Velassaru Maldives has achieved the Travelife Gold certification.

Travelife is an international sustainability certification scheme that helps its more than 1,300 hotel members around the world improve their environmental, social and economic impacts cost effectively. Hotels that meet the Travelife standard are formally recognised with a Travelife award to promote their achievements.

To achieve a Travelife award and become certified, hotels must become a Travelife member and prove they meet the Travelife assessment criteria. They will then receive a Travelife Gold award, an award plaque and the right to use the Travelife certification mark to showcase their sustainability achievements to their customers.

This international recognition demonstrates Velassaru’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism and sustainability.

Early last year, Velassaru introduced initiatives on environmentally friendly operations practices: a comprehensive recycling facility, no-plastic-straw policy, and switching from small multiple plastic containers to liquid dispensers in all bathrooms and showers.

In July, Velassaru discontinued the use of plastic water bottles, replacing them with eco-friendly bottled water.

The resort has also partnered with Parley Maldives, an organisation that addresses environmental threats, especially ocean plastic pollution in the country.

Owned and operated by leading local hotel group Universal Resorts, Velassaru is located in South Male Atoll and accessible by a short 25-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport.

Velassaru offers luxurious beachfront and overwater accommodation with uninterrupted ocean views. Featuring wooden ceilings and floors for a tropical atmosphere, the contemporary-styled villas and bungalows offer chic serenity.

A wide variety of international specialities are offered at Velassaru’s five restaurants, including fresh contemporary seafood, Japanese, international and grill pan Indian options. The two beach bars serve cocktails and wines.

Guests can enjoy relaxing spa treatments in overwater pavilions, or hop on a Maldivian boat and watch the crew demonstrate traditional fishing methods. Other resort facilities include a fitness centre, tennis court and infinity pool with the view of the beach and the ocean.