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Vakkaru Maldives to host ‘A Seaside Adventure’ with Claris The Mouse, Megan Hess

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Vakkaru Maldives has announced plans to welcome internationally-renowned fashion illustrator and author Megan Hess this festive season for the exclusive launch of her third book in The Claris Collection, Claris: Bonjour Riviera.

Surrounded by glistening turquoise waters and luxurious island settings, Vakkaru Maldives will set the scene for Claris’ new adventure in the French Riviera.

Guests who pre-book their seats, will be the first in the world to receive signed copies of Claris: Bonjour Riviera hot off the press, view the unveiling of Claris’ new resort collection by luxury fashion house Poca & Poca, attend an exclusive illustration masterclass conducted by Megan Hess and enjoy a bespoke Megan Hess dessert table on Orthodox Christmas night.

Megan Hess’ 2006 illustration of the New York Times No. 1 selling book, Sex and The City by Candace Bushnell catapulted her onto the world stage where she began illustrating portraits for the New York Times, Italian Vogue, Vanity Fair, TIME magazine and more.

Megan’s skills and iconic designs have also been specially commissioned by Bergdorf Goodman in New York, Harrods of London and used in global campaigns for FENDI, Tiffany & Co., Prada, Cartier, Dior, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo and more.

She has illustrated live for bespoke fashion shows around the world like Viktor & Rolf, Christian Dior Couture and Chopard at the 2019 Cannes International Film Festival.

She has written and illustrated numerous best-selling books, including: Fashion House, The Dress and Coco Chanel, New York, Paris, Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris, Iconic, Elegance and more.

Today, Megan Hess is one of the world’s most sought-after fashion illustrators with a revered client list that includes Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman and most recently Sarah Jessica Parker.

The Claris Collection was officially launched in 2018, offering readers delightful rhyming tales about courage, compassion and a stylish little mouse. From chasing her dream of moving to Paris in Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris, to racing against the clock to attend Paris Fashion Week in Claris: Fashion Fiasco, follow Claris’ next adventure as she stows away on the family trip to the French Riviera in Claris: Bonjour Riviera.

“The Claris Collection is destined to delight fashion-obsessed readers of all ages. It is about a little mouse who loves fashion, has an enormous heart and chases her dreams with courage and compassion,” says Megan Hess.

January 5, 2020 – Claris: Bonjour Riviera Book Launch and Poca & Poca Fashion Launch (Limited Seats)

Set against the crystal-clear waters surrounding Vakkaru Maldives and under the shaded coconut trees, guests will be treated to a Megan Hess book reading of Claris: Bonjour Riviera and a conversation with Megan on her inspiration behind Claris as a character and the concept of her new book.

Alongside the book launch, luxury fashion brand Poca & Poca by sister and brother duo Karolina and Wiktor Gniewek, will unveil their newest Claris fashion collection consisting of six key looks — a resort collection in hues of blues and creams inspired by Claris’ upcoming seaside adventure.

Crafted by a team of master tailors in Poland with precision and skill, each design is of the highest quality, exemplifying an energetic and youthful spirit. Timeless creations that are to be cherished and treasured forever.

January 6, 2020 – Megan Hess Fashion Illustration Masterclass (Limited Seats)

Limited to only the first 10 guests who book, this is an exclusive experience where Megan Hess will be conducting a fashion illustration masterclass.

Vakkaru Maldives’ collection of ultra-immersive and cherished guest experiences is created in partnership with guest experiences specialist The Magnolia Creative Collaborations. Watch out for more experiences from culinary greats, wellness mentors and scent experts to fashion collaborations and exquisite artisanal pop-ups as Vakkaru Maldives aims to inspire guests by creating timeless memories and effortlessly beautiful moments.

To be part of ‘A Seaside Adventure with Claris The Mouse & Megan Hess’, guests can book their stay with our special Festive Offer and enjoy up to 35 per cent off room rates with breakfast when booking direct on vakkarumaldives.com.

Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded tropical island resort located within the Baa atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Only 30 minutes north of Velana International Airport by seaplane, Vakkaru – meaning coconut timber in Dhivehi – is an unforgettable paradise blessed with powder soft, brilliant white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, 360-degree uninterrupted views and sprawling coral reefs with unique marine biodiversity.

Keeping the natural beauty of the island as unspoilt as possible – including retaining over 2,300 fully grown coconut trees – and drawing on the rich traditions of the locale, design elements are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural resources and contemporary interior.

Guests can revel in the choice of 113 beach and overwater villas and suites, as well as five sensational restaurants, two bars, a wine cellar and an outstanding array of treatments in the overwater Merana Spa.

Facilities also include Splash Dive and Water Sports, two tennis courts, a badminton court, the Parrotfish Club for children below 12 years, Coconut Club for teens and an overwater gymnasium with personal trainer.

For reservations and general information, please visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.

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Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives unveils ‘Spooky Tropical Halloween’

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Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced its Halloween programme for 2025, titled ‘Spooky Tropical Halloween’. The celebrations will take place from 28 October to 1 November, transforming the island into a Halloween-themed destination that combines the tropical setting of the Maldives with seasonal festivities.

The programme is designed to offer activities for both adults and children. On 31 October, adults can begin the evening with Haunted Cocktails at the Raalhu Bar, featuring themed drinks served against the backdrop of the sunset. This will be followed by the Spectacular Buffet Halloween Dinner at The Restaurant, showcasing a range of Halloween-inspired dishes and desserts. The night will conclude with The Halloween Spirit DJ Night at The Bar, offering music and entertainment alongside shisha under the stars.

Children will be able to join the Spooky Under the Sea adventure at the Kuda Fiyo Kids Club, running throughout the week from 28 October to 1 November. Activities will include crafts such as Shark Creation and Ghost Jellyfish making, a Spooky Story Circle, a Sea Monster Treasure Hunt, Trick-or-Treat, and Halloween costume making. The programme is intended to combine creativity with playful seasonal themes.

Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, said: “Halloween at Kuda Villingili promises something spine-tingling for everyone, from our little explorers enjoying a spooky under-the-sea adventure to adults indulging in a thrilling tropical Halloween experience. This year’s theme allows us to create an atmosphere that is both exciting and enchanting, offering guests a uniquely memorable way to celebrate the holiday in our tropical paradise.”

The resort has stated that the Halloween celebrations aim to provide a range of events and crafts within an atmosphere that balances seasonal themes with the resort’s luxury environment, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests.

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Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

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Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.

Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.

Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.

Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”

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ROBINSON NOONU expands summer offering with wellness, sports, and cultural events

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ROBINSON NOONU, one of the Maldives’ leading resorts, has introduced a summer programme that combines culinary highlights, family activities, wellness initiatives, and entertainment events. The resort is recognised for creating memorable experiences that remain with guests long after departure and has curated a schedule designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers.

Guests at ROBINSON NOONU are offered a selection of culinary experiences enhanced by weekly live performances from international artists and DJs. These performances provide a varied musical backdrop, creating an immersive atmosphere for dining and evening entertainment.

Families visiting the resort this season can participate in the Weekly Splash Action at the newly renovated water sports jetty. The highlight of the event is a ten-metre-long air cushion (Blob), which catapults participants into the lagoon. The activity attracts additional interest when the General Manager joins in, adding to the sense of occasion.

The resort has expanded its sports and wellness offering with the introduction of a padel tennis court, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to its facilities. Another addition is ‘YinSurf’ on the Strobel & Walter Balance Board, combining yoga, mindfulness, and full-body training. This programme is designed to promote physical wellbeing while supporting mental focus.

Every two weeks, the resort hosts themed events, including:

  • Jungle Party – held in a driftwood-inspired venue.
  • Underwater Party – featuring an inflatable octopus and 360° underwater visuals.
  • Sundowner Beach Party – an evening gathering on the beach during sunset.
  • White Party – an event on the pool deck with themed décor.
  • BOHO Festival Show – a new addition, with a bohemian setting of teepees and natural tones.
  • Pink Pool Party – a lively celebration with a colourful theme.

The highlight of the season will be the ‘This is NOONU’ Week, scheduled from 22 to 29 September. The programme includes performances from eight international artists, guest DJs, and WellFit experts. Events such as the Suite Party and a special edition of the Pink Pool Party will be featured, offering guests a range of experiences throughout the week.

By combining entertainment, wellness, sport, and culinary experiences, ROBINSON NOONU continues to strengthen its position as a Maldivian resort offering diverse programmes for its guests.

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