Featured
Vakkaru Maldives wins three accolades at 2020 World Travel Awards
Vakkaru Maldives has a trio of very good reasons to celebrate over the coming festive season and beyond: launched in 2017, the private-island retreat has just been crowned a winner three times over at the 27th Annual World Travel Awards.
Immensely proud to receive such recognition just three years after opening, the independently run resort has been named Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort 2020.
Additionally, its immense signature four-bedroom overwater villa The Residence has been named both Maldives’ Leading Hotel Suite 2020 and Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite 2020.

Established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries, the World Travel Awards is recognised internationally as an arbiter of excellence in the luxury travel sector.
These latest accolades consolidate Vakkaru Maldives’ position as one of the country’s most exciting and inviting luxury resorts and come shortly after the launch of its innovative new hospitality concept Vakkare.
A commitment to providing the utmost care in all its forms, this enhanced service standard sees all members of the Vakkaru team make sincere and creative effort to surpass guest expectations.
In addition to enjoying the benefits of Vakkare, holidaymakers who visit the newly crowned Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort will enjoy superlative treatments at overwater Merana spa; elevated fine dining that pays particular attention to nourishing and energising dishes; and some of the Indian Ocean’s best diving and watersports experiences thanks to the resort’s enviable location in Baa Atoll, named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011 in recognition of its exceptional ecological value and beauty.

Guests at The Residence will enjoy all of these benefits and more, alongside the prestige of residing in Maldives’ Leading Hotel Suite and Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite.
Perfectly positioned to provide uninterrupted views of the sunset, the four-bedroom, two-storey villa extends to 971 squaremetres and contains all a family or group of friends could possibly want to enjoy the ultimate Maldives holiday in complete exclusivity.

Bordered by a bubbling whirlpool, its infinity pool seems to meld with the turquoise ocean. Around it, a vast open terrace allows for versatile entertaining and includes a dining area, multiple relaxation areas, a private spa pavilion and a staircase that leads directly to the sea.
Inside, sprawling rooms allow for spontaneous get-togethers and extravagant parties alike. For quiet time, bathrooms come with mammoth tubs, private steam rooms and outdoor showers.

But of course, The Residence’s selling points aren’t merely structural.
Every new arrival will be gifted experiences intended to make their stay as effortless as possible and their interactions with friends and family as special as can be. These range from VIP passage through Velana International Airport to a panoply of in-resort and in-villa privileges efficiently and effortlessly facilitated by their always-on-call butler team.

Among the many benefits included are complimentary sundowners, yoga sessions and spa treatments to be enjoyed on the privacy of their ocean-facing deck, as well as family film nights with limitless popcorn, candyfloss and ice cream, a private beach barbecue and celebratory afternoon teas.

Speaking about the resort’s three category-topping placements at the 2020 World Travel Awards, Vakkaru Maldives’ general manager Iain McCormack said: “As we approach the end of such a momentous year, I could not be more thrilled that Vakkaru Maldives has been honoured three times over at the World Travel Awards. These accolades are testament to the tireless effort every Vakkaru team member makes to ensure every guest stay here is as special as can be.”
“As travellers the world over slowly start to move again, we look forward to welcoming them to our palm-shaded beach villas, timber-framed overwater villas, and the unparalleled – and now multi-award-winning – grandeur and beauty of The Residence.”

Nestled in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless sanctuary intuitively designed for guests seeking unassuming luxury and cherishable experiences.
A scenic 30-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport takes you to this secluded reef island blessed with timeless ocean views, powder-soft white sand beaches, unique deep blue holes and spectacular marine biodiversity.
The 113 beautifully-appointed overwater and beach villas are elegantly designed to respect the surrounding tropical nature and Maldivian charms.
Additionally, indulgent dining choices, a world-class wine cellar — home to a curated selection of fine vintage and non-vintage offerings from Old to New World — as well as curated leisure activities and amenities create enriched experiences for everyone.
For reservations and general information, please visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
Drink
Felice Capasso brings award-winning mixology to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli this February
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will host World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, Felice Capasso, for an exclusive Tastemaker Series collaboration from 4–5 February. The partnership further strengthens the resort’s position as a destination for discerning travellers seeking craftsmanship, cultural depth, and refined experiences.
Located on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives has established a contemporary interpretation of island glamour. Its signature villas include some of the most coveted accommodations in the Indian Ocean, notably the John Jacob Astor Estate—one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences—and the tranquil, beachfront Caroline Astor Estate. Each estate offers generous living spaces, expansive pools, and panoramic views, reflecting the resort’s dedication to elevated, residential-style luxury.
Within this sophisticated environment, The Whale Bar—an iconic overwater structure—will serve as the setting for Capasso’s arrival. As evening falls, the venue will adopt a vibrant Latin-inspired ambience, where guests will enjoy family-style small plates, bespoke cocktails, and rare vintages on tap while the sunset illuminates the lagoon. In this atmospheric setting, Capasso will unveil an exclusive cocktail menu for his bar takeover, blending classical technique with modern creativity.
On the following day, the resort will host an intimate Masterclass led by Capasso, centred on rum. The session will explore the spirit’s history, its regional expressions, and the narrative approach that distinguishes exceptional mixology. His expertise—rooted in precision, intuition, and storytelling—offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with a leading figure in the global bar industry.
This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential creators and innovators to the island. By welcoming talents such as Felice Capasso, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to craft immersive, evocative experiences that embody the distinctive spirit of St. Regis.
Drink
Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils Milano, Olive Bar and Crust & Flame on Dream Island
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced three new dining and social venues on its Dream Island — Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame — each conceptualised by the award-winning Studio Sixty7. Together, the venues bring a contemporary expression of coastal European style to the Maldives, blending refined design, effortless island living, and a sense of community that positions Dream Island as the resort’s newest lifestyle and entertainment hub.
Milano – An Italian Soul with a Front-Row Kitchen
Milano celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian dining, presented through a coastal aesthetic that feels both relaxed and refined. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs craft handmade pasta, simmer traditional sauces, and prepare wood-fired dishes. The experience is intimate and engaging, reflecting the sincerity of Italian cooking.
Studio Sixty7 designed the space with an olive-green palette, arched features, textured off-white plaster, linen drapery, and sculpted timber furnishings. Deep green crittall-style glazing adds a quiet elegance, while patterned floors create a gentle visual rhythm. As evening falls, woven pendant lights warm the room, making Milano ideal for leisurely lunches and romantic dinners. Every design detail balances Italian flair with Maldivian tranquillity.

Olive Bar – The New Entertainment Pulse
At the centre of Dream Island’s social energy, Olive Bar offers a refreshed take on family entertainment, hosting nightly performances from acoustic musicians and cultural acts to lively DJ sets. By day, it provides a relaxed lounge environment; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social hub.
The bar’s design embraces coastal openness, featuring timber shutters, adaptable lounge seating, abundant greenery, and natural textures that reflect Studio Sixty7’s craftsmanship-driven approach. Gentle ambient lighting completes the atmosphere, creating a welcoming setting for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Crust & Flame – Casual, Beachside, and Comfort-Driven
Crust & Flame offers a relaxed beachside dining experience centred around artisanal brick-oven pizzas and contemporary light dishes. Its striking emerald-and-sage terrazzo pizza oven serves as the visual anchor of the venue, glowing subtly in natural light as chefs prepare fresh creations throughout the day.
Muted olive and white tiles, moss-toned upholstery, and dark timber seating create a coastal trattoria feel, while maintaining a distinctly Maldivian beach ambience — toes in the sand, ocean breeze drifting through the space, and a focus on simple, well-crafted comfort food.
Reflecting on the creative direction, Lee McNichol, Co-founder of Studio Sixty7, noted that the aim was to craft spaces that feel like a gentle exhale — warm, textured, softly lit, and subtly inspired by European coastal landscapes. Co-founder Jose Rivero added that the intention was to build venues that feel lived-in and soulful, where guests naturally settle into the experience rather than simply dine or watch a performance.
Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli, commented: “Our vision for Dream Island was to create a place where guests immediately feel the rhythm of island life — relaxed, social, and full of positive energy. Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame each offer something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment. It is Olhuveli at its most effortless and playful.”
With the launch of these venues, Dream Island evolves into a dynamic culinary and social destination where design, flavour, and ambience come together seamlessly. This development reflects Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s continued journey toward contemporary lifestyle hospitality, grounded in the warmth and authenticity of Maldivian service.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli now offers more than twenty restaurants and bars across its islands, ensuring an ever-diverse dining landscape shaped by creativity, global influence, and the joy of island living.
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