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Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort to host Maldives first intl magic festival

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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.

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Silent DJ brings music and movement to Madifushi Private Island

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Madifushi Private Island has introduced a new Silent DJ experience, inviting guests to enjoy an evening of music, movement and connection in a way that remains true to the resort’s serene island character.

Set within the resort’s dedicated Silent DJ and Karaoke Lounge, the experience gives each guest a wireless headset and the freedom to choose between multiple music channels. Guests can switch channels whenever they wish, dance to their own soundtrack or tune into the same channel and share the beat with family and friends.

With the music delivered directly through individual headsets, there is no need for amplified DJ sound to fill the surrounding area. The concept therefore allows participating guests to immerse themselves in the energy of the evening while helping to minimize ambient noise and preserve the calm enjoyed by others across the island.

“Madifushi Private Island is known as the Island of Serene Wonders, and every new experience we introduce should complement that promise. Silent DJ gives our guests the freedom to celebrate, dance and enjoy music together while respecting the tranquility that makes the island so special. It is lively on the inside, peaceful on the outside, and unmistakably signature to Madifushi Private Island,” said Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager, Madifushi Private Island.

The room also offers a dedicated Karaoke experience. Using wireless microphones and a curated song library, guests can perform solo, sing together as a group or combine Karaoke with Silent DJ for a more varied private event.

The introduction of Silent DJ reflects Madifushi Private Island’s wider approach to thoughtful luxury: creating memorable experiences that feel personal and joyful while remaining sensitive to the setting. It also offers an inventive response to noise disturbance, showing that entertainment and tranquillity can comfortably coexist when an experience is designed with intention.

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Ifuru Island Maldives to stage four nights of music and culture with Ripple & Friends

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From 17 to 21 September 2026, Ifuru Island Maldives welcomes Ripple & Friends for an intimate island gathering bringing together music, live performance, art, wellness, movement, dining and unforgettable shared moments.

From 17 to 21 September 2026, Ifuru Island Maldives introduces Ripple & Friends in collaboration with Ripple Effect for an intimate island gathering bringing together music, live performance, art, wellness, movement, dining and unforgettable shared moments.

Ripple Effect is a Maldives-based creative company shaping experiences where music, hospitality and culture come together. From distinctive events to original music production, moments are created to bring people together and leave a lasting impression.

The “& Friends” is more than a name. It represents everyone who joins the gathering, creating an experience centred on music, good food, creativity and genuine connection.

Rather than following the format of a conventional music festival, Ripple & Friends is designed to move with the natural rhythm of island life. Each day brings its own defining moments, while leaving guests with the freedom to slow down, explore Ifuru Island and enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Across four days and nights, the programme moves between sunset sessions, live performances, DJ led nights, poolside gatherings, shared dining experiences, art, wellness and movement, before coming together for a unplugged jam session.

Four days; four distinctive rythms 

DAY ONE | FIRST RIPPLE
Thursday, 17 September 2026

The first ripple begins at sunset.

Guests gather at Waterfront as the sun goes down over Ifuru Island, setting the tone for the days ahead with music, dining and a first night dedicated to nostalgic sounds and good company.

  • Sunset Session at Waterfront
  • Welcome Dinner at Waterfront
  • 90s & Disco House at Hubba Hubba
  • Dress Code: White

From the first sunset session to the late night atmosphere at Hubba Hubba, Thursday is designed as an introduction to the people, music and spirit that will shape the rest of Ripple & Friends.

DAY TWO | LOW TIDE
Friday, 18 September 2026

Friday begins with movement before the tempo rises.

Dynamic Stretch with Martha at the Pool Deck starts the day, followed by an R&B and Hip Hop Brunch and a Pool Party, bringing music into the heart of the daytime island experience.

As evening arrives, guests come together for a BBQ Dinner at Social House before the night continues with After Dark at Hubba Hubba.

  • Dynamic Stretch with Martha at the Pool Deck
  • R&B and Hip Hop Brunch
  • Pool Party
  • BBQ Dinner at Social House
  • After Dark at Hubba Hubba

Low Tide brings together wellness, food, music and poolside energy in a day designed to move effortlessly from morning into night.

DAY THREE | HIGH TIDE
Saturday, 19 September 2026

Saturday sees the energy rise with High Tide.

The day begins with Morning Stretches with Sharu at the Pool Deck, offering a slower start before the island shifts towards an evening of music and celebration.

As sunset approaches, guests gather for a Sundowner at Beach Club, before the night reaches its peak with High Tide at Hubba Hubba.

  • Morning Stretches with Sharu at the Pool Deck
  • Sundowner at Beach Club
  • High Tide at Hubba Hubba

High Tide captures the contrast at the heart of the experience, moving from a relaxed island morning to sunset gatherings and an energetic Saturday night.

DAY FOUR | WHINE DOWN
Sunday, 20 September 2026

After three days of music, movement and shared experiences, Sunday brings a change of pace with Whine Down.

The evening begins with a Sundowner by the Pool, bringing everyone back together as the sun begins to set.

The night then moves to Hubba Hubba for Whine Down, closing the fourth full day of Ripple & Friends with music, connection and one more night shared among friends.

  • Sundowner by the Pool
  • Whine Down at Hubba Hubba

It is a fitting final full night for a gathering built around taking time, meeting people and enjoying each moment without rushing towards the next.

LAST RIPPLE
Monday, 21 September 2026

Ripple & Friends does not simply end after the fourth night.

On Monday, guests come together one final time for Last Ripple, featuring an Unplugged Jam Session at Hubba Hubba.

Stripping the experience back to live music and the people who have shared the previous four days, Last Ripple offers an intimate conclusion to the gathering before guests say goodbye to the island and to new friends made along the way.

  • Unplugged Jam Session at Hubba Hubba

At the heart of Ripple & Friends is a collective of talent spanning duos, selectors, art, wellness and movement.
The 2026 gathering features:

  • Inma & Mira
  • Farey & Nish
  • Afruh
  • Tappu
  • Amney & Aleef
  • Martha
  • Studio Odi by Naani
  • Sharu

Together, they bring different creative dimensions to the island, allowing the programme to move naturally between music, performance, art, wellness and movement throughout the four days.

What sets Ripple & Friends apart is its intentionally unhurried approach.

Instead of creating a packed schedule that asks guests to move constantly from one event to another, the experience allows the island itself to become part of the programme.

One moment each day is shaped around the Ripple & Friends community, while the rest leaves room for guests to wander, discover and enjoy Ifuru Island on their own terms.

Music moves between Waterfront, the Pool Deck, Beach Club and Hubba Hubba. Meals become social gatherings. Wellness and movement provide a different rhythm to the mornings, while sunsets naturally bring everyone back together.

At its heart, Ripple & Friends is about the people sharing those moments.

Guests may arrive as names on a list, but the idea is simple: Come as a guest, leave as a friend.

For more information, please visit the resort’s official website or contact bookingmagic@ifuruisland.com.

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli turns three islands into Carnival of the Isles this festive season

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Forget the traditional festive getaway. This December, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, part of the Lifestyle Collection by Sun Siyam, is turning three interconnected islands into one vibrant celebration as Carnival of the Isles returns from 21 December 2026 to 8 January 2027. Bringing together world-class entertainment, island culture and unforgettable experiences, this year’s line-up is headlined by BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra’s Jeremiah Asiamah, alongside returning British Rapper & DJ Ironik, Canadian Belly Dancer Nourah, and LA-Based Performance Company Wildfire Arts.

Created exclusively for Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Carnival of the Isles reimagines the festive season through the vibrant lens of island life. More than a holiday programme, it transforms the resort into one continuous celebration where music, culture, food and adventure unfold across three unique islands, each with its own atmosphere yet connected through one unforgettable experience. From sunrise wellness sessions and family adventures to waterfront celebrations, beach clubs and after-dark entertainment, guests are invited to discover a festive escape that feels spontaneous, social and unmistakably Maldivian.

Leading this year’s entertainment programme is Jeremiah Asiamah, one of the UK’s most exciting DJs and broadcasters. Best known for his influential shows on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, Jeremiah has become a defining voice in Afro House, Amapiano and global electronic music. From Glastonbury, Wireless Festival, Notting Hill Carnival and Ushuaïa Ibiza to collaborations with Prada Beauty, London Fashion Week and Arsenal F.C., his unique blend of music, fashion and culture has made him one of the UK’s most exciting creative talents. This festive season, he brings his signature festival energy to the shores of the Maldives with an exclusive series of performances for Carnival of the Isles.

Returning by popular demand is DJ Ironik, the British rapper, DJ and producer behind the Platinum-selling hit Tiny Dancer (Hold Me Closer) featuring Chipmunk and Elton John. Renowned for his crowd-pleasing sets that effortlessly blend chart favourites with club classics, Ironik returns to headline the resort’s biggest beach parties and New Year’s celebrations, keeping the energy high long after sunset.

Adding an entirely different dimension to this year’s programme is Nourah, the internationally acclaimed Canadian belly dancer whose performances combine the elegance of traditional Middle Eastern dance with contemporary artistry. Having captivated audiences at luxury resorts, international festivals and prestigious events around the world, her graceful performances bring a sense of theatre and cultural richness to the island’s festive evenings.

Completing the line-up is the return of Wildfire Arts, the Los Angeles-based performance company celebrated for transforming outdoor spaces into immersive theatrical experiences. Combining breathtaking aerial performances, fire artistry, LED productions and acrobatics, the internationally acclaimed troupe has appeared everywhere from global festivals to productions for organisations including SpaceX. At Carnival of the Isles, they will once again transform the beachfront into an unforgettable open-air stage.

At the heart of the celebrations is The Grand Carnival of the Isles, a spectacular weekly event that transforms the beachfront of the Beach Pavilions into one of the Maldives’ most exciting open-air entertainment experiences. Inspired by the colour, rhythm and energy of the world’s great island carnivals, guests can wander through lively street-style markets, discover roaming performers and live music, experience breathtaking circus acts, enjoy interactive games and family entertainment, or embrace the excitement of water sports before the celebration continues with sunset DJ sessions and unforgettable evenings beneath the stars.

The festive calendar extends far beyond the carnival itself, with signature experiences unfolding throughout the season. Guests can gather for the magical Christmas Tree Light-Up Ceremony, welcome Santa Claus as he makes his tropical arrival by the beach, raise a glass at the Christmas Gala Cocktail and celebrate together during the elegant New Year’s Eve Gala and spectacular countdown to 2027. Along the way, colourful moments such as the annual Olhuveli Colour Run, Kids Futsal League, international Street Market, beach parties, themed dining experiences, sunset cruises, wellness sessions, sports tournaments and family activities ensure there is always something new to discover from sunrise to starlight.

More than a festive escape, Carnival of the Isles is where music, culture and island life come together across three unforgettable weeks in the Maldives. Join the celebration at Sun Siyam Olhuveli and discover this year’s festive programme and special offers.

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