Featured
One&Only Reethi Rah launches Artist in Residence programme with world-renowned artists
One&Only Reethi Rah has launched a new Artist in Residence programme with world-renowned artists, including figurative painter Henri Lamy, and portrait painter, DJ and photographer Ruddy Candillon.
Guests have the opportunity to learn from expert artists and nurture their artistic talents in the inspiring beachfront setting of the Art Gallery, recently expanded and located at the lively hub of the island, ClubOne.
A variety of innovative art classes are available for guests based on different themes and genres. Classes take place in the beach-side studio at ClubOne or upon request in the privacy of the guest’s villa. One&Only Reethi Rah offers a vibrant array of activities for all ages and interests, whether guests are seeking relaxation, adventure, wellbeing or to pursue an area of passion such as art, all against a backdrop of pristine white sand and turquoise lagoon waters.
“One&Only Reethi Rah offers an unforgettable escape for guests to experience once-in-a-lifetime moments in a captivating setting amid the spectacular white beaches and vivid turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean,” Jan B. Tibaldi, General Manager at One&Only Reethi Rah, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“We are delighted to provide our guests with an array of exciting art classes and activities with internationally renowned artists, designed to celebrate life, leaving our guests feeling energised and inspired to create their own masterpieces.”
As part of the new Artist in Residence programme, One&Only Reethi Rah welcomed Henri Lamy in January.
Lamy started painting at an early age and his work is characterised by lively colours and highly creative composition, as well as inventive use of a palette knife. Henri depicts spontaneous colourful faces and surprising scenes of life, his paintings take on the movements of the martial art Capoeira, creating lively and expressive compositions. Through these techniques, it may seem as though his work is abstract when viewed at close range but is actually figurative when viewed from a distance. Guided by his emotions, he is renowned for taking risks with his art and is a true Capoeira-painting performer.
Influenced by Yan Pei Ming and Lucian Freud, Henri’s first exhibition was held in France in 2006, and he has exhibited in galleries all over the world including Japan, China, New York, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok.
Following a successful programme with Lamy, One&Only Reethi Rah is now hosting Ruddy Candillon, who will be in residence until April 31.
Candillon is a renowned photographer whose images have been shown in galleries and foundations all around the world, including France, Brazil, the UAE and US. He notably presented a series of Japanese portraits at the Musée des Beaux Arts de Bordeaux, and his works are present in many private collections. Through his work, Ruddy aims to preserve the energy and the movement of a traditional painting. Ruddy works by seizing unveiling energy and transforming his subjects as he experiments with different focus points and depicting a lapse of time through his portrait photographs.
At One&Only Reethi Rah, Ruddy offers guests the opportunity to create unique portraits where light transforms and transfigures the person. This innovative way of working is something completely new for One&Only Reethi Rah guests.
Set on one of the largest islands in North Male Atoll, the all-villa ultra-luxury One&Only Reethi Rah resort offers an unparalleled array of luxurious options to create an unforgettable holiday. Sleek and spectacular, with unprecedented privacy, One&Only Reethi Rah inspires extraordinary journeys for the soul. From extensive outdoor adventure options, including snorkelling and diving in the exotic underwater world, to the mesmerising One&Only Spa, guests are spoilt for choice.
The resort offers 122 thatch-roofed villas and a wide range of culinary experiences, including the Botanica restaurant, which offers the ultimate in organic garden-to-fork cuisine, and Rabarbaro, which offers genuine Italian fare, as well as a superfoods breakfast menu.
Guests at One&Only Reethi Rah can also enjoy an array of spa experiences, including private sunrise yoga classes on a secluded sandbank, a ‘Twilight Spa Rendezvous’ massage experience under the stars, ‘foot rehab’ – a concept created by the resident yoga instructor and the Bastien Gonzalez therapist which combines yoga and foot massage, Barber+Blade – a men’s grooming and shaving studio and a Spa Courtyard featuring a vitality pool, outdoor sauna and steam room.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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