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LUX* North Male Atoll opens, takes Maldives holiday experience to ‘next level’

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LUX* North Male Atoll has opened, bringing a “next level” to the luxury holiday experience in the Maldives.

Mauritius-based hotel group The Lux Collective’s second property in the Maldives became the first new resort opening of the year, as the brand new resort opened on February 1 at a ceremony attended by tourism minister Ali Waheed. He was joined by resort owners and top officials from The Lux Collective, as well as the local media.

Speaking at the ceremony, minister Ali Waheed stressed the importance of diversifying the tourism offerings in the Maldives. LUX* North Male Atoll represents the innovative, creative tourism products needed by the Maldives, he added.

“I have no doubt that this new gem will help differentiate what we offer to our guests and take the industry to new heights,” the minister said.

The minister joined Dominik Ruhl, Chief Operating Officer of The Lux Collective, and John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* North Male Atoll, to sign a commemorative plaque celebrating the resort’s opening.

“We are so excited to be opening a truly different resort which dares to get away from what we call the ‘sea of sameness’ with a thoroughly original approach to a luxury Maldivian holiday,” Dominik said at the ceremony.

“As well as offering a fresh alternative to the Indian Ocean’s traditional thatched villas thanks to our penthouses and nautical design, there are lots of impressive new services and surprises — all part of our intention to create an exceptional Maldives experience for those wanting uncompromising personal service and first-class facilities as well as unexpected touches and a lighthearted atmosphere. Guests spending their precious time away with us can rest assured that the team at LUX* North Male Atoll will make every moment matter.”

LUX* North Male Atoll presents a disruption to the Maldivian mould with over-sized, penthouse residences, which demonstrate fresh forward-thinking design for the Indian Ocean. By blending super-yacht panache with a South Beach pulse, these standalone stays upstage the traditional thatched villa vibe.

Discerning travellers seeking a smooth transition to holiday mode have enriching adventures ahead along with pure peace and pampering, so they can reset, recharge and recalibrate — uninterrupted. A short transfer from Male by luxury speedboat or scenic seaplane, as remote as this desert-island resort may feel, it is easily accessible, yet far from any other islands.

Designed for Space, Privacy

Singaporean design house Miaja specialises in styling unique properties to reflect the beauty and charm of their surroundings. Inspired by the curves, lines and the impeccable finish of a luxury boat and its sails, it has taken years to painstakingly perfect this resort on Olhahali, a six-hectare island fringed by white-sandy beaches. Welcome to a new level of living thanks to 67 double-storey residences, each featuring a private pool.

Each of the residences sits right on the beach or over the water with living areas that are at least 350sqm. These breezy, spacious villas host a choice of spaces in which to eat, drink, relax — from the rooftop relaxing areas to the sun terraces — treating guests to continuous pastel panoramas of the Indian Ocean. Hide away entirely with intimate barbecue dinners in the privacy of your own penthouse villa, stargaze using a telescope and have your personal villa host explain the Maldivian skies or simply summon the bartender to shake up your favourite cocktail right on your roof terrace. The oversized bathrooms with bath and couples rain shower are supplemented with an outdoor shower.

Throughout your stay, rest assured that your butler-style villa host will give you all the assistance — or privacy — needed and will never be short of ideas to make each moment on the island extra special. Indulge a passion in painting or sketching, or simply switch off and savour the serenity.

Inspired Wining, Dining

In the mood to mingle? Venture out to charismatic social spaces to relax amongst other cosmopolitan guests. LUX* has mastered balancing salty, sour, sweet, bitter and umami flavours in all that we do, serving our original dishes and drinks in unusual, uplifting environments.

Barium is the secluded private dining room with a wow-inducing underwater fish tank. Join other guests in eclectic wine tastings, communal chef tables or let the team arrange a private dinner for you and your friends.

INTI is the Peruvian-Japanese  restaurant with a prepared-in-front-of-you sushi bar. Chef Gaston, the Maldives’ only Peruvian chef, prepares smoked guacamole, ceviche and aged meats introducing guests to this exotic and exciting cuisine laced with tastes from Peru, Argentina, Japan, Ecuador and Mexico. Expect pisco sours and a dazzling range of sake.

Travel the globe at GLOW, as it showcases the best of European classics, Italian and Spanish delicacies through to South East Asian specialities. Here, the celebrated Beach Rouge has a pool-club feel, combining strong contemporary lines, world-class cuisine, a wood-fired pizza oven and Josper charcoal grill as well as awe-ensuring views over the infinity pool — all soundtracked by a live DJ. Soak up that sunshine on loungers by day, make a splash with a jump in that pool, sip cocktails at the bar and enjoy a nightcap at the rooftop shisha bar.

Wellness Sanctuary

This over-the-lagoon world of wellbeing is no ordinary spa. Here, the two-hour treatments for twosomes include body scrubs, massages and aromatherapy bathing rituals, ensuring you never miss a moment together. Feel stress and tension melt away with a Watsu session — Zen Shiatsu in the water reaches the parts that other therapies can’t.

The treatment rooms are right over the water in view of where the ocean currents collide. Or let the spa team provide private spa treatments in your villa or in the fresh air on the rooftop with the waves as your soundtrack.

Extraordinary Snorkelling, Diving

Not many islands are blessed with such a spectacular reef, metres from the beach, entertaining you with tropical fish, stingrays and the occasional pods of dolphins. For the more adventurous, there is a world-class PADI dive centre and access to the Maldives’ most famous shipwrecks and caves. Spend time with a resident marine biologist to understand the resort’s coral restoration projects or discover turtles, spotted eagle rays, bannerfish and reef sharks who are all visitors to the house reef.

Yachting, Water Sports

Luxury yachts are available for charter, whilst tailor-made activities are offered to guests of all fitness and experience levels. The expert water sports team can arrange jet-skis, semi-submarine or flyboarding adventures or host SUP sessions and kayaking tours. If an excursion to a nearby sandbank on a nimble speedboat is not enough, charter a private yacht, which can be docked right at your water villa’s terrace.

Why LUX*?

There are always so many ‘Reasons to Go LUX*’. LUX* promises hospitality that is “Lighter, Brighter” in soul, style and service.

“We have carefully created a team that is dedicated to providing genuine, meaningful experiences and making each moment matter. I am proud and excited to help LUX* nurture a unique new destination in the Maldives. As our journey begins, we are looking forward to making LUX* North Male Atoll stand out on the map by creating a world-class resort, which takes innovative luxury hotel experiences to the next level,” General Manager John said.

At LUX*, every moment matters: simple, fresh, sensory experiences are created to indulge guests throughout their stay in stylish surroundings and with imaginative attention to detail, which alchemises the ordinary into the extraordinary.

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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