Featured
Waldorf Astoria Maldives celebrates top accolades in Travel + Leisure’s 2020 World’s Best Awards
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi celebrates its recognition in the coveted annual Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards list.
Anchored in the timeless heritage of Hilton’s iconic luxury brand Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, the 119 all-pool-villa resort paradise came in at a resounding third place among the Top 15 Resort Hotels in Asia and fifth among the Top 100 Hotels in the World.
“Having just celebrated its first year since opening in July last year, we are truly delighted to see the positive impression Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has left on our guests, which is testament through these outstanding accolades the resort received,” Paul Hutton, Vice president of operations for South East Asia at Hilton, said.
“As the island opened to guests once again from August, I have every confidence the team will continue to deliver the unparalleled level of hospitality and service that will position the resort at the top of mind for discerning travellers to the Maldives.”
In addition to the awards picked up by Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, the Waldorf Astoria brand has also been recognised as one of the Top 25 Hotel Brands in the World, coming in alongside other luxury brand stalwarts.
“I’m incredibly proud of the team at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and their relentless commitment in delivering on Waldorf Astoria’s brand ethos, inviting our guests to Live Unforgettable – where every single element of the experience contributes to authentic moments that become unforgettable memories,” Nils- Arne Schroeder, Vice President of Luxury and Lifestyle for Asia Pacific at Hilton, said.
“In the months and years ahead, the Waldorf Astoria brand will continue to deliver on our legacy of anticipatory service with unwavering attention to detail, satisfying our guests’ every desire and evolving along with their changing needs and preferences.”

Situated in one of the most beautiful, sought-after locations in the world, the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers guests unparalleled, bespoke service and unforgettable experiences.
Set in a tropical paradise, the resort features 119 all-pool Beach, Reef and Overwater villas across three interlinking islands.
Guests can select from 10 indulgent dining venues such as The Ledge, which was created by Dave Pynt, the culinary mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant, and features elevated barbecue that can be savoured against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Discerning guests can also dine among the treetops at Terra while enjoying spectacular views of the ocean and horizon, or bask in the magnificent sunset at Amber, the resort’s signature bar.
The endless list of experiences and activities ensures that all generations are catered for. Should they choose to, the option to unwind in one of 10 luxurious spa treatment villas within a blissful botanical sanctuary, explore the ocean’s incredible marine life or traverse the island’s dazzling white sand beaches by bicycle or on foot are all at their fingertips.
“Being one of the latest additions to the Maldives, it is truly an honor to be named amongst the top resorts in Asia and the world. We could not have achieved this without the dedication and hard work of all our team members, and the recognition by our guests is an encouragement for us to keep delivering exceptional service for all who enter our resort paradise,” Etienne Dalancon, General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.
Now in its 25th year, the Travel + Leisure’s Awards programme celebrates the ultimate in hospitality and travel, recognising the world’s finest providers of luxury-travel experiences, from the most impressive hotels, destinations, cities and more.
The results are drawn from Travel + Leisure’s exceptionally well-travelled readers, and award winners can take pride in a title that is recognised and respected by holidaymakers and tourism-industry insiders alike.
Cooking
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO unveils chef-led 9-Hands Dinner experience
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has announced a 9-Hands Dinner event scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 May, offering a curated dining experience as part of its guest programme.
The event will feature a multi-course menu developed by three chefs representing Egypt, Madeira and the Maldives. Each chef will present dishes reflecting their respective culinary backgrounds, combining different techniques and flavour profiles within a single dining concept.
The dinner is positioned as an interactive culinary experience, bringing together elements of storytelling and presentation alongside the menu. According to the resort, the concept is designed to highlight both innovation and traditional influences in cuisine.
The experience will be included within the resort’s plan for in-house guests, forming part of the overall stay offering.

Commenting on the event, General Manager Alain Trefois stated that the initiative reflects the resort’s focus on expanding guest experiences beyond standard dining formats. He noted that the event provides an opportunity for guests to engage with culinary presentation in a structured setting.
Anupam Banerjee, Vice President Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core, said the collaboration brings together different culinary influences, combining regional ingredients and techniques into a single dining programme.
Located in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is known for its house reef and marine environment, offering a range of activities alongside its accommodation and dining options.
The resort has indicated that availability for the 9-Hands Dinner event will be limited, with advance booking recommended for guests wishing to attend.
Featured
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef rolls out Wellness Week from 15–22 June
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, has announced plans to host a Wellness Week from 15 to 22 June 2026, in conjunction with Global Wellness Week. The programme will be led by international creative and fitness practitioner Ilariia Auvitu.
Ilariia Auvitu, whose background spans multiple countries and disciplines including acting, modelling and fitness, will guide a series of sessions focused on structured wellbeing practices. Her approach combines physical activity with routines aimed at supporting mental balance.
A key component of the programme is the Tech-Free Sunrise Yoga and Breathwork Ritual. The session is designed to provide a period of structured activity without digital devices, with a focus on breath control and guided movement aimed at supporting mental regulation.
The schedule will also include Morning Yoga with Flow sessions, intended to establish physical rhythm and energy for the day. In addition, Pool Fitness sessions will be conducted in the resort’s pool area, offering water-based exercise.
Selected evenings will feature Sunset Pilates and Stretching sessions. These will include low-impact exercises focused on strength and flexibility, followed by guided stretching.
Through the Wellness Week programme, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is offering a series of activities aligned with the observance of Global Wellness Week, combining structured fitness sessions with a setting designed to support rest and recovery.
Excursions
Baros Maldives unveils reef-focused ‘Fully Ocean’ programme
Baros Maldives has announced “Fully Ocean”, a week-long programme of marine conservation, education and guided activities scheduled from 1 to 8 June 2026.
The programme coincides with World Reef Awareness Day on 1 June and World Oceans Day on 8 June. It is positioned as an initiative to involve guests directly in conservation efforts, allowing them to participate alongside the resort’s marine team in activities focused on reef protection.
According to General Manager Ibrahim Shijah, the programme builds on the resort’s long-standing focus on reef conservation and aims to position guests as participants in that effort. Baros Maldives, which first opened in 1973, is among the early resorts in the country to implement a structured reef restoration programme. The property, which is Maldivian-owned, has maintained ongoing work through resident marine biologists and operational practices aimed at reducing environmental impact.
The “Fully Ocean” programme will run as a structured schedule of activities throughout the week.
On 1 June, the programme will begin with a guided house reef tour, followed by an information session for guests to register for activities. The day will conclude with night snorkelling.
On 2 June, activities will focus on coral restoration. Led by marine biologist Carissa Cabrera, the programme will include a snorkelling safari and workshops on coral restoration methods. Guests will have the option to participate in coral planting or sponsor coral frames.
On 3 June, a fish-focused programme will include identification workshops and in-water sessions for divers and snorkellers. The afternoon will feature activities in the Palm Garden, including educational games and painting sessions, followed by night snorkelling.
On 4 June, activities will focus on reef ecosystems. The programme will include guided dives under the Microlife Finders initiative, snorkelling safaris and low tide exploration of marine species such as shells and sea cucumbers. The day will conclude with a “Glow in the Dark” session, combining a presentation with a UV-assisted night snorkelling experience.
On 5 June, marking World Environment Day, the programme will include a guided nature walk around the island and a photography competition titled “Maldivian Treasures”. A second “Glow in the Dark” session will be held in the evening.
On 6 June, the schedule will include guided reef tours and night snorkelling.
On 7 June, designated as Turtle Day, the programme will feature activities led by the Olive Ridley Project, including awareness sessions and workshops on turtle conservation and responsible interaction.
On 8 June, the programme will conclude with a guided reef tour, a reef clean-up activity and a final night snorkelling session.
Some activities during the programme will be complimentary, while others will be offered at an additional charge. Booking and programme details are available through the resort.
The “Fully Ocean” initiative will coincide with Baros Maldives’ “Endless Summer” offer, running from May to October 2026. During this period, the resort is promoting travel during the off-peak season, when marine conditions attract species such as manta rays and whale sharks to nearby atolls.
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