Featured
Waldorf Astoria Maldives: serene oasis of relaxation, indulgence
Hilton’s luxury brand, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, offers guests the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable and indulgent sensory retreat at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
In line with the brand’s renowned hospitality and its legacy of True Waldorf Service, the all-pool villa resort is designed to appeal to luxury leisure seekers in search of a blissful escape from the bustle of everyday life, featuring a lifestyle spa and wellness sanctuary complemented by the Maldives’ first-ever Wellness Concierge service.
Spanning three interlinking islands in the South Male Atoll, and a short 30-minute yacht journey away from Velana International Airport, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an iconic resort paradise surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldivian landscape and the crystal-clear Indian Ocean. In addition to the world-class spa, the resort also boasts 122 spacious villas, a Waldorf Astoria Young Discovery Park and 11 specialty dining venues, making it the perfect destination for guests of all generations.
Therapies inspired by nature
Set within a botanical sanctuary surrounded by turquoise waters, in 10 treatment villas across 10,000 squaremetres, the Waldorf Astoria Spa provides guests with an oasis of tranquillity where they can reconnect with nature and refresh their mind, body and soul with a range of customisable treatments.
The selection of spa therapies and treatments are grounded in nature, using plants and herbs with valuable properties that enhance, strengthen, cleanse and promote a sense of wellbeing and harmony. These therapies are categorised by three journeys — relaxation, rebalancing and results.
The diverse range of treatments offer a plethora of indulgent options, from the Signature Journey range inspired by the four natural elements of earth, water, fire and metal, to the Ancient Healing treatments, such as the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage for deep tissue relaxation and mood elevation. Those in search of the ultimate relaxation can opt for the Starlight Ocean Massage in the overwater Ocean Pavilion, where they can enjoy the benefits of a slow, rhythmic massage under the Maldivian stars and relax to the sound of gently lapping waves.
Guests wishing to combine their indulgence with wellness will also enjoy the Body Therapy range by LPG, with treatments that target specific areas or concerns, such as migraines or irritable bowel syndrome. Crafted body treatments including body polishes and wraps are available too, along with innovative luxury facials by Carol Joy London, hair treatments by Philip Kingsley and beauty treatments by reputable experts, ensuring that guests feel relaxed, reinvigorated and renewed from top to toe.
Indulgence for whole family
As the resort has been designed for all generations, families with young children are well catered to at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Those seeking a unique bonding experience can enjoy mother-daughter and father-son treatments within the Family Time range, while the Junior Spa Experience offers massages facials, manicures and more for young adults seeking some pampering of their own.
Wellness journey in paradise
The resort’s Wellness Programme has been specially created for those who wish to focus on their health. Under the guidance of intuitive practitioners and set among the beautiful outdoor environment, the programmes provide guests with treatments and meals aimed at specific areas of health and wellness, including age reversal, de-stress and sleep therapy. Guests also have access to on-site practitioners for private wellness activities, such as meditation, yoga and Pilates.
Maldives’ first Wellness Concierge service
Created for the most discerning guests, the Maldives’ first-ever Wellness Concierge service is on hand to assist in creating an unforgettable spa experience. Offering a personalised consultation process, the service delivers bespoke solutions for guests, helping them discover equilibrium in mind, body and soul.
“We are proud and honoured to provide our esteemed guests with the finest spa and wellbeing treatments, inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds us here at the Maldives,” Angie Tai, Spa Director at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.
“Our Wellness Concierge is the first of its kind here in the Maldives and a great example of the True Waldorf Service we offer our guests to ensure a truly unforgettable escape.”
Exclusive health and wellness events
In celebration of the 2019 festive season, the Waldorf Astoria Spa featured a series of renowned guest practitioners over the months of December and January. Guests had the opportunity to participate in private sessions with Watsu aquatic therapy specialist Yukako Kitajima, holistic medicine expert Dr Igor Roganin, and wellness expert Lenke Elle Fernandes, featuring treatments such as acupuncture, ocean water thermal therapy, hormone yoga therapy and more.
“The Waldorf Astoria Spa is a wonderful oasis of serenity where guests can luxuriate in the unrivalled natural beauty of our surroundings while indulging in world-class spa and wellbeing treatments,” Etienne Dalançon, General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.
Spanning three interconnected islands in the South Male Atoll, and a short 30-minute yacht journey away from Velana International Airport, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an iconic resort paradise surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldivian landscape and the crystal-clear Indian Ocean.
Aside from the excellent restaurants and bars, the resort also boasts 122 spacious villas, the Waldorf Astoria Young Discovery Park and a world-class spa.
For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com or call +960 4 000300.
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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