Featured
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru introduces Maldives’ most ambitious solar project
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru has connected its first RoofSolar inverter, and in doing so turned on one of the Maldives’ largest resort-based solar installations.
The ambitious project comprises 3,105 panels and spans 5,380 square metres (58,000 square feet) – the roof surface of the staff village – and has been installed by Swimsol, specialists in tropical coastal-region solar systems. It is estimated that the new solar set-up will produce (and save) between 900,000 and 1.1 million kWh of energy every year and save between 250,000 and 300,000 litres (55,000-66,000 gallons) of diesel, which corresponds to 650-800 tons of CO2.
Putting this data into tangible real-world examples, the annual savings equate to powering all 103 of Landaa’s luxurious guest rooms, villas, and suites for 32 days or charging one of the resort’s eco-friendly electric golf cars more than 82,000 times.
In daily terms, it is the daily equivalent of powering 15 villas for 24 hours, applying reverse osmosis technology to 540 cubic metres (19,000 cubic feet) of water at the resort’s onsite desalination plant, or washing and drying 3,350 kilograms (7,400 pounds) of laundry.
Finally, looking at the diesel-saving ability, the annual figure equates to driving around the world 94 times – with the corresponding annual CO2 reduction eliminating the emissions of 544 flights between London to Male.
“Our Baa atoll home became the Maldives’ first UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 on account of its unique harmony between man and nature, and we take our role in preserving that status very seriously,” Armando Kraenzlin, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives’ Regional Vice President, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“This project is an important rung on our conservation ladder and takes us a step closer to reaching our eventual goal of becoming carbon-neutral.”
Conservation at Landaa has been a serious topic since the resort opened in 2006. Plastic reduction has been high on the list with paper straws introduced in 2010 and reusable glass water bottles in 2012, saving 365,000 plastic bottles annually. The latest partnership with Parley recycles any leftover plastic into clothes, shoes and more.
In addition, Landaa runs one of the Maldives’ leading centres of marine conservation and research, working in partnership with local and national environmental agencies and employing 10 full-time marine biologists to deliver pioneering activities every day including turtle rehabilitation, coral propagation, manta research, sustainable fish breeding, anemone mapping, dolphin ID and more.
Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.
Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.
The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.
The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in 2016 as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.
Dhigali Maldives has officially commenced its festive season in grand style, highlighted by the lighting of its sustainable driftwood Christmas trees—a cherished tradition that combines creativity with environmental awareness. Enhancing the evening’s charm, the resort’s Christmas carollers surprised guests with a lively dance performance, spreading festive cheer and excitement.
This year, the resort unveiled a captivating Christmas train, designed to transport guests around the island with a delightful touch of holiday magic. To celebrate the season’s arrival, a vibrant street market was organised, offering an array of cuisines prepared by the resort’s skilled chefs. The market created an authentic and lively atmosphere, bringing guests together in celebration.
The festivities continue with a dynamic lineup of events, including a Classic Christmas celebration and a Tropical Carnival-themed New Year’s party. Guests can anticipate live entertainment, mesmerising fire and samba dancers, and a cultural highlight with the Dhigali Island Fire Ritual, which blends tradition with dazzling performances to create unforgettable experiences.
This holiday season at Dhigali Maldives promises to deliver a truly magical experience, where the tropical allure of the island meets the joy of the holidays.
The Maldives has long been synonymous with romance, and now it takes centre stage in Condé Nast Traveller’s curated list of the ‘Most Romantic Places in the World’. The magazine highlights the archipelago’s unparalleled ability to create dreamlike escapes for couples, setting a gold standard for intimate getaways.
From the moment you set foot in the Maldives, the enchantment begins. Confetti-like tropical fish flit through crystal-clear lagoons, while overwater villas offer vistas of mantas gliding gracefully beneath. Add in the luxury of floating breakfasts served in your private pool and intimate dinners on pristine beaches, and you have the perfect recipe for romance.
Condé Nast Traveller notes that while the Maldives caters to families too, its essence of romance is unrivalled. The country’s private island resorts, nestled amid lush jungles and encircled by house reefs, redefine luxury. With world-class spas, fine dining, and starlit experiences, the Maldives effortlessly marries natural beauty with bespoke hospitality.
The Maldives is home to some of the world’s most celebrated resorts, and Condé Nast highlights a few that stand out:
- Vakkaru Maldives: A lush retreat where couples can enjoy a private dinner and movie at the island’s jungle cinema under the stars.
- Six Senses Laamu: The brand’s latest addition to the Maldives offers an exceptional spa experience, complete with a couples’ suite for ultimate relaxation.
- Gili Lankanfushi Maldives: This eco-luxury resort epitomises romantic aesthetics with its overwater villas set against one of the country’s most mesmerszing lagoons.
For hoteliers and hospitality professionals in the Maldives, this recognition underscores the archipelago’s enduring allure as a romantic haven. It’s a reminder of the importance of maintaining world-class service, crafting unique guest experiences, and preserving the pristine beauty that defines the Maldives.
The Condé Nast Traveller mention is more than just an accolade; it’s an opportunity for local hoteliers to further cement the Maldives’ position as the ultimate destination for couples seeking an off-grid escape steeped in romance.
As the Maldives continues to set benchmarks in hospitality, there’s no doubt that its reputation as a lovers’ paradise will only grow stronger. For the industry, this is a call to celebrate the archipelago’s unique offerings and ensure that each guest leaves with memories as enduring as the turquoise waters that surround them.
Celebration
Ring in 2025 with spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La
As the countdown to 2025 approaches, JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La invites guests to celebrate the New Year with a festive feast and a toast to new beginnings. This unforgettable evening promises an array of culinary delights, live music, and exciting giveaways.
On 31st December 2024, guests can indulge in an exquisite buffet at Azur Restaurant, featuring a wide variety of flavours, including a selection of tapas, live grills, and decadent desserts. The festive ambiance will be enhanced by live music, setting the perfect tone to welcome the New Year. In addition to the celebration, JEN Maldives will offer exclusive giveaways, providing guests with the opportunity to win amazing prizes.
“We are delighted to end the year on a high note by expressing our gratitude to our valued guests,” said Manisha Chhetri, F&B Manager at JEN Maldives Malé. “This New Year’s Eve, we aim to create an evening filled with joy, delicious food, and exciting surprises as we welcome 2025 together.”
Guests attending the New Year’s Eve gala dinner will have the chance to win one of the following prizes:
- A 3-day, 2-night stay in a deluxe room at Shangri-La Singapore, including daily breakfast for 2 adults
- An exclusive Pool Brunch experience for 2 people at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La
- A 1-hour Balinese massage for 1 person at Aristo Spa
The winners will be selected and announced on the same night, following the countdown celebration at Azur Restaurant. JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La invites guests to join this unforgettable evening, with gala dinner tickets available for purchase directly at the hotel.
-
Featured1 week agoSAii Lagoon Maldives achieves Gold certification for sustainability excellence
-
Featured1 week agoJW Marriott Maldives unveils luxury wellness escape
-
Featured1 week agoELE|NA champions mindfulness on World Digital Detox Day
-
Awards1 week agoForbes Travel Guide ranks Maldives among top destinations for 2025
-
Celebration1 week agoCinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes Santa on scooters for festive island Christmas
-
Fashion1 week agoAquazzura collaborates with JOALI Maldives to launch Maldives’ first-ever limited-edition capsule collection
-
Family1 week agoJourney of renewal, family bonding: Celebrate Easter 2025 at The Nautilus Maldives
-
Action7 days agoHoliday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives presents Active Escapes 2025