Featured
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives opens
The Standard, an American hotel brand known for its taste-making clientele, pioneering design, and unrelenting un-standard-ness, has opened The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives.
The resort’s opening on November 1 marks the brand’s first property in Asia.
Traditionally seen as a couple’s destination, The Standard has taken a fresh approach to its island retreat, offering relaxation, social activities and vibrant cultural experiences that welcome not only couples but groups of friends and singles looking to reset and recharge in paradise.
Welcome to The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives
A breathtaking 35-minute seaplane ride away from Velana International Airport, The Standard, Huruvalhi is nestled between the Raa and Baa atolls, on a naturally protected island. Guests can also take a combined 20-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo and 35-minute speedboat ride to the resort.
Guests step into an airy, intimate lobby, accessible 24-hours a day and complete with an exclusive curated selection of cult beauty and wellness products, eclectic wares, and resort essentials only available for purchase on the island.
Guests are then escorted to one of the resort’s 115 overwater and beach villas, each with its own infinity plunge pool and private lounge deck with direct access to the lagoon, ocean or beach. A glittering disco ball strategically perched above the soaking bathtub in every villa bathroom makes for a signature Standard statement piece and serves as a reminder that you really can party anywhere and at any time of the day at The Standard.
On property, guests will find a large scale specially commissioned work from Rostarr, a highly acclaimed, groundbreaking multidisciplinary artist and member of The Global Standard Family – the brand’s inner circle of creators, collaborators and cultural tastemakers.
Dining in style
The Standard, Huruvalhi celebrates the bounty of the region. The freshest ingredients and produce sourced both regionally and from the resort’s own island farm are showcased in a delicious array of local and global creations.
Six unique restaurants cater to every taste and preference.
GUDUGUDA, an authentic Maldivian Restaurant, is the first of its kind in the Maldives. Featuring a traditional celebratory Maldivian cuisine cooked by Maldivian “aunties” – the women who carry on the tradition of this remarkable cuisine, menus showcase locally caught, seafood driven dishes, flavourful coconut milk curries, regional fruits and vegetables, aromatic rice dishes and freshly baked breads.
For a spot of grilled grub and reggae beats on the beach, swing by BBQ SHAK, where fresh seafood and meats are grilled to order over coconut shell charcoal and paired with a selection of house-made sauces.
Island living makes for thirsty work. Head over to TODIS BAR, located off the pool deck for a signature TODIS cocktail, served in a half coconut shell and made from “toddy”, a local specialty liquor made by fermenting fresh coconut water.
As the sun sets, guests are invited to BERU BAR for craft cocktails, tropical juices and Maldivian inspired light bites. An adults-only over-water-club perched just feet above the ocean, it features fantastic views, a glass floor bottomed floor and a sunset ritual led by a Boduberu drummer (a local Maldivian percussionist). Local DJs spin breezy Maldivian inspired-beats, drawing everyone to the dance floor.
Adventures on island and underwater
Guests are spoiled for choice with a selection of curated experiences and cultural programmes that include indigenous basket weaving, a moonlight cinema beneath the stars or join one of their legendary pool parties at the beachside infinity pool.
The Standard, Huruvalhi also has some of the most experienced guides for snorkeling and diving excursions through the resort’s protected house reef and local waters.
Enjoy sunset boat trips to uninhabited islands and undiscovered reefs, as well as day and night fishing and private destination dining. For some fun in the sun, a full collection of sea equipment is available from glass bottom kayaks to jet skis and windsurfers.
The resort also has an 82sqm inflatable water park accessible by pontoon for both adults and kids.
Parents looking for a reprieve can drop their kids off at the the Lil’ Shark Kids Club complete with professional childcare services, a teen zone and paddling pool.
For a recovery or a reboot, The Standard Spa is an indoor hydrotherapy playground complete with a contemporary communal hammam, aroma cypress steam room and contrast shower experience.
Chill out with a Do-It-Yourself Mud Experience for one or a massage for two and take in The Spa’s ocean views from our nine private treatment rooms, couples den, and yoga studio hosting daily classes.
The Spa Deck and Tonic Bar is the perfect place to kick-back post treatment, enjoy a yoga session or maybe a moonlit soiree. The Sun Lounge experience offers crystals and an apothecary for the body and mind that includes skincare and lifestyle products.
Committed to Conservation
The Standard’s commitment to showcasing an unparalleled resort experience is equalled by its dedication to the conservation of marine life. Preserving coral life, reducing plastic waste, and using products made from repurposed and recyclable materials all form a groundwork of the resort’s conservation efforts to saving the ocean and marine life.
Guests will find some signature menu items include a USD 1 donation towards the resort’s foundation for coral conservation. The Standard, Huruvalhi also proudly has its very own lagoon coral nursery which houses over 3,000 juvenile corals, creating the resort’s very own personal underwater garden.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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