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Dusit Thani Maldives, Natures Best Friend

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Maldives Promotion House – Dusit International has revealed their first venture into the Indian Ocean, Dusit Thani Maldives.  Surrounded by a vibrant 360 degree coral reef and turquoise lagoon, this island property is a landmark addition to the company’s global brand. The resort is scheduled to open in early 2012.

Located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives is 35 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé.  Surrounding the island perimeter, the living house reef is a snorkeler’s paradise, ideal for discovering an underwater world, just metres from the beach.  Baa Atoll is not only home to Dusit Thani Maldives but also has the distinction of being a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

“Our entire operation is geared toward achieving a carbon-neutral programme,” General Manager of Dusit Thani Maldives, Andres Rubio said.  “We’re excited to be one of the leaders in sustainable resort development in the Maldives.”

With the goal of living in harmony with Maldivian biodiversity, Dusit Thani Maldives is launching as a local pioneer in green energy solutions.  To ensure minimal impact on the environment, the resort invested in state of the art engineering for efficiency.  Its approach includes solar thermal heating in back of the house while the front of the house uses heat recovery pumps, all metered for power consumption.

An on-site water-bottling factory produces still and sparkling mineralized water to reduce one-way plastics.  Additionally the hotel laundry is heated by a diesel steam boiler using minimal electricity.  LED (light emitting diode) lights illuminate all guest areas at Dusit Thani Maldives.

Green initiatives are in place throughout the entire resort.  Biodegradables are used for composting, fertilising and landscaping.  Meanwhile restaurant staff does their part by cultivating an herb and vegetable garden lowering the carbon footprint and reducing the reliance on imported produce.

Complimented by the Molton Brown Body Remedies luxury line, Dusit Thani Maldives is the first resort in the Indian Ocean to feature this new range of beauty products in guest villas.  As Molton Brown’s most ecologically responsible range to date, all of the plant ingredients are from sustainable sources and packaging is 100 percent recyclable.  In addition, their products contain no petrol chemicals or harsh detergents.

The resort is also home to the largest infinity pool in the Maldives.  Measuring a full 750 square metres, Dusit Thani Maldives’ centrepiece integrates technology and nature and flows around a stately banyan tree. The environmentally-forward approach also means all pools are installed with a saline system and use no chlorine.

Known for frequent sightings of dolphins and sea turtles, Mudhdhoo Island is only a ten minute speedboat ride to Hanifaru Huraa in Baa Atoll, the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and a plankton-rich feeding ground for manta rays and whale sharks.

A popular dive spot frequented by tourists, fishermen and scientists, Hanifaru Huraa is now protected by the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Management Programme.  Their goal is to conserve all biological and natural resources within the Atoll and improve the lives of local residents with research, awareness and education.  Guests can visit this protected marine zone or simply snorkel the spectacular house reef on Mudhdhoo Island.

Dusit Thani Maldives is fortunate to be located in the backyard of a worldwide-renowned biosphere harbouring such an array of rare species found only in Baa Atoll.  Mudhdhoo Island itself is the perfect example of a ring-shaped reef form called a faroe, a peculiar reef structure unique to the Maldives.  Since the island is a natural sea turtle habitat, the resort has an extensive hatching awareness programme to protect turtle nesting.  The resort is also actively involved in a national shark conservation campaign and aims to achieve a total ban on the shark fishing and the export and sale of shark products.

Serving as a gatekeeper for the local biodiversity, our marine biologist Lauren Arthur educates visitors on the beauty of the underwater world around Mudhdhoo Island.  She leads programmes inviting guests to plant and regenerate coral and dives to identify sharks and manta rays.  Lauren is a PADI certified-specialist in shark and ray identification who has logged over 150 dives.

Founded in Bangkok in 1949, Dusit International is dedicated to sustainable tourism.  A number of Dusit International hotels have attained the Silver Certified Award from Earth Check, the leading environmental management program that sets benchmarks for the tourism industry.  Dusit Thani Maldives will participate in the Earth Check certification process and strives to attain carbon-neutral status in the coming years.

Gastronomy

Simon Joublanc takes the helm as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives

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Baglioni Maldives Luxury has announced the appointment of Simon Joublanc as its new Executive Chef. With a culinary career spanning over two decades and a diverse portfolio that includes renowned establishments such as Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-Starred restaurants, Hilton, Marriott, InterContinental, and Six Senses, Joublanc brings a wealth of experience and innovation to his new role.

Originally hailing from France, Joublanc discovered his passion for the culinary arts early on. His journey began with formal education in Hospitality Administration and Management at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, setting the stage for a remarkable career trajectory.

Joublanc’s dedication to his craft became evident during his tenure as Sous Chef at Gordon Ramsay’s esteemed establishments, where he honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of the finer aspects of culinary excellence. His culinary journey has taken him across continents, leaving an indelible mark on some of the world’s most renowned luxury hospitality brands.

In his new role as Executive Chef at Baglioni Maldives, Joublanc will spearhead menu designs and introduce innovative concepts aimed at elevating the overall guest experience. His responsibilities extend to providing strategic direction for all culinary operations within the resort, ensuring a seamless fusion of flavors that resonate with the resort’s commitment to luxury and excellence.

Known for fostering high-performance teams and a commitment to unique food presentation, Joublanc brings a distinctive touch to every culinary endeavor. His previous role as Executive Chef at Six Senses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia showcased his ability to seamlessly integrate local flavors with international culinary trends, creating a harmonious culinary experience for guests.

Baglioni Maldives is poised to benefit significantly from Joublanc’s culinary expertise, as the resort continues to position itself as a premier destination for luxury, relaxation, and gastronomic indulgence. Guests can anticipate an array of meticulously crafted dishes that reflect Joublanc’s dedication to culinary innovation and excellence.

The appointment of Simon Joublanc reflects Baglioni Maldives’ commitment to providing guests with an unparalleled dining experience, reaffirming its status as a top-tier luxury destination in the Maldives.

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort appoints Santosh Singh as Yoga & Fitness Trainer and RunWestin Ambassador

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has announced the appointment of Santosh Singh, as the Yoga and Fitness Trainer. With over 7 years of experience, Santosh brings extensive exposure in ancient Yogic wisdom and advanced training techniques to realign and recharge the mind and body while you’re on vacation. 

In his new role, Santosh will also serve as the RunWestin ambassador, guiding and assisting guests in maintaining their running routines with enthusiasm. Speaking on his appointment, Santosh expressed, “I’m beyond thrilled to commence this journey with the wellness-focused, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. As a trainer and a dedicated fitness enthusiast, I can relate to guests who may encounter challenges in maintaining their inner balance while traveling, and aim to guide them through their fitness and wellness goals while on vacation with my expertise.”

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, brings a holistic approach to rejuvenate mind and body during your vacation.

In line with the resort’s unwavering commitment to holistic well-being, the resort has introduced a range of activities, including Aqua Aerobics, Pilates, Yoga Nidra, and more under Santosh’s guidance. These activities provide a unique opportunity to tailor personalized programs for each guest, incorporating ancient practices, enjoyable activities, complementary therapies, and ample movement to celebrate each guest’s individuality.

General Manager, Vijay Kumar said, “At The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, the brand’s pillars of wellness are not just a concept; it’s a way of life. We believe that well-being is a journey, and every step matters. We want to empower our guests to prioritize their physical and mental health, making their stay a true rejuvenation of body and soul.”

For further details or reservations, please visit westin-maldives.com or reach out via email at mlewi.reservation@westin.com.

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi welcomes marine biologist Caitlin Rentell to lead sustainable marine conservation initiatives

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives has welcomed Caitlin Rentell, a talented and passionate marine biologist, to their team. Caitlin brings her expertise and dedication to the forefront of marine conservation efforts, focusing on critical initiatives to protect the pristine marine ecosystems of the Maldives. With her arrival, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is enhancing its commitment to preserving the enchanting waters of this tropical paradise.

Caitlin’s primary responsibilities at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi will include spearheading coral restoration efforts, engaging with guests and island team members in educational outreach programs, creating activities for the younger guest of the resort with the Koamas Kids Club team to raise awareness about marine life conservation, and fostering eco-tourism initiatives through collaborations with NGO and other local islands. Her work will make a significant contribution to strengthening the reef ecosystem, ultimately improving the region’s overall ecological health. These initiatives will also serve as an invaluable resource for educational purposes, allowing guests to learn and appreciate the Maldives’ unique marine environment.

UK National, Caitlin Rentell, holds a degree in Marine Biology from the prestigious University of Plymouth, United Kingdom, and has dedicated her academic career to understanding the anthropogenic impacts on our precious marine environment, particularly focusing on the menace of plastic pollution. Throughout her studies, Caitlin developed a profound understanding of the challenges facing our oceans and the urgent need for action.

After completing her degree, Caitlin ventured to the Maldives and joined a sea turtle rehabilitation NGO located on a local island in the Lhaviyani Atoll. During her time working with the NGO, she gained invaluable experience in coral restoration and community outreach. She actively engaged with the local community to address pressing issues such as waste disposal, all while educating future generations about the importance of preserving the ocean and its unique ecosystems.

Caitlin’s passion for marine conservation and her commitment to involving local communities align perfectly with Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s sustainable values and dedication to preserving the Maldives’ remarkable marine heritage.

“Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is excited to welcome Caitlin Rentell to our team, and we are all looking forward to her leadership in the pursuit of sustainable marine conservation initiatives,” said Abdulla Atham, Resort Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. “With her dedication and expertise, the resort reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of the Maldives’ natural beauty.”

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