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Starwood Hotels Hits 200th Hotel Milestone In Asia Pacific

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Maldives Promotion House – Powering ahead in Asia Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced it has surpassed the 200th hotel milestone with a flurry of recent openings in China, India, Thailand and Malaysia. Starwood continues to widen its lead as the largest operator of four and five star hotels in Asia Pacific with plans to reach over 320 hotels by 2014.

“The opening of our 200th hotel in Asia Pacific underscores the vitality of this market and its importance to our future growth,” President and CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. Frits van Paasschen said. “Demand for our high-calibre brands continues to soar across Asia’s many dynamic markets, driven by phenomenal economic growth and significant increases in outbound travel, particularly from China and India.”

Asia Pacific is Home to Starwood’s Highest, Largest and Tallest Hotels

Starwood’s diverse portfolio in Asia boasts several record-setting properties including its highest, largest and tallest hotels. The soon-to-open, 100-story St. Regis Shenzhen tops the charts at 441 meters. Starwood’s most highly elevated hotel is The St. Regis Lhasa, perched on the Tibetan Plateau, and its largest property is the nearly 4,000 room Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central located on the Cotai strip – the “Las Vegas” of Asia.

“In 2001, Starwood had around 80 hotels in all of Asia Pacific, just ten years later we are celebrating the opening of our 200th hotel,” Chairman and President of Starwood’s Asia Pacific Division, Miguel Ko said. “Through the strength of our brands and our strong teams, we’ve more than doubled our footprint and added over 40,000 jobs to the region. Starwood’s momentum continues, we will open nearly 35 hotels in 2012 and welcome over 10,000 new associates to our team.”

Eye on China and India

China will play an outsized role in global travel within the next decade as one of the world’s fastest growing travel markets, with 100 million outbound travellers expected by 2015.  Starwood now has 86 hotels open in China and nearly 100 more in development and expects to open one hotel in China every two weeks through the end of 2011. Nearly half of Starwood’s future hotels in China will fly the Sheraton flag, building on the brand’s 30-year legacy in the country, which has paved the way for robust growth across Starwood’s other world-class brands.

India is now Starwood’s fourth largest market and a close second to China in terms of future hotel development. Starwood now has more four and five star hotels than any other hotel company in India, where it expects to open its 50th hotel in 2013 and have 100 hotels either open or in development by 2015.   Starwood also announced earlier in the year the signing of the first W in India – W Mumbai, followed by the recent signings of W Noida and W Goa Retreat.  With the introduction of W Hotels as well as the entry of the first St. Regis in India with St. Regis Noida, eight of Starwood’s nine brands will fly their flags in India including W, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Le Méridien, Westin, Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton and Aloft.

Trends Picking up in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia

Starwood is experiencing robust demand in many of Asia’s other fast-growing economies including Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Following the recent opening of Four Points by Sheraton Resort Langkawi, Starwood will grow 30 percent in Malaysia in the next three years with plans to open another four hotels including Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan, Sheraton Desaru Resort, The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur and W Kuala Lumpur.

In Indonesia, Starwood will add another four hotels by 2012 to its current portfolio of 12 properties. With the opening of Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11, Thailand will be the first country in the South East Asia region to have eight out of nine Starwood brands. Today, Starwood has a robust footprint of 18 hotels in Thailand with another six openings planned by 2014.

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Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

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Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.

Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.

Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.

“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:

  • Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
  • A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
  • Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.

In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.

For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com

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News

MIC appoints Ali Shakir as Group General Manager

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Maldives Inflight Catering Pvt Ltd (MIC) has announced the appointment of Ali Shakir as the Group General Manager. With over 27 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ali Shakir will now oversee operations for the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Madifushi Private Island Maldives.

Ali Shakir, who most recently served as General Manager at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, played a pivotal role in the resort’s redevelopment and reopening. Prior to that, he joined Atmosphere Core in 2019 as Resort Manager at VARU By Atmosphere, where he was instrumental in the pre-opening of several properties, including OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, and VARU By Atmosphere. His wealth of experience also includes key positions at prestigious resorts such as Angsana Velavaru, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Paradise Island Resort and Spa.

Ali is no stranger to MIC, having spent more than 15 years at Hulhule Island Hotel, where he rose through the ranks to become Executive Assistant Manager before departing in 2019.

Commenting on his new role, Ali Shakir expressed his enthusiasm:
“I am honored to rejoin MIC and lead the operations of these iconic properties. This company has always held a special place in my career, and I am excited to work with the talented team to drive further success and innovation.”

Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Managing Director of MIC, welcomed Ali to the leadership team, praising his extensive experience and strategic vision:
“We are delighted to have Ali back at MIC. His proven track record in the hospitality sector, combined with his in-depth knowledge of Hulhule Island Hotel and his previous achievements, makes him the ideal leader to take us forward. I have no doubt that under his leadership, MIC will continue to set benchmarks for excellence.”

Ali Shakir holds a General Managers Program certificate from Cornell University, USA, and a General Hotel Service certification from the Institute of Hotel and Catering Service, Maldives.

MIC is a joint venture between Maldives Airports Company Limited and SATS Ltd, renowned for its inflight catering services to airlines and private jets. Beyond the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, MIC also manages Hulhule Island Hotel, the only airport hotel at Velana International Airport, and the luxurious Madifushi Private Island Maldives in Meemu Atoll.

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Tips & Advice

Flying after scuba diving: Essential guidelines for safe travel

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Scuba diving in the Maldives offers an unparalleled experience, with its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. However, one crucial aspect that divers must consider is the timing of their flights after diving. Understanding the recommended waiting periods before flying is essential to ensure safety and prevent decompression sickness. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Decompression Sickness

Decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and tissues due to rapid changes in pressure. This can happen if a diver ascends too quickly or flies too soon after diving. The reduced cabin pressure in an airplane can exacerbate the formation of these bubbles, leading to serious health risks.

Recommended Waiting Times

The waiting time before flying after scuba diving depends on the type and number of dives completed. Here are the general guidelines:

  1. Single Dive: If you have completed a single, no-decompression dive, it is recommended to wait at least 12 hours before flying. This allows sufficient time for the body to eliminate excess nitrogen.
  2. Multiple Dives or Multiple Days of Diving: For divers who have completed multiple dives or have been diving over several days, the recommended waiting period extends to 18 to 24 hours. This longer duration helps ensure that nitrogen levels in the body have decreased to safe levels.
  3. Dives Requiring Decompression Stops: If your dive profile included decompression stops, it is crucial to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before boarding a flight. Decompression dives involve higher nitrogen absorption, necessitating a longer off-gassing period.

Seaplane and Domestic Flights

Many tourists visiting resorts and other islands in the Maldives travel by seaplane or domestic flights. While these flights generally operate at lower altitudes compared to international flights, the same waiting time guidelines apply. The reason is that even at lower altitudes, the risk of decompression sickness remains significant due to the changes in pressure.

Practical Tips for Divers

  • Plan Your Dives and Flights: When planning your diving trip, consider your flight schedule. Ensure that you have ample time between your last dive and your flight to adhere to the recommended waiting periods.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can aid in the elimination of nitrogen from the body. Drink plenty of water before and after your dives.
  • Monitor Your Health: Pay attention to any symptoms of decompression sickness, such as joint pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Use Dive Computers: Modern dive computers can help track your nitrogen levels and provide personalized recommendations for safe flying times based on your dive profile.

Flying after scuba diving requires careful consideration and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent decompression sickness. By following the recommended waiting times and taking necessary precautions, divers can enjoy their underwater adventures in the Maldives and travel safely. Always consult with dive professionals or medical experts if you have any concerns about your health and safety.

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