Action
Kelis Opens Huvafen Fushi 2012 Dream Calendar

Maldives Promotion House – Per AQUUM has announced two time GRAMMY® nominee, BRIT Award winner, Q Award winner and NME winner, Kelis, to open the 2012 Dream Calendar at its flagship retreat Huvafen Fushi in Maldives. The event will be held on 20th January 2011.
Kelis, known for her signature colourful style, released her debut album Kaleidoscope, in December 1999 and followed it with hit releases over the years earning her a BRIT Award for International Breakthrough Act, a GRAMMY® Award nomination for Best Urban/Alternative Performance and a GRAMMY®Award nomination for Best Contemporary R&B Album. Kelis will be performing live in the Maldives for the first time.
Celebrating half a decade of truly iconic guest experiences, Huvafen Fushi by Per AQUUM has delivered non-stop, high-style events for the last five years through its first-in-the-Maldives original concept, the Dream Calendar.
“Kanye West’s protégé, Mr Hudson and electronic powerhouses, BT and Poet Name Life celebrated the Dream Calendar’s 5th year anniversary this year. With Kelis opening for 2012, we continue our commitment to pushing the boundaries and building on the series of A-list personalities bringing an edgy dimension to our guest experience,” CEO of Per AQUUM, Neil Palmer said.
Kelis’ 2010 release and fifth studio album, Flesh Tone, was a distinct departure from her previous albums. Working with some of the biggest names of our time, Flesh Tone, produced by will.i.am, David Guetta, Boys Noize, Jean Baptiste, Benny Benassi, DJ Ammo and Diplo amongst others, marked her transition into dance and pop music to critical acclaim.
The #1 David Guetta produced hit single Acapella, topped the US and UK Dance charts followed closely by 4th of July (Fireworks) which was co-written by Per AQUUM Music Ambassador, Poet Name Life. This June 2011, Scottish recording artist Calvin Harris collaborated with Kelis on the song ‘Bounce’ which debuted at number two on the UK Singles Chart marking Kelis’ ninth top 10 single.
Huvafen Fushi is located in the North Malé Atoll and enjoys a pristine private island setting featuring 44 naturally modern bungalows and pavilions, and is home to the world’s first underwater spa. Managing company Per AQUUM Retreats · Resorts · Residences is dedicated to delivering an experience beyond the highest expectations, while remaining dedicated to the sustainable development and resources of the Maldives.
Featured
Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has completed a four-day coral transplantation programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to marine conservation. Led by the resort’s marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, the initiative involved the replanting of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s nurseries to its house reef, strengthening one of the Maldives’ most critical marine ecosystems.
The programme was notable for its collaborative approach, bringing together four marine biologists from neighbouring resorts—JOALI BEING, Westin, Coco Palm, and Dusit Thani. Visiting experts Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (JOALI BEING), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) took part in hands-on transplantation dives, equipment preparation, and reef health management activities, including the removal of invasive pincushion sea stars.
Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu, said the initiative extended beyond coral restoration: “This represents a unique opportunity to unite resorts, share expertise, and promote marine conservation at the highest level. Healthy reefs are essential not only for the Maldives’ biodiversity but also for the wellbeing of local communities and the sustainable future of tourism. Through this collaborative effort, we have created a lasting impact in safeguarding these underwater landscapes for our guests and for generations to come.”
Coral conservation remains crucial in the Maldives, where reefs provide natural protection against coastal erosion, support fisheries relied upon by local communities, and sustain the nation’s tourism industry. Pressures such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and human activity have intensified threats to these ecosystems, making restoration work increasingly vital to preserve the country’s natural heritage and marine resilience.
The four-day initiative combined restoration activities with knowledge exchange. Morning briefings prepared participants for the day’s dives, while afternoon sessions focused on reef assessments and equipment readiness for subsequent activities. This integrated approach not only accelerated restoration but also enhanced regional expertise in reef management.
The event forms part of Finolhu’s wider environmental stewardship strategy. Alongside coral restoration, the resort manages a coral nursery, monitors reef health, and develops sustainable marine practices to ensure the vitality of its house reef. Guests are also encouraged to engage with conservation initiatives through experiences such as the Coral Conservation Package, which combines education with hands-on involvement in reef restoration projects.
Action
Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

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
Excursions
Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.
Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.
Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.
Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”
-
Drink1 week ago
Kandolhu Maldives introduces new villas and gastronomic journeys
-
Featured1 week ago
Sun Siyam unveils new identity and signature experiences
-
Featured1 week ago
Green turtle hatchlings emerge at Dhigali Maldives
-
Cooking1 week ago
Just Veg Festival returns to Atmosphere Kanifushi for fifth anniversary
-
Featured1 week ago
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort wins ‘Best Design Resort’ at TTM Awards
-
Drink1 week ago
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Golden Week Festival with exclusive collaborations
-
Featured7 days ago
Barceló Nasandhura Malé named Best City Hotel at TTM Awards 2025
-
News6 days ago
SIX & SIX introduces HIRIGAA private island at DHON MAAGA MALDIVES