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John Rogers on delivering exceptional guest experiences at newly opened LUX* North Male Atoll

It’s been said that good things come to those who wait. The notion might be a fallacy for some, but it certainly is true in this case! After a wait that took longer than expected, LUX* North Male Atoll has finally begun welcoming guests to its shores. And with that, the resort’s oversized penthouse architecture and easygoing South Beach ambience have brought a new level of luxury to the Maldives hotel scene.
At the helm of this ground-breaking opening is seasoned hotelier John Rogers, who has held roles as general manager at several award-winning luxury resorts, including eight years at La Residencia in Mallorca. Before joining the pre-opening team at LUX* North Male Atoll in October 2018 as its general manager, John oversaw all operations of the Carlisle Bay resort in Antigua and Barbuda.
Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in managing award-winning properties around the world, British-born John brings an impressive background in pre-opening, planning as well as luxury resort operations to Mauritius-based LUX* Hotels & Resorts’ second resort in the Maldives. His wealth of knowledge in five-star resort hospitality is set to ensure the continued success of LUX* Hotels & Resorts and its dedicated commitment to ensure fresh, creative and exceptional experiences in different locales around the world, with LUX* North Male Atoll now out with the promise of next level ‘Lighter, Brighter’ and extraordinary stay.
Maldives Insider sits with John as he takes charge of the mould-breaking new resort.

John Rogers (L) holds a signed plaque with the Maldives tourism minister Ali Waheed (C) and LUX* Resorts & Hotels’ Chief Operating Officer Dominik Ruhl (R) at the opening event of LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
Maldives Insider: What interested you to pursue a career in hospitality and tourism?
John Rogers: I have always dreamt of an international career. My father was in the navy, so when I was growing up, we moved every couple of years and I loved meeting new people and exploring new cultures. So, the hotel business was a natural fit for me.
MI: How would you describe your past experiences in the hospitality industry?
JR: I have worked in 17 different countries; from Hong Kong and Bali in Asia to Vancouver in North America, Zanzibar in Africa, and Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean. In the beginning it was mainly big cities, but after sometime I preferred resort environments and the tropical climate. I love looking after guests, motivating a team and the incredible buzz of the industry.
Those experiences were very enjoyable. I have always been very passionate about what I do, and I enjoyed working with diverse groups of people and learning from them. Looking back at my life, I can feel that I have had amazing experiences in everywhere I had worked at.

John Rogers speaks at the opening event of LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: Can you tell us your first impressions of the Maldives?
JR: When I was based in Colombo, I came to the Maldives on holiday in 1997. It was over 20 years ago, back when Male didn’t have tall buildings and the airport was very basic. I stayed in a resort in the southern part of the country. I could tell even then that it was a unique country. I absolutely fell in love with the incredible blues, the pure paradisiacal islands, and most importantly the people and their culture and heritage.
After 20 years, I’m back in the Maldives. Progress happens everywhere and the Maldives is no different. The airport is much more developed, and Male is crowded with taller and taller buildings. There are many new hotels opening up. But the people and their hospitality remains the same.

LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: How would you describe the experience of setting up and opening a brand-new resort in the Maldives? What are the challenges and the opportunities?
JR: Setting up a resort in a secluded is never easy, but LUX* being a well-established operator and my vast experience in opening hotels go a long way in making sure everything is as it should be. The biggest challenge in the Maldives is logistics. It’s not like you can run down to a shop and grab something you need urgently. There’s a lot of planning involved to make sure things get done on time and the right people are recruited trained well before the opening. Apart from that, it’s being good fun.
I think we are in a very good position. In fact, we have been very busy. Right after our opening in February, we had the Chinese New Year, so we had a lot of Chinese guests for the first two weeks. That was a good thing for the hotel and the staff as our team members were busy from day one and had the chance to fine tune the details. That has continued.

Aerial View of Glow restaurant at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*

Beach Rouge restaurant and bar at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: What sets LUX* North Male Atoll apart from the others in the same market segment?
JR: We are a smaller hotel, so there’s that boutique feel. We are also luxurious, with bigger rooms and more facilities and services. The architectural design aspects that you see here are very unique, even for the Maldives. Our over-sized penthouse residences come with a private rooftop terrace which sets us apart from the others by offering extra customisable space for our guests.
But the most important aspect of our USPs is our focus on creating unique experiences for our guests. We are incredibly lucky to be part of LUX*, which gives a strong emphasis on delivering unique experiences to the guests. At LUX* North Male Atoll, we offer several signature experiences such as Cinema Paradiso at your rooftop terrace and special snorkelling sessions our house reef which is a rare combination of reef and caves. The combination of long stretches of powder soft white sand beach and a house reef just off the island is unique too; not many resorts have that.

A water villa at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*

The open air deck of a water villa at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: What’s being done to build upon the successful launch of LUX* North Male Atoll?
JR: We had a very successful opening event, ‘First on the Island, where we invited travel partners, media and influencers from all around the world for a first-hand experience of our resort. The event helped put us on the map and build a strong social media presence for us, thanks to our active sales and marketing as well as PR team.
The next big chapter of LUX North Male Atoll is the completion and introduction of our three-bedroom Beach Retreat and Over Water Retreat. Each of the two residences is more than 970 sqm, including over 380 sqm of open plan indoor living. The opulence and attention to detail of the design are unparalleled, the interiors feature Grecian marble, stones from India and furniture from Bali. With the design and architecture subtly inspired by the free-spirit of the super yacht, you can dock your own private yacht at the Over Water Retreat.

The Over Water Residence at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*

The Beach Residence at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: What are your thoughts about the changing travel trends and the changes in the Maldives tourism industry?
JR: Every international hotel company wants to have their hotel in the Maldives which is a testament to the allure of this destination and its importance in the global travel and tourism industry. There are many new openings this year and the coming few years as well, so competition is obviously high. I believe competition itself if a great motivating factor in any business and hotel business is no exception. Maldives has over the years redefined luxury travel at a global scale, and the competition we have today has already helped us take it to next level. It’s leading to incredible innovations; astronomical towers, underwater restaurants and rooms, you name it!
A lot of travellers want to try out new hotels and new experiences. I think that’s why LUX* North Male Atoll is a fine example of how competition leads to innovation. We have developed a unique concept with our white-washed, double-storey penthouses which has brought fresh forward-thinking design for the Indian Ocean. Our bespoke experiences and unique offerings are the product of our innovative spirit and our effort to enhance guest experience. The creative culture built amongst our team helps us realise this goal.

Cafe LUX* at LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*

The ‘Floating Breakfast’ at experience offered by LUX* North Male Atoll. PHOTO/ LUX*
MI: How would you describe your experience in the Maldives so far?
JR: It’s been an enjoyable experience. I’m lucky to work with people from different countries and meet with guests from different corners of the world who share amazing stories. The natural beauty of the island and the magical LUX* moments we are creating everyday to help our guests make their dreams come true make it a rewarding experience as well.
Featured
Immersed in nature: marine life encounters at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

As the world comes together to celebrate World Wildlife Day, there is no better time to explore the turquoise waters surrounding Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ four Maldivian properties. These waters, home to some of the most captivating marine creatures, provide a glimpse into a thriving underwater ecosystem brimming with life. Experts from Dive & Sail, the official dive operator at the resorts, share insights into the marine marvels awaiting guests beneath the waves.
“Each of the four resorts in the Maldives by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts boasts a unique marine ecosystem,” says Adam Ali from the Dive & Sail team. He highlights the vibrant coral gardens of Ellaidhoo, the world-famous surf breaks and manta ray encounters near Dhonveli, and the diverse underwater landscapes that make each location a window into the wonders of the ocean.
At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, divers and snorkelers frequently encounter nurse sharks gliding through the waters, while the pristine lagoons of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offer sightings of stingrays and colourful reef fish. The diversity of species across these resorts underscores the Maldives’ rich marine heritage, providing unforgettable underwater adventures.
One of the most sought-after experiences for divers and snorkelers is encountering manta rays and whale sharks. “The Maldives is one of the best places in the world for manta ray sightings, and they are often spotted in the channels near Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives and Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives,” explains Ibrahim Shaah, a seasoned instructor at Dive & Sail. Recalling a particularly memorable dive, he describes being surrounded by half a dozen manta rays, their graceful movements almost hypnotic, with one even looping around the divers as if performing a dance.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, renowned for its house reef, offers some of the best opportunities for close-up shark encounters. “Diving here, especially at night, is a surreal experience,” says diver Mohamad Amjey. He describes a moment of stillness as a school of reef sharks moved past him like shadows in the dark, an exhilarating yet peaceful experience.
Beyond providing exceptional underwater encounters, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts remains committed to marine conservation. “Sustainable diving and snorkelling practices are essential to protecting these fragile ecosystems,” the team at Dive & Sail emphasises. The dive centres educate guests on responsible marine interactions, encouraging them to maintain a safe distance from marine life and avoid contact with corals.
The resort group also plays a crucial role in reef restoration through coral propagation initiatives. By planting coral frames and monitoring their growth, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts contributes to preserving the reefs that support an incredible array of species. Guests are invited to take part in these efforts, fostering a deeper connection with marine conservation.
On this World Wildlife Day, the vibrant marine life of the Maldives is celebrated as a dream destination for ocean enthusiasts. Whether experienced divers or first-time snorkelers, guests at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives are encouraged to discover, appreciate, and safeguard this underwater wonderland. After all, the true beauty of the ocean lies not only in what is witnessed but in the efforts made to protect it for future generations.
Featured
Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Guraidhoo star in High Road, Low Road grand finale

RTÉ One’s High Road, Low Road, in collaboration with Visit Maldives, selected Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives and the local island of Guraidhoo as the two locations for the grand finale of Season 4 of the popular Irish series.
As part of the show’s format, two actresses embarked on surprise trips, each experiencing a distinct side of the Maldives. The premise of High Road, Low Road revolves around two celebrity guests exploring a destination in contrasting ways—one enjoying a luxurious ‘high road’ experience, while the other embraces the ‘low road,’ focused on local immersion and cultural exploration.
Actress Neilí Conroy, known for her adventurous spirit, took part in the high road experience, indulging in the luxurious offerings at Sun Siyam Olhuveli. Surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches, she experienced world-class hospitality, exclusive spa treatments, gourmet dining, and the ultimate in luxury travel.
Meanwhile, Denise McCormack, with a passion for cultural exploration, opted for the low road experience on Guraidhoo, one of the Maldives’ vibrant local islands. She immersed herself in the island’s authentic Maldivian charm, engaging with the community, visiting local shops, and experiencing the island’s culture and traditions firsthand.
The collaboration between Visit Maldives, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, and Guraidhoo provided viewers with an exciting opportunity to explore the Maldives’ diverse offerings, ranging from lavish getaways to culturally enriching adventures.
Florante Abuton Jr., Assistant PR and Communications Manager for Sun Siyam Olhuveli, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to be part of High Road, Low Road and to showcase the Maldives in all its diverse glory. This collaboration highlights how travellers can enjoy both the luxury of Sun Siyam Olhuveli and the authentic beauty of local islands like Guraidhoo. Whether seeking a lavish escape or a deeper cultural connection, the Maldives offers it all.”
The episode recently aired on RTÉ One, providing Irish audiences with a glimpse into the varied experiences available in the Maldives. Both Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Guraidhoo demonstrated the country’s multifaceted appeal, solidifying its status as an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
Featured
The Westin Maldives unveils exclusive ‘Around-The-Clock’ all-Inclusive retreat

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has introduced its exclusive ‘Premium All-Inclusive Around-The-Clock’ package, offering a memorable blend of adventure and relaxation on the untouched shores of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This thoughtfully designed experience invites travellers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Maldives, seamlessly combining luxury, nature, and culture for a truly unique island retreat.
Guests begin their journey with a scenic 30-minute seaplane flight from Malé, arriving at the resort’s pristine natural island, where turquoise waters meet powder-white sands. This holistic wellness resort features 69 spacious villas, both beachside and overwater, blending modern luxury with the serene beauty of the Maldives.
Mornings start with a nourishing breakfast at Island Kitchen, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients fuel the day ahead. For lunch, guests can explore a variety of vibrant options, from the Asian-inspired street food at Hawker to the eclectic offerings at Island Kitchen, or opt for the privacy and tranquility of in-villa dining. As dusk settles, they can enjoy an exquisite dinner at Island Kitchen, Hawker, or the sophisticated Pearl, renowned for its refined Japanese cuisine and breathtaking ocean views. For a more intimate experience, private beach dinners and in-villa dining are available upon request. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy unlimited beverages at all dining outlets and in their villas, ensuring that every moment feels like a celebration.
The package invites guests to discover the vibrant marine life of Baa Atoll on a private turtle snorkelling excursion, where sea turtles glide through the picturesque underwater world. Guests can explore Brother Island, where thriving coral reefs shelter reef sharks and colourful fish. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the resort’s dolphin cruise offers a magical opportunity for families to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Watersport enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating rides, while those seeking a more tranquil adventure can enjoy complimentary ocean kayaking through the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Moments of tranquility await at the Heavenly Spa by Westin, perched over the lagoon and inspired by the elements of nature. Guests can indulge in a rejuvenating 60-minute couple’s treatment, combining traditional techniques with modern wellness practices. For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, open 24/7, features state-of-the-art equipment with panoramic ocean views.
The resort warmly welcomes families, offering complimentary stays and dining for children under 12. The Westin Family Kids Club engages young guests aged four to 12 with fun and educational activities that provide an enriching introduction to Maldivian culture.
To elevate the guest experience, the package also includes daily minibar replenishments, high tea with the chef, and the convenience of daily laundry services. Guests can capture lasting memories with a complimentary photoshoot or unleash their creativity in painting classes, inspired by the island’s natural beauty. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy exclusive rewards, including bonus points, further enhancing their stay and offering perks for future travels.
Whether seeking a romantic escape, an unforgettable family adventure, or a solo retreat, the ‘Premium All-Inclusive Around-The-Clock’ package is designed to fullfill every desire.
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