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Dream with eyes open: why Four Seasons Maldives Voavah is the ultimate private island escape

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Disembark from a private seaplane and cross a cerulean lagoon in the Maldives’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to the blindingly white sands of one’s own five-hectare (two-acre) wonderland where every moment of every experience is customised to one’s preferences.

At Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa atoll, limitless island living beckons. This exclusive-use private island accommodates a single group of up to 22 guests across two vast villas and a Beach House – seven bedrooms in total – plus a dive and water sports centre, Ocean of Consciousness Spa, and exclusive use of Voavah Summer, the island’s 19-metre (62-foot) luxury yacht.

Since opening in December 2016, Voavah has received many accolades: Best of the Best in the 2017 Robb Report USA – Five Exclusive-Use Resorts You Can Keep All to Yourself; Conde Nast Traveller Gold List 2018; Conde Nast Traveller World’s Most Incredible Private Islands; Conde Nast Traveller China Gold List 2018; Forbes Travel Guide 2019 — The World’s Most Spectacular Private Island Escapes and Robb Report Arabia 2019 — Best Private Island Getaways, and it’s not hard to see why.

Privacy

Voavah redefines the notion of getting away from it all. Only accessible by seaplane, in the middle of the Maldives’ most protected waters, there are no adjacent islands, other guests, prying eyes or paparazzi. Protected by endless ocean and a 24/7 security team, suddenly anything is possible – and the mesmerising beauty of the surrounding natural wilderness only heightens the pervading sense of freedom and possibility.

Bespoke experiences

Fancy flying in one of the world’s best DJs for an all-night pool party complete with ice luge, oyster and vodka bar? Or hosting a beach festival, with local bodu beru drummers and dancers? How about spending days aboard a private yacht, Voavah Summer, identifying turtles, dolphins and manta rays with expert marine biologist guides? Or learning the latest hydrofoil water sports before dining around the world with a different cuisine at every mealtime?

Voavah is the canvas: the itinerary is each guest’s to craft.

Breathtaking nature

Voavah places guests in the heart of the Baa atoll, the Maldives’ only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, home to whale sharks, the world’s largest known population of manta rays, and some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the world. Step from a pristine beach into an ocean of colourful corals, thrilling thilas, turtles, rays and schools of beautiful fish for a dawn dive with a difference.

One doesn’t even need to take a break from lounging in the Beach House to spot dancing dolphins, resident water hens and herons. With a private yacht and a team of the country’s most experienced boatmen, marine biologists and scientists at one’s disposal, sunset dolphin cruises, night snorkels, and seasonal manta and whale shark safaris can be arranged at a moment’s notice.

Service

At the core of every Voavah experience is truly heartfelt service. Warm, welcoming, dedicated and discreet, the team of 28 staff are there to customise every moment of every day. Work with the team prior to arrival to help develop menus, accommodations, beverages and entertainment options – from additional dive instructors, marine biologists and water sports experts for ocean lovers to Ayurvedic physicians, reiki practitioners and more for those on a healing break. Or let the team take care of all the planning and just arrive ready for the most extraordinary experience of one’s life.

Potential to expand consciousness

Perhaps deeper even than privacy and luxury is Voavah’s invitation to step into the truest version of oneself. Here, away from life’s demands and expectations, the sense of expansiveness is as unfettered as the blue horizon.

In a place where anything is possible, the potential for inner change and growth is endless. Honouring personal transformation, The Ocean of Consciousness Spa offers intuitive treatments based on the five pathways of Truth, Wise Action, Love, Peace and Compassion – each designed to elevate awareness, transform actions, and help guests awaken to their power to affect wide-reaching change. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the crystal-singing-bowl experience is “worth the 12-hour flight in itself.”

With beach yoga, meditation and pranayama classes also available, Voavah is the place to connect to the Infinite, within and without.

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Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration

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Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.

Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.

During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.

The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.

Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.

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SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration

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SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.

Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.

The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.

Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.

On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.

The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.

The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.

Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.

Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.

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Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences

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Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.

The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.

The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.

Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.

The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.

Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.

Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.

Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.

Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.

For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.

The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.

The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.

Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.

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