Family
Niyama’s Explorers Kids Club: Catering to the imaginations of all ages
Niyama Private Islands offers more than a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going beyond conventional concepts of lavish accommodation, sumptuous cuisines, and lavish services, Niyama Private Islands presents every visitor with myriad opportunities to create their own exceptional island experience.
With twin islands Play and Chill, Niyama offers you the true luxury of choice, with everything expected from an island resort and so much more.
Luxe excitement for the littlest VIPs. Set in the heart of the Isle of Play, Explorers Kids Club caters to the imaginations of all ages. This quintessentially Maldives kids club immerses children in the eye-opening nature and cultural beauty of the islands – from Dhivehi lullabies to dolphin scouting.
With age related activities and facilities for children from 12 months to 12 years, the Explorer Kids club gives parents the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed holiday, whilst their children are in the care of experts, enjoying everything that both islands have to offer.
Purpose built with a circus theme, the children’s club is a vibrant and exciting place and promises fun and adventure for every child.
Explorers is divided into four age groups, each with an excellent carer to child ratio.
The childcare team is made up of fully qualified child carers recruited and trained by Scott Dunn, supported by a trained local team, with each one having a passion for working with children.
Divided into two areas for the different age groups, the whole club is full of everything an active imagination could need.
The nurturing Globetrotter and Adventurer programmes for younger guests introduces the children to the flora and fauna of the islands and include activities from coconut painting to sand prints, from hermit crab races to water fun, and from themed treasure hunts to cookie making.
There’s much fun to be had both inside and out, with toys, games and books in the club to keep children entertained during the heat of the day, and a playground with a sandpit, water play area, inset trampoline and see saws.
Snacks are provided, and there’s a sleep room for babies and toddlers in need of a siesta. The resort also provides complimentary nappies (including swim nappies) during club hours.
For the Voyagers and Pioneers, a trip to Niyama is a real Swallows and Amazons adventure.
They have their own separate area and games room in the children’s club, and they’re able to explore their surrounds with the Explorers team who take them out to the reef to snorkel, or find dolphins or discover one of the neighbouring islands.
With activities including cookie making, volleyball, stand up paddle boarding and designing t shirts, your children will be endlessly entertained.
The club has a stage for those who love to perform; a small wall for budding climbers, and there’s even a spot of education with visits from Niyama’s resident marine biologist.
Niyama has recently launched Food Play – tailored cooking classes for small groups of six to eight – wherein guests are invited to learn the secrets of what the native chef whizzes. Maldivian tuna curry. Thai tom yum. Grilled halloumi with pomegranate. Ostrich bobotie.
Four distinctive cuisine classes are on offer: Maldivian as experienced at Epicure, with fresh seafood locally caught and cooked with vibrant colours and spices; Asian as served at Nest, with five-flavoured Thai dishes being a focus; the freshness of the Mediterranean from the Executive Chef of Blu; and the rarest of African delicacies roasted over the open fires of Tribal.
The Food Play classes are ideal for couples, families with kids or groups of friends, offering an ideal day of adventurous learning, passion, and appreciation for new flavours.
Niyama has won several awards for its family-oriented offerings, including the 2016 Family Traveller Award for the Best Kids Club. The resort was also listed amongst the world’s best family hotels by Conde Nast Traveller in 2015.
Niyama offers more than a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going beyond conventional concepts of lavish accommodation, sumptuous cuisines, and lavish services, Niyama presents every visitor with myriad opportunities to create their own exceptional island experience.
With twin islands Play and Chill, Niyama offers you the true luxury of choice, with everything expected from an island resort and so much more.
Chill is true to its name. You can discover new depths of relaxation at the Drift Spa, or take in a movie under the stars at the outdoor cinema. Just off the coast, enjoy a fine dining experience at Edge accessible only by speedboat, while Subsix invites you the world’s finest underwater seafood restaurant and night club.
Play provides delightful diversions for those looking for more active pursuits. On the water, you can kayak around the islands or discover why Niyama is amongst the hottest surfing destinations. Bicyclists can explore the island at their own pace, perhaps lured by the aromas from the chef’s spice gardens.
Family
Touch of artistry: LUX* South Ari Atoll teams up with The Clay Studio Maldives
The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort, LUX* South Ari Atoll, has announced a partnership with The Clay Studio Maldives to introduce a pottery pop-up at its Junk Art Studio, starting on 20 December 2024. This collaboration adds a creative and interactive activity to the resort’s vibrant programming, offering guests of all ages the opportunity to explore their artistic talents while supporting a local Maldivian business.
The pottery experience features a variety of workshops, including wheel-throwing, hand-building, and the popular ‘Paint a Pot’ sessions. Options tailored for children and private sessions for couples and families are also available. Each class is conducted by skilled artisans and aims to inspire creativity while providing an enjoyable experience for participants.
John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the partnership as a unique opportunity for families to create lasting memories while supporting local craftsmanship.
The launch aligns with the resort’s festive celebrations, which include an array of traditions, dining experiences, and activities designed to deliver an unforgettable holiday experience. This announcement follows the resort’s recent recognition as “Best for Families” at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards For Excellence 2025, reinforcing its status as a premier family-friendly destination.
Family
Journey of renewal, family bonding: Celebrate Easter 2025 at The Nautilus Maldives
Easter at The Nautilus Maldives is a heartfelt celebration of family, sustainability, and the wonders of nature. From 15th to 22nd April 2025, this award-winning ultra-luxury private island invites guests to create cherished moments through meaningful, eco-conscious experiences. Highlights include coral planting workshops, tree-planting ceremonies, eco-snorkelling safaris, and guided nature walks, each designed to immerse guests in the vibrant marine life and the delicate ecosystem of the Maldives. These thoughtfully curated activities go beyond recreation, offering moments to reflect, reconnect, and honour the spirit of renewal that Easter embodies.
Sustainability Workshops with ecoBirdy
This Easter, The Nautilus invites families to join an inspiring creative journey with ecoBirdy at Young Wonderers. Founded in Belgium, ecoBirdy is renowned for transforming discarded plastic into sustainable, ergonomic designs, blending functionality with artistic innovation—a philosophy that beautifully aligns with The Nautilus’ vision of renewal.
Under the theme “Journey to a New Life”, these workshops guide kids through a hands-on exploration of recycling, from collecting plastic treasures to crafting bespoke creations like The Nautilus Pendant. Through these immersive activities, guests of all ages will discover the transformative power of upcycling, turning waste into meaningful, beautiful keepsakes.
Young Wonderers offers more than workshops, with whimsical island adventures designed to spark imagination. Children can craft coconut bags, engage in playful “Saving the Planet” competitions, or sculpt magical sand souvenirs—each activity connecting them to the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Celebrating Easter Through Art and Cuisine
Easter dining at The Nautilus takes on an artistic flair this Easter with exquisite culinary experiences. On Good Friday, guests can enjoy a Sunset Beach Pop-Up featuring “The Art of Bohemia,” a beachside gallery of Maldivian artworks accompanied by live music. Holy Saturday will delight families with a memorable beachside Easter dinner at Thyme Beach, and Easter Sunday culminates in a lavish family brunch serenaded by the soothing melodies of a local handpan musician. Each dining experience seamlessly blends artistry, flavour, and unforgettable moments.
Family Adventures on the Reef and Beyond
For marine enthusiasts, Aquanautica offers an array of immersive experiences designed to inspire and educate. Guests can participate in coral planting sessions led by the resident marine biologist, snorkel along the vibrant house reef with expert guidance, or attend engaging coral talks. Families can join “Hello Turtle” excursions to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat or set sail on enchanting dolphin cruises. Each adventure deepens guests’ understanding of the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while fostering a profound connection to the delicate marine ecosystem.
Spa Indulgence for All Ages
Solasta Spa invites guests to embrace the spirit of renewal with Easter-inspired therapies. Choose from treatments like the Spring Rebalance Therapy or the Spring Blossom Body Scrub, each designed to revitalise and rejuvenate. Families can enjoy bespoke pampering sessions, pairing massages and facials for parents paired with mini massages for children. These moments of relaxation culminate in a luxurious aromatic bath, creating cherished memories of tranquillity and togetherness.
To plan your Easter journey to a world of your own making, visit The Nautilus Maldives’ website here, email hello@thenautilusmaldives.com or talk to the resort team at +960 7309818.
Family
JA Manafaru secures Worldwide Kids Accreditation for second year
JA Manafaru has announced its receipt of the respected Worldwide Kids (WK) Accreditation for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its dedication to providing a family-friendly experience. This independent recognition honours resorts that maintain the highest international standards in childcare training, health and safety, and continuously enhance the experience for families and young guests.
Situated in an idyllic all-natural island paradise, JA Manafaru features a wide array of family-focused facilities. The resort’s CoolZone play area, complete with a separate family pool, Recreation Pavilion, and the ChillZone indoor games room, provides young guests with ample opportunities to play and explore while their parents enjoy relaxation. This carefully curated offering ensures that both families and couples experience the perfect balance of a serene escape and a safe, engaging environment for children.
The resort’s childcare facilities have successfully met the rigorous standards of the WK audit, further demonstrating its commitment to creating a secure and nurturing space for younger guests. The dedicated childcare team at JA Manafaru has completed extensive training accredited by Worldwide Kids, equipping them with specialised knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional care. Parents can rest assured knowing their children are well looked after while they enjoy the resort’s spa and dining options.
Rita Gupta, Director of Spa & Recreation, expressed pride in the team’s achievement, stating that receiving the recognition for two consecutive years underscores the resort’s commitment to guest safety, particularly for young visitors. Gupta emphasised that the health and safety audits, combined with comprehensive training, ensure adherence to the highest international standards. She noted that the accreditation reflects the resort’s dedication to creating memorable family experiences.
Jason Kruse, General Manager of JA Manafaru Maldives, shared his enthusiasm, highlighting that the Worldwide Kids accreditation reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its youngest guests. Kruse added that the diverse activities available allow families to appreciate the beauty of the Maldives together while parents can relax, confident in the care provided to their children.
The Worldwide Kids Accreditation reinforces JA Manafaru’s focus on delivering not just a luxurious retreat for families but also a resort that prioritises the well-being and enjoyment of young guests. This esteemed recognition underscores the resort’s commitment to maintaining exemplary standards of childcare, ensuring that all visitors – both young and old – enjoy a memorable and worry-free stay.
With this accolade, JA Manafaru continues to distinguish itself as one of the Maldives’ premier resorts, offering families and holidaymakers outstanding service and unforgettable experiences.
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