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Power couple Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian in Maldives for family getaway

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Tennis champion Serena Williams and husband Alexis Ohanian are holidaying in Maldives.

Williams and her husband, who co-founded Reddit, are reportedly vacationing at the recently-opened Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers a sophisticated and serene retreat just 30-minutes from Velana International Airport via the resort’s private yacht. An escape or families and couples in search of space and exclusivity, the resort boasts 122 luxuriously appointed villas, each equipped with a pool and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean in its own private enclave. Each reef, beach and overwater villa opens onto an indoor and outdoor deck featuring a swinging daybed, dining gazebo, an infinity pool, in-water lounge and an outdoor shower.

In line with Waldorf Astoria’s legacy of culinary expertise, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers 11 exceptional, specialty-dining venues. Each venue delivers distinctive, immersive dining experiences – the variety of which is a first in the Maldives. Guests can enjoy an elevated treetop-dining concept at Terra, featuring spectacular views of the ocean and horizon, as well as exquisite food and wine pairings in a tranquil setting seemingly chiselled out of the face of a boulder at The Rock. Yasmeen boasts authentic Middle Eastern flatbreads and mezzes, impeccably prepared crispy Peking duck fresh out of the first wood-fired oven in the Maldives, and embracing the garden-to-table concept, Glow serves healthy and holistic cuisine made from the freshest ingredients harvested from the resort’s herb garden.

For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, the Ithaafushi Private Island features a two-bedroom overwater villa as well as a three-bedroom beach villa. The 32,000 square foot island sanctuary – accessible by yacht – comes complete with a dedicated chef and personal concierge team, as well as its own spa, gym, five swimming pools, entertainment centre and pristine beaches. Two Stella Maris Ocean Villas, inspired by a celestial charm – accessible only by boat – also allow discerning guests to enjoy unrivalled privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows, chef service, a jacuzzi and direct ocean access make for an unforgettable and memorable escape.

For additional pampering, guests can visit the Waldorf Astoria Spa, comprised of ten idyllic overwater or garden treatment villas, which offers an extensive menu of treatments and Asian-inspired therapies focusing on relaxation and rebalance. The Waldorf Astoria Young Discovery Park, a water park for young guests, and the Lagoon Pool, are ideal for families looking to enjoy a variety of activities with ease. Other facilities include the beachfront, 40-meter Mirror Pool; the Ocean Pavilion, which hosts a range of wellness activities; a fully-equipped fitness centre; and a combined water sport and PADI dive centre.

Williams has won 23 major singles titles, most by any man or woman in the Open Era. The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) ranked her world No. 1 in singles on eight separate occasions between 2002 and 2017.

She reached the No. 1 ranking for the first time on July 8, 2002. On her sixth occasion, she held the ranking for 186 consecutive weeks, tying the record set by Steffi Graf. In total, she has been No. 1 for 319 weeks, which ranks third in the Open Era among female players behind Graf and Martina Navratilova.

Ohanian is an American Internet entrepreneur and investor. He is best known as the co-founder and executive chairman of the social news website Reddit. He also co-founded the early-stage venture capital firm Initialized Capital, helped launch the travel search website Hipmunk, and started the social enterprise Breadpig. He was also a partner at Y Combinator.

In 2012, Andy Greenberg of Forbes magazine dubbed him “Mayor of the Internet.

Williams and Ohanian married on November 16, 2017, in New Orleans. They have a daughter together.

Maldives is amongst the most sought after destinations by high profile personalities and celebrity travellers from around the world.

Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio and American TV personality Paris Hilton have partied in the Maldives. The likes of English singer and television presenter Rochelle Humes and her husband Marvin, and British TV personality Billie Faiers have all declared the Maldives as their favourite part of the world for a relaxing getaway. Another British singer Perrie Edwards and English actress Millie Mackintosh have also fell in love with the white sands, turquoise waters and the blue skies of the Maldives.

Hollywood actress Gal Gadot and Lindsay Lohan along with Bollywood personalities such as Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor KhanAlia BhattPriyanka ChopraParineeti Chopra, the Bachchan family and Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi, as well as world-renowned music artists such as Robin Thicke and Justin Bieber have declared their love for the Maldives.

Sports personalities, including the likes of David BeckhamCarlos TevezArjen Robben, Miroslav Klose, Franz Beckenbauer, Ronaldo Luís Nazário de LimaCristiano RonaldoMarcel Desailly and Mohamed Salah have also spent their hard-earned vacations in the tropical paradise.

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Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration

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Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.

Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.

During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.

The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.

Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.

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SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration

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SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.

Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.

The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.

Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.

On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.

The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.

The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.

Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.

Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.

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Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences

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Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.

The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.

The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.

Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.

The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.

Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.

Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.

Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.

Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.

For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.

The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.

The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.

Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.

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