Entertainment
Amilla Fushi to host NYE performances by Ella Eyre, Pixie Geldof, Nick Grimshaw

Trailblazing luxury resort Amilla Fushi has announced another stellar line up for its renowned annual NYE extravaganza, with award-winning British singer-songwriter, Ella Eyre, confirmed as the headline artist for what has been described as the Maldives’ party of the year.
Amilla’s festive ‘tribe’ will also be treated to an exclusive DJ set by BBC Radio 1 ‘Drivetime’ host Nick Grimshaw and by British model-turned-singer Pixie Geldof, before BRIT and double MOBO award winner, Ella, takes the stage. With rumours rife that a long-awaited follow up to her Gold-selling 2015 debut album ‘Feline’ is set to drop next year, guests will be hoping to be amongst the first to hear Ella’s new material.
Famed for its star-studded festivities, Amilla’s hotly anticipated annual festive shenanigans will this year culminate in an era-spanning New Year’s Eve ‘party of the century’ that will see guests dancing through 100 years in a single night; from the Roaring Twenties all the way through to the dawn of 2020.
Following the coup of last year’s headline performance by Rita Ora, Amilla has once again secured one of the UK’s most energetic and exhilarating live performers to top the NYE bill.
Since her breakthrough 2013 collaboration with Rudimental on the double-platinum No. 1 single, ‘Waiting All Night’, Ella Eyre has racked up a string of top 20 solo singles, won Best Single at the BRIT Awards and bagged Best Newcomer and Best Female Artist accolades at the MOBOs. Ella replaced Beyoncé as the face of Emporio Armani Diamonds and has collaborated on high-profile brand campaigns with the likes of Sure, Bose and ASOS. Ella has confirmed a second solo album is on the horizon and is rumoured to be planning a worldwide tour at the end of 2020.

Ahead of Ella’s headline performance, guests can also look forward to another raucous DJ set by Radio 1 presenter Nick Grimshaw — seeing in the New Year at Amilla for the second year running — and a DJ set from Pixie Geldof.

With music in her blood, the daughter of Irish singer and activist Bob Geldof, who co-wrote ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas Time’, Pixie was the frontwoman of the band Violet, and launched her solo career in 2016 with the release of her debut album, ‘I’m Yours’. Pixie’s album was produced by Tony Hoffer who has previously worked with a stack of artists including The Kooks, The Thrills and Supergrass. High demand for her DJ work has seen Pixie perform sets at a number of exclusive events for Gucci, Calvin Klein, Louis Vuitton, Hakkassan and more.

Open to all guests at no extra charge, Amilla’s ‘Twenty Twenty’ New Year’s Eve extravaganza kicks off at sunset with a revival of the ‘Roaring Twenties’ – think live jazz, clandestine cocktails from an art deco speakeasy and gangsters and flapper girls dancing the Charleston.
As night falls, the boomers take over the beach for an interactive culinary carnival featuring a 50’s Americana-inspired ‘drive-in’; a ‘flower-powered’ hippie hangout serving CBD oil-based starters and desserts as well as an 80’s disco buffet – all brought vividly to life with dazzling entertainment by Area 51 performers.
The party then moves to the marina for the triumvirate of exclusive live performances and a spectacular midnight firework display.
As well as the star-studded New Year’s Eve party, an enchanting array of festive foodie surprises are also in store at Amilla. An incredible journey of flavourful Japanese cuisine awaits at Amilla’s signature overwater restaurant, ‘Feeling Koi’; showcasing a selection of artfully crafted sushi, nigiri and sashimi by the water’s edge, as well as lip-smacking theme nights at the chilled-out foodie hub, ‘Baa-zaar’, and enchanting dining experiences in the magical ‘Mystique Garden’.
Australian football hero and former Everton player Tim Cahill will also be on hand to inspire young footballers with a four-day festive training camp. Kids aged from five-eight years as well as tweens and teens from 9-16 years can perfect their skills on Amilla’s very own full-sized pitch with elite coaching from the Socceroos’ all-time leading goal scorer.
A seven-night festive stay at Amilla starts from USD 10,415++ (approx. GBP 8,594++) per person based on two adults sharing a Lagoon Water Villa with Pool, including daily breakfast, return seaplane transfers and participation in the ‘Twenty Twenty’ NYE extravaganza.
Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, Amilla Fushi offers a choice of 59 Houses that sit gracefully over crystal clear waters, nestle among lush tree tops or hug the shores of pristine white sand; plus eight spectacular four- to eight-bedroom Beach Residences ideally suited to large families, groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in space and privacy.
Amilla’s innovative restaurants range from the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests can even drop in to gourmet café and deli The Emperor General Store or The Wine Shop & Cellar Door to treat themselves to lighter snacks, a favourite bottle or a gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses.
With an unrivalled range of purpose-designed multi-bedroom accommodation options, and an exciting, inspiring and active Kids’ Club The Sultan’s Village, Amilla Fushi is putting the Maldives on the map as a destination not just for couples, but for families and friends
Entertainment
Aussie music sensation Delta Goodrem confirms 2024 performances at Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced that Delta Goodrem will return in 2024.
Following successful concerts at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives in May earlier this year, organisers Music in Paradise have confirmed that singer songwriters Delta Goodrem and Matt Copley will return to the idyllic private island resort 18 – 25 May 2024 for a series of intimate concerts on the beach and at the resort’s rooftop bar. The Music in Paradise series of events throughout the year make it possible for fans to get up close and personal with music stars at the private island where the party continues long into the night.
An ‘Early Bird’ Gold Experience package has been released for A$3,540 per person, twin share (normally A$4,250) for 7 nights staying in a Beach View Villa and including:
• Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
• 3 Intimate Performances
• Music in Paradise Gift Bag
• Music in Paradise signed Event Poster
• Event commemorative t-shirt
• Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
• Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
• Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
• Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa daily
• Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
• Two group scuba dives a day for licensed divers (Resort T&Cs apply)
• Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages are also available at https://www.musicinparadise.com.au/event/delta-goodrem-live-in-the-maldives/
With five #1 albums, nine #1 singles, 17 top-10 hits, 12 Australian ARIA Awards, a Silver Logie TV Award and three World Music Awards, Delta Goodrem is an artist in the truest sense and makes giving back a focus in her life through philanthropy and her Delta Goodrem Foundation.
Her first album, Innocent Eyes, was one of the highest-selling debut albums in Australian history. The album spent a record-breaking 29 weeks at #1 and Delta became the first-ever artist to have five #1 singles on the Australian charts from a debut album and was awarded the Australian ARIA Albums Artist of the Decade in 2010 having sold more albums and singles than any other domestic or international artist over the decade.
Delta’s repertoire includes duets with Tony Bennett, Michael Bolton, Men at Work, LeAnn Rimes and Olivia Newton-John. She has toured with Ricky Martin and Andrea Bocelli. Written songs for a number of superstar artists including Celine Dion and Olivia Newton-John. Delta starred as “Grizabella” in Andrew Lloyd Webber ’s award-winning musical CATS in Australia. She has represented Australia performing at two Commonwealth Games.
With a television resume that started at the age of seven so much of her life has been lived in the public eye. At 16 she joined the cast of prime-time show “Neighbours”. For 9 years she was the longest serving coach on The Voice Australia and a coach on Voice Kids. In 2018, Delta starred in the lead role of her mentor, idol, and good friend, Olivia Newton-John in the superstar’s biopic, Hopelessly Devoted to You.
Delta supports a number of charities and Foundations – serving as Patron of The Kinghorn Cancer Centre and has a long-standing ambassadorial relationship with Starlight Children’s Foundation, Make-A-Wish, Sony Foundation and Global Citizen.
“We are thrilled that Delta Goodrem and Matt Copley are returning to Kandooma Maldives again next year. The performances were out of this world earlier this year. I think these events which are presented by our partners Music in Paradise offer something very magical for guests who truly do get to mingle with the stars,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
“We’ve got a series of events planned for 2024 but for now we are excited to let fans know that early bird offers are now open and available to book with confirmed dates.” he added.
Located in the South Male atoll just 40 mins from the airport by boat, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful, natural island paradise. White sand beaches, swaying coconut palms and turquoise waters form the backdrop for a wide variety of leisure pursuits and some of the best diving in the Maldives. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas for their stay. Families are well catered for with a choice of 2- and 3-bed villas as well as the Kandoo Kids’ Club and activities programme. Six food and beverage outlets ensure healthy appetites are satisfied and the flavours of the Maldives are explored. For guests who desire the ultimate in relaxation, sun loungers and hammocks are located around the island and the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers the ultimate in tranquility and escape for body and mind. Visit www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com
For guests keen to know how Delta’s Kandooma Maldives concert was earlier this year, get a taste from the Wrap up Video here:
Entertainment
Renowned Saxophonist Elizaveta Yurgina brings mesmerising jazz performance to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives

Elizaveta Yurgina also known as Eliza Sax is a critically acclaimed saxophonist, composer, and band leader who is set to captivate audiences with her extraordinary talent during an exclusive performance at various dining venues at the breathtaking Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives this August. This highly anticipated event promises to be an unforgettable evening of jazz and soulful melodies, showcasing Yurgina’s virtuosity and artistic brilliance.
Hailing from Moscow, Eliza has amassed a remarkable list of accolades throughout her career. In 2018 she emerged victorious in the prestigious Musical Diamond Competition held in Spain, solidifying her status as one of the most exceptional saxophonists in the world. Her incredible musicianship and innate ability to connect with audiences have also earned her recognition at renowned events such as the Moscow Jazz Festival 2023, Ural Music Night in Ekaterinburg, Jazz at the Hermitage, and Gnesin-Jazz.
This spring, Eliza embarked on a highly successful tour in Armenia, mesmerising audiences with her original compositions and captivating performances. Her band, comprising exceptional musicians, showcased their versatility and ability to seamlessly blend various musical influences, creating a truly unique and enchanting experience for concertgoers.
Eliza’s talent extends beyond her solo career, as she has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed artists and ensembles. Notably, she joined forces with Oleg Lundstrem’s orchestra, a legendary name in the jazz world, showcasing her ability to seamlessly integrate her sound into larger ensembles. Additionally, her versatile abilities have led her to star in several musical TV projects, further cementing her reputation as a multifaceted artist.
Eliza’s exclusive engagement at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives promises to be an extraordinary affair, as she creates an ambiance of sophistication and musical brilliance against the backdrop of the stunning Maldivian paradise. Guests will be treated to a memorable evening of soulful saxophone melodies. Whether playing breathtaking renditions of classic ballads or infusing energetic beats into modern hits, Eliza Sax’s performances promise to transport listeners on a euphoric musical journey.
With 14 bars and restaurants, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi prides itself on its exemplary cuisine. From award-winning Italian delicacies at Trio; mixology classes at Water’s Edge; a live show-cooking Japanese experience at Teppanyaki; French cuisine at the award-winning overwater restaurant Flavours; Asian fusion at Bamboo and Maldivian seafood at Islander’s Grill – Sun Siyam Iru Fushi satisfies the most sophisticated of taste buds.
Nestled in the natural beauty of Noonu Atoll, a scenic 45-minute seaplane flight from Velana (Male) International Airport, the five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi spans 52 acres and boasts 221 villas and suites, perfecting the balance between rustic charm and understated luxury. This is a true island playground for families, groups of friends, couples and honeymooners alike. An award-winning Spa by Thalgo France with more than 140 treatments to choose from, makes this tropical island the perfect wellness getaway. And for families, kids under 15 sleep and eat for free with two paying adults in the same room and all whilst enjoying and discovering local marine life at Nemo’s Reef and recreational activities at Koamas Kidz Club.
To find out more visit www.sunsiyam.com, browse the offers to book your stay, or follow the resort on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
Entertainment
JLF Soneva Fushi showcases inspiring literature and music in Malé

International authors and local talents to take centre stage at a one-day event in the capital
To celebrate the return of the ‘greatest literary show on Earth’ to Soneva Fushi’s award-winning shores, a special one-day Festival showcase will be held at the Maldives National University in Malé on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. The free-to-attend event will bring together the nation’s local talents and international creatives for an inspiring cultural programme featuring book signings with acclaimed authors, thought-provoking readings and live music performances, as well as a welcome speech by the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives HE Munu Mahawar and Managing Director of Festival producers Teamwork Arts, Sanjoy K. Roy.
Meet and mingle with JLF Soneva Fushi speaker Christina Lamb, the Chief Foreign Correspondent at The Sunday Times and one of Britain’s leading foreign journalists, as well as a bestselling author. Having reported from many of the world’s hotspots, from Afghanistan to Ukraine, Lamb has authored 10 books, including Our Bodies, Their Battlefields and What War Does to Women, and co-wrote I Am Malala with Malala Yousafzai. Acclaimed author, skin cancer specialist, philanthropist and professor Sharad P. Paul will also be speaking at the event. The author of The Genetics of Health and Skin: A Biography, Paul was awarded the prestigious Ko Awatea International Excellence Award for Leading Health Improvement on a Global Scale.

Published Maldivian authors will also be taking to the stage to discuss prose and poetry, including Nadha Ibrahim Zuhair whose first book, Between the Stills and Pauses, was published in August 2022; Aminath Shirneem, the author of A Medium Rare Heart and The One with the Blue Pages; and Ahmed Mahid who is known for his popular serialised short stories and contributions toOcean Weekly. Local music talents are also in the spotlight with musicians Dhifoo and Zayaan showcasing their signature style of music that blends several genres to present captivating performances of English, Dhivehi and French songs, as well as dynamic instrumentals.
Taking place from May 12 – 21, 2023, the second edition of JLF Soneva Fushi brings the best of art, music and literature to the pristine sands of Kunfunadhoo in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Special Festival Day Passes are now available for USD 300, which includes full access to the vibrant programme of insightful talks and workshops, gala celebrations on the sand and electric live entertainment, as well as lunch with soft beverages, and access to Soneva’s signature chocolate and ice cream parlours.
To view the one-day Festival showcase programme, click here
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