Featured
VARU by Atmosphere appoints Monica Suri as General Manager
Dynamic Indian Ocean hospitality group Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts has appointed Monica Suri as the General Manager of the group’s newest property, VARU by Atmosphere.
Monica brings more than a decade of experience within the hospitality industry and a wealth of knowledge from HR, training and core operations.
Prior to joining Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, she was the General Manager of Marriott Jaipur, India and was also associated with brands like Westin, Le Meridien and Taj.
She graduated from Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Bangalore and holds an MBA in Sales and Marketing. She has completed a Leadership Programme from Cornell and is a passionate traveller with 36 countries on books.
Located in the north-west edge of Male atoll and easily accessible by a 40-minute speedboat journey from the main Velana International Airport, VARU by Atmosphere offers 108 luxurious villas.
Thirty-nine Beach Villas feature spacious interiors and outdoor decks, surrounded by lush green vegetation and situated just a few metres from the white sandy beach, whilst 69 Overwater Villas have signature Maldivian-style interiors and offer direct access to the turquoise lagoon from the deck. Both villa types offer minimalistic design styles with splashes of vibrant colours, and come with the option of private pools.
Additional resort facilities include a dive and water sports centre, an overwater ELENA spa, a gymnasium and a kids club.
The resort island’s reef is known to be home to mantas and other vibrant wildlife species, which will provide guests unique snorkelling and diving experiences unlike others on offer in the Maldives.
In line with Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts’ philosophy, ‘The Joy of Giving’, all guests of VARU by Atmosphere will be staying on The VARU Plan — an all-inclusive package, which lets you dine, enjoy snacks, taste premium alcohol, indulge in unlimited cocktails and take part in complimentary water activities during your stay at the resort.
Tailor-made for VARU by Atmosphere, The VARU Plan encompasses all elements of a hassle-free holiday experience in the Maldives! No surprises, no shocks, no hidden extras – all included in one price!
The opening of VARU by Atmosphere in October is the start of an ambitious expansion plan of the Indian Ocean hospitality group. With several new properties being added to the existing four-property portfolio, this opening enhances the groups growth within the ‘By Atmosphere’ white-label sub-brand – along with the group’s other sub-brands of OZEN, OBLU and OBLU Select.
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts’ first property, Atmosphere Kanifushi, opened its doors in December 2013. The group opened its second property, OBLU by Atmosphere at Helengeli, in November 2015; followed by their flagship ‘Lifestyle Luxury’ sub-brand, OZEN by Atmosphere, in July 2016; and then OBLU Select at Sangeli, which opened in July 2018.
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts offers guest-centric resort experiences through unique resort plans, offering guests a range of all-encompassing experiences, with varieties of dining options as well as a number of complimentary amenities and activities that ensure a relaxed, hassle-free holiday experience at each resort, all the while staying true to the brand’s core philosophy: ‘The Joy of Giving’.
Featured
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
-
Meditation1 week agoJW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, Soulful Feasts by Stephanie Zubiri announce Thanksgiving wellness retreat
-
News7 days agoAutograph Collection Hotels debuts in Maldives with The Halcyon Private Isles: Signature retreat of individuality, immersion
-
Awards1 week agoSO/ Maldives shines bright with 3 wins at 2025 Global Awards Season
-
Awards1 week agoBanyan Tree Vabbinfaru celebrated as a top 4 resort in Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler 2025
-
News1 week agoVelaa Private Island introduces newly redesigned Kuredhi Residence by Winch Design
-
Drink1 week agoConstance Moofushi Maldives celebrates fine wine excellence with Creation Wines
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Mirage Lagoon Maldives wins top family hotel honour at Little Steps Family Travel Awards
-
News1 week agoAvani+ Fares Maldives invites guests to celebrate ‘Tales of the Maldives’ this festive season


