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LUX* South Ari Atoll to host personal growth workshop with best-selling author Amber Rae
LUX* South Ari Atoll in Maldives has partnered with New York’s best-selling author Amber Rae to host workshops on emotional wellness and personal growth.
As part of the Expert-Led Workshop series conducted by LUX* Resorts & Hotels, Amber will host two separate workshops on May 21 and 23; one customised for couples and the second focused on personal growth.
Workshop 1, May 21, 2019: Love & Wonder — Living Your Best Life as a Couple
Join couple Amber Rae and Farhad Attaie, otherwise known as Mr. and Mrs. Wonder, as they guide you through a journey to unlock more love, meaning, and depth in your relationship. This workshop combines relatable stories with research-backed and personally-tested techniques for celebrating the good stuff, navigating the hard stuff, and creating your best life as a couple. Develop your communication skills, conflict navigation, shared meaning, couple vision mapping and take your relationship to a deeper, and more meaningful place.
Workshop 2 – May 23, 2019: Choose Wonder Over Worry — Move Beyond Fear & Doubt to Unlock Your Full Potential
How do we tap into our creativity and unlock our true potential? How do we move beyond the worry, fear, and doubt that stifles our potential? Learn how to use the power of wonder to access more meaning, ease, and joy in your life. Together, we will break through the myths that hold us back and learn how to tap into the three Cs — Courage, Curiosity and Compassion — to propel our growth. Blending soulful conversation with research-based insights, you’ll leave with tools to navigate tricky emotions, build confidence in the unknown, and express your gifts.
Called a “real-life Wonder Woman”, Amber is a New York-based best-selling author, illustrator, entrepreneur and speaker who encourages emotional wellness and personal growth.
Blending raw, personal storytelling with visual exercises and actionable aha! moments, Bustle called Amber’s best-selling book, Choose Wonder Over Worry: Move Beyond Fear and Doubt to Unlock Your Full Potential, “the one advice book you should read even if you don’t like self-help.” Her illustrations turn complex ideas about the human experiences into bite-size wisdom, and reach more than 1.2 million people per week. Her public art has spread to more than 20 countries, and she has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, NY Mag, Forbes, TODAY, Inc., SELF, Fast Company and Entrepreneur. Fortune called her “a Millennial Motivator” and Mind Body Green called her “The Brené Brown of Wonder.”
Amber speaks frequently about unlocking our true potential, and has collaborated with organisations such as Kate Spade, TED, Ogilvy and WPP. Previously, she started a publishing company with Seth Godin and Amazon, and created marketing campaigns for brands like Apple and Dove.
LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a generous day package for guests wishing to visit the resort for a full day’s programme, including Amber’s workshop, access to all resort facilities, lunch and spa treatments (30 minutes of Body Scrub and 90 minutes of signature spa treatments).
Cutting-edge designer villas and world-class dining can be found only a 30-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport, making LUX* South Ari Atoll one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives.
With 193 private villas dotted at the water’s edge along four kilometres of powder fine beach or perched on stilts above a crystal clear lagoon, these spacious pavilions and villas bring an entirely original vibe of coastal, beach house chic to the Maldives.
Excellent eating and drinking is always a cut above the rest at LUX*, and at LUX* South Ari Atoll, there is authentic South East Asian street food in the Maldives’ only over-the-water gourmet night market and world-class Chinese cuisine at East, along with the Japanese restaurant Umami, which offers live teppanyaki and dazzling selection of sakés.
While the resort has a PADI-certified dive centre, two infinity pools, a floodlit tennis court, a fitness centre and a renowned spa which hosts a wellness concierge and a menu of indulgent treatments, what sets the property apart from its neighbours are surprises, or better known as #ReasonstogoLUX. Designed to create lasting memories for guests, these ‘reasons’ can range from island-roasted coffee in Café LUX* to impromptu movie screenings at cinema paradise and the chance to hang your wishes on the Tree of Wishes.
The Day Package is available for USD 550 per adult or teen, with a 50 per cent discount for children aged 6-11 years. To book please contact, stay@luxmaldivesresort.com
Celebration
VARU by Atmosphere marks five years of unmatched hospitality
VARU by Atmosphere, an iconic private island resort in the Maldives, celebrated its five-year anniversary this week, marking five years of hospitality, culture, and luxury inspired by the core philosophy of the Joy of Giving. The Naturally Maldivian resort hosted key stakeholders, including the island’s owners, corporate leadership, and colleagues, for an evening of grand celebrations featuring cultural performances, awards, and diverse culinary experiences.
Since its opening in 2019, VARU by Atmosphere has established itself as a sanctuary for travellers seeking to explore the Maldives’ rich cultural heritage while enjoying heartfelt hospitality. Guests at the resort experience the beauty of the turquoise lagoon and immerse themselves in the relaxed island lifestyle of this picturesque Indian Ocean destination. A standout feature of the resort is the award-winning Kaagé restaurant, which highlights authentic Maldivian cuisine, celebrating local ingredients, flavors, and culinary traditions.
Reflecting on the milestone, Mei P. Pun, General Manager of VARU by Atmosphere, noted the significance of the resort’s name, saying, “In Dhivehi, the Maldivian dialect, VARU translates to living life in abundance, strength, resilience, and above all, authenticity. For us, hospitality is about sharing the soul of the Maldives with every visitor, a mission made possible by the dedicated team. Their passion, warm smiles, and unwavering energy resonate with guests, many of whom return time and again.”
Part of the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, VARU by Atmosphere is a contemporary 5-star resort offering a luxurious island experience with 108 villas situated along white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, and three jetties featuring spacious over-water accommodations. Guests benefit from the exclusive VARU Plan™, a comprehensive holiday package that includes diverse dining options, spa experiences, daily activities, and excursions designed to enrich their stay.
Situated on the North-West edge of Malé Atoll, the resort is easily accessible via a 40-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. It boasts four restaurants and two bars, ensuring a wide range of culinary options, alongside premium facilities such as a dive school, water sports centre, overwater ELE|NA spa complex, gym, kids’ club, ocean excursions, and daily complimentary snorkelling trips to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Celebration
JOALI Maldives celebrates six years of art and luxury with Maison Ruinart
JOALI Maldives, the first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, will commemorate its sixth anniversary on November 15, 2024, with a special event that highlights its dedication to art, sustainability, and nature. For this milestone celebration, the resort is collaborating with Ruinart, the world’s oldest Champagne house. Founded in 1729 in Reims, France, and currently owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy, Ruinart has a long-standing connection to art, dating back to 1895 when Andre Ruinart commissioned Czech artist Alphonse Mucha to design a poster for the brand. Similarly, since its launch in 2018, JOALI has redefined the role of art in luxury hospitality by showcasing works from international artists. Renowned for its vibrant joie de vivre lifestyle, JOALI aligns with Maison Ruinart’s savoir-vivre philosophy, sharing values rooted in art and luxury.
As part of the celebration, British-French artist Sophie Kitching will present an ethereal art display during a cocktail event at Mura Bar, the heart of the resort. A graduate of the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and the School of Visual Arts in New York, Kitching is acclaimed for her installations, paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. She frequently employs oils, watercolours, and gold leaves on natural materials. Having collaborated with Maison Ruinart for events such as Frieze NY 2022 and the “Maison 1729” exhibition, Kitching will create bespoke eco-designed second skins and coasters for JOALI’s sixth anniversary. Drawing inspiration from the island’s native flora and fauna, including grey herons, sea birds, vibrant corals, and marine life, her creations incorporate vivid colours and copper-zinc leaves to adorn Ruinart bottles. These pieces reflect both JOALI’s and Ruinart’s shared commitment to art and sustainability.
During the event, guests will savour Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Cuvées while admiring Kitching’s ‘Invisible Green Art XXX, 2024’, an abstract masterpiece featuring a distinctive green tone originally developed during England’s Georgian and Regency eras. Transported from Ruinart’s archives in Reims, this artwork will remain on display at JOALI Maldives for over six months. Art and wine enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to purchase limited-edition hand-painted second skins by Kitching during the cocktail event or until the pieces are sold out.
On November 16, 2024, guests can further indulge in an exclusive champagne-pairing dinner hosted by Fabien Vallérian, International Director of Arts & Culture at Ruinart. This gastronomic experience will pair Maison Ruinart’s champagnes with a meticulously curated menu, with each plate and glass weaving a narrative of art and flavour.
Fabien Vallérian praised the partnership, stating: “At Maison Ruinart, the protection of nature is central to our values. We are dedicated to supporting artists who foster a dialogue between humanity and nature through their creativity and craftsmanship. Since 2022, we have collaborated with Sophie Kitching on various artistic commissions, and this project with JOALI provides an incredible opportunity for her to explore and celebrate the ecosystems of the Maldives.”
These celebratory events mark the beginning of a promising partnership, with future activations planned both in the Maldives and globally.
Celebration
Festive escapes redefined: discover the magic of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru offer an unforgettable festive escape on their twin islands. Nestled in a serene haven, guests can celebrate the holiday season immersed in a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, Maldivian culture, and the relaxed elegance of island life. From swimming alongside sea turtles in vibrant coral reefs to embarking on thrilling big game fishing expeditions or unwinding in personalizsd spa retreats, the islands provide the perfect mix of excitement and tranquility.
This festive season, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to indulge in the award-winning ‘Madi Hiyaa’, an overwater Japanese restaurant. Visitors can savour signature dishes from the newly opened Saffron Thai cuisine or enjoy a unique self-caught-to-table experience at Sangu Garden.
December 22nd – Christmas Spirit Ignites
- Christmas Tree Decoration (5:45 – 6:15 PM): Guests can gather at Sangu Garden, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, to decorate the Christmas tree with lights, ornaments, and festive cheer, creating memorable moments with loved ones.
December 24th & 25th – Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
- Santa’s Little Crafters: Children can unleash their creativity at Dhawa Kids Club by crafting holiday masterpieces.
- Christmas Eve Gala Dinner: Sangu Garden will transform into a culinary paradise, offering an elegant dinner amid shimmering lights.
- Merry & Mindful Yoga: Guests can begin Christmas morning with a rejuvenating yoga session on the Lagoon Deck.
- Gingerbread Man Decorating Class: Young guests can decorate gingerbread men at Dhawa Kids Club, adding a sweet touch to the festivities.
- Chocolate & Wine Tasting: Adults can enjoy an indulgent pairing session at ‘Madi Hiyaa’, ending the day on a delightful note.
December 31st – New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
- Sunset Cocktails: Visitors can bid farewell to the year with bespoke cocktails at Naiboli Beach, as the sun sets over the horizon.
- New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner: Sangu Garden and Naiboli Beach will host a lavish feast, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
- Live DJ & Countdown: Guests can dance beneath the stars, celebrating the arrival of the new year with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Featured Experiences Throughout the Festive Season:
- Excursions & Adventures: Guests can partake in activities such as big game fishing, sunset cruises, and night snorkelling, discovering excitement across the tropical paradise.
- Entertainment for All Ages: Cultural performances, treasure hunts for children, and live bands at Naiboli Beach ensure fun for everyone.
- Culinary Delights: Cooking classes, wine pairings, and exquisite degustation menus at ‘Madi Hiyaa’ and Saffron delight culinary enthusiasts.
Every moment on these twin islands is thoughtfully designed to create lasting memories. Surrounded by loved ones, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional experiences, visitors are invited to capture the festive magic and make it the highlight of their year.
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