Featured
Maldivian Artist Community, Manta Air unveil ‘Youniverse’ art exhibition at Angsana Velavaru
Maldivian Artist Community (MAC), in collaboration with Manta Air, has unveiled an exhibition by talented Maldivian artist Samiyya ‘Sam’ Shehenaaz at Angsana Velavaru.
Sam, mostly known for her warm and dreamy turtle subjects painted in sundry tropical hues, has introduced her debut solo exhibition, titled “Youniverse”, to the guests of Angsana Velavaru.
After exhibiting her pieces at ‘Unveiling Visions’ exhibition held in 2017 by MAC, Sam stepped into the field as a professional artist. Her first solo exhibition, the “Ocean Eyes” was recently held at the Lecute store in capital Male and has since drawn a lot of attention, with Sam’s paintings shared all across social media.
“I love to create meaningful art pieces that speak to people. Most of my work often has a message or a hidden meaning behind it. I love using the ocean as a way of delivering these messages to people. Mother nature often has her own way of explaining situations and life itself, which happens to capture my attention a lot. Everyone sees the world in their own perspective and I do my best to show people what I see through my eyes and my heart, make people move with just colours laid next to each other,” Sam said.
Dr Steve Newman, Banyan Tree’s Group Sustainability Director and Coordinating Director of Banyan Tree Global Foundation, said that supporting long-term societal prosperity is central to Banyan Tree’s ability to create value for local communities. This is achieved by empowering them through job creation, education, supporting artisanal cooperatives, community impact initiatives, humanitarian relief and connecting travellers to local culture and heritage, he added.
The exhibition is generously supported by Manta Air, a local airline known for its ground-breaking entry into the local aviation sector with scheduled domestic and seaplane service.
The new collaboration between Angsana Velavaru and MAC, a local non-profit that supports local talent by finding and offering free platforms to showcase their work, further enhances the local cultural experience offered by Angsana Velavaru and brings an array of art events such as painting classes and art workshops to the resort.
With MAC’s permanent art exhibition at Kuredhi bar, guests will have the opportunity to purchase artworks, and with their contribution, support the local artist community.
Velavaru or ‘Turtle Island’ is located in the pristine Dhaalu atoll, and accessible by a 40-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport. This 113-villa resort offers 79 island villas and 34 InOcean Villas, revealing spectacular views and direct access to the Indian Ocean.
Angsana Velavaru is renowned for its myriad of beach activities as well as groundbreaking initiatives focused on giving back to the community. These programmes are organised by Angsana Velavaru’s Marine Conservation Lab where guests can participate in unique experiences including coral planting to replenish damaged reefs and snorkelling trips to learn about the abundant marine ecosystem and coral gardens found in and around the lagoon.
Guests looking for an adrenaline rush can choose from a wide range of motorised and non-motorised sports. With more than 100 activities available to bring out the intrepid explorer in you, you are likely to be busy enjoying yourself so much that a return trip is inevitable.
With its proximity to more than 30 vibrant dive sites, Angsana Velavaru is the ideal location for novice to experienced divers. Certified instructors at the PADI Gold Palm Five-Star dive centre offer an ensemble of courses and excursions to explore the pristine waters of South Nilandhe Atoll. Divers can choose to get up close and personal with white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles and whale sharks, amongst other exotic species.
Couples looking to tie the knot at Angsana Velavaru can choose from five different wedding themes that showcase the natural beauty of the destination. Saying “I Do” has never been more romantic or unforgettable with various venues available: at sunset on the beach, on a nearby uninhabited island, at the beach pavilion that carries the shape of the traditional Maldivian Dhoni boat, under the full moon, and even underwater.
Angsana Velavaru’s kids club offers child-friendly activities such as Easter egg hunts, craft workshops, Olympic-themed games, and more. Diving lessons, supervised by certified instructors, take place in the lagoon and are a great way to help kids experience their first underwater breath.
Angsana Spa’s revitalising treatments place special emphasis on the use of natural elements such as native flowers and fruits. Therapies are based on the use of aromatherapy, therapeutic touch and a fusion of techniques from East and West to revive and nourish.
Celebration
Astrology, illusions, and gourmet delights await: inside Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s 2024 festive season
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced its highly anticipated Festive Programme for 2024, promising an extraordinary holiday experience from December 21, 2024, to January 7, 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the all-natural pristine island, this year’s programme has been thoughtfully curated to offer guests an unforgettable festive season filled with magical moments.
A highlight of this year’s celebration is the arrival of Michelin-starred Chef Jeno Rácz, who will enhance the dining experience with his exclusive culinary creations. Guests will have the unique opportunity to indulge in gourmet offerings specially crafted to tantalise their taste buds during his stay.
Additionally, certified astrologer Marina Minkova, known as Aquamarina, will be present at the resort. Guests will have the chance to participate in her interactive sessions, where she will forecast the year 2025, or book personalised one-on-one sessions for an in-depth astrological reading.
Adding a touch of enchantment to the festivities, renowned illusionist Tommilusions will captivate guests with his mesmerising performances throughout the season, offering a magical experience set against the resort’s paradisiacal surroundings.
Alongside these featured experiences, this year’s programme offers a wide array of activities for both adults and children. Festive games such as “Pin the Nose on Rudolph,” Olympic games, and drawing competitions are planned. On Christmas Eve, December 24, guests will be treated to an extravagant gala dinner buffet at Matheefaru, while Meeru Bar & Grill will offer a delightful set menu. The evening will be filled with Christmas carols, live acoustic music, and a vibrant DJ performance to conclude the night. The highlight of the evening will be the grand entrance of Santa Claus at Meeru Beach, bringing joy and festive cheer.
On Christmas Day, December 25, a “Late Riser Christmas Brunch” will be offered at Matheefaru, along with exciting children’s activities such as gingerbread house building, water-sports, and drawing competitions.
The celebrations will continue daily from December 26 to 30, featuring puppet shows, karaoke nights, champagne and cooking classes, fishing trips, and candy-making experiences, ensuring ongoing fun. On New Year’s Eve, December 31, Hideaway will host a grand New Year Gala dinner at Matheefaru, followed by traditional Bodu Beru performances, live acoustic music, and a New Year Countdown Party with a DJ, ensuring an exciting start to 2025.
The festivities will extend into the first week of January with daily activities including paddle races, water-sports, culinary delights, live music, and evening DJ performances, allowing the joy of the season to continue into the New Year.
The meticulously crafted Festive Programme at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination to celebrate the season with loved ones and create lasting memories.
Celebration
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives brings Diwali to life with vibrant celebrations and star-studded acts
Holiday plans are set to light up with a spectacular Diwali celebration at Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, taking place from October 30 to November 1. This year’s festivities promise to dazzle, featuring electrifying performances by DJ Kingazoo, dance sensations Mukulgain and Sona Dey, along with a special appearance by renowned choreographer Ashish Patil and his celebrated dance group. The celebration offers a vibrant blend of colours, heartwarming traditions, and endless fun, ensuring a memorable Diwali experience.
Families are encouraged to join in the festive excitement, with activities such as creating mesmerising rangoli, intricate mandala art, and crafting garlands at the Maakanaa Kidz Club. These hands-on experiences offer a creative outlet while introducing participants to the beautiful traditions of the festival of lights.
The festivities extend beyond artistic endeavours, with a thrilling Diwali treasure hunt, perfect for all ages, as participants search for hidden gems around the resort. Guests can also showcase their artistic skills in the Rangoli Competition at Sunrise Beach, transforming the sandy shores into colourful and creative masterpieces, using the beach as their canvas in celebration of Diwali.
As the sun sets on November 1, the Halliwaili Eve Party at the Lagoon Bar will kick off, offering an evening filled with lively entertainment and dance. Guests can expect heart-pounding beats and an exhilarating atmosphere, inviting everyone to dance the night away and embrace the joyous spirit of Diwali.
The celebration doesn’t stop there. The electrifying Diwali night will feature DJ Kingazoo, whose dynamic performance will keep guests energised throughout the evening. Dance performances by the talented Mukulgain and Sona Dey will add to the allure, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment filled with rhythm and grace.
The highlight of the evening will be a breathtaking performance by renowned choreographer Ashish Patil, known for his work on the track #Nazariyakimaar from Netflix’s hit series Heeramandi. Fresh off his win for Best Choreographer of the Year at the Sanman Maharashtracha Awards, Ashish and his team will bring their captivating performance to the Maldives for a once-in-a-lifetime show.
Whether crafting, hunting, dancing, or simply soaking in the festive island vibes, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives offers something for everyone this Diwali season. The celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.
Celebration
Gourmet delights and magical moments: One&Only Reethi Rah’s festive holiday lineup
The iconic One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives invites guests to experience a Magical Season of Wonder on the renowned island of Reethi Rah. The resort has curated a variety of exciting Christmas and New Year’s events, including the arrival of Santa Claus, a lavish Christmas Day Brunch, and an exquisite New Year’s gala night, all designed to complement family traditions.
This year’s celebrations are themed around the beautiful festive illuminations that reflect in the calm lagoon waters of the island. For those seeking to celebrate the holidays in a warm, tropical location, the resort offers a sensory feast, featuring gourmet culinary pop-ups, immersive spa rituals, and magical sunset performances.
The Festive Season begins on 20 December with a pool-side Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, transforming the Rah Bar into a magical setting for the season. As the Christmas tree is illuminated, guests are invited to enjoy cocktails, canapés, and traditional carols, setting the stage for a radiant lineup of events running until 14 January 2025. On Christmas Eve, guests can indulge in a sumptuous feast at the lavish Gala Buffet Dinner at Reethi Restaurant.
For younger guests, Santa Claus will make a festive surprise visit on Christmas Day, greeting families with a magical meet-and-greet on the beach. On 26 December, Santa’s Arts and Crafts Workshop at the Art Studio will entertain children, while teens can enjoy football matches on 27 December and 4 January.
As 2024 comes to a close, One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to participate in their spectacular New Year’s Eve events. Held on the shores of Sunrise Beach, the evening begins with a New Year’s Cocktail Party, followed by a grand Gala Dinner featuring award-winning entertainment by international bands, an epicurean feast paired with the finest Champagnes and world-class wines, and a stunning fireworks display to welcome 2024.
For guests following the Orthodox calendar, the resort offers special celebrations, including an Orthodox Christmas Eve Cocktail Party and Gala Dinner at Sunrise Beach, a joyous Brunch the following day, and an Orthodox New Year’s Dinner on 14 January to conclude the magical season.
A highlight of the season is a series of culinary pop-ups by Italo-Argentinian Chef Mauro Colagreco, chef patron of the three-star Michelin restaurant Mirazur in Menton, Côte D’Azur. From 21 to 28 December, Chef Colagreco will present culinary creations inspired by the festive season and crafted with ingredients sourced from Reethi Rah’s tropical gardens. His dishes are prepared according to the phases of the moon, following the principles of biodynamic agriculture, which allows him to make the most of the resort’s vegetable gardens and locally sourced fish, shellfish, and meat. While showcasing technical finesse, Chef Colagreco’s dishes remain approachable, emphasising harmonious flavours.
Chef Mauro Colagreco explains: “Promoting meaningful gastronomy in the heart of our land is the challenge we try to take up every day. You will therefore be able to savour the essence of the produce we grow in our two hectares of permaculture vegetable gardens, but also the fruits of wild picking, fishing, and local breeding. We also aim for zero waste, which allows us to return to the land what we have borrowed from it.”
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