since then the internationally renowned trickster has published a plethora of French educational videos on ‘Virtual Magic’ and various articles in America’s top selling magician magazines “Magic” and “Genii”. Originally from Belgium, Nhien is the number one magician in his home country and boasts the prestigious title “Master Magician”.
Another one of his talents is creating special portraits of audience members by cutting intricate silhouettes out of paper. This has led to him being affectionately nicknamed “The Magician Profiler” by his fans.
‘The Trickster’ Antoine Leroux
Leroux specialises in the vastly popular magic of proximity, otherwise known as close up magic. He honed his skills in France working at private parties and events where he impressed guests with his mind-blowing tricks. Leroux’s experience and professionalism make him one of the most sought-after magicians in France and will be an enchanting addition to the island of Villingili.
‘The Mindreader’ Frank Truong
Known for co-starring in the popular French television show “La Grande Illusion”, Truong is regularly employed by prestigious brands and is highly-regarded within the magic circle. Truong specialises in reading people’s minds often leaving audiences speechless with his predictions. In 2016, Truong participated in “France’s Got Talent” where he seduced the country and judges with his humour and charisma reaching the live semi-finals. Since then, Truong has been travelling through France demonstrating the art of mentalism through his show “You Think So I Know” which is met with continuous success.
‘The Digitalist’ Sebastian Camersini
Camersini is also a magician on the French television show “La Grande Illusion”. He has perfected the art of digital magic and is without doubt one of the most skilful digital magicians on the planet. Camersini works exclusively with the most prestigious members of the magic circle and it known for his elegance and charm when performing.
‘The Magician’ Vincent Bruneau (Senzo)
Vincent’s passion for magic and new technology led him to create Magency, the first company to offer a collaborative digital solution to engage participants in seminars, conventions, training and meetings. Vincent cites magic and the art of stage as the inspiration behind Magency in which he emphasises the importance of companies engaging their employees from an emotional and human angle. Vincent is also a pioneer of digital magic in France. He creates all of the effects for the “La Grande Illusion” show and manages a range of magicians, specialising in the customisation of effects.
From right to left: ‘The Conjurer’ Duc Nhien, ‘The Magician’ Vincent Bruneau (Senzo), ‘The Mindreader’ Frank Truong, ‘The Digitalist’ Sebastian Camersini, and ‘The Trickster’ Antoine Leroux.
Throughout Villingili’s magic month, guests will be able to enjoy the hotel’s ‘Magical Maldives’ package, which includes daily magic performances at all the restaurants across the resort as well as a magic show with all magicians coming together for a mesmerising performance.
The package also offers a special “Magic Box” dinner as part of the resort’s exclusive Dine By Design programme, which sees expert chefs curate meals served in special locations around the island. The “Magic Box” dinner will centre on innovative food illusions and delicious gastronomic surprises served in unusual and creative forms.
Guests will also be treated to a transformative spa treatment working magic on their skin and wellbeing, at CHI, the Spa, a secluded sanctuary with its own spa village within the resort. The treatment uses warm Dosha pacifying Ayurvedic herbal oils, known for their super healing powers that have a soothing effect on the body and mind, releasing all toxins and stress.
In line with the resort’s magical experiences theme throughout July, the ‘Magical Maldives’ package also includes a dolphin sunset cruise. Guests are invited to marvel as hundreds of spinner dolphins leap and soar out of the water alongside the boat; a sight made all the more extraordinary against the wonderful backdrop of the orange and pink hues of the setting sun. The resort will also provide a magic wand to all its guests as a form of memorabilia from the festival.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa is located in the southernmost Maldivian atoll of Addu, just a five-minute boat ride away from Gan International Airport.
The resort is a collection of 132 private villas nestled across emerald green jungle and stunning turquoise shoreline. From private ocean retreats to tropical tree houses with panoramic views, resort accommodation features six distinct styles of villa and two presidential villas. All villas feature both indoor and outdoor showers, luxurious oval bathtubs and exquisitely designed silver Jali influenced “his and hers” vanity counters.
The resort has three restaurants, each with a distinct vibe, serving cuisine to suit all tastes. More adventurous guests can enjoy a lunch or dinner served on board a luxury yacht, or a romantic meal in the jungle, as part of the resort’s Dine by Design programme.
Guests can also enjoy an extensive range of activities both on land and at sea: indulge in tranquillity at CHI, The Spa, explore the luscious tropical forest, play a round at the only nine-hole golf course in the Maldives or dive into an aquatic playground of water sport activities.
As the holiday season approaches, Coco Collection warmly invites guests to experience a festive celebration filled with joy, warmth, and togetherness in the heart of the Maldives. From December 22, 2024, to January 2, 2025, Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu are set to mesmerise guests of all ages with a series of unforgettable events that promise to make this holiday season truly magical.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu: Where Tradition Meets Tranquility
Located in the serene Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers an intimate and heartwarming festive celebration. This enchanting island resort captures the essence of love, reunions, and mindfulness, combining the peacefulness of nature with the excitement of the holiday season. Feel the gentle chimes of baubles, bells, and carols as the island transforms into a festive haven, weaving an atmosphere of joy and enchantment. Some of the highlights include:
- Coco Little Islander’s Club: Let the little ones dive into Maldivian culture through activities like the Kids Bodu Beru Class.
- Coco Festive Pamper Package: Rejuvenate with spa treatments that incorporate natural elements, designed to soothe both body and soul.
- Gourmet Indulgences: Relish in festive feasts featuring exquisite flavours, prepared with love and attention to detail.
- Private Deserted Island Escape to Embudhoo: Create cherished memories with loved ones on a secluded island retreat.
- Lucky Draw: Stand a chance to win amazing prizes that will add an extra touch of magic to your stay.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu’s festive program is all about celebrating traditions with a hint of elegance, making it an ideal destination for families and couples to reconnect and enjoy the season of togetherness.
Coco Bodu Hithi: A Celebration of Contemporary Luxury and Festive Cheer
Coco Bodu Hithi is all set to welcome the festive season in style, offering a mix of sophistication, contemporary luxury, and island charm. Known for its elegant ambiance, this breathtaking resort presents an array of events that capture the warmth and joy of the holidays in a setting of pure indulgence. The celebration kicks off with the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 22, followed by a range of exciting activities, including:
- Family Fun: Engage in Christmas-themed crafts, Gingerbread Man decoration, and beach games for the little ones.
- Culinary Experiences: Savour a variety of exquisite dishes from four distinct dining venues, offering everything from fresh seafood and authentic Japanese cuisine to Mediterranean and international flavours.
- Holistic Spa Treatments: Indulge in blissful spa treatments that are sure to leave guests feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
- Sophisticated Evenings: Conclude the day with fine wine, live music, and a touch of glamour, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Coco Bodu Hithi’s festive celebrations are all about enjoying life’s simple pleasures in a luxurious setting, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking to bask in the joy and warmth of the season.
Embrace the festive spirit with Coco Collection and create a holiday experience filled with magic, elegance, and unforgettable moments in the Maldives.
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.
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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