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George Corbin: Special message on Maldives reopening, tourism restart
Maldivian tourism experience as we see it today would have taken shape or form were it not for the encouragement and support from one individual: George Corbin.
Forty-eight years ago, the Italian travel agent took a chance upon a true underdog among the giants of tourism in the region. His ardent efforts to promote the Maldives as a destination helped set the very foundations of tourism in the then little-known stretch of islands in the Indian Ocean.
It all began with a chance meeting in Colombo between Corbin and Ahmed Naseem, then a junior with the Maldives embassy in Sri Lanka who later became foreign minister. At the time, Corbin was seeking pristine islands where he could bring Italians to swim and hunt fish.
For Corbin, the idyllic Maldives archipelago was love at first sight. Upon his first visit to Male, with Naseem by a cargo ship in 1971, he immediately vowed to return with more guests.
Corbin brought the Maldives’ first tourists, mainly journalists and photographers, in February 1972. They stayed in humble lodging in three houses in Male, looked after by Mohamed Umar Maniku (now the Chairman of leading hospitality company Universal Enterprises) and his friends, including Hussain Afeef who is currently the successful owner and operator of several resorts.
Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, the Maldives enchanted them. Corbin promised to bring more tourists if Maniku, Naseem and Afeef could find them somewhere to stay. And Kurumba Village (now Kurumba Maldives), the country’s first tourist resort, was born.
Almost half a decade later, the thriving tourism industry in Maldives has been devastated. The global coronavirus pandemic has ground the industry to a halt, cutting off the country’s state revenues and foreign reserves.
But there’s much to be hopeful about. On Wednesday, the Maldives reopened its borders to visitors. Several major international airlines are expected to resume scheduled passenger flights to the country soon.
As the Maldives takes its first steps towards recovery, Corbin has a special message:
This is George Corbin with a message to the Maldives and its people.
Because of the loss of a family member, I will not be able to visit the Maldives for the official opening of their borders to international travellers, marking a very important moment after months of lockdown caused by the coronavirus.
The Maldives has a very solid tourism infrastructure, thanks to its numerous luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, liveaboard boats, gorgeous white sandy beaches, breath-taking underwater world, and most of all the humble kindness of the Maldivian people. The potential in the Maldive islands is huge and will be rewarded for years to come. How the beautiful the Maldive islands are with their thousands of coconut trees, sandy beaches, superb coral reefs, and most of all its beautiful variety of fish.
My first visit was in 1971, and on that trip I had the great pleasure and honour of meeting my now dear friend, Ahmed Naseem.
Naseem and partners and myself decided to get into a joint venture and build the first resort in the history of Maldives. And in 1972, we inaugurated the Kurumba Village, receiving the first tourists.
Today, the Maldive islands are world known and among the best destinations, getting visitors of different nationalities and regions, thus being a very safe haven.
To His Excellency the President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, to the ministry of tourism, and to every single Maldivian; I can only wish lots of success and happiness.
Note: This article contains reporting by Himoo Waheed. Cover photo: Naseem (R) and Corbin meet in Colombo in 2017. PHOTO/ @SaleemaRazak/ TWITTER
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Sheraton Maldives commemorates World Mental Health Day with holistic wellness experiences
On October 10th, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa will host a day dedicated to mindfulness, relaxation, and self-care in honour of World Mental Health Day. This special event provides guests with the opportunity to focus on their well-being through a series of carefully curated activities set against the stunning backdrop of the resort’s peaceful island paradise.
In today’s fast-paced world, prioritising mental health has become more essential than ever. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa recognises the importance of nurturing the mind as a crucial aspect of overall wellness. This year, the resort has created a holistic experience that blends the calming influence of nature with professional guidance to promote balance and tranquility.
The day’s activities will begin at the resort’s Yoga Pavilion with a transformative Sound Healing session. Participants will have the chance to experience the calming effects of sound therapy, which aims to soothe the mind, balance energy, and encourage deep relaxation. Following this session, guests are invited to attend an insightful Wellness Talk at Jalsa, where knowledgeable speakers will share practical strategies for enhancing mental wellness in a supportive atmosphere.
As the day progresses, guests can reconnect with nature during a guided Nature Walk led by the Resort Botanist. This exploration of the island’s vibrant flora and fauna allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the serene natural beauty that surrounds them. The walk serves as a reminder of the healing power of nature and its ability to restore a sense of balance.
To conclude the day, a calming Sunset Yoga session will be held at Anchorage Beach. With the breathtaking Maldivian sunset as the backdrop, participants will have the opportunity to find inner peace and tranquility, ending the day in a state of complete relaxation.
By commemorating World Mental Health Day, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa encourages reflection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. This day highlights the importance of mental well-being and the value of community support. Through this celebration, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites guests to embrace a journey towards a balanced and fulfilling life, embodying the resort’s commitment to hospitality and connection in every experience.
Events
Italian and Spanish media experience Maldivian paradise on exclusive journey with Atmosphere Core
From September 28th to October 4th, 2024, Atmosphere Core hosted an exclusive media trip to the Maldives for ten prominent journalists and PR professionals from Spain and Italy. The group experienced the serene and captivating lifestyle of two stunning private islands—OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and RAAYA by Atmosphere—both renowned for their distinctive hospitality, thoughtfully curated holiday plans, and the unique “Joy of Giving” philosophy.
“At Atmosphere Core, we believe in a more creative approach to media trips,” said Euan Blake, Assistant Vice President of Communications. “The Italian and Spanish markets have been expanding for the Maldives, with a notable increase in room nights and revenue compared to last year. Over the past two years, we’ve been building strong relationships in these regions, and this journey through our islands aims to leave journalists with not only cherished memories but also lifelong friendships.”
The trip began at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, a lively four-star resort just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Journalists were welcomed with breathtaking lagoon views and vibrant social gatherings at the X360 Bar. A standout experience was the customised Martín Códax Wine Masterclass at the Element X restaurant, led by Ms. Celina, a representative of Bodegas Martín Códax, and Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core. Representing 600 winemaking families from northern Spain, Ms. Celina guided the group through an exquisite multi-course wine tasting, featuring a selection of wines perfectly suited for the tropical climate and fresh seafood.
This was followed by an unforgettable underwater dining experience at the Only BLU restaurant and a visit to the neighbouring “island of love,” OBLU SELECT Lobigili, where they enjoyed a chic lunch at Ylang Ylang. The island’s lively, party atmosphere provided the journalists with a full immersion into the vibrant and relaxing resort lifestyle.
Next, a scenic seaplane journey transported the group to RAAYA by Atmosphere—a picturesque escape offering a blend of fairytale island charm and authentic Maldivian experiences. The 45-minute flight over the stunning atolls’ turquoise waters set the stage for their arrival in paradise, presenting the perfect introduction to the Maldives’ breathtaking beauty.
At RAAYA, the journalists experienced an ideal mix of energy and tranquility. A private dinner atop a secluded watchtower, inspired by the legendary sailor Seb, captured the essence of the resort’s castaway theme. The group explored the island’s natural wonders, took part in customised activities, and dined at RAAYA’s signature restaurants, including Seb’s Shack, Ampers&nd, and the Italian-inspired The Village.
Throughout their stay at both islands, the media guests were treated to rejuvenating spa therapies and wellness sessions at ELE|NA Ayur, Atmosphere Core’s signature spa and wellness brand. This immersive journey offered the journalists a true taste of tropical luxury, intertwining indulgence and adventure into every experience. Their stories are sure to inspire countless Spanish and Italian travellers to discover the hidden treasures of OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and RAAYA by Atmosphere firsthand.
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NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort maintains prestigious Gold Certification for environmental responsibility
NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has successfully maintained the prestigious Gold Certification for Green Growth, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental excellence. This marks the second consecutive time the resort has achieved this recognition, highlighting its dedication to responsible tourism and eco-friendly practices.
As a luxury resort in the Maldives, NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort understands the delicate balance between offering exceptional guest experiences and protecting the environment. The Gold Certification acknowledges the resort’s efforts to maintain that balance through continuous improvements in operations that contribute to the well-being of both guests and the planet.
Key initiatives contributing to this achievement include:
- Renewable Energy Integration: The resort has significantly reduced its carbon footprint through the use of solar power and energy-efficient systems, paving the way for cleaner energy solutions throughout the property.
- Waste Management: A zero plastic policy and waste segregation systems have been implemented to minimise contributions to landfills while promoting recycling and composting practices.
- Water Conservation: The resort’s desalination and grey-water recycling programs ensure efficient water use, providing fresh water for daily operations while reducing wastage.
- Marine Conservation: Coral restoration projects and eco-friendly marine activities encourage guest participation in preserving the local marine environment.
NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort extends its gratitude to the dedicated team, guests, and partners who have played a critical role in maintaining its sustainability standards. Their support has been instrumental in achieving this milestone, and the resort looks forward to working together toward the goal of obtaining the Platinum Certificate.
For NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, sustainability is more than just a certification; it is a core value that shapes every aspect of its operation. The resort is excited about the future as it continues its journey towards a greener, more responsible world.
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