Featured
Fairmont Maldives to host eco-inspired festive celebrations
Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi invites guests to swap winter blues for summer hues and celebrate the festive season with an array of activities and events.
From crafting their own Christmas decorations using recycled island materials, snorkelling the coral reef and dolphin spotting to relaxing in their Tented Jungle Villa with safari-style spa treatments, there’s something to tempt every type of traveler.
Unleash your inner artist
This is the season of gifting, and at the fully equipped on-site Art Studio, creative guests can paint, sculpt, draw or craft their own bespoke gifts for their loved ones, inspired by the natural beauty of the island. Guests can try coconut and canvas painting, authentic Maldivian rug weaving, pottery, shell jewellery design and sand turtle sculpturing, all guided under the watchful eye of the resident artist.
There will even be Christmas tree decorating for little ones, to complement the symbolic Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Raha Market.
Be pampered in paradise
Those seeking privacy and relaxation can retreat to the unique Tented Jungle Villas set in the heart of the Maldivian jungle, for fresh seafood barbecues and private film screenings of Christmas classics under the stars.
The Safari Spa Package brings the serenity of the spa to the outdoors where a rejuvenating Chamomile scrub, Blissful Marma massage and facial, champagne and fresh fruit smoothies combine with the tranquility of the inland jungle for a tropical spa experience.
For guests who prefer more traditional treatments, the Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Maldives boasts a carefully curated selection of results-driven rituals inspired by local island life, using sustainable sourced, natural products.
Get active and adventurous
Active guests looking to keep their fitness levels in check this season can try paddle board yoga, cycling sandy walkways, a beach boot camp, parasailing, jet-skiing and kayaking around the resort’s lagoon – the largest in the Maldives.
Fairmont Maldives also invites exploration of the 9km lagoon and the underwater art sculptures in the Coralarium – a unique coral regeneration project in the Indian Ocean. Designed by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the semi-submerged sculptures in the Coralarium act as an artificial reef which guests can explore on guided snorkelling tours, before planting their own coral.
Whilst adults are occupied, little ones can get active with sunshine kids yoga and aqua aerobics, as well as a variety of exciting festive-filled activities at the Kids Club – Majaa; including everything from gingerbread house making, beach obstacle courses and kids Christmas movie nights to a child-friendly pirate cruise and visit from Santa on a jet-ski.
With a philosophy firmly rooted in eco-education, Fairmont Maldives also offers an informative and immersive Ocean Discovery Camp for children, including a workshop with the resident marine biologist, snorkelling lessons for junior explorers and turtle releases.
Feast in style
As the season to indulge with friends and family, Fairmont Maldives offers an abundance of delicious dinner and party celebrations.
The lively Onu Onu Bar will host a Ladies Soiree and Christmas Eve Beach Party with music from a live DJ and a fire show performance. The seafood restaurant Azure offers a Wine, Dine and Jazz evening, a Christmas wine pairing dinner and a New Year’s Day champagne breakfast, complimented by live music. At the sophisticated Japanese restaurant and bar, Kata, experimental guests can enjoy an Asian-inspired Christmas day dinner before indulging in mulled wines and Fairmont signature cocktails on Kata’s picturesque rooftop lounge, for the best sunset views on the island.
Whilst, to countdown and toast to the New Year in style, Fairmont Maldives’ Pirates of the Maldives theme party at Onu Onu beach will offer a delicious feast, surprise celebrity DJ, a live band, fire dancers and an array of fun and pirate themed games for the kids.
A sun-soaked sanctuary that opened in April 2018, Fairmont Maldives is the only resort on the pristine Shaviyani atoll, and offers 112 luxury villas each with their own private pool. In addition to the luxury safari-style Jungle Tented Villas, the Beach Villas and Water Villas inspired by the bohemian rustic chic vibe with copper bathroom fittings and carved wood detailing on furniture are also ideal for couples or families.
Fairmont Maldives is located in the northern Shaviyani atoll. The resort is accessible by domestic flight in 50 minutes from Velana International Airport followed by a speedboat from Hanimaadhoo Airport to the resort. Alternatively, guests can book a 50-minute scenic seaplane flight directly to the resort.
Visit https://www.fairmont-maldives.com/festive/ for more details of the festive programme.
Action
Family fun meets Premier League coaching: Kuramathi and Campioni experience
Families seeking the ultimate summer escape in 2025 will find the perfect destination with Kuramathi and Campioni. These two exceptional partners offer a holiday experience where children can combine their love for football with the thrill of training alongside former Premier League players and UEFA coaches at breathtaking resorts. The exclusive Campioni football training camps cater to children aged 4-15 years, running across two weeks with three football legends. Liverpool and England star John Barnes MBE, accompanied by a UEFA coach, will lead sessions from July 28th to August 1st. Meanwhile, England icons Harry Redknapp and Stuart Pearce MBE will join from August 4th to August 8th, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for budding young footballers.
Campioni’s ethos, “Train Like A Pro,” offers a unique chance for children to be coached for two hours daily by some of English football’s most celebrated figures. These interactive and engaging sessions focus on fundamental skills while emphasising teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With personalised guidance provided throughout, participants gain invaluable insights from the experts and create unforgettable memories.
While children hone their skills on the pitch, parents are free to unwind in a variety of ways. They can relax on the beach, explore the island, work out in the gym, visit the spa, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the training sessions from the sidelines.
The Campioni experience extends beyond football. Families are invited to participate in additional activities, such as welcome drinks at the start of the week, a mid-week parents’ game featuring the football legends, and an end-of-week medal and certificate presentation. These events ensure everyone in the family enjoys a dynamic and engaging holiday.
Kuramathi, a renowned Maldivian resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for this unique experience. Famous for its winding white sandbank and tropical jungle spanning the 1.8km island, the resort features 12 room categories, 12 restaurants, 6 bars, evening entertainment, and an array of facilities. Options range from one-bedroom Beach Villas and Two-Bedroom Beach Houses to overwater villas perched above the island’s turquoise lagoon, making it a perfect choice for families.
Off the field, Kuramathi’s complimentary Bageecha Kids’ Club caters to children aged 3-12 years with indoor and outdoor play areas, arts and crafts, splash pads, and a large swimming pool. Activities for older children include badminton, football, ping pong, baseball, and basketball. For couples seeking a romantic evening, extended kids’ club hours are available at an additional charge, alongside 24-hour babysitting for younger children.
The resort also offers unique environmental activities, such as eco-centre presentations, hermit crab trails, tree planting, and visits to hydroponics gardens, encouraging younger guests to learn about sustainable practices.
For adventurous families, Kuramathi provides a fully equipped dive school with multilingual instructors who guide participants through PADI and SSI courses, including options for children as young as eight. Guests can also explore the ocean through snorkelling safaris, turtle discovery trips, dolphin excursions, and semi-submarine tours. Water sports such as windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and catamaran lessons are available for children aged 12 and above.
While children are occupied, parents can relax at the spa or enjoy evening cocktails at the Champagne Loft or pool bars. Dining options include international cuisine at the buffet restaurant and specialty venues like The Reef, La Belle Vie, and Siam Garden. Nightlife on the island is vibrant, with live music, beachside movie nights, DJ performances, and more.
Kuramathi and Campioni promise a summer holiday filled with excitement, learning, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Awards
Sun Siyam Resorts honoured at Target Taste Awards 2024
Sun Siyam Resorts has announced its receipt of the prestigious 2024 Target Taste Award for ‘Overseas Island Hotel Group.’ The accolade was presented during the ‘Target Taste’ awards ceremony in December 2024, held in Beijing. This event celebrated innovation and excellence within the luxury lifestyle industry.
The 2024 awards, themed ‘Revolutionise and Innovate,’ gathered leading brands and visionaries to highlight advancements in high-end hospitality, design, travel, and culinary arts. Sun Siyam Resorts was honoured for its commitment to redefining island luxury through exceptional guest experiences, sustainable practices, and innovative offerings.
Ashley Zhang, Regional Marketing & Communications Manager for China, accepted the award on behalf of the company, marking a significant milestone for the group.
Target Taste, a prominent Chinese luxury lifestyle magazine established in 2013, has consistently recognised industry pioneers. Its awards serve as a hallmark of innovation, elegance, and excellence in the luxury sector.
Claudia Klingbeil, Group Director of PR & Communications at Sun Siyam Resorts, stated: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to all of us at Sun Siyam Resorts. It reflects the passion, dedication, and heart that our team pours into creating memorable experiences for our guests, and this recognition fuels our commitment to constantly evolve and innovate.”
Celebration
Tropical elegance meets cultural heritage: SO/ Maldives’ festive celebration
Step into a realm of unparalleled luxury and avant-garde elegance as SO/ Maldives prepares to celebrate Chinese New Year in high style from 28 January to 31 January 2025. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives, this iconic celebration promises a curated experience of haute cuisine, holistic indulgence, and captivating festivities, transforming the holiday into a statement of sophistication.
Renowned for vibrant celebrations and rich heritage, this year’s Chinese New Year program offers an unforgettable lineup. Highlights include a spectacular light-up ceremony, spellbinding cultural performances, a chic DJ party, and elegant festive fairs, all steeped in glamour and refinement.
The theme for 2025, “Ushering Fortune and Unity for a Prosperous New Year,” emphasises joy, harmony, and good fortune. Anchored in multiculturalism and diversity, the festivities aim to bring families and couples together for a stylish celebration of new beginnings. Through vibrant events and a glamorous ambiance, SO/ Maldives sets the stage for a bright and prosperous year.
Guests can immerse themselves in a fusion of cultural traditions and tropical luxury. Highlights include the energetic Lion Dance, which winds through the resort, and thrilling adventures such as snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. Culinary experiences like the Asian Street Market and Beach BBQ showcase Chinese-inspired gourmet delights, while creative workshops such as Handmade Pottery and Canvas Bag Painting ensure magical moments for younger guests.
SO/ Maldives elevates the festive allure with dazzling red lantern installations and breathtaking dragon dance performances on pristine beaches. Villas adorned with bespoke Chinese New Year decor blend cultural heritage with contemporary chic, creating an atmosphere of bold sophistication.
“At SO/ Maldives, we reinvent luxury celebrations, merging vibrant traditions with a cutting-edge, fashion-forward perspective. This Chinese New Year, the experience will be as bold and dazzling as the Year of the Wood Snake itself,” says Olivier MOIESDELVAL, General Manager of SO/ Maldives.
SO/ Maldives invites guests to embrace the finer things in life, where every taste, touch, and moment sparkles with creativity and glamour.
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