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Conrad Maldives unveils redesigned villas for holiday season

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, a luxury destination resort located on the picturesque setting of Rangali Island in the Maldives, has announced a redesign of the unique mix of villas available on property.
Just in time for the festive season, by December 2019, the resort will introduce five new room types, including the Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villa, Grand Water Villa with Pool, Grand Water Villa, Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa with Pool and Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa, encouraging all travellers — groups, families and couples alike — to find the room best suited to fit their every need and desire.
“Our pioneering innovative hospitality to cater to the passion points and needs of our guests is the cornerstone of this resort,” Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“We are thrilled to debut new villa categories to discerning travellers, marking the beginning of the next chapter of Rangali history and our commitment to driving the evolution of travel to the Maldives.”
The Deluxe Beach Villas were refurbished throughout 2018 and 2019. A selection of villas have recently been converted into new luxury Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas to offer the ideal space for any Maldivian vacation.

The Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas will feature a new design with a private garden and pool, indoor bathroom with dual vanities, a private outdoor rain-shower and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that illuminate the villa with natural light. Set amongst the tropical greenery, the standout feature of the newly designed villa is the addition of the second bedroom adjacent to the main villa, which has been purposely designed to accommodate a twin bedroom with luxurious floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

In addition to the Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is reinventing the Retreat Water Villas into two villa types — Grand Water Villa and Grand Water Villa with Pool.
A popular room category, the Water Villas are set on stilts above the gentle ocean waves where guests can discover the true meaning of indoor-outdoor living.
The redesigned villa will greet guests with a large living room, which can be converted into a second bedroom, along with views of the outdoor deck complete with a Jacuzzi or pool. Featuring clean lines and muted natural tones, the villas are located in the Spa Retreat, 100 metres off of the tip of the main island, Rangali Finolhu, with vistas across the Indian Ocean to the resort’s second island, Rangali.


The in-demand Family Water Villa will also be transformed into two villa types and renamed Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa and Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa with Pool.
The design of the two-bedroom accommodation will be similar to the Grand Water Villas, but it will offer two bedrooms instead of one and can host any group of guests. Set on stilts over the Indian Ocean, the villas offer views of either the lagoon or ocean and a sunset or sunrise view and can sleep a maximum of four persons — two adults and two children or four adults.
In addition to the new accommodations available at Conrad Maldives, THE MURAKA will be celebrating its one-year anniversary this November.
This first-of-its-kind residence, with living spaces both above and below the surface of the sea, is also thoughtfully designed for families and groups of friends as it sleeps up to nine guests. Coupled with the extraordinary services of a private chef, butler team and nanny quarters, THE MURAKA offers a truly immersive experience that showcases a fresh perspective of the Maldives.
Yuji Yamazaki, principal of Yuji Yamazaki Architecture PLLC, NYC and design collaborator on THE MURAKA residence, will apply his signature style of simple, paired-back luxury to the updated accommodations.
The design of the villas will feature a clean and minimalist aesthetic, giving the space a natural, bright and airy feel intended to focus on the beauty just outside of the villa. The new design will promote a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment, awakening but not overwhelming the senses and providing absolute privacy and exclusivity.

Set across two islands connected by an open-air overwater path, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island plans to announce additional enhancements in 2020, offering guests a Maldivian playground full of possibilities.
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.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is 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.
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Tiny flippers, big journey: sea turtles hatch at Alila Kothaifaru

A magical scene is unfolding at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, as the island becomes a nurturing ground for the next generation of marine life — sea turtle hatchlings. With four active nests currently incubating, guests and marine enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the emergence of these tiny creatures, expected to align with the next full moon.
Following a recent successful hatching, the remaining three nests have been identified as belonging to Green Sea Turtles — one of the largest sea turtle species inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters. Renowned for their smooth, heart-shaped carapaces and their herbivorous diet of seagrass and algae, these gentle marine giants play a vital role in sustaining healthy coral reefs and marine ecosystems. One additional nest is believed to belong to a Hawksbill turtle, although this has yet to be confirmed.
“Sea turtles are fascinating creatures. They lead largely solitary lives and migrate thousands of kilometres between their feeding and nesting grounds,” explains Fernanda Cortina Escalante, the resort’s resident Marine Biologist. “It’s incredibly special to witness this phase of their life cycle so closely here on our island.”
Turtle reproduction is an intricate and delicate process. These ancient mariners return to the very shores on which they were born to lay their eggs, usually under the cover of darkness. Female turtles dig nests in the sand, where the eggs incubate for 45 to 70 days before the hatchlings instinctively head towards the sea.
Green Sea Turtles can live between 60 and 80 years, grow up to 1.5 metres in length, and weigh as much as 300 kilograms. Their remarkable physiology allows them to hold their breath for up to five hours while resting, an impressive adaptation to life in the ocean.
“Hosting these nests provides us with a unique opportunity to educate guests about sea turtle conservation and promote greater awareness of marine biodiversity,” says Camille Berger, Euro-Divers Manager at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “We feel fortunate to share this meaningful experience with guests from across the globe.”
The resort places a strong emphasis on conservation, working closely with its in-house marine biologist to monitor and protect the nesting sites.
“A new generation of sea turtles has officially embarked on its journey into the ocean, with 61 tiny hatchlings recently making their way from nest to sea,” shares Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives.
“Moments like these remind us of both the beauty of nature and the responsibility we bear in preserving this extraordinary ecosystem. It is a true honour to be part of the journey of these magnificent creatures.”
Guests staying at the resort may have the rare opportunity to witness a live hatching — an unforgettable experience of nature at its most raw and awe-inspiring.
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Island traditions shine at Nova Maldives’ Maldivian magic festive programme

This festive season, Nova Maldives is set to welcome travellers with ‘Maldivian Magic – A Festive Fusion,’ a curated programme running from 21 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. Rooted in over 2,500 years of Maldivian heritage, the soulful celebration draws inspiration from the nation’s seafaring past, storytelling traditions, and rituals centred on joy and connection.
The festive itinerary invites guests to immerse themselves in enriching experiences that blend the serenity of the sea with vibrant seasonal celebrations. Morning adventures include Ocean Glides with Koamas—a thrilling jet ski excursion to encounter dolphin pods in their natural habitat—and snorkelling trips to observe whale sharks and manta rays in their graceful element. Those seeking a more tranquil experience may embark on a Private Catamaran Sunset Cruise, ideal for couples or friends, offering unhurried sails across turquoise waters under golden skies.
Evenings present further marine exploration, with night snorkelling sessions offering glimpses of nocturnal marine life—baby reef sharks, crustaceans, and colourful reef fish—bringing the quiet enchantment of the ocean to life after dark.
Gastronomy plays a central role in the celebrations, with a culinary theme titled “Taste of the Atolls.” At Wink Bar each afternoon, guests may join Elixirs of the Isles—a creative mixology class using local fruits and botanicals. Mizu, the resort’s overwater teppanyaki venue, hosts an Ocean Umami dinner experience that combines Japanese precision with Maldivian flavours. Meanwhile, FLAMES offers a Maldivian Fishermen’s Feast—a beachside seafood extravaganza accompanied by bubbles and live island music.
Adding a cultural touch to the culinary journey is Malaafaiy Keyn, a seasonal dining experience showcasing traditional Maldivian cuisine. Served on a handcrafted malaafaiy platter, the dish includes fragrant rice, spiced curries, and heritage side dishes, all enjoyed in a bespoke Mauloodh Haruge dining hall—creating a bridge between the past and present.
For guests seeking serenity, the Private Finolhu Sandbank Escape provides an opportunity to retreat to a white-sand islet. Here, chilled Prosecco, curated canapés, and the gentle rhythm of waves set the tone for a tranquil afternoon, perfect for individuals, couples, or anyone wishing to recharge.
At EsKape Spa, seasonal wellness offerings include the Kaashi Naashi Ritual, a rejuvenating treatment using coconut oil and shells, concluding with a soothing head massage. Also available is the Soulful Healing through Dhivehi Beys—a restorative oil massage incorporating local herbs, spices, and virgin coconut oil, drawing on ancestral knowledge and therapeutic practices to harmonise body and spirit.
The celebration begins with the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting, a starlit gathering filled with carols and island traditions. On Christmas Eve, guests are treated to a fire show and beach party, followed by a Gala Dinner featuring both Maldivian specialities and festive classics. Christmas morning sees Santa Claus arriving at Wink Beach, met with handcrafted cocktails and sweet treats to delight guests of all ages.
The New Year’s Eve festivities conclude the season in spectacular fashion, with a fireworks display and an evening of live music, DJ performances, and festive cocktails. On New Year’s Day, guests are invited to ease into 2026 with the First Brunch of ’26—a leisurely affair featuring live cooking stations and flavourful dishes in a sunlit, relaxed setting.
“Our festive offerings go beyond seasonal cheer,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager at Nova Maldives. “They embody the island’s rich cultural heritage, creating immersive moments of joy, tradition, and meaningful connection.”
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NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort celebrates two years of extraordinary hospitality

NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has marked its second anniversary since becoming part of the NH Collection brand by Minor Hotels. Operating under the upper-upscale NH Collection label since 1 August 2023, the resort has continued to offer immersive guest experiences shaped by the spirit of the Maldives and NH Collection’s commitment to premium service and genuine hospitality.
The anniversary offers a moment to reflect on the resort’s journey in elevating standards while preserving the elements that guests have always cherished: untouched natural surroundings, sincere service, and peaceful seclusion. Over the past two years, the resort has established itself as a sanctuary for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking comfort, exploration, and meaningful connection.
In line with the NH Collection’s ethos to ‘Feel the Extraordinary,’ the resort has embraced a philosophy of exceeding expectations. The team has prioritised delivering seamless stays enriched by thoughtful details, warm hospitality, and inspiring environments. Enhancements have included revitalised dining experiences and updated wellness offerings, all carefully curated to help guests savour every moment.
Key developments over the two-year period include the continued provision of five-star service in a premium setting, the addition of multilingual team members to cater to an international clientele, a strengthened commitment to eco-conscious practices in line with the brand’s sustainability goals, and a refreshed visual identity across both digital and physical touchpoints.
As NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort enters its third year under the brand, it remains dedicated to refining its signature experience—a harmonious blend of natural beauty, understated elegance, and attentive care.
Reflecting on the occasion, General Manager Frans Westraadt remarked, “Every anniversary is a reminder of what we stand for. We are proud of how far we’ve come in delivering extraordinary stays while staying true to our values. The trust of our guests and the dedication of our team are what fuel us.”
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