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Restaurant hopping, treasure hunt at ‘Secret Water Island’ in Maldives

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A 55-minute scenic seaplane ride later my colleagues from the Maldivian travel community and I were welcomed like celebrities to the “Secret Water Island”, officially known as the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi!

One of the latest additions to AccorHotel Group’s increasing portfolio of resorts in Maldives and the first under the French multinational hotel group’s Fairmont Hotels & Resorts brand, this luxury resort is located in Shaviyani atoll – one of the least explored atolls in Maldives. Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is the only resort in the northern atoll, and most of the atoll’s wonders and underwater beauty are yet to be explored.

On arrival, I checked into my private villa. I stayed at a Beach Front Villa, which is nestled amongst lush tropical vegetation and coconut palms. The large courtyard around the villa provides complete privacy with no disturbance from other guests. The villa comes with its own swimming pool. The first thought that came to my mind when I saw the pool was if I should be spending more time in the pool, on the beach or in the lagoon. The 495sqm villa (plus 25sqm pool area) offers all the comforts you need, including a Nespresso machine, wine fridge and home theatre system. Villa Hosts are available round the clock.

Our programme was organised in an adventurous way, and soon enough I was whisked away to a cocktail party organised at the island’s main pool side. Starting from one side of the island to the other, this is the longest pool in the Maldives – meaning guests can enjoy sunrise as well sunset in one pool!

I met the General Manager Ian McCormack and had a good conversation about life on an island far away from the rest and taking the challenges that he faced in a positive manner.

Our next stop was Kata, a Japanese restaurant built over the lagoon overlooking the water villas. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the sunset whilst enjoying Japanese-inspired tapas, cocktails and sakes.

After the sunset cocktail, we moved to a Tented Jungle Villa – a first and the only villas of the sort in the Maldives – for our next round of cocktails and canapes. These villas are well positioned inside the lush tropical jungle. Villas include a master bedroom and an extra bedroom for family or friends. The 525sqm villa — and its separate 95sqm pool deck — offers all the comfort and facilities you will find in any other villa on the island including a jungle swimming pool. This is the perfect place for nature lovers!

After enjoying cocktails, tapas and canapés at three different locations, it was time for dinner at Azure restaurant. Azure is an elegant yet casual seafood restaurant built over the lagoon. It serves freshly caught seafood and meat paired with exquisite wines from around the world – all the while enjoying breath-taking vistas of the ocean.

Later, we moved to Onu Onu Bar to enjoy dessert. Onu means bamboo in Maldivian language, and this bar is themed true to its name with bamboo by Balinese artisans. The exotic location coupled with refreshing cocktails and drinks make it the perfect spot for after dinner social hours. Live music combined with theatrical fire displays create a fascinating ambience and perfect memories. Twinkling candles, a laidback soundtrack and comfortable sandy beach seating make it the ideal place to wind down after a busy day of exploring.

The following day, at breakfast, we were informed of a treasure hunt. Everyone who participated was divided into four groups. Our first clue was to go to the Yoga Pavilion and on arrival the resident yogi gave us a brief yoga session before giving the next clue to the tennis court.

At the tennis court, the resort’s resident tennis pro gave us some tennis lessons before pointing out to the art studio as the next clue. At the art studio, we created an art piece on canvas by painting with our hands. As the next clue, we were told to explore the Willow Stream Spa. It offers a wellness experience that rivals others, offering carefully curated treatments that embody the island life – a serene retreat for the mind, body and soul.

As the final destination, we visited the Villa 710, a three-bedroom overwater villa on the sunset side of the island. Sporting rustic chic décor and the latest technology, this villa has a spacious terrace and a large private pool. Meanwhile, the 525sqm Three-Bedroom Pool Villas feature a master bedroom with a separate pool area, which measures 73sqm, and separate entrance.

Our team won the treasure hunt as the others were disqualified on the grounds that they took the buggy ride against the instructions.

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is your personal hideaway. It is that magical place where time stops and worries are brushed aside. From a secluded romantic getaway to an unforgettable family holiday, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi provides the perfect setting for a magical experience.

Awards

Atmosphere Kanifushi named Best Family Resort in Indian Ocean for sixth consecutive year

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Atmosphere Kanifushi has once again been recognised as the ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort’ at the World Travel Awards 2025, marking the sixth consecutive year the island has received this prestigious accolade. This continued recognition highlights the resort’s unique appeal to both romantic couples and adventure-seeking families.

Commenting on the achievement, Ram Bhoyroo, General Manager of Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, noted that the island’s charm lies in its ability to strike a harmonious balance between tranquillity and excitement. “While some Maldivian resorts cater to serenity and others to a more vibrant, active scene, Atmosphere Kanifushi is all about equilibrium—offering peace and relaxation alongside engaging, family-friendly experiences,” he shared.

Nestled on a long, naturally beautiful island with lush vegetation and surrounded by a stunning turquoise seascape, Atmosphere Kanifushi owes its success not only to its natural setting but also to the dedication of its team. According to Bhoyroo, the recognition is a result of the team’s relentless commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for guests of all ages. “By intuitively understanding the needs of each guest, we ensure a seamless blend of high-touch service, relaxation, and fun, all while offering the true feeling of a castaway escape in paradise,” he said.

With one of the highest guest repeater rates in the Maldives, the resort continues to innovate in order to surprise and delight returning visitors. From refreshed culinary offerings to vibrant live entertainment, there is always something new to discover.

Most recently, Atmosphere Kanifushi unveiled its new Essens Spa, a concept that redefines relaxation and wellbeing. The spa features immersive wellness journeys, yoga and detox sessions, traditional healing rituals, and a full suite of salon services. In keeping with the resort’s inclusive approach to family wellness, the spa also offers a Kids Spa Experience, complete with playful treatments for children and specialised teen wellness rituals that nurture growing bodies, youthful skin, and emotional balance.

This latest award reinforces Atmosphere Kanifushi’s reputation as a premier destination for families seeking both luxury and adventure in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

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Awards

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI wins ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ at 2025 WTAs

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THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI has been named ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ at the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards, marking a third consecutive win and reaffirming its status as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinguished villa experiences.

At the heart of this achievement is the resort’s crown jewel – the Royal RESERVE. Spanning 3,000 square metres, this exceptional villa redefines ultra-luxury in the Maldives. It features a private beach, expansive pool, personal spa treatment room with dedicated therapists, and opulent living spaces adorned with intricate handcrafted detailing. Guests are offered an array of exclusive privileges, including 24-hour private butler service, a personal chef for bespoke dining at the in-villa restaurant, and a private bar serving tailored beverages. The villa also boasts direct lagoon access and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, all enhanced by the signature RESERVE Experience – a promise of seamless, discreetly curated service.

This latest accolade continues a tradition of excellence for the resort, following its debut year that saw it claim multiple titles including ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Resort’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Villa’.

Monica Coppetta, General Manager of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, expressed her gratitude, “It is with heartfelt pride and deepest appreciation that we receive this coveted accolade from the World Travel Awards for the third consecutive year. This extraordinary distinction celebrates our passionate pursuit of crafting unforgettable journeys, where visionary design dances with gracious service amidst the Maldives’ breathtaking serenity. To be honoured by both our esteemed industry colleagues and cherished guests fills us with immense joy, strengthening our commitment to pioneering bespoke moments that linger in the memory long after departure. Every day, our team finds inspiration in turning dreams into reality, and this recognition fuels our devotion to perfecting the art of meaningful luxury.”

The 2025 win builds on a long-standing legacy of recognition for the resort, which was also recently nominated at the World Spa Awards 2025 as Maldives’ Best Wellness Retreat, thanks to its transformative ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa – a sanctuary renowned for innovative wellness practices and holistic rejuvenation.

The RESERVE Plan™ at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI sets the benchmark for all-inclusive luxury. It includes catamaran transfers, unlimited treatments at the award-winning ELE|NA spa, and elevated dining across seven distinctive venues. Guests also enjoy premium Champagne, curated ocean excursions, and personalised experiences with Best Dives. This seamless integration of indulgence and service exemplifies ‘abundant luxury’, making OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI one of the Maldives’ most exclusive and thoughtfully crafted escapes.

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Awards

Baros Maldives wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort title at 2025 World Travel Awards

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Baros Maldives has been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2025 by the prestigious World Travel Awards, a recognition that underscores the resort’s enduring dedication to delivering heartfelt and intimate experiences that are quintessentially Baros.

Nestled in the tranquil waters of North Malé Atoll, the Baros Water Villas are a refined expression of effortless luxury and seclusion. Each villa has been thoughtfully crafted to offer direct access to the turquoise lagoon, spacious sun-drenched decks ideal for peaceful reflection, and, in select accommodations, private pools with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Every element is designed to foster connection—with nature, with oneself, and with the timeless essence of Baros.

Beyond the villas lies Baros’ legendary house reef—teeming with vibrant marine life and coral gardens. Guests are invited to explore this underwater wonder through serene morning swims or sunset snorkelling sessions alongside turtles and schools of colourful reef fish.

Proudly Maldivian-owned and welcoming guests for over five decades, Baros Maldives has built a legacy of authentic hospitality and understated elegance. With just 75 villas, a team known for its warm, personalised service, and curated island experiences, the resort continues to offer stays that feel deeply personal and memorable.

Ibrahim Shijah, General Manager of Baros Maldives, expressed gratitude on behalf of the resort, “Our heartfelt thanks go to our guests, partners and the entire Baros team. This recognition is an honour and a wonderful reminder that the spirit of Baros continues to resonate with those who return to our shores time and again.”

As Baros celebrates this milestone, travellers are warmly invited to experience—or rediscover—the quiet magic that makes the island an enduring favourite in the Maldives.

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