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Smashing time with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis at Vakkaru Maldives

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Though holidaymakers the world over dream of visiting the Maldives, they have rarely ventured to the island nation in pursuit of tennis.

Still, for some time now, guests at Vakkaru Maldives in the idyllic Baa Atoll have been supplementing spa visits and snorkelling excursions with matches on the resort’s two cobalt blue courts.

Those sessions are now set to become far more intensive, with the arrival of Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis.

Founded by former World No. 8 tennis player Janko Tipsarevic, Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis at Vakkaru will see some of the world’s most accomplished tennis professionals visit the resort for short-term residences. It means guests will have the opportunity to attend tennis clinics and tutorials led by some of the world’s best players — and if they are brave, they can even try their hand in a game against them.

Still heavily engaged with the highest echelons of tennis, Janko will introduce a range of eminent athletes to Vakkaru over the months to come.

To kick things off, he will oversee sessions at the resort himself from November 10-24. During this tenure, he will be joined by Germany’s Rainer Schuettler, formerly ranked as the world’s No. 5 tennis player, from November 12-21, and Germany’s Angelique Kerber, a former world No. 1 and winner of three Grand Slam tournaments, from November 11-21.

Subsequent sessions will feature the likes of Canada’s Denis Shapovalov, currently ranked No. 12 in the world, and Montenegro’s Danka Kovinic.

“Alongside the entire Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis team, I am extremely excited to partner with Vakkaru Maldives. Our shared goal is to completely enhance the tennis experience on offer in the country. Whatever their ability, every participant who takes part in our programmes will experience a whole new way of playing tennis,” Janko said.

“For lovers of the game, competing with globally renowned players on Vakkaru’s brilliantly blue courts while surrounded by all the beauty of the Maldives promises to be a holiday experience like no other.”

Avid tennis fans need not worry if their visit does not coincide with an internationally recognised tennis legend’s tenancy.

To celebrate Vakkaru’s partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis and in recognition of the resort’s new hospitality concept Vakkare, which places the concept of physical, mental and emotional care at the core of all that Vakkaru provides, Serbian tennis pro Barbara Bonic has just joined the wellness team as Vakkaru’s resident tennis coach. She will happily lead training sessions for guests of all levels year-round, whether they want to get to grips with the basics or are keen for a vigorous game against a formidable opponent.

“I am excited to announce that our amazing tennis facility will be occupied by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis,” Vakkaru Maldives General Manager Iain McCormack, who is a lifelong tennis fan and is happy to compete with guests on the court, said.

“We have partnered with Janko Tipsarevic and introduced our very own resident ATP player-coach to provide the highest level of tennis offerings in the Maldives, and we are looking forward to welcoming the many international players who will hit the court with our guests throughout the year. If you want a smashing time there is only one place to be!”

With Vakkaru’s tennis courts accessible from 6am to 8pm, guests will have complete flexibility to play at a time that suits them — be it a sunrise bout or a late-night session under the glow of floodlights.

Private sessions for adults cost from $120++ for one hour or $180++ for two hours, while five-hour packages and 10-hour packages to be used throughout a tenancy cost $440++ and $660++ respectively.

For children aged below 12 years old, one-hour sessions cost $95++ while two-hour sessions cost £160++. Five-hour packages cost $380 and 10-hour packages cost $570.

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Diving Dreams Take the Plunge: New PADI Five Star Academy Opens in Maldives

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Maldives’ first and only PADI Five Star Career Development Center, the Maldivian Academy of Diving, has officially opened its doors in K. Himmafushi. This new academy signifies a major step forward for professional dive training in the Maldives.

The Academy is dedicated to providing top-tier, professional-level dive training programs that meet the most rigorous standards set by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). They recently concluded their inaugural PADI Instructor Development Course on March 3rd, and their next PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor Course is scheduled for July 29th to August 13th, 2024.

Leading the Academy is Adam Ashraf, a PADI Platinum Course Director for both 2022 and 2023. For the past decade, Ashraf has been running Dive Desk, a highly successful dive center in Malé. In fact, Dive Desk was the most successful PADI professional development center in the Maldives in 2023, earning the prestigious PADI EMEA Platinum Professional Development Excellence Award. This award recognizes the center’s exceptional performance in training new dive professionals, with Dive Desk being the only Maldivian center and one of only ten in the entire Europe, Middle-East & Africa (EMEA) region to receive this recognition.

Platinum status for both the Course Director and the Dive Center is not given lightly. It’s awarded based on a strict criteria of the number of professional-level certifications issued by PADI. Adding to Dive Desk’s accolades, they were also awarded the PADI Outstanding Contribution to People and Humanity Award last month for their dedication to fostering opportunities for Maldivians in the diving industry.

Despite a decade of success and consistently running the top PADI professional development programs in the Maldives for the past seven years, Dive Desk faced challenges. Limited space at their facility and the high cost of accommodation for students staying in Malé for extended periods were significant hurdles.

The Maldivian Academy of Diving was established specifically to address these issues. Located in Himmafushi, the Academy offers a more spacious learning environment and affordable accommodation options for students, all within close proximity to the capital city. The Academy will soon be offering on-site dorm rooms as well.

The Academy caters to all levels of diving experience, from those just beginning their underwater journey to seasoned divers seeking to become instructors. They offer a comprehensive range of courses and certifications to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to achieve their diving goals.

The opening of the Maldivian Academy of Diving represents a significant milestone in Adam Ashraf’s ongoing mission to empower Maldivian youth to pursue careers in the diving industry.

For more information dive into www.divedesk.mv

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Jawakara Islands Maldives Partners with LUX Tennis for Unforgettable Tennis and Padel Getaways

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Jawakara Maldives announces a new partnership with LUX Tennis, a premier tennis management company. This collaboration elevates the resort’s offerings, providing guests with an exclusive tennis and padel program in a stunning beachfront setting.

Unparalleled Island Retreat

Jawakara Maldives is a haven of luxury, seamlessly blending traditional Maldivian warmth with modern amenities. Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Guests can choose from exquisite overwater villas and beachfront accommodations, all designed for ultimate comfort and privacy.

A Paradise for All Preferences

Spanning two interconnected islands, Jawakara offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to every taste. Culinary delights await at the resort’s eclectic restaurants, featuring Teppanyaki, Asian, Mediterranean, and international buffets. From indulgent spa treatments to thrilling water sports and exploration of the vibrant underwater world, the resort caters to all interests.

Elevated Tennis and Padel Experience

The collaboration with LUX Tennis introduces a unique program designed to improve guests’ tennis and padel skills. Boasting a tennis court and three padel courts (two covered), Jawakara ensures uninterrupted play. Personalized coaching, structured practice sessions, and exciting events cater to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Whether guests prefer one-on-one coaching, group sessions with experienced professionals, or tournaments, LUX Tennis offers a range of options.

Expert Guidance for All Levels

Leading the program is Afonso Matias, a distinguished LUX Tennis professional with over a decade of experience. Afonso’s dedication and expertise have earned him recognition as a certified coach by the Portuguese Tennis Federation. He currently holds the esteemed position of Tennis Director at Jawakara Islands Maldives.

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Uncover the Gems and Untold Tales of the Maldives’ Baa Atoll Through Personalised and Free-Spirited Adventures with The Nautilus Maldives

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When envisioning the Maldives, one often conjures images of pristine white sands and  luxurious resorts. However, beyond the typical tourist attractions lies a realm of adventure,  cultural immersion, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. The Nautilus Maldives, an  ultra-luxury private island hideaway, is crafting extraordinary journeys in the captivating Baa  Atoll, inviting its guests to embrace escapism through immersive cultural experiences. 

Inspired by The Nautilus’s brand hallmarks of the Art of Bohemia and Free Spirited  Adventures, guests are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and indulge in  transformative experiences. Through encounters with local personalities, guests gain an  insight into island life, delving into cultural roots, traditions, nature, language, cuisine, and  more. 

The Nautilus prides itself on tailoring bespoke experiences to suit the unique preferences of  its guests—whether adventurers, culture enthusiasts, or families seeking more than a  beachside retreat. Guests embark on one of The Nautilus’s luxurious yachts, exploring  treasured spots of the Atoll and creating unforgettable memories that will linger in their  hearts long after their journey ends. 

Discover the roots at the Kendhoo 

Nestled in the northwest of the Baa Atoll, Kendhoo carries a rich tapestry of experiences  weaving together history and culture. Once a vital hub along ancient maritime routes,  Kendhoo’s vibrant cultural landscape is shaped by centuries of influences from Indian, Arab,  and Southeast Asian merchants, as well colonial conquests. Guests can wander its streets, 

indulging in local culinary treats with distinct flavours, and exploring landmarks like the 800- year old house marking the place of prayers of Abdul Barakaath Yoosuf al Barbary, a renowned Islamic scholar. 

Weave your memories of the Maldives into art at Kihaadhoo 

On the beautiful island of Kihaadhoo, guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic art  of coconut leaf weaving, a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Through  hands-on experiences with the island’s residents, guests can learn to create baskets, hats,  and decorative pieces, fostering a sense of cultural identity and belonging.

www.thenautilusmaldives.com 

Traditional lacquer masters at Thulhaadhoo 

Venturing to the southern tip of Baa Atoll, guests discover Thulhaadhoo island, renowned for  its exquisite craftsmanship in traditional lacquerware. Here, artisans share their secrets of this  ancient art of decorating items with vibrant colours and intricate designs inspired by the  Maldives’ marine life and lush tropics, which has been passed down through generations. 

Guests can even try their hand at creating these unique art pieces, serving as precious souvenir  of their tropical getaway. 

Exploration of the Deep Blue Waters of Dhonfanu 

At Dhonfanu, one of Baa Atoll’s premier diving spots, vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine  life awaits beneath azure waters. In season, there’s also a high chance for guests to encounter  graceful manta rays and majestic whale sharks, igniting the senses with excitement and awe. 

Delve into Poetic Ambiance of Dharavandhoo 

Guests can make a stop at Dharavandhoo island, which boasts a rich tradition of Maldivian  poetry, where locals celebrate history and folklore through the art of storytelling, expressing  emotions, beliefs, and aspirations in the most poetic ways. These enchanting verses, inspired  by the islands’ natural beauty, love, nature, and daily island life, transport listeners to a world  where ocean rhythms intertwine poetic imagery.  

To craft your own cultural journey across Maldivian islands, contact The Nautilus at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com and begin creating your ultimate bohemian dream escape. For more information visit www.thenautilusmaldives.com.

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