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Conrad Maldives opens world’s first undersea residence, THE MURAKA

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has officially opened THE MURAKA, world’s first undersea residence.

Now welcoming guests to dive into an extraordinary experience both above and below the surface of the Indian Ocean, THE MURAKA is a triumph of modern design and technology, delivering a truly transformative journey suited to amaze the most sophisticated explorers across the globe.

“The completion of THE MURAKA is a personal lifetime achievement,” Ahmed Saleem, a Director at resort owner Crown Company and chief architect and designer of the residence, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“After years in the making, my team and I are proud to officially present THE MURAKA residence and its accompanying Maldivian experience to worldly travellers who crave the extraordinary.”

THE MURAKA, as seen from afar. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

Envisioned by Saleem, and realised by Mike Murphy, leading engineer at M J Murphy Ltd., a New Zealand-based company that specialises in aquarium technology, the undersea residence is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.

The undersea suite features a king size bedroom, living area, bathroom and spiral staircase that leads to the upper level living room. The undersea bedroom floor level sits five metres (16.4 feet) below sea level, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine environment.

Bathroom of the undersea bedroom. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

With the adoption of state-of-the-art technology, THE MURAKA’s distinct design is akin to that of Rangali Island’s Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, with the curved acrylic dome, which boasts 180-degree panoramic views of the wonders of the Indian Ocean’s intricate marine life.

THE MURAKA’s upper level features a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and dining, which features a deck that purposely faces the direction of the sunset for optimal viewing pleasure. On the opposite side of the villa sits the relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise and is complete with an infinity swimming pool. The upper level also contains an additional king size bedroom and bathroom, which boasts a masterfully appointed ocean-facing bathtub, ideal for soaking in views of the endless horizon.

The overwater bedroom at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater bathroom at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater lounge area at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater deck at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

In total, THE MURAKA can accommodate up to nine guests.

Experiences

THE MURAKA features four curated menu suggestions packed with exclusive and customisable experiences tailored to varying desires of today’s travellers. Defining the core ethos of THE MURAKA journey these experience menus – The Wanderers, The Flavours, The Soul and The Thrill – complement the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking natural environments from an entirely new perspective.

Personalised Service

Guests who stay at THE MURAKA will have devoted butlers who are dedicated to hyper-personalisation and attention to detail for each expertly crafted stay in the residence. Available 24 hours a day – seven days a week, these butlers deliver exceptional service and stand out as ambassadors of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island as they guide guests through their own unique Maldivian journey.

Beyond that, they are equipped with the ability to educate guests about the options available in THE MURAKA and in the Maldives. THE MURAKA butlers are also able to accommodate any circumstances and requests for guests ranging from the need for privacy to exclusive culinary experiences and soul-enriching journey’s designed to add dimension to the MURAKA experience. Amongst the most important qualities, these butlers share a passion for culture, environment and adventure.

“Our philosophy of innovation is supported by several triumphs at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island,” Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, said.

“From the first construction of Ithaa Undersea Restaurant to our second venture under the Indian Ocean, THE MURAKA, we are continuously making powerful enhancements to the property that are designed to attract the world’s most connected and knowledgeable travellers.”

Aerial of THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.

As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.

The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.

More information and reservations for THE MURAKA are available by direct phone at +960 792 9119 or email at TheMuraka@conradhotels.com. Details on the resort and overall reservation queries can be directed to www.conradmaldives.com

Celebration

Astrology, illusions, and gourmet delights await: inside Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s 2024 festive season

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Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced its highly anticipated Festive Programme for 2024, promising an extraordinary holiday experience from December 21, 2024, to January 7, 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the all-natural pristine island, this year’s programme has been thoughtfully curated to offer guests an unforgettable festive season filled with magical moments.

A highlight of this year’s celebration is the arrival of Michelin-starred Chef Jeno Rácz, who will enhance the dining experience with his exclusive culinary creations. Guests will have the unique opportunity to indulge in gourmet offerings specially crafted to tantalise their taste buds during his stay.

Additionally, certified astrologer Marina Minkova, known as Aquamarina, will be present at the resort. Guests will have the chance to participate in her interactive sessions, where she will forecast the year 2025, or book personalised one-on-one sessions for an in-depth astrological reading.

Adding a touch of enchantment to the festivities, renowned illusionist Tommilusions will captivate guests with his mesmerising performances throughout the season, offering a magical experience set against the resort’s paradisiacal surroundings.

Alongside these featured experiences, this year’s programme offers a wide array of activities for both adults and children. Festive games such as “Pin the Nose on Rudolph,” Olympic games, and drawing competitions are planned. On Christmas Eve, December 24, guests will be treated to an extravagant gala dinner buffet at Matheefaru, while Meeru Bar & Grill will offer a delightful set menu. The evening will be filled with Christmas carols, live acoustic music, and a vibrant DJ performance to conclude the night. The highlight of the evening will be the grand entrance of Santa Claus at Meeru Beach, bringing joy and festive cheer.

On Christmas Day, December 25, a “Late Riser Christmas Brunch” will be offered at Matheefaru, along with exciting children’s activities such as gingerbread house building, water-sports, and drawing competitions.

The celebrations will continue daily from December 26 to 30, featuring puppet shows, karaoke nights, champagne and cooking classes, fishing trips, and candy-making experiences, ensuring ongoing fun. On New Year’s Eve, December 31, Hideaway will host a grand New Year Gala dinner at Matheefaru, followed by traditional Bodu Beru performances, live acoustic music, and a New Year Countdown Party with a DJ, ensuring an exciting start to 2025.

The festivities will extend into the first week of January with daily activities including paddle races, water-sports, culinary delights, live music, and evening DJ performances, allowing the joy of the season to continue into the New Year.

The meticulously crafted Festive Programme at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination to celebrate the season with loved ones and create lasting memories.

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Celebration

Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives brings Diwali to life with vibrant celebrations and star-studded acts

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Holiday plans are set to light up with a spectacular Diwali celebration at Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, taking place from October 30 to November 1. This year’s festivities promise to dazzle, featuring electrifying performances by DJ Kingazoo, dance sensations Mukulgain and Sona Dey, along with a special appearance by renowned choreographer Ashish Patil and his celebrated dance group. The celebration offers a vibrant blend of colours, heartwarming traditions, and endless fun, ensuring a memorable Diwali experience.

Families are encouraged to join in the festive excitement, with activities such as creating mesmerising rangoli, intricate mandala art, and crafting garlands at the Maakanaa Kidz Club. These hands-on experiences offer a creative outlet while introducing participants to the beautiful traditions of the festival of lights.

The festivities extend beyond artistic endeavours, with a thrilling Diwali treasure hunt, perfect for all ages, as participants search for hidden gems around the resort. Guests can also showcase their artistic skills in the Rangoli Competition at Sunrise Beach, transforming the sandy shores into colourful and creative masterpieces, using the beach as their canvas in celebration of Diwali.

As the sun sets on November 1, the Halliwaili Eve Party at the Lagoon Bar will kick off, offering an evening filled with lively entertainment and dance. Guests can expect heart-pounding beats and an exhilarating atmosphere, inviting everyone to dance the night away and embrace the joyous spirit of Diwali.

The celebration doesn’t stop there. The electrifying Diwali night will feature DJ Kingazoo, whose dynamic performance will keep guests energised throughout the evening. Dance performances by the talented Mukulgain and Sona Dey will add to the allure, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment filled with rhythm and grace.

The highlight of the evening will be a breathtaking performance by renowned choreographer Ashish Patil, known for his work on the track #Nazariyakimaar from Netflix’s hit series Heeramandi. Fresh off his win for Best Choreographer of the Year at the Sanman Maharashtracha Awards, Ashish and his team will bring their captivating performance to the Maldives for a once-in-a-lifetime show.

Whether crafting, hunting, dancing, or simply soaking in the festive island vibes, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives offers something for everyone this Diwali season. The celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.

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Celebration

Gourmet delights and magical moments: One&Only Reethi Rah’s festive holiday lineup

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The iconic One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives invites guests to experience a Magical Season of Wonder on the renowned island of Reethi Rah. The resort has curated a variety of exciting Christmas and New Year’s events, including the arrival of Santa Claus, a lavish Christmas Day Brunch, and an exquisite New Year’s gala night, all designed to complement family traditions.

This year’s celebrations are themed around the beautiful festive illuminations that reflect in the calm lagoon waters of the island. For those seeking to celebrate the holidays in a warm, tropical location, the resort offers a sensory feast, featuring gourmet culinary pop-ups, immersive spa rituals, and magical sunset performances.

The Festive Season begins on 20 December with a pool-side Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, transforming the Rah Bar into a magical setting for the season. As the Christmas tree is illuminated, guests are invited to enjoy cocktails, canapés, and traditional carols, setting the stage for a radiant lineup of events running until 14 January 2025. On Christmas Eve, guests can indulge in a sumptuous feast at the lavish Gala Buffet Dinner at Reethi Restaurant.

For younger guests, Santa Claus will make a festive surprise visit on Christmas Day, greeting families with a magical meet-and-greet on the beach. On 26 December, Santa’s Arts and Crafts Workshop at the Art Studio will entertain children, while teens can enjoy football matches on 27 December and 4 January.

As 2024 comes to a close, One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to participate in their spectacular New Year’s Eve events. Held on the shores of Sunrise Beach, the evening begins with a New Year’s Cocktail Party, followed by a grand Gala Dinner featuring award-winning entertainment by international bands, an epicurean feast paired with the finest Champagnes and world-class wines, and a stunning fireworks display to welcome 2024.

For guests following the Orthodox calendar, the resort offers special celebrations, including an Orthodox Christmas Eve Cocktail Party and Gala Dinner at Sunrise Beach, a joyous Brunch the following day, and an Orthodox New Year’s Dinner on 14 January to conclude the magical season.

A highlight of the season is a series of culinary pop-ups by Italo-Argentinian Chef Mauro Colagreco, chef patron of the three-star Michelin restaurant Mirazur in Menton, Côte D’Azur. From 21 to 28 December, Chef Colagreco will present culinary creations inspired by the festive season and crafted with ingredients sourced from Reethi Rah’s tropical gardens. His dishes are prepared according to the phases of the moon, following the principles of biodynamic agriculture, which allows him to make the most of the resort’s vegetable gardens and locally sourced fish, shellfish, and meat. While showcasing technical finesse, Chef Colagreco’s dishes remain approachable, emphasising harmonious flavours.

Chef Mauro Colagreco explains: “Promoting meaningful gastronomy in the heart of our land is the challenge we try to take up every day. You will therefore be able to savour the essence of the produce we grow in our two hectares of permaculture vegetable gardens, but also the fruits of wild picking, fishing, and local breeding. We also aim for zero waste, which allows us to return to the land what we have borrowed from it.”

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