Featured
Radisson opens first Maldives resort

Radisson Blu, the upper-upscale brand that delivers personalised service in stylish spaces, has opened Radisson Blu Resort Maldives – a private island retreat, which becomes Radisson Hotel Group’s first property in the Maldives.
Nestled on Huruelhi Island and one other pristine islet in the Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, only 105 kilometres from the Maldives main Velana International Airport, Radisson Blu Resort Maldives makes this dream destination more accessible than ever before.
Guests can take a scenic 30-minute seaplane direct to the resort or a 20-minute domestic flight from Male to Maamigili Airport followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride, creating opportunities for short stays and weekend breaks as well as extended vacations, weddings and honeymoons.
“We are thrilled to open our first resort in the Maldives, one of the world’s most idyllic and iconic tourist destinations,” Andre de Jong, Vice President of Operations for South East Asia and Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Radisson Blu Resort Maldives is a truly spectacular property; its collection of pool villas, diverse dining, world-class leisure facilities and event space, all underpinned by Radisson Blu’s unique ‘Yes I Can!’ service ethos, will suit all types of travellers. We look forward to introducing a new era of authentic and inspiring hospitality to the Maldives.”
All 128 beachfront or overwater villas, which range from 215 to 790 square metres, feature private pools, ocean views, state-of-the-art amenities and one-, two- or three-bedrooms.

For the ultimate getaway, the Presidential Suite promises two levels of indoor and alfresco living space overlooking the shimmering sea.

Guests can explore the amazing marine world from the diving and water sports centre, soothe their senses at the overwater spa and yoga pavilion, or work out at the fitness centre and sports court, while the kids’ club and games room will keep young guests entertained.

The glass-walled Event Hall creates an outstanding setting for life’s most special moments, including oceanfront weddings that can host up to 50 guests.
A diverse selection of restaurants and bars includes Raha, the casual all-day dining destination, Alifaan, the Mediterranean and seafood grill, Eats & Beats, the chilled out poolside bar, and Crusoe’s, the adults- only oasis. Kabuki showcases innovative Nikkei cuisine, Mahurab is an exquisite overwater wine and cigar bar, and The Lab is an exclusive restaurant for intimate twice-weekly wine-and-cocktail pairing dinners.

Alternatively, guests can dine in the privacy of their villa with 24-hour in-villa dining.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome guests to Radisson Blu Resort Maldives,” Zafer Agacan, General Manager at Radisson Blu Resort Maldives, said.
“This is an outstanding resort that will fulfil every guest’s vision of a tropical island paradise. Importantly, our unique location — within striking distance from the international airport — makes the resort easy to reach and opens up opportunities for shorter breaks.”
Radisson Blu Resort Maldives joins an expanding collection of Radisson Blu hotels and resorts in many of the world’s key business and leisure markets.
In Asia Pacific, this contemporary upper-upscale brand is now present in ten countries: Australia, Bangladesh, China, Fiji, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and the Maldives.
Featured
Experience timeless Maldivian elegance at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

Machchafushi, meaning ‘Fish Island’ in Dhivehi, encapsulates the essence of this serene retreat in South Ari Atoll. As part of The Centara Collection, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa embodies the true spirit of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate connection with the ocean, marine life, and the island’s cultural heritage.
Situated within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a UNESCO-recognised site, Machchafushi provides year-round access to remarkable marine experiences, vibrant coral ecosystems, and unforgettable underwater explorations, including the famous Kudhimaa shipwreck. Once a secluded, uninhabited island, Machchafushi holds a special place in the cultural landscape of the Maldives. Today, as part of this protected marine reserve, it continues to remain authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its natural surroundings.
Marine life is at the heart of the Machchafushi experience. The island offers some of the world’s highest whale shark resighting rates, with encounters available throughout the year. Guests may also encounter graceful manta rays and a colourful abundance of tropical fish drifting through crystalline waters. Encircled by a renowned house reef—stretching nearly five times the island’s size—the area is home to over 1,000 species of fish and 200 varieties of coral, creating an underwater paradise.
South Ari Atoll is celebrated as one of the Maldives’ finest diving regions, featuring over fifty dive sites teeming with marine life. Kudarah Thila presents a UNESCO-protected labyrinth of overhangs and swim-throughs populated by fusiliers and snappers, while Broken Rock captivates divers with its dramatic canyon of corals and macro life, ideal for underwater photography. Dhigurah Beyru and Maamigili Corner are noted for encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins. The 52-metre Kudhimaa Wreck has evolved into a thriving coral habitat, now home to lionfish, batfish, groupers, and the well-camouflaged stonefish and frogfish. Nearby, Anemone Alley flourishes beneath the seasonal seaplane platform, forming a vibrant ecosystem that draws snorkellers and divers alike. The house reef remains the beating heart of Machchafushi—a world-class natural wonder beneath the waves.
Beyond the ocean, the island tells a story of its own. At its centre stands a centuries-old Banyan Tree, known locally as the Ummeedhu Tree, or ‘Wish Fulfilment’. This living symbol invites guests to pause and reflect, taking part in the Sacred Thread Ceremony, where wishes and intentions are tied to the tree’s branches—creating a bond that endures long after their stay.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Machchafushi’s philosophy, ensuring the preservation of both its natural beauty and cultural legacy. Every sunrise, dive, and golden thread tied to the Ummeedhu Tree becomes part of a continuing narrative—one that celebrates the Maldives’ heritage and invites guests to create lasting memories in harmony with nature.
Entertainment
Spooky celebrations await at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with ‘The Return of the Mummy’

Sun Siyam Olhuveli will transform into a realm of ancient legends and eerie excitement this Halloween with its themed celebration, The Return of the Mummy. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in two days of themed activities, family games, and live entertainment throughout the resort.
The highlight of the celebration will be a beachfront performance by Swedish DJ and rising international talent Caroline Roxy. A multifaceted artist—DJ, singer-songwriter, producer, fashion designer, and former model—Caroline is known for fusing energetic electronic beats with pop-inspired rhythms. Drawing on her musical upbringing and experience performing at festivals in cities such as Stockholm and Los Angeles, she is set to deliver an electrifying performance that promises to bring a captivating energy to the shores of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

The festivities will begin on 31 October 2025 with a Halloween Beach Fest, featuring mummy-themed games, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treat adventures, and the popular Mummy Dance Freeze for younger guests. As night falls, the Lagoon Bar will become the centre of the celebration, with flickering lights, pulsing music, and a much-anticipated DJ set by Caroline Roxy. Her performance will combine haunting melodies with powerful electronic rhythms, setting the tone for an unforgettable Halloween evening.
Celebrations will continue on 1 November 2025 with treasure hunts, themed cupcake and marshmallow workshops for children, and a sunset pirate cruise. Adults can take part in a Halloween boot camp before the evening concludes with a fire show and live music by Hightides at the Lagoon Bar.
Blending ancient Egyptian mystery with island charm, The Return of the Mummy at Sun Siyam Olhuveli invites guests to experience a unique Halloween adventure where the legends of the past meet the magic of the Maldives.
Excursions
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.
Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.
The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.
Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.
“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.
For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.
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