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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo to host Maldives’ first Cuban fiesta for festive season

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6 years ago

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and to celebrate its very first festive season, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is hosting a celebration like no other.

From December 28, 2019 to January 1, 2020, this idyllic resort in the Maldives’ remote and pristine Gaafu Alif Atoll will draw inspiration from the colour and glamour of Cuba’s golden age to host Revolution, an exuberant festival of movement, music and wellness. From awe-inspiring dances on water to a non-stop programme of events and an array of surprises will make this holiday one to remember forever.

Amongst Revolution’s many highlights will be a succession of performances by Cuban-born, New York-based singer, bandleader, composer and dancer Chino Pons. An authority on Son Cubano music, Chino also draws inspiration from cha-cha-cha, bolero, yambu and more to perform joyous, energetic sets that will undoubtedly get the whole resort rumba-ing and rolling.

Dancing is also encouraged by Cuban-born performer Yesenia Fernandez Selier, who will host welcoming dance classes — if one of your new year’s resolutions is to move more, then this is an exceptional way to get started. Her exceptional agility can be admired from the most staggering of settings too. Erected solely for the festive period, an incredible floating island with its own palm tree, hammock and even waterfall will be converted from a gently bobbing sun deck by day to a stage come night. After the sun has set over the soft sands of Meradhoo, guests can watch in wonder as she moves magnetically upon the water.

Nightly DJ performances come courtesy of German duo Rob & Flo, with the New Year’s Eve party celebration reverberating the spectacular sound of the conga drums and the sultry spirit of Havana. Meanwhile, the days are reserved for full relaxation and regeneration.

Also joining Revolution is Dr Buathon Thienarrom, the founder of Thailand’s Sukkasart Institute of Healing Arts. Dedicated to enhancing the health of body, mind and spirit, she will draw from practices including Himalayan sound therapy, Taoism, Tibetan medicine and sleep therapy to induce in guests a sense of supreme restoration. For those who are concluding 2019 somewhat worse for wear, her healing hands promise a new start and fresh hope over the year to come.

Devised by Gabriel Doucet Donida, art director and co-founder of Atelier Voyage, the entire Revolution festive programme can be seen here, but don’t forget that there’s much more to enjoy at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo besides.

Some of the largest villas in the country, here each beach and overwater residence comes with a large marble bathtub, private pool and outdoor shower; Raffles’ legendary service reaches new heights at this exclusive Indian Ocean hideaway, too: dedicated Marine Butlers are on hand to lead snorkelling tours of the resort’s two wondrous house reefs (watch out for Apollo and friends, the 20 resident hawksbill and green turtles) and Children’s Butlers are on standby to meet the needs of younger guests.

Set steps from the beach and just over the water, the superlative Raffles Spa combines Eastern practices with age-old Maldivian influences and offers highly personalised treatments by Biologique Recherche, Aromatherapy Associates and more.

Whether intent on a special breakfast, lunch or dinner, distinctive dining options abound. Amongst them, The Firepit is an outdoor barbecue restaurant where tables and chairs are carved from the sand and set directly on the shore for uninterrupted views of the starlit sky; for fine dining soundtracked by gently lapping waves, overwater Yuzu makes judicious use of the best sustainably sourced local fish to serve exceptional Nikkei cuisine.

For a New Year’s Eve cocktail, the Long Bar’s Maldives Sling is a golden blend of gin, grapefruit, coconut, cinnamon and clove that mirrors the Maldivian sunset.

All in all it’s an offering that will ensure guests’ stays are full of delights and wonders — and as it’s the season of giving, the resort is taking further steps to make its first festive season extra special. A bounty of gifts, from all-original vinyl records to Les Ottomans headscarves and Ligne St Barth toiletries, will be dispensed during the holiday.

For stays from December 24, 2019 to January 10, 2020, those who book stays for four to six nights will enjoy a 25 per cent discount on room rates; those who stay seven nights and above will enjoy a 30 per cent discount. As we approach 2020, it’s a gesture that should make for a very happy new year.

Accommodation at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo during the festive season starts at USD 3,000 per night, including breakfast and complimentary speedboat transfers from Kaadedhdhoo Airport, an hour’s domestic flight south of Velana International Airport.

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Awards

Kudadoo Maldives secures top 1% global ranking with prestigious TripAdvisor award

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4 days ago

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May 29, 2025

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Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi has been named a ‘Best of the Best’ winner in the prestigious 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This elite honour places Kudadoo among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, a distinction earned through consistently outstanding guest reviews and ratings over the past year.

Building on its legacy of excellence, Kudadoo also secured the #18 position in Asia’s Small & Boutique Hotels category, recognised for its unparalleled approach to ultra-luxury hospitality, eco-conscious ethos, and personalized all-inclusive experiences that redefine exclusivity.

Akira Shiota, General Manager of Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, emphasised that every detail at Kudadoo is designed with purpose to offer unparalleled freedom, tranquil privacy, and an intimate connection to nature. He stated that receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award once again validates the resort’s commitment to exceptional, conscious luxury, crediting the dedicated team and loyal guests for inspiring continuous elevation of the experience.

Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, Kudadoo is a fully solar-powered sanctuary crafted for effortless luxury and meaningful indulgence. The island is home to just 15 exclusive Ocean Residences, each positioned above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, offering a personalized escape with 24/7 private butler service.

Guests at Kudadoo can enjoy a wide range of curated experiences, from swimming with manta rays to bespoke beachside barbecues, tailored to meet the desires of discerning visitors—many of whom return year after year for the resort’s signature blend of serenity, sophistication, and sustainability.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, the management company behind Kudadoo, remarked that the award celebrates the essence of what the resort offers: freedom, privacy, and pure indulgence. He noted that being recognised by global travellers year after year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the passion, dedication, and outstanding service delivered by the resort’s teams daily.

Kudadoo is accessible via a scenic seaplane journey or a domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transition into paradise.

This milestone adds to Kudadoo’s growing list of accolades, including its status as a 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner, which placed the resort among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide. With an unwavering focus on innovation, wellbeing, and elevated service, Kudadoo continues to set the standard for private island living in the Maldives.

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Awards

Kuredu Island Resort earns top honours in 2025 TripAdvisor ‘Best of the Best’ Awards

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4 days ago

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May 29, 2025

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Kuredu Island Resort & Spa has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ accolade in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranking it among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. This distinction represents the highest level of excellence awarded by TripAdvisor, celebrating destinations that consistently provide exceptional service, outstanding value, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Selected from millions of traveller reviews and ratings collected over the past year, the Travellers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Award reflects Kuredu’s unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations and crafting joyful, memorable stays. Guests worldwide have praised the resort’s warm Maldivian hospitality, extensive range of activities, diverse dining options, and idyllic island setting that seamlessly balances excitement with tranquility.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, commented that Kuredu’s vibrant charm, variety of adventures, and heartfelt hospitality continue to captivate guests. He emphasised that the award not only recognises the resort’s exceptional service but also the emotional connections the team fosters with every guest. He expressed deep pride and gratitude toward the Kuredu family and loyal visitors for helping achieve this significant milestone.

Situated in the turquoise waters of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa is one of the Maldives’ most beloved and iconic destinations. As the sole resort on Kuredu Island, it offers an exclusive sanctuary welcoming families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The resort features 389 villas and bungalows, ranging from beachside retreats to overwater hideaways, blending rustic charm with luxurious comfort.

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of experiences catering to all preferences and tempos. Activities include world-renowned diving at nearby coral reefs, water sports, sunset dolphin cruises, yoga sessions, full-service spas, and culinary journeys across multiple restaurants and bars. Kuredu aims to offer more than just a holiday — it provides stories worth sharing.

The resort’s family-friendly amenities, including kid-focused activities and multi-generational villa options, make it a top choice for travellers with children. Couples are attracted to romantic beach dinners, secluded sunset spots, and the peaceful O’ Resort area designed for adults seeking intimacy and calm.

Jorge Amaro, General Manager of Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, highlighted the resort’s deeply personal approach. He explained that it is the small gestures — such as remembering a guest’s favourite drink or sharing a genuine smile — that create lasting memories. He noted that the award reflects the passion, dedication, and authenticity of the entire team, who strive to make every guest feel truly at home on the island.

The 2025 recognition adds to Kuredu’s impressive array of accolades earned over the past decade. The resort has consistently upheld its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most admired hospitality destinations, with multiple TripAdvisor honours including:

  • 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award — Recognised among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide
  • 2019 Certificate of Excellence — Awarded for consistently high guest ratings
  • 2017 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
  • 2014 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Based on outstanding guest reviews
  • 2013 Travellers’ Choice Award, UK — Ranked #21 among the Top 25 Resorts in the Maldives for Best Service
  • 2013 & 2012 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Recognised for consistent excellence in guest satisfaction

These honours reflect Kuredu’s longstanding commitment not only to meeting international hospitality standards but also to creating a sense of belonging, excitement, and wonder for guests from around the world.

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Awards

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa shines in 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards

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5 days ago

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May 28, 2025

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Komandoo Island Resort & Spa has been recognised as a winner in the 2025 TripAdvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards, earning a place among the top 10% of hotels globally. This prestigious accolade reflects the boutique adults-only resort’s enduring charm, thoughtful details, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences in an intimate and romantic setting.

As a member of the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, Komandoo has long maintained a reputation as one of the Maldives’ most beloved resorts for couples and honeymooners. With just 65 villas situated along pristine beaches and above a shimmering turquoise lagoon, the island offers an idyllic retreat where love, serenity, and barefoot luxury thrive.

According to Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, “This recognition is a testament to the genuine care our Team of Champions puts into every stay. At Komandoo, hospitality is more than a service—it’s a heartfelt connection with each guest.”

Ahmed Naseem, General Manager of Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, added, “What makes Komandoo special is the soul of the island—our champions’ passion, the intimacy of the setting, and the heartfelt experiences created for every guest. Being honoured year after year by our guests and by TripAdvisor inspires us to keep delivering unforgettable moments in one of the most romantic corners of the world.”

Komandoo’s adults-only policy and tranquil environment make it an exceptional choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples’ getaways. Guests enjoy uninterrupted serenity, romantic beach dining, curated experiences, and wellness offerings designed for reconnection and relaxation.

Komandoo’s inclusion in the 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards continues a long-standing tradition of excellence celebrated by TripAdvisor and the global travel community. Among the numerous accolades the resort has received from TripAdvisor over the years are:

  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner 2025 & 2024
  • TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence – 2019
  • Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2018
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2016
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2015 – | #1 Romantic Resort in the Maldives | #7 Top Hotel for Service in Maldives | Top 10 Hotels in Maldives
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2015 & 2012
  • Five-time Certificate of Excellence Winner (2011–2015)
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award – 2009 (UK) | #1 Romantic Resort in Maldives | #1 in Asia | #7 in the World

These accolades highlight Komandoo’s unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and its dedication to delivering memorable, personalised stays.

With its adults-only policy and serene setting, Komandoo offers an unparalleled destination for honeymoons, anniversaries, and romantic escapes. Guests are treated to uninterrupted tranquillity, bespoke beach dining experiences, wellness offerings, and curated activities designed to foster reconnection.

The resort features a variety of accommodations, from overwater villas with direct lagoon access to beach villas shaded by palms, each offering comfort, privacy, and luxury. Additional highlights include award-winning dining, indulgent spa treatments at Duniye Spa, and a vibrant house reef ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts. Komandoo seamlessly blends Maldivian authenticity with modern comforts and heartfelt service. As the island’s only resort, it offers guests a rare sense of exclusivity—where every detail is crafted to let love stories unfold.

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