Featured
Joali Maldives celebrates first anniversary with new art experiences, visiting artists programme
Joali Maldives has extended its art immersive philosophy with the launch of new art experiences and a roster of visiting artists, as the resort celebrates its first anniversary.
From the very beginning, Joali’s founders knew they needed to create something entirely different if they wanted to set this resort apart from the archipelago’s other private islands. By staying at one of the best, you know you’ll be treated to the sugar white sand, turquoise water and abundant marine life the Maldives is known for and the ultimate in gastronomy, wellness and style.
For Joali to stand out, this had to be more than just a case of styling the resort differently. To give this island its distinct identity, they decided to integrate experiential artworks into the luxury villas and natural environment, enhancing the experience guests have through this artwork.

Ala Onur and Zyenap Ercan of No LaB curated the selection of international artists, then these artists set about creating pieces that represent the island’s natural surroundings, bringing more character to the resort whilst also reconnecting people to nature. Some of these artworks were created on-site and some were made using native materials.
You can now dive down to the coral-inspired underwater mosaic sculpture garden of New York artist Misha Kahn, climb in the cocoon-like Evolution Chair of Spanish artist Nacho Carbonell, and sit back in the hanging Heron Chair of South African artist Porky Hefer who also created one of the most prominent artworks on the island, the playful Manta Ray Treehouse. The lush courtyard of the spa is home to Israeli artist Zemer Peled’s sculpture, Maldives Vibes, which takes inspiration from the Maldives’ extraordinary marine environment.



Proving exceptional attention to detail, bespoke artwork and design is integrated throughout every aspect of the resort experience. Turkish artist Feleksan Onar created glass pineapple and coral objects for the each villa’s mini bar, and Cape Town’s design studio Ardmore came up with a heron and frangipani flower design for the in-villa beach kaftans.
All of these bespoke pieces of art are then integrated into the architectural and interior design of the Istanbul studio, Autobahn, who used custom-designed furnishings, hand-carved wooden panels, bamboo elements and terrazzo flooring to create a sense of tropical island chic. Istanbul-based Atölye4n created the manta ray structure that welcomes you at the arrival jetty and Tokyo-based Studio Glitt came up with the origami-like timber design of the overwater Japanese restaurant, Saoke.

Joali, which made its debut in October 2018, plans to add to this art collection on an on-going basis, and to extend the art concept in its second year Joali is beginning its series of visiting-artist-run workshops.
This series will begin with a two-week programme by Zemer Peled, the creator of the spa-based coral sculpture, who is known for her porcelain artworks inspired by natural forms.
“We want some of the same artists who created work for the island to come back for two weeks to three months to host workshops in the island’s studio. I want them to use interesting mediums like painting on silk or clay. We’re putting a kiln in for Zemer, so she can do ceramics with the guests, then we’ll keep the kiln here. At the same time, I’m asking the artists who come over to leave an artwork behind, so we’ll get a new piece of artwork from each set of workshops we host,” Steven Phillips, the General Manager at Joali, said.

From December 23, 2019 to January 6, 2020, Peled will be leading paper and clay workshops for guests on the island. You’ll be able to join the artist in the Joali Studio each day to gain insight into the Maldivian coral reefs and create your own paper and clay artworks to take home with you at the end of your stay. You’ll look at the colours and shapes found within the reef while experimenting with different ways of working with the materials, from moulding the clay to paper folding and painting.
“My sculpture, Maldives Vibes, was inspired by the rich underwater world of the Maldives coral reefs. It is primarily white in colour to symbolise the coral bleaching that has affected the Maldives, but the striking colours that embellish the sculpture serve as both a memory of the vibrant coral reef and encouragement for its future protection. Over the course of two weeks, participants of my workshop on Joali will create their own paper and clay sculptures inspired by the Maldives coral reefs,” Peled explained.

To hear the story behind the island’s artworks whilst you’re there, you can sign up for the, also newly established, art tour for which members of the Joali team have been specially trained.
Joali Maldives is a luxury, immersive art resort located on the island of Muravandhoo in Raa atoll. The 73-villa property offers unconventional luxury in a private setting and a distinct focus on design by internationally-renowned design studio Autoban, architecture and design firm Atolye4n and Tokyo-based Studio Glitt.
Innovative dining concepts include Japanese restaurant Saoke, authentic Asian and Levant restaurant Vandhoo, Tuscan-inspired Bellinis, personalised dining and cooking school Her Kitchen, as well as numerous destination dining experiences.
The Spa by ESPA invites guests on a holistic wellness journey along with a world-class fitness centre and expert trainers.
Joali Maldives celebrates its “Joie de Vivre” philosophy through unique programming such as Maldivian excursions and one-of-a-kind on-property offerings, including an Art Studio and Gallery, Flower Garden, Manta Ray Treehouse and more.
Featured
Four Seasons Resorts Maldives blend family travel with marine discovery
As family travel patterns continue to evolve, with multigenerational holidays and “schoolcations” becoming a growing part of the market, Four Seasons is positioning its Maldives resorts as destinations where families can combine leisure with learning, exploration and shared experiences. Through programmes at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the brand is offering a Maldives-based approach to family travel that extends beyond the traditional resort stay.
In the Maldives, the focus is placed on experiences that allow families to spend time together while engaging with the natural environment in direct and practical ways. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, marine education forms a central part of the family offering. Children and teenagers can take part in hands-on initiatives alongside experts from The Manta Trust, learning about coral restoration, manta ray research and ocean conservation. The programme gives younger guests an opportunity to understand the marine ecosystems that define the Maldives while participating in activities linked to ongoing conservation work.
At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the family experience is also shaped by the surrounding lagoon and reef environment. Younger guests can take part in introductory diving, surfing and marine conservation activities designed to build early awareness of the ocean and its ecosystems. These experiences place the Maldives’ natural setting at the centre of the stay, allowing families to engage with the destination through activity as well as observation.
This emphasis on learning through travel reflects wider changes in family tourism, where parents are increasingly looking for holidays that combine recreation with educational value. In the Maldives, that approach has particular relevance, given the country’s dependence on marine ecosystems and its reputation as one of the world’s leading island destinations. By integrating conservation-focused experiences into resort programming, Four Seasons is presenting family travel not only as a period of rest, but also as an opportunity for younger travellers to develop a closer understanding of the environment around them.
The Maldives setting also supports multigenerational travel in practical terms. Resorts such as Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa are well suited to families travelling across age groups, where grandparents, parents and children may all be sharing the same holiday but looking for different forms of engagement. Accommodation, marine activities and wellness offerings can be structured in ways that allow families to spend time together while also catering to different interests and energy levels.
The family proposition is strengthened by the Maldives’ ability to combine relaxation with activities that are tied closely to place. Lagoon-based discovery, reef experiences and conservation work provide a clear alternative to more conventional beach holiday programming. Rather than limiting the stay to accommodation and dining, these activities allow the destination itself to shape the guest experience.
In this context, Four Seasons’ Maldives resorts reflect a broader shift in how luxury family travel is being positioned. The emphasis is no longer only on privacy and comfort, but also on engagement, shared discovery and experiences that carry value beyond the holiday itself. In the Maldives, where marine life and island environments remain central to the visitor experience, that model gives families a way to connect both with each other and with the destination.
Through Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa, Four Seasons is therefore presenting a Maldives offering that responds to changing family travel expectations. By combining marine education, outdoor activity and resort-based comfort, the brand is aligning its family travel strategy with the qualities that continue to set the Maldives apart. The result is a version of family travel that is shaped not only by where guests stay, but by what they are able to learn and experience together while they are there.
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
-
News1 week agoSt. Regis Maldives expands and upgrades Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa
-
News1 week agoCentara Hotels & Resorts Maldives marks Thai New Year across island portfolio
-
Featured1 week agoCoco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience
-
Awards7 days agoAtmosphere Core secures British Airways Holidays awards across five Maldives resorts
-
Drink7 days agoLily Beach announces guest bartender residency featuring Vyacheslav Kasitsyn
-
Featured7 days agoThe Standard, Maldives unveils new Premium All-Inclusive package
-
News6 days agoAlila Kothaifaru Maldives expands wellness programme with curated experiences
-
News4 days agoSun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces immersive wellness programme with Regina Gimranova


