Connect with us

Featured

Honeymoon isn’t over: Kuoni says Maldives top destination for newlyweds to holiday in 2021

Published

5 years ago

on

Maldives is number one honeymoon destination for 2021, travel firm Kuoni revealed Monday.

Wedding and honeymoon plans have been thrown into disarray over the past six months as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, yet couples are more determined than ever to make their first trip after tying the knot a trip they will never forget.

In a new honeymoon report, worldwide travel specialist Kuoni says it has seen a steady stream of bookings for 2021 which includes both re-bookings for cancelled honeymoons this year and new bookings from couples planning ahead.

Saving up and upgrading is a trend as couples pull out all the stops to make their honeymoon extra special with the average spend per honeymoon rising by £530 ($680) from £7,709 ($9,899) in 2019 to £8,247 ($10,590) for 2021, based on advance bookings so far.

There has been a double digit increase in couples taking two honeymoons, one short trip to places in in England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy or Greece immediately after their wedding ceremony with plans to take a bigger long-haul trip next year or the year after.

Honeymoons in UK and Ireland have also increased as travel restrictions this year continue, and Kuoni has even helped a couple due to honeymoon in the Maldives this year change their trip for a luxury two-week road trip in Scotland.

The report reveals that with an extra year to save, couples are taking the opportunity to make their plans more special upgrading the flights or arranging a helicopter transfer rather than a car so they arrive in style, upgrading their accommodation to overwater pool villas or adding extra experiences such as hot air balloon flights.

Remote retreats away from the crowds, private pool villas and tented camps in Africa are all in demand.

The Maldives tops the dream honeymoon destination list for 2021 followed by Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Kenya and Tanzania, South Africa, Italy, Bali, Thailand, Greece and the Seychelles. Despite travel restrictions for immediate travel, couples are continuing to plan ahead.

“I’ve worked really closely with couples since the coronavirus crisis started to impact so many honeymoon plans over the summer. It’s been rewarding to help couples reshape such a special trip at an emotional time for them. They’ve had the huge disappointment that their wedding plans aren’t going ahead and at times we’ve all been in tears,” Stacey Owens, one of Kuoni’s honeymoon experts, said.

“We’ve pulled out all the stops to help couples with their plans. The human touch has been welcomed.”

The changing travel advice alongside the pandemic also means that couples are turning to trusted brands who promise flexibility in case anything needs to be changed before they go.

Video appointments for honeymoon planning are also in demand. Since introducing honeymoon appointments by Zoom in July, Kuoni has arranged hundreds of virtual meetings with couples who want to see and “meet” a travel expert and talk about their plans.

“This has been an emotional time for a lot of couples and behind the scenes our team have moved mountains to help couples change their plans, recreating complex itineraries for new dates next year or even the year after. We’ve helped change honeymoon plans for doctors, nurses and key workers and our flexible approach has been welcomed at a really stressful time,” Derek Jones, CEO of Kuoni, said.

A honeymoon is still the most important holiday of a couple’s life and the signs are that despite the turmoil in travel, people are still determined to adapt their wedding and honeymoon plans within the guidelines so we’ve booked all sorts of last minute trips closer to home. But there’s no doubt that the romance of travel is alive and well and the lure of the wonders of the world is still as strong as it ever was.”

What’s trending:

  1. Private pool villas
  2. Secluded luxury away from the crowds
  3. Private in-villa dining
  4. Multi-destinations including adventure and beach
  5. Saving and upgrading
  6. The double honeymoon
  7. Spa and health retreats
  8. Luxury UK and Ireland honeymoons
  9. African safaris with tended camps

Kuoni’s best-selling honeymoon destinations for 2021:

  1. The Maldives
  2. Sri Lanka
  3. Mauritius
  4. Kenya and Tanzania
  5. South Africa
  6. Italy
  7. Bali
  8. Thailand
  9. Greece
  10. Seychelles

Kuoni’s best-selling mini-moons based on bookings for 2020 and advance bookings for 2021:

  1. Italy
  2. Greece
  3. Spain
  4. England and Scotland
  5. Ireland

In June, Kuoni said bookings for the Maldives were outperforming every other destination in its collection, accounting for 56 per cent of bookings for 2021.

Recent Google search data has also shown the Maldives as the second most searched holiday destination among global travellers.

These positive developments come as the Maldives reopened its borders to visitors on July 15.

With the border reopening, 30-day free on-arrival visa is issued to all tourists with a confirmed booking for a stay at any registered tourist facility in the country.

There is no mandatory quarantine or testing on arrival, but tourists have to complete an online health declaration form and provide a negative PCR test result taken at least 72 hours prior to their departure.

Visitors with symptoms of the Covid-19 respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus or those travelling with someone who has similar symptoms are also tested at their own expense.

The coronavirus outbreak has hit the Maldivian economy hard, as travel restrictions and other preventive measures affect the country’s lucrative tourism industry, which contributes the bulk of the island nation’s state revenue and foreign reserves.

Before the pandemic, the government had been bullish about tourism prospects, targeting two million, high-spending holidaymakers this year after last year’s record 1.7 million.

However, only 382,760 tourists visited the Maldives before the country closed its borders on March 27. It was a 40.8 per cent decline over the 646,092 that visited the Maldives from January to March last year.

Meanwhile, the government’s best case scenario now puts total tourist arrivals for 2020 just above 800,000. 

Tourism has been the bedrock of the Maldives’ economic success. The $5 billion-dollar economy grew by 6.7 per cent in 2018 with tourism generating 60 per cent of foreign income.

However, the government is at present projecting a possible 13 per cent economic contraction this year — an estimated $778 million hit.

On March 8, Maldives reported its first cases of the novel coronavirus, as two hotel employees tested positive for Covid-19 at a luxury resort in the archipelago.

Eighteen more cases — all foreigners working or staying resorts and liveaboard vessels except five Maldivians who had returned from abroad — were later identified.

A six-case cluster of locals, detected in capital Male on April 15, confirmed community transmission of the coronavirus. Several more clusters have since been identified, bringing the total number of confirmed case in the Maldives to 9,243.

Thirty-three deaths have been reported, while 7,536 have made full recoveries.

The Maldives announced a state of public health emergency on March 12, the first such declaration under a recent public health protection law.

The public health emergency declaration allowed the government to introduce a series of unprecedented restrictive and social distancing measures, including stay-at-home orders in capital Male and its suburbs, a ban on inter-island transport and public gatherings across the country, and a nationwide closing of government offices, schools, colleges and universities.

Non-essential services and public places in the capital such as gyms, cinemas and parks were also shut.

Restaurants and cafes in the capital were asked to stop dine-in service and switch to takeaway and delivery.

A nationwide shutdown of all guesthouses, city hotels and spa facilities located on inhabited islands was also ordered.

The restrictions are now being eased in phases, with the third phase measures now active.

Photo: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Awards

Kudadoo Maldives secures top 1% global ranking with prestigious TripAdvisor award

Published

1 day ago

on

May 29, 2025

By

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi has been named a ‘Best of the Best’ winner in the prestigious 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This elite honour places Kudadoo among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, a distinction earned through consistently outstanding guest reviews and ratings over the past year.

Building on its legacy of excellence, Kudadoo also secured the #18 position in Asia’s Small & Boutique Hotels category, recognised for its unparalleled approach to ultra-luxury hospitality, eco-conscious ethos, and personalized all-inclusive experiences that redefine exclusivity.

Akira Shiota, General Manager of Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, emphasised that every detail at Kudadoo is designed with purpose to offer unparalleled freedom, tranquil privacy, and an intimate connection to nature. He stated that receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award once again validates the resort’s commitment to exceptional, conscious luxury, crediting the dedicated team and loyal guests for inspiring continuous elevation of the experience.

Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, Kudadoo is a fully solar-powered sanctuary crafted for effortless luxury and meaningful indulgence. The island is home to just 15 exclusive Ocean Residences, each positioned above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, offering a personalized escape with 24/7 private butler service.

Guests at Kudadoo can enjoy a wide range of curated experiences, from swimming with manta rays to bespoke beachside barbecues, tailored to meet the desires of discerning visitors—many of whom return year after year for the resort’s signature blend of serenity, sophistication, and sustainability.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, the management company behind Kudadoo, remarked that the award celebrates the essence of what the resort offers: freedom, privacy, and pure indulgence. He noted that being recognised by global travellers year after year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the passion, dedication, and outstanding service delivered by the resort’s teams daily.

Kudadoo is accessible via a scenic seaplane journey or a domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transition into paradise.

This milestone adds to Kudadoo’s growing list of accolades, including its status as a 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner, which placed the resort among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide. With an unwavering focus on innovation, wellbeing, and elevated service, Kudadoo continues to set the standard for private island living in the Maldives.

Continue Reading

Awards

Kuredu Island Resort earns top honours in 2025 TripAdvisor ‘Best of the Best’ Awards

Published

1 day ago

on

May 29, 2025

By

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ accolade in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranking it among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. This distinction represents the highest level of excellence awarded by TripAdvisor, celebrating destinations that consistently provide exceptional service, outstanding value, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Selected from millions of traveller reviews and ratings collected over the past year, the Travellers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Award reflects Kuredu’s unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations and crafting joyful, memorable stays. Guests worldwide have praised the resort’s warm Maldivian hospitality, extensive range of activities, diverse dining options, and idyllic island setting that seamlessly balances excitement with tranquility.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, commented that Kuredu’s vibrant charm, variety of adventures, and heartfelt hospitality continue to captivate guests. He emphasised that the award not only recognises the resort’s exceptional service but also the emotional connections the team fosters with every guest. He expressed deep pride and gratitude toward the Kuredu family and loyal visitors for helping achieve this significant milestone.

Situated in the turquoise waters of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa is one of the Maldives’ most beloved and iconic destinations. As the sole resort on Kuredu Island, it offers an exclusive sanctuary welcoming families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The resort features 389 villas and bungalows, ranging from beachside retreats to overwater hideaways, blending rustic charm with luxurious comfort.

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of experiences catering to all preferences and tempos. Activities include world-renowned diving at nearby coral reefs, water sports, sunset dolphin cruises, yoga sessions, full-service spas, and culinary journeys across multiple restaurants and bars. Kuredu aims to offer more than just a holiday — it provides stories worth sharing.

The resort’s family-friendly amenities, including kid-focused activities and multi-generational villa options, make it a top choice for travellers with children. Couples are attracted to romantic beach dinners, secluded sunset spots, and the peaceful O’ Resort area designed for adults seeking intimacy and calm.

Jorge Amaro, General Manager of Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, highlighted the resort’s deeply personal approach. He explained that it is the small gestures — such as remembering a guest’s favourite drink or sharing a genuine smile — that create lasting memories. He noted that the award reflects the passion, dedication, and authenticity of the entire team, who strive to make every guest feel truly at home on the island.

The 2025 recognition adds to Kuredu’s impressive array of accolades earned over the past decade. The resort has consistently upheld its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most admired hospitality destinations, with multiple TripAdvisor honours including:

  • 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award — Recognised among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide
  • 2019 Certificate of Excellence — Awarded for consistently high guest ratings
  • 2017 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
  • 2014 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Based on outstanding guest reviews
  • 2013 Travellers’ Choice Award, UK — Ranked #21 among the Top 25 Resorts in the Maldives for Best Service
  • 2013 & 2012 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Recognised for consistent excellence in guest satisfaction

These honours reflect Kuredu’s longstanding commitment not only to meeting international hospitality standards but also to creating a sense of belonging, excitement, and wonder for guests from around the world.

Continue Reading

Awards

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa shines in 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards

Published

2 days ago

on

May 28, 2025

By

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa has been recognised as a winner in the 2025 TripAdvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards, earning a place among the top 10% of hotels globally. This prestigious accolade reflects the boutique adults-only resort’s enduring charm, thoughtful details, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences in an intimate and romantic setting.

As a member of the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, Komandoo has long maintained a reputation as one of the Maldives’ most beloved resorts for couples and honeymooners. With just 65 villas situated along pristine beaches and above a shimmering turquoise lagoon, the island offers an idyllic retreat where love, serenity, and barefoot luxury thrive.

According to Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, “This recognition is a testament to the genuine care our Team of Champions puts into every stay. At Komandoo, hospitality is more than a service—it’s a heartfelt connection with each guest.”

Ahmed Naseem, General Manager of Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, added, “What makes Komandoo special is the soul of the island—our champions’ passion, the intimacy of the setting, and the heartfelt experiences created for every guest. Being honoured year after year by our guests and by TripAdvisor inspires us to keep delivering unforgettable moments in one of the most romantic corners of the world.”

Komandoo’s adults-only policy and tranquil environment make it an exceptional choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples’ getaways. Guests enjoy uninterrupted serenity, romantic beach dining, curated experiences, and wellness offerings designed for reconnection and relaxation.

Komandoo’s inclusion in the 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards continues a long-standing tradition of excellence celebrated by TripAdvisor and the global travel community. Among the numerous accolades the resort has received from TripAdvisor over the years are:

  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner 2025 & 2024
  • TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence – 2019
  • Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2018
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2016
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2015 – | #1 Romantic Resort in the Maldives | #7 Top Hotel for Service in Maldives | Top 10 Hotels in Maldives
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2015 & 2012
  • Five-time Certificate of Excellence Winner (2011–2015)
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award – 2009 (UK) | #1 Romantic Resort in Maldives | #1 in Asia | #7 in the World

These accolades highlight Komandoo’s unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and its dedication to delivering memorable, personalised stays.

With its adults-only policy and serene setting, Komandoo offers an unparalleled destination for honeymoons, anniversaries, and romantic escapes. Guests are treated to uninterrupted tranquillity, bespoke beach dining experiences, wellness offerings, and curated activities designed to foster reconnection.

The resort features a variety of accommodations, from overwater villas with direct lagoon access to beach villas shaded by palms, each offering comfort, privacy, and luxury. Additional highlights include award-winning dining, indulgent spa treatments at Duniye Spa, and a vibrant house reef ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts. Komandoo seamlessly blends Maldivian authenticity with modern comforts and heartfelt service. As the island’s only resort, it offers guests a rare sense of exclusivity—where every detail is crafted to let love stories unfold.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.