Featured
Rare species flock to Crossroads Maldives shores as marine life thrives during lockdown
Turn the clock back to the start of 2020 and the beaches of the Maldives’ idyllic atolls buzzed with peak-season holidaymakers. Honeymooners lounged idly under cabanas, families set sail for immersive snorkelling trips and kids splashed in the turquoise waters.
Since Covid-19 reared its ugly head, however, most of the world has retreated into hibernation and those same shorelines have fallen silent, devoid of visitors — or at least, that is, human ones.
In late March, team members from the recently-opened SAii Lagoon Maldives spotted some unfamiliar footprints along the resort’s main beach. After a quick search, a pregnant Olive Ridley sea turtle was found nesting in on the shore — the first recorded sighting of this species nesting in the Maldives.
“We were very surprised to find this species on our beach. It just goes to show how quickly the marine environment adapts and thrives under the right circumstances,” Aladin Pakbara, the project leader for resort’s sustainable development, said.
The sustainability team at SAii Lagoon Maldives will now work with the local authorities and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to see how they can support nesting Olive Ridley sea turtles in future.
Team members are being trained by the marine experts at the in-house Marine Discovery Centre to identify these turtles and other new and rare species, and what to do in case of another sighting.
The decline of tourist arrivals has also led to an increase in sightings of other native marine species in and around S Hotels & Resorts’ Crossroads Maldives community, which includes SAii Lagoon Maldives, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and The Marina @ Crossroads, a ‘one-stop, non-stop’ lifestyle destination with diversified leisure offerings. These include hawksbill sea turtles, eagle rays and stingrays.
Indeed, stories about the recovery of wildlife during the recent lockdown have emerged around the world.
A video released by park rangers on Thailand’s famous Phi Phi Island shows a school of black-tip sharks in the shallow waters of Maya Bay, made famous in the movie, The Beach.
As part of S Hotels’ global sustainability projects, the Marine Discovery Centre team at Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort is working with the national park on numerous conservation initiatives, including coral propagation, mangrove replanting and a rescue project for bamboo sharks.
These are driven by Kullawit ‘Um’ Limchularat, the highly-respected international expert who heads up SHR’s corporate sustainable development projects.
“S Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to sustainability is woven into the fabric of our company. In line with the ethos of our parent group, Singha Estate PCL, we understand that we are the custodians of our destinations and have a duty to protect and preserve them for future generations,” S Hotels & Resorts chief executive Dirk De Cuyper said.
“We operate all our resorts in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially with regard to SDG14, ‘Life Below Water’, and we strive to conserve our marine and coastal ecosystems. The presence of Olive Ridley turtles at SAii Lagoon Maldives is another wonderful example of how we are enabling nature to thrive.”
S Hotels’ Marine Discovery Centres are free-to-enter facilities that feature a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational displays explaining the lifecycles and habits of the unique marine species endemic to each region.
The first centre opened at Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort in 2018, and the second was launched in 2019 at Crossroads Maldives. A third Marine Discovery Centre has been planned at Santiburi, the carbon-neutral resort in Koh Samui.
Developed by Thailand’s leading developer Singha Estate, Crossroads Maldives encompasses nine idyllic islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the South Male Atoll, three of which have been used as the first phase of the project.
Phase one of the integrated development opened in September, and features two lifestyle hotels, SAii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, both of which have direct access to extensive facilities at The Marina @ Crossroads, an 800-metre lifestyle area and beach walk featuring retail, entertainment and dining outlets. The facilities include a 30-berth marina, the Junior Beach Club and Camp, the Crossroads Event Hall, Maldives Discovery Centre and Marine Discovery Centre – the project’s environmental and educational hub.
A Curio Collection by Hilton hotel, SAii Lagoon Maldives is an original and inspiring resort that features a series of rooms and villas, including overwater pool villas, plus world-class dining as well as access to extensive water sports, cultural activities and wellness at The Marina.
Hard Rock Hotel Maldives features 178 rooms, suites and villas, plus family-friendly experiences and Hard Rock’s branded concepts, including a Hard Rock Cafe, Rock Spa, and two Rock Shops showcasing merchandise and music memorabilia.
Both hotels are operated by S Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality arm of Singha Estate.
The Nautilus Maldives has announced an extraordinary partnership with GlobeAir, Europe’s leading private jet operator. This exclusive collaboration introduces GlobeAir’s long-haul private jet services to the Maldives, setting a new benchmark for bespoke travel and offering an unparalleled journey into the world of ultimate luxury.
By joining forces, The Nautilus and GlobeAir aim to redefine bespoke travel, combining their expertise to deliver highly personalised and unforgettable experiences for the most discerning global travellers. This partnership seamlessly merges two realms of exceptional luxury, elevating both the travel experience and the destination itself.
GlobeAir’s newly launched long-haul private jet services to the Maldives reimagine private aviation with tailored itineraries, exceptional service, and unmatched comfort. From the moment passengers board, their journey is designed to reflect the elegance and exclusivity synonymous with The Nautilus. This collaboration exemplifies The Nautilus’s commitment to absolute freedom and bespoke ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Together, The Nautilus and GlobeAir invite guests to embark on a seamless transition from takeoff to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives.
The Exclusive Nautilus Experience:
- A Seamless Voyage: Guests begin their journey with a round-trip aboard a GlobeAir private jet, where every detail is crafted to provide ultimate comfort and personalised service.
- A Timeless Stay in Paradise: Upon arrival at The Nautilus, time slows down, and bespoke experiences take centre stage. With only 26 ultra-luxury boho-chic houses and residences, each space offers complete privacy and is tailored to individual preferences.
- Complimentary Cinema Under the Stars: Guests can indulge in an enchanting beachside cinema experience, featuring a custom bokkura setup and the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The evening is complete with a bottle of fine champagne, blending barefoot sophistication with the magic of the Maldives.
Reethi Faru Resort proudly celebrates the extraordinary journey of two devoted guests, Iain and Debbie, who recently marked a special milestone: Debbie’s 40th visit to the Maldives. Iain, who has visited even more frequently, shares this remarkable tradition with Debbie, which began in 2005 when they discovered the Mahogany Group by chance. Since then, their deep connection with the resort has brought them back year after year.
Iain and Debbie’s love for the Maldives transcends mere vacations, evolving into a meaningful relationship with the resort and its staff. “When we arrive, it feels like we’re meeting family at the end of a very long journey,” Debbie shares, describing the warm and welcoming environment that greets them every time. Their bond with the staff is reflected in the many holidays, birthdays, and special occasions they have celebrated together.
Now retired, the couple enjoys extended stays at Reethi Faru, often spending up to three months a year diving, dining, and relaxing at the spa. Their loyalty to the resort is a testament to the exceptional service and community spirit it fosters. “We know everyone who works in the restaurants, and they treat us like friends,” Iain explains. “Those little touches—like trying something new or receiving a taster dish—make all the difference.”
The emotional connection the couple has with the resort runs deep. “Every time we leave, I cry all day, even though I know I’ll be back in a few months,” Debbie admits. “It’s always very hard to leave such a wonderful place.”
Iain and Debbie have also shared their enthusiasm for Reethi Faru with others, inspiring friends to join them. “We’ve recommended Reethi Faru to many of our friends, and it has become a central meeting point for divers and food lovers,” Iain says. “We all share a common passion for what we love.”
Having now visited Reethi Faru 30 times, the couple has already planned their next trip to the resort, underscoring their unwavering affection for the island paradise.
Reethi Faru Resort remains committed to fostering an environment where guests can create lasting memories and forge deep connections. The resort eagerly anticipates welcoming Iain, Debbie, and all returning guests for many years to come.
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
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