Travel
Hainan Airlines Starts Flights from Beijing to Malé

Maldives Promotion House – Hainan Airlines started direct service between Beijing and the Maldives. Hainan Airlines will link Beijing and Malé twice a week on Boeing 767-300ER aircraft offering 34 seats in business class and 199 in economy. Flights take off from Beijing, the capital of China on Tuesday, and Saturdays at 9:00 and lands at 14:35 and depart at 15:50 from Maldives will reach Beijing the next day at 3:00. An additional flight on Friday will be scheduled in early January.
This is the first direct scheduled flights between the two cities while Mega Maldives operates charter flights on this route. Other connections between China and the Maldives include China Southern Airlines (from Guangzhou), China Eastern Airlines (from Kunming and Chengdu) and Shanghai Airlines (from Shanghai), as well as, Singapore Airlines , Bangkok Airways and Korean Air with with stopover flights.
Ranked five stars by SkyTrax , Hainan Airlines operates a fleet of 93 aircraft to over 90 destinations, mainly in China but also in Europe (Berlin, Brussels, Budapest and Zurich), Africa (Cairo, Khartoum and Luanda) and North America (Vancouver, Seattle). It shares its code with Aerosvit , Air Berlin ,Brussels Airlines , Garuda Indonesia , Hong Kong Express Airways , Malev and Rossiya Airlines .
Arrival of Chinese tourists to Maldives has grown tremendously since getting Approved Destination Status (ADS) in 2002 from the Chinese government. The Maldives received 120,000 Chinese tourists in 2010, representing an increase of 96 percent from a year earlier and making China the number one source of foreign tourists.
Data from the Maldives Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture shows that the number of Chinese tourists to the Maldives accounted for 15 percent of the total international tourists to the country in 2010, ranking first among all countries and followed by the United Kingdom with 114,000 tourists, Italy, Germany and France.
Chinese tourists to the Maldives are expected to set a new high in 2011. As 126,561 tourists from China arrived in Maldives up to August, Chinese share in the Maldivian tourism market has increased by 21 percent with 22,827 tourists arriving in the country last month alone.
Awards
Hideaway Beach Resort secures major victories at Haute Grandeur Awards 2023

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, Maldives has once again affirmed its position as a beacon of luxury in the hospitality industry by winning the prestigious Haute Grandeur Award for 2023 for:
- Best Hideaway Resort (Global),
- Best Family Resort (Indian Ocean),
- Best Pool Villa Resort (Indian Ocean)
- Best Family Villa (Indian Ocean) – Sultan Beach Residence with Sunset Pool
These esteemed accolades recognise the unparalleled excellence and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences that the resort constantly demonstrates.
This year, one of the most special titles to be awarded to Hideaway includes the ‘Best Hideaway Resort – Global’ title. The unique positioning of the island, in the Haa Alifu Atoll (north of Maldives) leaves the island untouched, undisturbed, and disconnected from the rest of the world, in the best possible ways. The privacy, the quiet serenity, and the remarkably untouched waters and beaches add a certain attraction in addition to the lush, thick vegetation of the island. The flora and Fauna of the island are worth noting for any guest who visits the island.
Hideaway is famously known as a top-notch family resort. As one of the largest, most spacious resorts in the Maldives, with a relatively less number of villas, guests often feel as if they are on a private island experience whilst in the space at their villa. As such, couples can stay as private and uninterrupted as they want, and families can still enjoy their boisterous, exciting family getaway – there is tons of space for everyone. It the ideal destination for families as it is a resort that offers an exceptional kids’ club, and multiple arrays of family-friendly activities for children of all ages. Hideaway has always been on top of its game in offering innovative, unique experiences for its guests, making it an exciting playground of fun all-day round for all its guests.
As a winner of the Best Pool Villa category, Hideaway shines as one that offers private pools, and a common pool to all its guests. Out of 12 beautiful categories of villas and residences, only the entry-level category does not have a private pool – but even for this, guests can use a family pool out by Meeru Bar, and couples can enjoy their pool time at the Infinity pool at Sunset Pool Café.
The Signature Collection at Hideaway is a set of nine exclusive, super luxury and spacious villas that came into being just a mere few years ago, and since then, has been paving the way for innovative, luxurious, and comfortable stays in the Maldives. The accommodations within the Signature Collection are a true embodiment of luxury and sophistication. Each villa is meticulously designed to harmonise with the stunning natural surroundings of the Maldives while offering the highest level of comfort and indulgence. From private infinity pools to breathtaking ocean views, every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create an unforgettable retreat.
It is no surprise that the Sultan Beach Residence of the Signature Collection won the Best Pool Villa resort in Indian Ocean. Designed in true form with nods at the traditional Maldivian Royalty, unique personalised services including personal butler services 24/7, Anytime-Anything-Anywhere service, a senior private guide (Mr. Moodhu) for water excursions and provided with luxury amenities. Every guest staying at any of these residences is made to feel like a Sultan or Sultana.
Complementing the opulent accommodations, the restaurants at the Signature Collection elevate dining to an art form. Culinary delights inspired by both local flavours and international cuisine take guests on a gastronomic journey. With world-class chefs curating exceptional menus, dining becomes an immersive experience, harmonising delectable flavours with the captivating ambiance of the Maldives. But this applies to the entire Hideaway resort. The multicultural buffet restaurants, a la carte options, and exquisite bars, the options are limitless.
Speaking about this new addition, Christophe Adam, the General Manager of Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, said: “We are immensely proud and honoured to receive these prestigious Haute Grandeur Awards. They not only validate our commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality but also reflect the unique experiences we offer at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. Winning the Best Hideaway Resort – Global award is particularly special to us. It underscores our dedication to providing a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Maldives, away from the bustle of the world.”
“Our focus has always been on creating a space where families can make lasting memories and where every guest feels like royalty. These awards are a tribute to our team’s relentless pursuit of perfection and our commitment to ensuring that every moment at Hideaway is an unforgettable experience.”
The Haute Grandeur Awards are globally renowned for celebrating the crème de la crème of luxury hospitality establishments that exhibit unrivalled levels of service, innovation, and overall guest satisfaction. The accolade serves as a testament to the resorts dedication to exceeding expectations, redefining opulence, and providing an unforgettable retreat in the heart of the Maldives.
For more information on the resort, click here.
Food
Chef David Hemmerle at InterContinental Maldives’ The Lighthouse this festive season

Chef David Hemmerle, a leading chef originally from France and now based in Moscow, will be visiting InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort and taking over The Lighthouse restaurant in December.
The Lighthouse has a 360-degree view of the resort and the sparkling Indian Ocean below, offering the finest seasonal ingredients and seafood.
The collaboration with Chef Hemmerle promises to elevate the resort’s culinary experience, providing guests with a diverse range of carefully crafted and delectable dishes that showcase Hemmerle’s culinary skills.
Known for his work in Michelin-rated restaurants in Europe and Asia, Hemmerle has over 30 years of experience in fine dining at the likes of the Four Seasons in Moscow and the Cristal Room Baccarat (Mercury Group), all of which has helped develop a deep understanding of the tastes of metropolitan gourmet cuisine, combined with a rich experience in Michelin-rated restaurants.
Chef Hemmerle will bring the flair and refinement of his homeland’s cuisine to the resort this winter, cooking with creativity & complex techniques and the finest local ingredients.
Rates start from USD 952++ per night in a Water Pool Villa including breakfast for two. For more information, please visit www.maldives.intercontinental.com or email reservations.icmaldives@ihg.com.
News
Amari Raaya Maldives unveils RAAYA: Luxurious private yacht for unforgettable seafaring experiences

Amari Raaya Maldives, the luxury destination resort nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, has introduced its latest addition to redefine the concept of opulent escapades – the extraordinary private yacht, Raaya.
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime as Raaya promises an unparalleled castaway paradise experience. This 20.98-metre luxury yacht, accommodating up to 20 guests across 4 cabins, beckons those seeking the epitome of luxury and style on the open seas.
Key highlights:
- Tailored Experiences: Raaya can be requested for an array of bespoke experiences, from full-day private charters with VIP services including an on-board private chef and waiter, to exclusive ‘Chasing the Sunset’ evening cruises featuring breathtaking golden sunsets. Alternatively, revel in the romance of a Champagne breakfast, whilst the sun-kissed morning unfolds against the gently lapping ocean. As the day transitions to night, savour the magic of a private dinner on the upper deck, where every detail is curated to perfection. Raaya provides the vessel for unforgettable memories, where each sip and bite is a celebration of life’s finest moments.
- Arrive and Depart in Luxury: Transform the ordinary into the extraordinary as Raaya is available for charter for private airport transfers. Seamlessly blending sophistication and comfort, guests can ensure their luxurious castaway journey begins from the moment they touch-down in Male and continues as they depart back for the airport after their stay at Amari Raaya Maldives.
- Luxury Beyond Compare: Guests can indulge in a world of luxury with spacious, elegantly appointed cabins, providing stunning sea views and personalised services. The yacht features state-of-the-art technology, a fully stocked bar, and a highly experienced crew committed to ensuring the ultimate comfort for guests stepping onboard.
- Culinary Delights: Savour delectable culinary creations prepared by world-class chefs. Gourmet dining experiences unfold under the stars on deck and in stylish dining areas, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance.
- Secluded Castaway Adventures: Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant coral reefs, snorkel alongside diverse marine life, or relax on secluded beaches accessible only by Raaya. Every day promises a new adventure in untouched natural beauty.
- Wellness Oasis: Guests can unwind and rejuvenate with selected spa treatments carried out by a personal spa therapist and even enjoy yoga sessions with the azure blue waters as a backdrop.
Whether chartering for a private airport transfer or creating unforgettable memories with champagne breakfasts and private dinners on the upper deck, Raaya stands as the epitome of luxury, inviting guests to step aboard and be captivated by a world of opulence and adventure.
Amari Raaya Maldives, which opened this year on 1st August 2023, is a luxurious destination resort committed to providing unparalleled experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean. With the launch of Raaya, the resort continues to set new standards for unforgettable moments, style, and a personalised service. Raaya adds to the wealth of activities and experiences already on offer at Amari Raaya Maldives, from diving with the certified PADI instructors to spot the local sea turtles – or swimming with whale sharks, paddle-boarding, jet-skiing or kayaking. As well as a multitude of sport facilities, the resort also offers two pools, a gym, mini-golf, paddle tennis, wild mangrove forest trails and sky-high watchtower views.
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