Featured
Vakkaru Maldives to reopen on Aug 1, rolls out new ‘Vakkare’ safety programme

In response to the development of the Covid-19 pandemic, Vakkaru Maldives continues to follow the latest advice and recommendations from the authorities.
Whilst the country is exerting every effort to contain the virus, the government of Maldives is at its planning stage to introduce safe tourism guidelines. The tourism ministry has officially announced that the Maldives will be reopening its borders for visitors in July.
Vakkaru Maldives is looking forward to reopening its door for our valued guests on August 1.
New ‘Vakkare’ safety programme
The Maldives already offers one of the safest locations in the world, owing to the natural and unique concept of one island one resort.
Vakkaru promises you an intimate slice of paradise, where you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday in the privacy of your own island home. The one proviso being that all travellers have to be fit for travel and entry into the Maldives.
In preparation for its reopening, Vakkaru is doubling down on its commitment to health and safety. The resort is launching an elevated hygiene procedure called ‘Vakkare’ — meaning Vakkaru Cares — for the guests, its team members, the community and business partners.
Vakkaru’s dedicated team is being trained to deliver the most hygienic attention possible from the moment they arrive into their ‘Kare’, providing guests with the confidence that they will enjoy an exceptional vacation in the safest surroundings.
Whether you are travelling as a couple or in a family, you will be in the ‘Kare’, the moment you arrive at the Velana International Airport. Vakkaru’s team will ensure the right escort until you embark on your scenic journey to the timeless sanctuary.
At the resort, elevated hygiene and sanitation practices will be reinforced in all the public areas, production outlets and housekeeping. Proactive sanitisation and social distancing measures, particularly in restaurants, buffets and other common areas such as the gym, pool and beach will be observed.
Vakkaru will encourage many activities, such as diving, excursions, fishing and snorkelling, which can be privately enjoyed with limited contacts.
To give guests complete peace of mind, team members will go through all necessary medical checks prior to being back on duty. In the event of an emergency, a certified resort doctor will have all the necessary equipment and accessories in place, together with an isolation room, in line with guidance issued by the World Health Organisation and local authorities.
Waiver policy
Vakkaru remains committed to ensuring flexibility for its valued guests during these extraordinary times. The resort has further extended its cancellation policy, exceptionally for all bookings confirmed in July.
In the interim, the Vakkaru team remains available to assist you with your existing reservations, rebooking process or to provide you with any information regarding booking a future stay at the resort. Please contact the team at reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.
“At Vakkaru Maldives, rest assured that we are committed to the joy of travel and delivering exceptional experiences to our discerning guests in a safe and healthy environment,” an announcement read.
“Until then, stay safe and stay inspired to visit Maldives later. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our timeless sanctuary in the near future.”
Set in Baa atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and just 30 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, Vakkaru offers an intimate slice of paradise with an enticing distillation of everything that makes this country so unique.
With spectacular marine biodiversity, white-sand beaches, exemplary service and the truly world-class dining options, the resort is committed to creating timeless memories, effortlessly.
Entertainment
Game on! Kandima unveils Maldives’ most exciting all-ages entertainment hub

Kandima Maldives, the bold lifestyle resort known for redefining island getaways, has once again raised the bar with the launch of PlaySpace – an all-ages entertainment destination transforming the leisure landscape of the Maldives.
Centrally located within the island resort, PlaySpace blends nostalgic retro flair with cutting-edge fun, offering a dynamic mix of activities for families, thrill-seekers, and social guests alike. From action-packed bowling and immersive virtual reality to escape room challenges and private karaoke sessions, the venue strengthens Kandima’s position as the Maldives’ leading active lifestyle destination.
According to Dermot Birchall, General Manager at Kandima Maldives, “At Kandima, we’re constantly evolving the island experience. PlaySpace adds a new dimension – it’s immersive, social, and above all, wildly entertaining.”
Key Highlights of PlaySpace Include:
- Bowling Lanes with a Twist: Themed experiences such as Team Challenge, Date Night Deluxe, and Family Blitz, complemented by snacks, drinks, and curated playlists.
- Karaoke & Cocktails: Private singing rooms paired with wine, beer, or bubbly under the Karaoke & Cocktails Package.
- VR & Arcade Zone: Thrilling VR adventures, air hockey, billiards, and timeless arcade classics.
- Escape Rooms: Brain-teasing challenges for up to three guests – ideal for team bonding or friendly competition.
- Eats & Treats: A variety of gourmet snacks including paninis and mini pizzas, plus refreshing beverages like Tropical Dreamscape and Lychee Breeze – all alcohol-free.
With its vibrant 80s-inspired design and bold approach to leisure, PlaySpace perfectly reflects Kandima’s playful luxury ethos. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, it promises guests a unique and energetic addition to their island stay.
Adding to the excitement, Kandima has also introduced Fast Track, the Maldives’ first and only oceanfront e-go-kart circuit. Spanning 500 metres with 10 turns and speeds reaching up to 80 km/h, this professional-grade asphalt track brings a high-octane edge to island adventure.
As Kandima continues to innovate and launch new experiences, guests can expect even more surprises in the near future – with fun, flair, and freedom at the heart of it all.
Awards
Equator Village wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel 2025 at World Travel Awards

Equator Village has once again been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2025, held on 28 June in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This marks the third consecutive year the resort has received this prestigious accolade, following earlier wins in 2023 and 2024, underscoring its commitment to service excellence and consistent guest satisfaction.
Mohamed Waheed, Resort Manager at Equator Village, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that the recognition reflects the dedication, creativity, and hard work of the entire team. He highlighted their commitment to delivering warm, personalised service and creating welcoming spaces that resonate with the charm and hospitality of the south. Waheed also extended gratitude to the resort’s guests and partners for their continued support and trust.
Celebrating over three decades of recognising hospitality excellence, the World Travel Awards is regarded as one of the most esteemed honours in global tourism. Winners are selected through a rigorous international voting process involving both travel professionals and the public.
Located just a five-minute drive from Gan International Airport, Equator Village offers exceptional convenience along with the relaxed charm of the southern Maldives. The resort features 78 spacious bungalows surrounded by lush flower gardens, alongside facilities including a beachfront restaurant, bar, pool, gym, and meeting spaces – all infused with tropical flair and heartfelt southern hospitality.
Awards
Dhawa Ihuru recognised among Maldives’ Best House Reefs by Travel + Leisure Asia

Dhawa Ihuru has been named one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia in its esteemed Luxury Awards 2025. Renowned as a stylish retreat for diving enthusiasts, the resort’s house reef—home to reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant coral ecosystems—continues to attract and inspire travellers from across the globe.
This accolade goes beyond recognition, reflecting over two decades of steadfast dedication to marine conservation, scientific research, and coral restoration. These efforts have transformed the house reef into a living testament to sustainable tourism.
Since the establishment of the Banyan Group’s Marine Lab in 2004—the first resort-based conservation and research facility in the Maldives—Dhawa Ihuru has been at the forefront of environmental responsibility. Through long-term coral preservation projects and guest-focused educational initiatives, the resort has consistently promoted biodiversity and sustainability.
Guests at Dhawa Ihuru are invited to participate in a range of conservation efforts, including:
- Coral planting and reef regeneration
- Reef monitoring alongside marine biologists
- Turtle identification and tracking
- Sustainability workshops and marine talks
- Community engagement programmes
These hands-on experiences not only aid in ecosystem restoration but also nurture awareness and a sense of shared responsibility among travellers.
“This recognition is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to marine protection,” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “What began as a vision nearly three decades ago has evolved into a living legacy of conservation. We are proud to continue nurturing one of the Maldives’ most biodiverse reefs—not only for our guests, but for future generations.”
Nick, Marine Lab Manager at the resort, added, “Over the past 20 years, our immersive marine biodiversity programmes, including hands-on conservation activities, have provided both educational and inspiring experiences. By involving our guests, we are enriching their stay and fostering a global community of marine stewards.”
To commemorate this achievement and celebrate the resort’s flourishing marine environment, Dhawa Ihuru will host the Rannamaari Dive Fest on 24 July 2025—a full-day celebration running from 10 AM to 10 PM. Inspired by the legendary Rannamaari shipwreck, the event will showcase the vibrancy of island life both above and below the waterline.
Event highlights include:
- Underwater treasure hunts for divers and non-divers
- Marine conservation talks and activities with the resort’s Marine Lab team
- Cultural and creative island experiences, such as Maldivian arts & crafts with local artists, a Maldivian cooking class, a DIY wellbeing workshop, and family-friendly activities
- A sunset cocktail celebration at Velavani Bar, followed by a beachfront DJ night
Travellers are invited to take part in this unique celebration that blends adventure, culture, and conservation—honouring one of the Maldives’ most iconic house reefs and contributing to its protection for generations to come.
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