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Creative residency in paradise: Become Kanuhura Maldives’ first Digital Islanders
Kanuhura Maldives, an island resort by Sun Resorts and member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to two creatives to become its Digital Islanders and live on its luxury island resort for a month.
Their mission: Indulge in every experience the atoll proposes to its guests and document it via clips, photos and social media posts.
On the programme: Stays in the island’s water and beach villas, snorkelling and diving in the crystalline waters, escapes to its two deserted islets, dining in the four restaurants, enjoying cocktails in the two bars and countless other heavenly experiences.
While it sounds like a holiday, it is definitely not a lazy one as there are some serious (but fun) tasks involved: underwater filming during snorkelling and diving trips for video making, photographing decadent breakfast-with-a-view tables before succumbing, creating wanderlust-envy Instagram stories during pre-drinks at sunset and of course, shooting breathtaking aerial photos and clips on the beach.
A creative retreat
The creative retreat covers the board and lodging costs on the luxury island resort.
The luxury accommodation offer comprises stays at the Water Pool Villas, which are located at the edge of the timber walkway, suspended on stilts into the turquoise lagoon on the Eastern side of Kanuhura. The private sundeck is extended into an overwater plunge pool and hammocks, providing the ultimate Maldivian experience. From the deck, the wooden stairs lead directly into the turquoise lagoon with the coral garden to explore just a few meters away.
In an endeavour to provide a real experience of the accommodation offer of Kanuhura, the Digital islanders will also have the opportunity to stay at one of the beach villas, nestled in lush greenery and with a direct access to the beach all the way to the glittering lagoon.
It also provides a variety of beautiful locations to get the creative juices flowing and backgrounds to spruce up any portfolio.
The successful Digital Islanders will benefit from guidance into the luxury branding world by the marketing team of the international hospitality group Sun Resorts, in addition to international exposure for a year on its social media and digital channels.
In addition to expanding the international audience and opening new avenues career-wise, living for a month on the island of Kanuhura Maldives represents a rich cultural exchange: Besides the guests from around the world, the team staying on the island is made up of 18 nationalities.
Because happiness is only real when shared, and because behind every successful influencer is a gifted photographer, the Digital Islanders of Kanuhura Maldives are a team of two.
How to become Digital Islanders
Interested creatives should flaunt their talent for the making of visual digital content by producing and sharing a travel-themed content fon the social media platform Instagram.
The content posted, whether a clip, one or multiple photographs, should showcase their aptitude to arouse absolute wanderlust and their eye for visual aesthetics, in addition to their photography and/or film-making skills.
When posting the clip, the caption should read, “We’ve got what it takes to be the first #DigitalIslanders at @KanuhuraMaldives! We’re ready for a #CreativeResidencyInParadise.’
Applicants have until October 19 to submit their applications.
The chosen Digital Islanders will be announced on the social media channels of Kanuhura Maldives on October 26 and should be able to arrive at Kanuhura Maldives for its grand reopening on November 15.
While being a blogger or experienced digital Influencer is not mandatory, applicants with an active personal blog and a visually gorgeous social media feed will be highly regarded. On the personality side, a keen eye for aesthetics, a love of the sea and adventures are a must.
A creative residency like no other, combining luxury vacation with inspiration, a perfect setting for the creation of unique content and the making of timeless memories.
All the terms and conditions to become the first Digital Islanders of Kanuhura Maldives are available here.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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