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

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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.

Entertainment

Game on! Kandima unveils Maldives’ most exciting all-ages entertainment hub

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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.

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Awards

Equator Village wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel 2025 at World Travel Awards

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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.

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Awards

Dhawa Ihuru recognised among Maldives’ Best House Reefs by Travel + Leisure Asia

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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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