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Maldives records two virus cases – lowest since community spread began

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Only two people tested positive for coronavirus in the Maldives Sunday — the lowest daily increase since the virus began spreading in the community almost two months ago.

Health Protection Agency (HPA) said the two that tested positive for the Covid-19 respiratory disease caused by the virus were Maldivians.

The confirmed local transmission clusters in the country now include 1,002 Bangladeshis, 639 Maldivians, 190 Indians, 24 Nepalis, 10 Sri Lankans and three Pakistanis.

Health officials warned of a potential surge in the number of coronavirus cases in the last two weeks of May, with projections as high as 1,600 new cases on the peak day of May 31.

But the actual figures were lower. Despite a surge at the end of May and in the first few days of June, the daily figures did not cross 100 except on June 1 when the country reported 101 new infections.

Authorities managed to mitigate the spread of the virus and the Covid-19 respiratory disease it causes amongst the Maldives’ citizens and residents early on by closing the Indian Ocean tourist paradise’s borders, earning praise from the World Health Organisation.

But the disease later spread rapidly within the large migrant worker community in capital Male. Authorities have ramped up relocating workers from the cramped up dormitories in one of the world’s most densely populated cities to temporary accommodation units.

An estimated 63,000 foreign nationals work in the Maldives illegally out of a migrant worker population close to 145,000.

Foreign workers in the Maldives, predominantly Bangladeshi and Indian men, are subjected to practices indicative of forced labour, including fraudulent recruitment, confiscation of identity and travel documents, withholding or non-payment of wages, and debt bondage.

As most migrant workers live in extremely poor conditions, a widespread outbreak amongst them could lead to large virus clusters, overwhelming the country’s already under staffed and strained healthcare system and making it harder for authorities to contain the spread of the virus.

On March 8, Maldives reported its first cases of the novel coronavirus, as two hotel employees tested positive for Covid-19 at a luxury resort in the archipelago.

Eighteen more cases — all foreigners working or staying resorts and liveaboard vessels except five Maldivians who had returned from abroad — were later identified.

A six-case cluster of locals, detected in capital Male on April 15, confirmed community transmission of the coronavirus. Several more clusters have since been identified, bringing the total number of confirmed case in the Maldives to 1,903.

Eight deaths have been reported and 827 have made full recoveries. Five remain in intensive care.

The Maldives announced a state of public health emergency on March 12, the first such declaration under a recent public health protection law.

The public health emergency declaration allowed the government to introduce a series of unprecedented restrictive and social distancing measures, including stay-at-home orders in capital Male and its suburbs, a ban on inter-island transport and public gatherings across the country, and a nationwide closing of government offices, schools, colleges and universities.

Non-essential services and public places in the capital such as gyms, cinemas and parks were also shut.

Restaurants and cafes in the capital were asked to stop dine-in service and switch to takeaway and delivery.

A nationwide shutdown of all guesthouses, city hotels and spa facilities located on inhabited islands is also in effect.

The restrictions in the capital region are now being eased in phases, with the first phase lasting at least until mid June. Most restrictions remain in place for the time.

Photo: Sun Online

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Luxurious Valentine’s getaways at Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa

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This Valentine’s Day, love takes centre stage at Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa as the island transforms into a haven of romance with its enchanting Tropical Love celebration. Nestled in the pristine beauty of the Maldives, the resort invites couples to indulge in an unforgettable escape, curated with passion, luxury, and intimacy in mind. From private island getaways to candlelit beach dinners, every experience is designed to celebrate love in its most magical form.

Throughout the celebration, guests can enjoy a variety of romantic experiences designed to create lasting memories. Exclusive dining options range from elegant wine dinners to intimate beachside feasts under the stars, each featuring expertly crafted menus paired with premium champagnes.

Couples can embark on a breathtaking sunset cruise leading to a secluded island retreat, where an intimate dining experience awaits amidst the serene sounds of the waves. For those seeking relaxation and pampering, indulgent spa treatments and floating breakfasts offer moments of tranquility and connection. Guests can unwind with a luxurious couple’s massage, followed by a serene breakfast served in the comfort of their private pool, where the scent of fresh tropical blooms and the gentle sea breeze enhance the experience.

The Tropical Love affair experiences include:

  • Love & Escape – A sunset cruise to a private island, followed by an intimate five-course dinner with Bruno Paillard Rosé and luxury indulgences.
  • Celebrate Love in Style – A refined five-course dining experience at Oak Wine Lounge, paired with Taittinger Rosé and exclusive romantic touches.
  • A Night of Love – Dining under the stars with a five-course menu, Bottega Rose Gold Spumante, and handcrafted island chocolates.
  • A Night of Romance Under the Stars – A candlelit beach dinner featuring a gourmet five-course menu, B&G Sparkling Rosé, and sweet island treats.
  • Floating Valentine – A luxurious floating breakfast in a private pool, paired with Taittinger Rosé for a perfect start to the day.
  • Floating Champagne with Canapés – A celebration of love with Taittinger Rosé and canapés, served in the tranquility of a villa pool.
  • Ruinart Romance Surprise – A timeless romantic gesture with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a delicate rose.

Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa’s Tropical Love experience serves as a tribute to romance in its most exquisite form. Whether indulging in fine dining, toasting to love under the stars, or escaping to a private island retreat, each experience is designed to create timeless memories in the heart of the Maldives.

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Chocolate, spirits, and gourmet pairings with Patrick Gelencser at Niyama Private Islands Maldives

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Renowned master chocolatier Patrick Gelencser will bring a touch of indulgence to Niyama Private Islands Maldives, hosting exclusive tasting sessions from February 21-25, 2025.

Born into a legacy of chocolate craftsmanship, Gelencser represents the third generation of the esteemed House of Gelencser. As one of only 15 chocolatiers in France specialising in bean-to-bar production, he has received numerous international accolades. His meticulously crafted creations are so exceptional that they are showcased in a chocolate museum in the Loire Valley, as well as in nearly half a dozen boutiques.

Guests at Niyama will have the rare opportunity to witness Gelencser’s artistry firsthand as he curates a series of tasting experiences set against the resort’s breathtaking backdrops.

  • Single-Origin Chocolate & Rum: The terroir of the cocoa bean influences its flavour, resulting in creamy, fruity, citrusy, or nutty notes. Guests will explore the origins of Gelencser’s single-origin chocolates, expertly paired with the finest Caribbean and South American rums, in a setting like no other—perched half a kilometre out to sea amidst the sunset.
  • Ganache, Praline & Whiskey: A masterful contrast of textures awaits with smooth, creamy ganache and nutty, complex pralines, complemented by a premium selection of whiskeys. This refined post-dinner experience will be hosted at the heart of the island of Chill.
  • Tapas, Chocolate, Wine & Port: For the grand finale, guests will embark on a full gastronomic journey, surrounded by lush tropical beauty. The experience begins with tapas and wine, followed by a curated selection of chocolates and port, personally presented by Gelencser to an intimate gathering of 12 guests.

“We are thrilled to host rarefied events such as these, led by masters of their craft like Patrick Gelencser,” says Thierry Vergnault, Executive Chef of Niyama. “We take great pride in our culinary offerings, creating spectacular experiences found nowhere else, and look forward to hosting many more.”

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Oaga Art Resort’s unique Valentine’s Day celebration

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This Valentine’s Day, Oaga Art Resort is redefining traditional romance, inviting guests to embrace a broader celebration of love—one that honours self-love, friendship, and meaningful connections in all their forms. ‘A Different Kind of Love Story’ at Oaga is more than just an event; it is a movement.

Oaga Art Resort envisions Valentine’s Day as an inclusive celebration, welcoming singles, best friends, and those seeking to deepen their relationship with themselves. By shifting the focus beyond conventional narratives, the resort creates an atmosphere where guests can explore self-worth and celebrate the many dimensions of love.

The resort’s Valentine’s Day program offers curated experiences designed to inspire self-love and joyful connections:

  • Self-Love Hours: Rejuvenating sessions at Hoba Spa, promoting self-acceptance and wellness. Guests can participate in a Face Massage Workshop, Harmony and Kindness Meditation, and Hydrotherapy & Skincare Rituals. Pre-booking is required.
  • Live Music by Soul Salad: The soothing jazz melodies of Soul Salad set the perfect mood for relaxation and connection.
  • Self-Love Celebration: A lively beach party under the stars featuring Digital.flock (Mirah Allly) encourages guests to dance and embrace the joy of self-expression.
  • Self-Love Garden: Guests can plant a seedling along with a personal self-affirmation note, contributing to a growing sanctuary dedicated to self-love.
  • Dinner for Two: A premium dining experience featuring a curated five- or six-course menu, complemented by wine, live music, and a romantic beachfront setting. Pre-booking is required.
  • Colour Splatter Canvas: A large collective art installation invites guests to freely express themselves through painting.

Oaga Art Resort is inviting guests to break free from traditional Valentine’s Day expectations and embrace an unforgettable celebration of self-love, friendship, and joy. By redefining love beyond February 14th, the resort encourages individuals to nurture the most important relationship of all—the one with themselves.

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