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Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort appoints Rahim Flynn as General Manager

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Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has appointed Rahim Flynn as the General Manager for Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa in Maldives.

Flynn has been with Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts since 2006, first joining the pre-opening team at the Hong Kong based hospitality company’s Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Since then, he has served in several management positions at Shangri-La group properties in Malaysia, Thailand and Oman.

Flynn, who is skilled in food and beverage, hotel management, customer experience and facility management, has been in the Maldives since 2016, working as the General Manager at Hotel Jen, a Shangri-La group business hotel in capital Male.

From October, he has assumed the expanded role of the General Manager for the two Shangri-La properties in the Maldives, Hotel Jen and Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa.

A private hideaway, in a world of its own, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is the perfect setting for couples, with its secluded location as part of the Maldives southernmost atoll.

For the ultimate luxury experience, Villa Muthee, is the epitome of tropical refinement. The presidential villa nestles in its own luxurious environment with its private walkway entrance, a spacious deck with a private infinity pool and direct access to the ocean, a separate living room, yoga pavilion and even its own spa treatment room to let guests relax without leaving the villa.

Beyond Villa Muthee, the resort offers an extensive choice of accommodation, such as the unique Tree House Villas, Perched on stilts among the emerald green treetops, the villas offer intimate settings with marvellous views of the ocean and a large deck with its own private infinity pool. For true ocean lovers, the Water Villas, positioned over the lagoon, offer the perfect seascape for those who cannot resist slipping into the aquamarine waters teeming with tropical marine life. These open and airy villas come with overwater hammocks for languorous lounging.

The resort offers many options for water adventurers, such as turtle-quest snorkelling, diving to a unique shipwreck site, surfing with half a dozen great wave setups or parasailing for a bird’s eye view of the island. Tropical ‘havenists’ will also find their own piece of paradise in the unique flora and fauna that can be explored while cycling around Villingili’s jungle and coastal pathways or while playing on the only golf course in the Maldives. Couples can also enjoy a range of cultural experiences like no other in the Maldives, with guided tours of the neighbouring islands of Addu atoll, visits to the local farms and samplings of Maldivian cuisine.

The brightest gem in the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, Villingili island is a haven for those seeking true romance. As if it was meant to be, the resort is located in the heart-shaped Addu atoll, just a five-minute boat ride away from Gan International Airport.

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The Westin Maldives unveils exclusive ‘Around-The-Clock’ all-Inclusive retreat

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has introduced its exclusive ‘Premium All-Inclusive Around-The-Clock’ package, offering a memorable blend of adventure and relaxation on the untouched shores of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This thoughtfully designed experience invites travellers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Maldives, seamlessly combining luxury, nature, and culture for a truly unique island retreat.

Guests begin their journey with a scenic 30-minute seaplane flight from Malé, arriving at the resort’s pristine natural island, where turquoise waters meet powder-white sands. This holistic wellness resort features 69 spacious villas, both beachside and overwater, blending modern luxury with the serene beauty of the Maldives.

Mornings start with a nourishing breakfast at Island Kitchen, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients fuel the day ahead. For lunch, guests can explore a variety of vibrant options, from the Asian-inspired street food at Hawker to the eclectic offerings at Island Kitchen, or opt for the privacy and tranquility of in-villa dining. As dusk settles, they can enjoy an exquisite dinner at Island Kitchen, Hawker, or the sophisticated Pearl, renowned for its refined Japanese cuisine and breathtaking ocean views. For a more intimate experience, private beach dinners and in-villa dining are available upon request. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy unlimited beverages at all dining outlets and in their villas, ensuring that every moment feels like a celebration.

The package invites guests to discover the vibrant marine life of Baa Atoll on a private turtle snorkelling excursion, where sea turtles glide through the picturesque underwater world. Guests can explore Brother Island, where thriving coral reefs shelter reef sharks and colourful fish. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the resort’s dolphin cruise offers a magical opportunity for families to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Watersport enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating rides, while those seeking a more tranquil adventure can enjoy complimentary ocean kayaking through the island’s crystal-clear waters.

Moments of tranquility await at the Heavenly Spa by Westin, perched over the lagoon and inspired by the elements of nature. Guests can indulge in a rejuvenating 60-minute couple’s treatment, combining traditional techniques with modern wellness practices. For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, open 24/7, features state-of-the-art equipment with panoramic ocean views.

The resort warmly welcomes families, offering complimentary stays and dining for children under 12. The Westin Family Kids Club engages young guests aged four to 12 with fun and educational activities that provide an enriching introduction to Maldivian culture.

To elevate the guest experience, the package also includes daily minibar replenishments, high tea with the chef, and the convenience of daily laundry services. Guests can capture lasting memories with a complimentary photoshoot or unleash their creativity in painting classes, inspired by the island’s natural beauty. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy exclusive rewards, including bonus points, further enhancing their stay and offering perks for future travels.

Whether seeking a romantic escape, an unforgettable family adventure, or a solo retreat, the ‘Premium All-Inclusive Around-The-Clock’ package is designed to fullfill every desire.

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The St. Regis Maldives hosts exclusive Dassai sake experience with Naoya Matsufuji

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The St. Regis Maldives is set to host an exceptional gastronomic experience featuring Dassai, the renowned sake brand from Asahi Shuzo Co. This exclusive event will be led by Naoya Matsufuji, Chief Technology Officer of Asahi Shuzo, whose innovative approach has positioned Dassai at the forefront of the global sake industry. Matsufuji’s expertise and dedication to excellence have elevated the brand’s heritage while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.

This unique event will provide guests with a rare opportunity to indulge in Dassai’s exceptional sake, meticulously paired with a curated degustation menu designed to showcase the harmony between fine food and world-class sake.

The event is scheduled to commence on March 2, 2025, at Decanter, an underground wine cellar that houses an extensive collection of over 750 labels, offering an intimate and immersive setting for the exclusive tasting experience. On the following evening, March 3, 2025, guests will enjoy a refined dining experience at Orientale, where Eastern haute cuisine takes centre stage with an elegant sushi bar and a selection of seasonal pan-Asian dishes.

Situated in the pristine Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort serves as a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility. Located on a breathtaking natural island, the resort is surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, white-sand beaches, and the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, providing an unparalleled escape. Its 77 elegantly designed villas seamlessly integrate with nature while offering modern comforts, including private terraces, pools, and stunning ocean or garden views.

Signature accommodations include the overwater John Jacob Astor Estate, featuring three bedrooms, a private gym, and massage rooms, as well as the beachfront Caroline Astor Estate, which offers panoramic views, a 67-square-meter pool, and opulent living spaces. Guests can explore the vibrant marine ecosystem through snorkelling, diving, and various water sports or embark on an exclusive yacht excursion aboard Norma. The resort also demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability by leading coral restoration programs under the guidance of its dedicated Marine Biologist.

Known for its signature St. Regis Butler Service and award-winning hospitality, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort seamlessly blends luxury, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Maldives.

Dassai has long been recognised for its dedication to innovation and precision in sake production. Celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality, the brand has earned international acclaim for producing some of the world’s finest sakes. In a groundbreaking initiative, Dassai has announced an ambitious plan to craft sake in space for the first time in history. Scheduled to launch in the latter half of 2025, this pioneering project will involve sending sake rice and water into space aboard a rocket, where fermentation will take place on the International Space Station. This unprecedented endeavour exemplifies Dassai’s relentless pursuit of excellence and its mission to redefine the boundaries of sake craftsmanship.

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Chef Jacopo Chieppa’s exclusive culinary residency at Sun Siyam Iru Veli

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From March 4 to 15, 2025, Sun Siyam Iru Veli will host an exceptional culinary experience with the arrival of Michelin-starred Chef Jacopo Chieppa. Known for his passion for leavened creations and his innovative approach to Italian cuisine, Chef Chieppa will bring his culinary expertise to the Maldives, curating exclusive recipes and crafting remarkable dining experiences for guests at the resort.

During his time at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Chef Chieppa will lead a distinguished gastronomic collaboration, sharing his knowledge through hands-on training with the resort’s culinary team while designing innovative recipes and menus for Roma, the resort’s overwater restaurant renowned for its Mediterranean flavours. This collaboration will culminate in two exclusive dinners on the evenings of March 10 and 13, 2025, where guests will have the opportunity to experience his signature dishes paired with a carefully curated selection of wines. Each course will be meticulously crafted to offer a refined and evocative dining experience.

Chef Chieppa’s culinary philosophy is showcased at Equilibrio, a fine dining restaurant located in the picturesque village of Dolcedo, Liguria. His menu reflects a deeply personal connection to his heritage, drawing inspiration from his life experiences and the rich ingredients of his homeland. Set in a restored mill beside a tranquil river, Equilibrio earned its first Michelin star within two years of opening. Many of his creations tell personal stories, such as the ‘Minestrone on Canvas,’ a playful dish designed to encourage his daughters to enjoy minestrone, and the nostalgic ‘Picnic,’ an homage to his first countryside experience and the vision of a family picnic. Breadmaking plays a central role in his culinary approach, with signature offerings such as the ‘Farmer’s Focaccia’ and inventive pizzas featured in every meal.

Before founding Equilibrio, Chef Chieppa honed his skills under the mentorship of Mauro Colagreco at the world-renowned Mirazur, refining his expertise in haute cuisine. His pizzeria, Kilo, is also celebrated for its meticulous dough preparation and dedication to local ingredients, earning a place in the prestigious 50 Top Pizza rankings.

As part of Sun Siyam Resorts’ signature chef residency program, Chef Chieppa’s presence at Sun Siyam Iru Veli will offer guests an immersive culinary journey where authentic flavors are artfully paired with refined techniques, creating a truly memorable gourmet escape.

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