Featured
Avani Hotels on track to complete pipeline projects, Maldives resort to open in late 2021

Avani Hotels & Resorts has confirmed that the brand is on track to open more than 10 new properties in the coming years, including debuting in Maldives and three other countries.
In addition, despite the global economic slowdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Avani has successfully completed a number of full-scale renovation projects at its existing properties, including the construction of a second wing at FCC Angkor by Avani in Cambodia; the full renovation of Avani Kalutara Resort in Sri Lanka; and the renovation and rebranding of Avani Seminyak Bali Resort, Indonesia.
As world governments are revealing comprehensive recovery measures, Avani Hotels & Resorts is also preparing to announce further new hotel signings soon. Confirmed properties in the dynamic brand’s robust pipeline include hotels and resorts in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Indian Ocean.
“We are pleased that our partners are reaffirming their commitment to long-term growth with Avani, as demonstrated in their decision to continue with the delivery of at least seven new properties by the end of 2021,” Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of parent company Minor Hotels, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“With yet more projects expected to be completed in the following two years and additional pipeline announcements coming soon, Avani continues to be the fastest-growing brand in the company.”
Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort, Thailand (opening Q4 2020)
With direct access to secluded white sandy shores adjacent to renowned Klong Dao Beach, the 87-key Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort promises equal parts serene forest and splendid tropical seas.
Avani Palm View Dubai Residences & Suites, UAE (opening Q4 2020)
In the final stages of development in a prestigious location overlooking the Palm Jumeirah, accommodation options at the new-build, 264-key Avani Palm View Residences & Suites range from studios to multi-bedroom residences.
Avani Doc Let Resort, Vietnam (opening Q1 2021)
Offering direct access to the exhilarating rides at Doc Let Water Park, Avani Doc Let’s 273 chic guest rooms and villas on Vietnam’s central coast are poised to be a hit with families.
Avani Muscat Hotel, Oman (opening Q1 2021)
Representing the brand’s Omani debut and the second country in the Middle East region, the Avani Muscat Hotel will be set in Seeb, the heart of Muscat’s westward growth, with laidback days of rooftop lounging and shopping. The hotel will offer 161 keys, in addition to 45 studios and one, two and three-bedroom serviced apartments.
Avani Nairobi Residences, Kenya (opening 2021)
The 120-key all-suite property located in the heart of Westlands, Avani Nairobi Residences will offer direct access to an array of multinational corporations, restaurants and bars.
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, Maldives (opening late 2021)
Located on Fares Island in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll renowned for its vibrant biodiversity from land to sea, Avani will debut in the Indian Ocean country with 200 guest rooms and villas in this Eden for snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts.
Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, Thailand (opening late 2021)
With unspoilt Andaman Sea views, the 328-key Avani+ Khao Lak will deliver the perfect blend of comfort and charm at the aquatic playground of its long sandy beach.
Avani Saigon Hotel, Vietnam (opening 2022)
The 217-room Avani Ho Chi Minh’s location in District 1 will put guests right at the centre of it all. Restaurants, cafés, bars and entertainment are all steps away.
Avani Cam Ranh Resort, Vietnam (opening 2022)
Set on a beautiful stretch of beach in Binh Lap, the 595-key Avani Cam Ranh will offer lush nature and turquoise seas and will be the perfect base for seaside excursions and inland explorations.
Avani Kota Kinabalu Hotel, Malaysia (opening 2022)
Avani Kota Kinabalu will bring fresh flair to the regional hub of Malaysian Borneo. The 378-room hotel is part of the rapidly expanding downtown area, blending cosmopolitan chic and old-world charm.
Avani Yangon Hotel, Myanmar (opening 2024)
Avani Yangon will offer travellers 250 bright, modern guest rooms within a vibrant mixed-use development with offices, shops and entertainment steps away. The property will represent the brand’s debut in Myanmar.
Featured
Spellbinding Halloween awaits at Kuramathi Maldives’ Bageecha Kids Club

Kuramathi Maldives is set to delight its youngest guests with a week of thrilling Halloween festivities at Bageecha Kids Club. From 27th October to 1st November 2025, children can look forward to a magical and mysterious line-up of activities designed especially for them. With haunted adventures, imaginative crafts, exciting games, and vibrant pool parties, every day promises a new and unforgettable experience.
Each Halloween-themed day will offer something unique, encouraging children to unleash their creativity through spooky arts and crafts. Activities include making pirate hats and treasure maps, crafting vampire teeth and pasta skeletons, and engaging in pool games, treasure hunts, and obstacle courses designed to entertain and challenge. Dance lovers can take part in monster dance-offs and zombie limbo, guaranteeing plenty of laughter and fun.
The centrepiece of the week’s festivities takes place on 31st October with a grand Halloween Day celebration. Youngsters will have the chance to show off their costumes in a Trick-or-Treat parade, decorate haunted cookies, and join a lively monster-themed pool party. The celebrations will culminate in a magical finale on Saturday 1st November, featuring rainbow potions, fairy wings, dragon tails, and other enchanting surprises.
With themed meals, creative workshops, and non-stop entertainment throughout the week, Bageecha Kids Club offers an unforgettable Halloween experience. Whether discovering their spooky side or diving into a whimsical world of magical creatures, young guests are sure to take home lasting memories of a truly spellbinding holiday.
Featured
Indulgent island retreat awaits with Cinnamon Velifushi’s limited-time flash sale

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is extending an exclusive invitation to travellers with a limited-time flash offer combining exceptional value with indulgent island experiences. Available for bookings made between 3rd and 17th August 2025, the promotion offers up to 85% off stays throughout September 2025, inclusive of complimentary return speedboat transfers and a selection of three curated experiences tailored to elevate each guest’s stay.
Shaped like a manta ray gliding through turquoise waters, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is one of the most picturesque islands in the Meemu Atoll. As part of this special offer, guests may personalise their getaway by selecting three of the following signature experiences:
- A four-course beachside dinner featuring premium steak or freshly caught seafood
- A 45-minute spa treatment for deep relaxation
- A scenic island-hopping excursion across neighbouring islets
- A dolphin-watching trip in their natural habitat
- USD 200 in resort credit for added flexibility
From underwater adventures to open-air dining under the stars, or simply embracing the island’s tranquil pace, the offer encourages guests to make the most of their tropical escape — for considerably less.
Ideal for those in search of an elegant end-of-summer retreat, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives provides a sophisticated setting with both overwater and beachside villas, and a variety of dining options. Among them is the acclaimed Marlin Restaurant, regarded as one of the atoll’s finest à la carte experiences, particularly renowned for its fresh seafood.
Reservations under this flash offer are open from 3rd to 17th August 2025, for stays between 1st and 30th September 2025.
Excursions
COMO Maalifushi launches freediving with Maldivian pioneer Fahd Faiz

COMO Maalifushi has announced the launch of its new freediving programme, developed in collaboration with Fahd Faiz, the first Maldivian freediving instructor and a prominent advocate for marine conservation in the country. This initiative reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to delivering transformative guest experiences while promoting sustainability, education, and professional development within its team.
Running from 27 July to 10 August 2025, Fahd Faiz’s residency marks the official introduction of freediving training at COMO Maalifushi. The programme centres on equipping the resort’s marine team with advanced skills in breath-hold diving, safety protocols, and heightened underwater awareness. These freediving techniques are set to be incorporated into the resort’s PADI offerings, providing guests with an opportunity to engage with the ocean in a more mindful and unrestricted manner.
Fahd Faiz is the founder of Freedive Maldives, the country’s first locally owned freediving centre, established in 2015. A world record holder in static apnea, he has trained more than 1,000 students and currently serves as President of the Maldives Freediving Association. As the country’s sole PADI Instructor Trainer, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the freediving landscape both in the Maldives and internationally.
Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Maldives, remarked, “Having Fahd with us at COMO Maalifushi has been an inspiring experience for the team. His passion for the ocean, combined with his exceptional expertise and dedication to education, aligns perfectly with our brand’s ethos of holistic wellness, sustainability, and authentic connection to place. This new freediving initiative not only strengthens our internal capabilities but also enriches the experience we offer our guests, allowing them to encounter the marine world in a deeper and more tranquil way. We are proud to support Fahd’s mission and delighted to introduce freediving at COMO Maalifushi.”
During his residency, Fahd is leading immersive training sessions with the resort’s marine team, focusing on breath control, rescue techniques, equalisation, and mental conditioning—skills essential to freediving and valuable in ensuring guest safety and engagement.
This new freediving experience at COMO Maalifushi is poised to become a signature offering, inviting guests to explore the depths of the Indian Ocean on a single breath, amidst vibrant coral gardens, tropical reef fish, and the meditative silence of the sea.
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