Action

Atmosphere Hotels’ Maldives resorts takes initiatives to protect sea life

Published

5 years ago

March 13, 2020

Green Globe recently awarded OBLU Helengeli, OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo and OBLU Select at Sangeli with their inaugural certifications.

Green Teams at each Atmosphere Hotel & Resorts’ property have been integral in devising strategies that highlight the group’s sustainability vision for the future.

As an introduction to sustainability best practices, all staff members at the resorts receive training in reducing water and energy consumption. Furthermore, in efforts to eliminate single use plastics, paper straws are in use and guests are encouraged to drink water that has been desalinated, filtered and bottled at Atmosphere premises and offered in reusable glass bottles.

Various green initiatives have already commenced in line with sustainability action plans at individual properties.

OZEN by Atmosphere

OZEN by Atmosphere is comprised of luxurious villas tucked into exotic island vegetation and stunning overwater villas stretched across the beautiful turquoise lagoon of Maadhoo Island.

Ecological initiatives are in the spotlight at OZEN. Staff have been actively working on a coral propagation project to increase the number of marine species that inhabit waters around the resort. Testing has been trialed on an underwater frame which is presently working well, and more structures are being added around the resort’s one-of-a-kind underwater restaurant. In addition, the resort’s renowned Dive Centre has won a PADI Green Star Award for its commitment to protecting the environment.

The Green Book, produced by Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, contains information about the history, local culture and tradition of the Maldives. There is also detailed information about native flora and fauna, and recommendations on ways guests can help reduce water and energy consumption. The e-book is available for all guests to enjoy and displayed on inhouse TV channels in every room.

OBLU Select at Sangeli

OBLU SELECT at Sangeli is situated amidst some of the most exotic dive and snorkelling locations in the entire Male atoll. It is no wonder then that marine conservation is also a priority at this resort. A coral restoration project, with regular monitoring conducted by an in-house marine biologist, is an ongoing initiative that aims to protect and regenerate the biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems.

The resort’s five-star TGI PADI dive centre also runs diving courses at the outer reefs and the inner lagoon which lies at the centre of both islands and chain of overwater villas. The lagoon is home to a variety of small reef-fish species.

Starting from February, the Green Book is now displayed on all guest villa’s IPTV and offers in-depth descriptions of endemic marine life.

OBLU Helengeli

Helengeli island, located in North Male Atoll, is renowned for its exotic house reef, with its resident silver-tipped sharks, lobsters and giant sea turtles. Island properties are relatively isolated and must have procedures in place to allow them to operate independently. In line with its sustainable management plan, the resort follows a Preventative Maintenance Schedule that ensures faulty equipment is repaired or replaced in a timely fashion to avoid overuse of resources and expensive running costs.

Management also takes into consideration the wellbeing of both guests and staff alike. To ensure high standards of health and safety are maintained, potable water consumed by guests is subject to regular testing conducted by an accredited scientific laboratory. Treated water from the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) is also managed in a non-polluting way to protect the health of visiting guests and staff as well as the fragile surrounding eco-systems.

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic and fast-growing Indian Ocean hospitality group currently based in the Maldives.

Atmosphere’s 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. The newest addition to the portfolio, VARU by Atmosphere, opened in October 2019.

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 while staying true to the brand’s core philosophy: ‘The Joy of Giving’.

Up Next

Experience aromatic coffee cuisine at Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives

Don't Miss

Lily Beach Maldives introduces new villa categories

Action

Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose

Published

3 days ago

December 21, 2024

m@ldives

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has introduced an exciting new activity for ocean enthusiasts: Conservation Snorkelling. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, this immersive experience allows participants to contribute to marine conservation efforts while exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of the Maldives. Combining education, exploration, and action, the initiative offers an enriching opportunity for visitors of all ages.

Participants engage in collecting critical data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, and writing slates, while learning to identify various fish species. They assess reef conditions and contribute to the protection of the local marine environment. The findings are then discussed with Mohamed Shah, providing deeper insights into the marine life of the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.

This activity is a key component of Sun Siyam Cares, the resort’s initiative focused on environmental protection and community support. Families, young couples, and other guests can participate in global conservation efforts through the Coral Watch citizen science project. The activity is open to strong swimmers aged eight and above who feel comfortable snorkelling.

“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we strive to protect the stunning natural environment around us,” said Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager. “Through activities like Conservation Snorkelling, we encourage guests to explore and actively contribute to ocean conservation.”

Action

Game, set, paradise: Petra Kvitová and Hideaway Beach Resort elevate luxury sports experiences

Published

5 days ago

December 19, 2024

m@ldives

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa recently hosted legendary tennis player Petra Kvitová, captivating guests with her remarkable presence and inspiring passion for tennis. During her stay, the two-time Wimbledon champion conducted exclusive tennis classes, giving guests a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s top athletes.

Petra Kvitová, a celebrated Czech tennis star, has had an illustrious career highlighted by two Grand Slam titles and numerous accolades on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful left-handed game and extraordinary resilience, she has inspired fans worldwide. Her tennis classes at Hideaway were dynamic and filled with invaluable insights, creating memorable experiences for tennis enthusiasts and guests alike.

The festive season at the resort commenced with Padel professional Hernan Flores offering Padel lessons for both guests and staff, followed by consecutive tennis workshops led by tennis stars Petra Kvitová and Elena Vesnina. Both athletes conducted specialised tennis sessions for adults and children, helping participants enhance their skills and deepen their appreciation for the sport.

Nestled in the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is renowned for its exceptional service, luxurious villas, and world-class amenities. Boasting immaculate beaches and exclusive experiences, the resort provides an idyllic escape for discerning travellers. With professional tennis courts and wellness facilities, including a Bali-inspired spa and in-house yoga instruction, Hideaway offers tennis enthusiasts the perfect setting to refine their game while enjoying the serene paradise.

As one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, located in the remote Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway offers an extensive range of activities. These include a 5-hole golf putting green, an indoor golf simulator, Padel courts, indoor badminton, table tennis, and a state-of-the-art gym. Guests can also explore the island’s lush vegetation and scenic pathways by bicycle, combining leisure with exercise. For joggers, the island features excellent routes, approximately 1.4 kilometres long and 500 meters wide, providing a natural and invigorating fitness option.

Steve Cook, a fitness professional and former guest, remarked, “How often do you get a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, cycle along sand pathways, and run through lush tropical landscapes? Hideaway Beach Resort is not just a retreat—it’s a paradise for fitness and adventure enthusiasts looking to embrace challenges in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.”

As an award-winning luxury resort, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa continues to set the standard for recreation and relaxation in the Maldives. It offers guests more than just a vacation—delivering an unparalleled hideaway experience.

Action

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives presents Active Escapes 2025

Published

5 days ago

December 19, 2024

m@ldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of the Active Escapes retreats in 2025. The week-long Active Escapes Maldives Festival will be held from 27 April to 4 May 2025 at the private island resort. This event is set to be the largest Active Escapes event of the year, attracting those who enjoy combining energetic recreation with a serene holiday atmosphere. Prices for the retreat start from US$2,600++ per person, twin share.

Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed excitement about collaborating with Active Escapes again in 2025. “The week-long retreat-style festival offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for individuals who prioritise health and fitness while on vacation or are looking to start fresh,” she said.

Garrett further noted, “It’s not a boot camp where you feel deprived of all the enjoyable aspects. On an Active Escapes retreat, guests can indulge in delicious cuisine prepared by the resort’s talented chefs and enjoy an impressive drinks list. The concept is to work out hard during the day and reward yourself in the evening.”

Active Escapes curates experiences that cater to a wide range of preferences, from water-based activities like snorkelling and kayaking to scuba diving and more. In addition to aqua-centric pursuits, there is also time for holistic well-being. This includes yoga sessions against the backdrop of breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, visiting the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala in the resort gardens, or simply taking a moment to relax and reflect by the beach with the soothing sounds of the waves. Active Escapes emphasises both the thrill of leisure pursuits and group fitness activities, as well as the tranquility and balance that can be achieved by embracing nature’s beauty and being present in this island paradise.

The Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 is all about having fun and attracting people from all around the world. It’s not solely for fitness enthusiasts; on the contrary, it offers a welcoming environment where the goal is for participants to leave a bit fitter than when they arrived in the Maldives, although the ultimate decision on participation level is up to them. There are varying degrees of difficulty in the program to ensure that those seeking a more intense workout feel challenged, while those needing a less intense workout are well catered for.

Active Escapes are particularly popular with solo travellers, who make up half of their bookings globally. The main age group is 20-40 years, although there have been guests in their late 50s on occasion.

The seven-night Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 hosts have been confirmed as the highly popular Peter Day and Nathan Ryles. ‘Second Release’ Packages start from US$2,600 per person twin share (excluding flights) and US$3,500 for a single room, and include: