Entertainment
Amilla Fushi, Finolhu, Huvafen Fushi roll out festive extravaganzas for luxury travellers
The spirit of Christmas is coming to The Small Maldives Island Co as it plans a festive season full of memorable moments at its luxury Maldivian resorts, Amilla Fushi, Finolhu and Huvafen Fushi.
Guests at each island will see their holiday wishes come true with celebratory experiences and delectable festive feasts to share with family and friends – and even a jet-skiing visit from Santa and his elves!
Amilla Fushi
Evenings of enchantment and wonder await at Amilla Fushi as the daring ‘Amilla Tribe’ descend on the island. Dance to the beat of the drums as the sun sets over the endless horizon, while fire performers turn up the heat with jaw-dropping displays. Toasting in the New Year, guests will be treated to a world-class spectacle from the UK-based pyro performance group The Fuel Girls, known all over the world for their death-defying shows, and music from Irish singer, songwriter and lead singer of B*witched Edele Lynch.
Festive foodie surprises are a certainty as Chef Hiro Nakamura charts an incredible journey of flavourful Japanese cuisine to Amilla’s signature overwater restaurant Feeling Koi, showcasing a selection of artfully crafted sushi, nigiri and sashimi by the water’s edge. There will also be lip smacking themed nights at the chilled-out foodie hub Baazaar and enchanting dining experiences in the magical Mystique Garden.
Australian football hero Tim Cahill has joined forces with Amilla Fushi to offer a four day training camp for inspiring young footballers to see if they have what it takes to become one of the ‘greats’. The ‘Amilla Four Seventeen’ football team invites kids aged from five-eight years and teens from 9-16 years old to train and perfect their skills through elite coaching by the all-time leading goal scorer on the island’s very own full-sized pitch.
Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from the main Velana International Airport, Amilla Fushi offers a choice of 59 Houses that sit gracefully over crystal clear waters, nestled amongst lush tree tops or hugging the shores of pristine white sand. Additionally, eight spectacular four to eight-bedroom Beach Residences ideally suited to large families, groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in space and privacy are also available.
Amilla’s innovative restaurants range from the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests can even drop in to gourmet café and deli The Emperor General Store or The Wine Shop and Cellar Door to treat themselves to lighter snacks, a favourite bottle or a gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses.
With an unrivalled range of purpose-designed multi-bedroom accommodation options, and an exciting, inspiring and active Kids’ Club, Amilla Fushi is putting the Maldives on the map as a destination not just for couples, but for families and friends.
Finolhu
Forget the reindeer-drawn sleigh; Santa makes waves with an adrenalin-fuelled jet-ski arrival to the fun-loving island resort Finolhu. The island will offer a rocking calendar of festive celebrations set against a stunning backdrop.
The Christmas season at Finolhu will also be an epicure’s dream, starting on December 19 with a daily rotation of sweet treats and goodies, and unreal spreads at the Baa Baa Beach Diner.
World-class entertainment will kick off Finolhu’s year-end bonanza, as guests are invited to bust a move with music from the Gypsy Queens and The Riffs, DJ sets and dazzling performances by Area 51 acrobats.
Just 30 minutes by speedboat from sister resort Amilla, Finolhu is a stylish and eclectic retreat with a buzzy bon-vivant vibe and a refreshing, retro-inspired burst of fun for the region. Bringing toes-in-the-sand relaxation to fun-loving beach-erati alongside the best DJs, live acts and most fabulously chic parties in the Maldives.
Finolhu’s 125 villas come on the ocean, the lagoon or by the beach, with or without pool in either one or two bedroom options being the ultimate island experience for chic couples, fun-loving families and gatherings of friends alike.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQv6UAv7w8I
Huvafen Fushi
Come dressed as a flapper or looking dapper as Huvafen Fushi heads back to the roaring 20s, transforming itself into a tropical take on the glamorous Gatsby Mansion.
A world created to amaze, amuse and entertain, guests are invited to become part of Jay Gatsby’s inner circle, dancing the night away at Cotton Club, the resort’s exclusive ‘pop down’ underground Jazz club where they can create everlasting memories while enjoying tantalising cocktails and live music.
Chef Hiro will be serving sensational Omakase tasting menus at the resort’s signature overwater restaurant Feeling Koi from December 22-26, followed by special Champagne-fuelled evenings hosted by ambassadors from Krug on December 27 and Louis Roederer December 29.
Welcoming the arrival of 2019 in unforgettable fashion, Huvafen Fushi celebrates with a breathtaking firework display and late night music at Forno from Def Note.
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, while its famed spa — world’s first and only underwater spa — has been enhanced by celebrated wellness practitioners from PURE Massage to Teresa Tarmey.
New culinary experiences at Huvafen Fushi include modern Japanese cuisine with a Latin twist at Feeling Koi and designer drinks dreamt up by mixologists from London’s PURL, complementing the established gastronomic lineup including subterranean wine trove Vinum, alfresco Italian Forno and relaxed deck dining at Celsius.
Entertainment
Waldorf Astoria Maldives hosts iconic beachside concert with Chris De Burgh
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is preparing to elevate the romance and charm of Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable evening featuring iconic singer-songwriter Chris De Burgh. Renowned for timeless hits such as ‘The Lady in Red’ and ‘Missing You’, De Burgh will perform an exclusive beachside concert on February 14, 2025, combining world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and the romantic allure of the Maldives.
The concert will take place under the stars on the resort’s pristine beaches, surrounded by the soothing sound of ocean waves and candlelit tables. Guests will enjoy an intimate live performance by one of the music industry’s most enduring artists. The evening will begin with an elegant BBQ dinner, paired with premium bubbly and live music from the resort’s resident duo band, culminating in De Burgh’s soul-stirring performance beneath a starlit sky.
With a career spanning over five decades and more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, Chris De Burgh’s music has touched hearts across generations. His live performances are celebrated for their intimacy and passion, promising a Valentine’s experience where love, music, and the magic of the Maldives converge into an unforgettable evening.
This bespoke event is priced at USD 595++ per person and includes a thoughtfully curated package designed to enhance the romantic experience. The package features:
- A luxurious beachside BBQ dinner
- A bottle of premium bubbly per couple
- A romantic beach setup to create lasting memories
- A bouquet of fresh flowers
- An exclusive Valentine’s in-room amenity
To further enhance the celebration, Waldorf Astoria Maldives is offering a special room package for guests staying between February 12 and 17, 2025. Requiring a minimum stay of three nights, this package includes the exclusive dinner experience. Guests can book directly online to ensure a seamless journey to this enchanting escape. From personalised service to the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean, the resort provides the perfect backdrop for love and celebration.
This exclusive event highlights Waldorf Astoria Maldives’ commitment to elevating the art of hospitality. The resort continues to transform guest experiences by offering extraordinary, bespoke events that seamlessly combine world-class entertainment with luxurious amenities. The ‘Exclusive Celebration with Chris De Burgh’ exemplifies this vision, blending exceptional artistry with the unparalleled charm of the Maldives for a truly unforgettable occasion.
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.
Entertainment
Art in the tropics: vibrant celebration at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa proudly hosted the highly anticipated Art Week 2024, a celebration of creativity and community facilitated through a dynamic partnership with Clay Studio Maldives. The month-long studio residency culminated during Art Week, offering a series of inspiring workshops and interactive sessions that brought art to life for both guests and Heartists (Pullman’s talented team members).
The Clay Studio, located in the serene and lush Migili Room, became a tranquil haven for artistic exploration. Surrounded by the island’s tropical greenery, it was the heart of creativity on the island, offering diverse hands-on experiences such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, and ornament painting classes.
Guests and Heartists were immersed in the tactile world of clay, crafting unique pieces and creating memories to cherish for a lifetime. The Clay Studio’s warm and inclusive atmosphere allowed participants of all skill levels to discover the joy of working with clay under the guidance of expert artists from Clay Studio Maldives.
Riaan Drever, the General Manager, reflected on the success of the collaboration, expressing that Art Week 2024 had been an extraordinary experience. He emphasised that the partnership with The Clay Studio Maldives brought a unique blend of creativity, relaxation, and personal expression to Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. He found it heartwarming to see guests and Heartists connect through art, taking home not just souvenirs but meaningful experiences.
Ahmed Muaz, Co-Founder of The Clay Studio Maldives, also shared his delight in the collaboration, stating that it was a pleasure to offer the pottery program during Art Week 2024. He praised the opportunity to work with the Pullman team to enhance the guest experience and expressed joy in sharing the craft of pottery in such a dynamic and inspiring environment.
The event showcased Pullman’s commitment to offering creative and immersive guest experiences, seamlessly blending the artistic journey with the island’s natural beauty. This initiative reflects Pullman’s dedication to art and cultural enrichment, a core element of its global identity and commitment to fostering local creativity and talent.
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