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Conrad Maldives’ The Muraka introduces culturally immersive experiences collection

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is continuing to push the boundaries of transformative travel, with new programming designed to further enhance the overall guest experience for guests staying in THE MURAKA residence, the first-of-its-kind undersea residence.

The luxurious and innovative resort, situated on pristine Rangali island, is introducing “The Wanderers,” a collection of culturally immersive experiences for those wishing to explore the tropical terrain and engage with the Maldivian way of life. Nature-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike will relish the opportunity to expand their horizons through authentic explorations offered by “The Wanderers” collection of experiences, which include: Your Maldivian Home, Film an Eco-Mentary, Sky Full of Stars, Moonlight Movies, and more.

The introduction of the “The Wanderers” collection of experiences is underpinned by a recent study conducted by Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme of global travel and hospitality brand Hilton. The loyalty programme discovered that, for travellers in Asia Pacific, 88 per cent of travellers feel their “love of travel is a huge part of how they define themselves,” and the ability to explore new regions and cultures is not just part of the itinerary but a core part that fulfils their existence, and fosters open mindedness for the world around them.

“The Wanderers” experiences

Guests seeking deeper connections with the Maldivian way of life will enjoy a first-hand account through “Your Maldivian Home”, an exclusive island-hopping experience that highlights the charm of the Maldives beyond the beach. Visiting the families and homes of resort team members on neighbouring islands and fishing villages, this unique afternoon allows guests to gain a glimpse into the Maldivian way of life. Hosted by one of THE MURAKA butlers, guests will have the chance to connect with resort team members and their families, sample traditional cuisine and tour the island.

For those whose sense of curiosity draws them beneath the waves, marine life enthusiasts can imagine themselves documentary filmmakers for the day, with the “Film an Eco-Mentary” experience. Guests will become familiar with the depths of the Indian Ocean as they go on a guided ocean dive or snorkel complete with a film crew to capture the expedition. Ideal for guests of all ages, this unique experience can be recounted for years to come with a personalised and edited “eco-mentary” to take home as a memorable keepsake.

The remote location of THE MURAKA means that nights there are virtually free from light pollution and ideal for stargazing. The Sky Full of Stars experience encourages guests to explore Rangali after dark with a guided nature walk, viewing the constellations with unparalleled clarity. Guests can also opt in to enjoy this experience from the comfort of one of their private decks at THE MURAKA.

Moonlight Movies brings guests’ favourite films to the ultimate movie theatre – THE MURAKA. Guests will enjoy an at home cinema experience under the stars on the main deck of the residence. A special beanbag seating arrangement allows for ultimate comfort as guests watch their favourite movies under the moonlight, accompanied by the sounds of the sea.

Personalised service

The first-of-its-kind undersea residence, THE MURAKA is innovative in both its structure and experience, allowing guests to push boundaries and chart their own course to discovery. Offering an intimate and personalised journey both above and below the surface of the ocean, THE MURAKA is a unique base from which to experience all that the Maldives has to offer.

Along with an extensive selection of activities and experiences as well as individualised service from a dedicated team of butlers and chefs, “The Wanderers” allows guests to enjoy a truly immersive voyage to one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Additional off-the-menu experiences have been crafted for discerning guests of THE MURAKA who wish to experience the Maldives through a unique lens.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.

As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.

As the latest innovation, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island had unveiled the world’s first undersea villa. A triumph of modern design and technology, THE MURAKA is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.

The resort had also invested USD 8.3 million in redeveloping its 42 award-winning Deluxe Beach Villas. Designed by THE MURAKA undersea residence’s design collaborator Yuji Yamazaki, the new Deluxe Beach Villas are a celebration of the natural environment and continue to be one of the resort’s most popular villa categories.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is also home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.

The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.

More information or reservations are available by phone at +960 7929119, email at TheMuraka@conradhotels.com or visit www.conradmaldives.com.

Culture

Maldives unveiled: Khalid Al Ameri’s off-resort exploration

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The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), known as Visit Maldives, recently collaborated with popular Emirati content creator and digital storyteller Khalid Al Ameri for an exclusive familiarisation (FAM) trip held from March 22 to 26, 2025. The result: a heartfelt and engaging YouTube video that has already begun resonating with viewers across the globe.

Known for his authentic storytelling and ability to connect deeply with different cultures, Khalid’s visit captured the Maldives from a refreshingly local perspective—beyond the five-star resorts and crystal-clear lagoons that dominate travel brochures. The trip offered a deep dive into the culture, history, food, and way of life of the Maldivian people.

A Journey into the Heart of the Maldives

The video begins with Khalid journeying to Paree Fengandu—the mysterious “Fairy Pond.” With a sense of humor and wonder, Khalid narrates legends surrounding the lake’s reddish waters, rumored to be a gateway to the spiritual world. As he climbs into a canoe for the first time, Khalid embodies the spirit of exploration that threads through the entire video.

From there, viewers are taken to a traditional Maldivian home—“Relax Home”—for a dinner hosted by a local family. Khalid learns to prepare baiy mas, a traditional fish ball curry, alongside warm and welcoming hosts. His attempt at flaking fish may have been clumsy, but the scene was full of joy, laughter, and appreciation for Maldivian home cooking. A tasting session of local delicacies, including riha folhi (crepes) and mas huni, added a layer of culinary discovery to the experience.

Tracing History Through Mosques and Markets

Day two brought a deeper exploration of the country’s religious and architectural heritage. Khalid visits the historic Jumma Mosque, a 332-year-old structure known for its coral-stone architecture and wooden panels inscribed with Qur’anic verses. He reflects on the historical and cultural significance of the site, describing it as “hundreds of years of lessons” preserved through careful conservation.

He later visits the King Salman Mosque, the largest mosque in Malé, which was officially opened in 2024 and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. Khalid admires the blend of modern design with island culture, noting the mosque’s woodwork and glass detailing. The segment subtly highlights the Maldives’ connections to the broader Islamic world while grounding them in local identity.

In between mosque visits, Khalid explores the vibrant local market in Malé. With his signature charm, he engages in friendly haggling with vendors—unsuccessfully, but humorously—while taking in the colours and sounds of everyday Maldivian life.

A Cultural Celebration and a Lesson in Patience

In a lighthearted moment, Khalid joins a group of performers from Rhythm Boduberu, a traditional Maldivian drumming troupe, in a high-energy beach performance. The scene is filled with laughter, clapping, and dancing—an authentic portrayal of Maldivian cultural expression.

The journey concludes with a fishing trip off the coast of Malé, where Khalid reflects on life’s simple lessons after a mostly fishless outing. “Sometimes we have to lose to win,” he remarks, as the group eventually enjoys a seafood buffet prepared by local chefs.

More Than Just a Vacation

The final moments of the video capture the essence of Khalid’s experience. “Not the Maldives that everyone shows on Instagram. The Maldives that the people live every day,” he says, offering a powerful reminder that behind every postcard-perfect beach lies a community, a culture, and a story worth telling.

This collaboration between Visit Maldives and Khalid Al Ameri marks a significant step in diversifying the global perception of the Maldives. By spotlighting its heritage, traditions, and people, the video invites travellers to look beyond the water villas and instead connect with the soul of the islands.

The full video is now available on Khalid Al Ameri’s YouTube channel, providing a heartfelt window into an unseen side of the Maldives.

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Culture

Cruise liner makes first stop at HDh. Makunudhoo

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A cruise liner docked at HDh. Makunudhoo for the first time Monday, marking a new tourism milestone for the island. Passengers from the MS Hebridean Sky were welcomed by the island’s residents with cultural displays reflecting Maldivian heritage.

According to the Makunudhoo Island Council, 94 tourists disembarked from the vessel. The islanders gathered at the harbour in traditional attire to greet them.

As part of the visit, the tourists were divided into groups, each guided by local residents dressed in traditional clothing. They were taken on a tour of the island, visiting historical and significant sites. A festival was also held at the harbour, where islanders demonstrated traditional crafts, sports, and dances. A marketplace was set up as part of the event, where visitors could purchase local products.

The tourists, who arrived in the morning, departed at 1pm. Before leaving, they donated sports equipment to the island’s school.

“They were pleased with the welcome and the opportunity to explore the island,” said Auzam Adam, President of the Makunudhoo Council.

The MS Hebridean Sky visited Makunudhoo after stops at islands in Addu and Alif Alif Atoll. The vessel is now en route to another country.

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Echoes of tradition: timeless rhythm of Boduberu at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

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Steeped in history and rhythm, the Boduberu drummers have echoed for centuries, carrying with them stories of seafarers, islanders, and a culture deeply connected to the ocean. Among the drummers at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is Naseem, whose grandfather was a renowned Boduberu performer in his home island of Lhaviyani Atoll. As a child, Hassan would sit by the beach, mesmerised by the powerful drumbeats that seemed to summon the sea breeze itself. His grandfather would recount a time when Boduberu was not merely music but a tradition passed down through generations, binding communities through song, dance, and shared history.

Boduberu, meaning “big drums” in Dhivehi, originated as a form of communal entertainment where islanders gathered to celebrate, sing, and dance in unison. Over time, it evolved into a cherished national art form, performed during festivals, ceremonies, and as a warm welcome to visitors. The music is driven by the deep, resonant beats of large drums, accompanied by rhythmic clapping, powerful chanting, and synchronised movements. As the tempo builds, the energy becomes infectious, culminating in an exhilarating crescendo where dancers lose themselves in the rhythm, embodying the true spirit of the Maldives.

At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu remains a living tradition, offering an invitation to step into the heartbeat of Maldivian culture. Whether performed under the starlit sky by the ocean or woven into intimate celebrations, each performance brings authenticity and excitement, creating a profound connection between guests and the island way of life. Recently, a couple celebrating a birthday at the resort received a heartfelt surprise when the resort’s team arrived with a beautifully crafted cake, accompanied by the powerful beats of Naseem and his fellow drummers. The rhythmic melodies filled the air as staff and performers joined together to sing in Dhivehi, transforming the occasion into an experience far beyond an ordinary birthday celebration.

For Naseem, every performance serves as a tribute to his grandfather, preserving the stories, songs, and rhythms of his ancestors. For the guests of Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu is more than just entertainment; it is an invitation to experience the Maldives as it has been for generations—alive with music, tradition, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Guests can now enjoy exclusive benefits through Cinnamon DISCOVERY, the brand’s loyalty program in collaboration with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), which connects them to a portfolio of over 800 hotels across 40 brands in 100 countries. As the first Sri Lankan hospitality brand to join GHA DISCOVERY, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts offers members meaningful rewards, personalised experiences, and access to exceptional stays at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, and Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives.

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