Featured
True grit: Interview with Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives’ GM Raffaele Solferino

Raffaele Solferino, General Manager of Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives on adaptability in hospitality, ethical profitability and why true grit drives results.
2020 has been an incredibly challenging year. There have been many learnings and silver linings for the hotel industry, but what long-term impact do you think they’ll have?
Yes, it has been a very much unprecedented situation, even though in the beginning everyone was comparing it with SARS, 9/11 or 2007/2008 financial crisis. During this period, we learnt the importance of staying calm, and keeping ourselves up to date with, and adhering to, the latest policies and guidelines issued by the official authorities. We also put ourselves in the shoes of our team members and business partners and remain available for assistance when needed. I am glad everyone appreciates the effort we put in, as well as the value we bring to them. I believe that when things go back to normal, we will reap the rewards of building a meaningful rapport with them.

How did Grand Park Kodhipparu navigate its way through pandemic, the travel restrictions around it and the ensuing sharp decline in tourism?
Well, the Maldives has responded well, with a lockdown for three months. We are now seeing enthusiastic travellers visiting the paradise again. We have established our own Covid-19 Task Force Team, consisting of experts who are trained to handle emergencies of all aspects, to gain guest confidence. We showed empathy at every point and supported our business partners and tour operators through the challenges they faced. We continue to remain flexible and engaged, and provide assistance where we can throughout this period.
We also involve our team members to develop solutions and this gave them a sense of belonging, which resulted in high participation and engagement. Everyone was comfortable with the decision made and worked towards the same goal. To be able to welcome guests again after three months, it was like being reborn. A high level of energy and excitement was felt throughout the resort, from both guests and team members. While ensuring smooth operations, our team also took the opportunity to develop new experiences to enhance a guest’s stay.

It’s undeniable that the landscape of travel has shifted significantly this year – what have been your personal observations of changing traveller trends thus far?
Travel will return in stages. We are seeing leisure travellers at this point, MICE and corporate travellers with be the laggard. As international borders will largely remain closed or restricted in the short-term, and also with the high adoption rate of virtual meetings and events, we do not see a shift in this observation for now. We have been receiving positive feedback from travellers, noting that they enjoyed the relaxing stay surrounded by our natural environment. People are also starting to look at destination weddings, as they no longer wish to postpone their event further. Travel and tourism are now pivoting towards the digital economy and we should take this opportunity to upskill and relearn.

As we edge towards a time of vaccines, and therefore a hopeful return to normalcy, what are your predictions for 2021?
Well, I touched on how travel behaviour will be affected for a few segments of our guests over the next few months. At the same time, I see potential in the luxury and budget brands, as well as co-sharing spaces. Tourism has a huge contribution to the Maldives economy and we know that people cannot wait to travel again after months of pent up demand. If we can build synergy between business strategies, partnerships and digital transformation, we will be able to do better.

So, let’s more about Grand Park Kodhipparu… You’ve been at the property for four years now – what was the initial vision and mission, and what do you hope to achieve next?
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is the first resort by Park Hotel Group, a leading hospitality company in Asia Pacific, and I am privileged to be selected to open this property in December 2016. After six months of pre-opening planning, the resort opened its doors in June 2017, and had its grand opening in December the same year. We managed to achieve this within a considerably short timeline and it is a remarkable achievement. The resort had a successful first year, where we saw positive business performance and great brand reputation with good recognition from our guests and partners, and this continued until Q1 2020. This stellar performance was possible thanks to the support from HQ, as we continue to be guided by the company’s triple bottom-line business strategy, focusing on Profit, People and Planet. Of course, my team at the resort is also a key factor as I cannot achieve this on my own. I hope to continue to maintain such excellent results and good relationships with all stakeholders. I will also be planning ahead to uncover more opportunities that the destination can offer to our guests. We have demonstrated the capability of our resort and now it is time to bring it to the next level.

The Maldives is in abundance of beautiful five-star resorts, so what sets GPK apart from its peers? Let’s drill down to the nitty gritty of what makes it great.
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives differentiates from the rest [of the resorts] with our personalised and private service, meaningful engagement with guests, distinctive design by world-class Hirsh Bedner Associates, and the continuous enhancement to our products. The property is also only a 20-minute ride by speedboat from the Velana International Airport. We have won many awards over the years, including the recent 2020 World Luxury Awards. And in just three years, The Spa has accumulated seven prestigious awards, which is testament to the dedication and commitment of our team members. Celebrities and chefs from Michelin-star restaurants visit us periodically.
Our resort is certified by Green Globe, a recognition for our sustainable management and operations, and we are working on various environmentally-friendly initiatives, including working with organic and eco-friendly cosmetic brands. In addition, our team members are known to deliver warm and genuine hospitality to our guests, and they are provided training opportunities year-long to grow their skillsets. All in all, we are committed in delivering the best service standards to our guests.

Assuming a guest has just 24 hours at your resort, how would you suggest they spend their time to truly maximise their five-star GPK experience?
Book one of the full-day wellness packages at The SPA, enjoy the sunset view at the private beach, and complete the day with a private dinner under the stars by the beach. Looking ahead again, what developments can guests expect at GPK in 2021? We provide pre-arrival assistance and will continue to enhance our safety measures according to the latest official advisory. We will also offer new experiences, such as new water sports and activities, and introduce attractive packages for our guests throughout the year.

A few more personal questions… What would you say makes a good GM?
A good GM builds teams and takes good care of them, invests in learning and development, empowers their team members to pursue performance excellence, is passionate about what he is doing, should not settle for mediocrity, focuses on guest engagement, and never forgets he is a businessman while having to manage the expectations of the stakeholders.

What gives you the passion for your role?
A long story, started 40 years back, in a few words; hospitality is a world which allows you to create, innovate, compete, work on challenges, meet many people from different cultural background, and travel the world.
Do you have a philosophy that you’ve subscribed to throughout your career?
Actually, more than one. The first, “If you focus on delivering quality with excellence, positive financial performance will be the result.” The second, “If you accept mediocrity, you are mediocre.” And lastly, “If you don’t look after your guests, someone else will.”
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in the hotel game?
Adaptability. You’ve got to adapt yourself to changes, to others, to expectations, to judgments, but you always need to keep your objective alive and never, ever give up.
Lastly, what piece of advice would you give an aspiring GM?
Never forget the base and foundation of the role, invest in people, and with any operating decision always protect the planet, and deliver an ethical profitability. Be ambitious and remember that grit drives results.
Note: The above interview has been reproduced as it is from Destinations of the World News. The original article can be found here.
Featured
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts earns top honours at 2025 Traveller Review Awards

Delivering unforgettable travel experiences remains at the heart of hospitality, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives has once again been recognised for its commitment to excellence at the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2025. Now in its 13th year, the awards are based on over 360 million verified guest reviews, reflecting traveler experiences. As a homegrown brand from Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to redefine hospitality in the Maldives with its collection of tropical sanctuaries.
With a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives continues to captivate travellers seeking an idyllic island retreat in the Meemu Atoll. This island serves as the perfect getaway for couples seeking ultimate relaxation and escape, while the exclusive 18+ Platinum Island provides an adults-only haven. The Platinum Beach Bungalows offer undisturbed tranquility for those desiring a true escape from the world. The resort’s chic overwater bungalows, complete with glass floors revealing the wonders beneath and private terraces with hammocks, provide an intimate and serene retreat, ideal for honeymooners.
Also earning a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives stands out for its contemporary design, resembling the shape of a manta ray. Vaavu Atoll, the least commercialised atoll in the Maldives, offers quiet beaches and empty dive sites, giving guests the opportunity to experience untouched beauty. The shipwreck at Vaavu Atoll is a popular diving destination, home to a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. With a combination of thrilling water sports and laid-back island vibes, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives serves as a perfect choice for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
Receiving a rating of 9.0, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the Maldives, particularly among surfers and ocean lovers. Located just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, the resort is home to the world-renowned Pasta Point, one of the most consistent surf breaks in the region. The island’s lively atmosphere, diverse recreational offerings, and welcoming hospitality make it ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s play area that provides a safe and engaging space for fun-filled activities. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the resort offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
With a rating of 8.9, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is recognised as a diver’s paradise, celebrated for its legendary house reef and year-round diving opportunities. Located in the North Ari Atoll, the resort offers one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, attracting diving enthusiasts eager to explore its rich marine biodiversity. The rustic charm of Ellaidhoo, combined with its commitment to marine conservation, provides an authentic island experience where guests can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Whether diving with reef sharks, enjoying beachside dining, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Ellaidhoo offers a distinctive retreat for underwater adventurers.
Marking the launch of an exciting summer offer, guests planning a Maldivian getaway for a minimum of four nights between May 1, 2025, and October 31, 2026, will receive complimentary speedboat transfers. Additionally, for an elevated travel experience, GHA Discovery membership offers even greater rewards and exclusive benefits. From the moment guests sign up, they can earn and redeem Discovery Dollars (D$), access member-only rates, and enjoy carefully curated local experiences. With privileges available at every membership level, GHA Discovery enhances each stay by offering recognition and unique opportunities to explore the destination in an immersive way.
Combining the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality with the natural beauty of the Maldives, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives continues to offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Featured
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO earns Green Globe Gold Certification

THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has been awarded the Green Globe Gold Certification after maintaining certification for five consecutive years. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, seamlessly integrating world-class luxury with innovative sustainability practices to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Maldives.
At the heart of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s achievements lies a comprehensive approach to conservation. The resort’s team of in-house marine biologists leads a coral restoration project aimed at revitalising a 300-meter section of the house reef. This initiative employs 80 coral frames supporting over 2,000 coral fragments. Collaborations with organisations such as Manta Trust, Olive Ridley Project, and Parley, along with an upcoming partnership with Miyaru NGO, strengthen marine protection efforts while guest education programs enhance awareness of ocean conservation.
According to Nuria Camps Suarez, Head Marine Biologist at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the coral restoration project represents more than just conservation—it symbolises a commitment to future generations. By restoring the house reef, the resort is actively rebuilding a thriving ecosystem. Partnerships with organisations such as Manta Trust and Parley further amplify the impact, ensuring the preservation of the Maldives’ marine heritage.
The resort also integrates renewable energy solutions, featuring one of the Maldives’ largest floating solar panel systems. This system comprises twelve platforms with 720 panels, supplemented by 1,095 rooftop solar units, collectively generating 30% of the island’s energy requirements and significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s dedication to a zero-waste philosophy is reflected in its advanced waste management systems. A fully automated organic composter processes three tons of green waste weekly, converting it into nutrient-rich fertiliser, while in-vessel shredders transform garden clippings into compost. Additionally, glass bottles are crushed and repurposed for minor construction projects.
Sustainable dining is also a cornerstone of the resort’s eco-conscious approach. The hydroponic farm enhances gastronomy by growing lettuce and herbs in a soilless system, reducing water consumption from 250 litres to just 50 litres per kilogram. This method meets 70% of the island’s lettuce demand while providing fresh, organic ingredients to its award-winning restaurants.
These sustainability initiatives are seamlessly incorporated into the guest experience, allowing visitors to enjoy bespoke activities such as snorkelling among regenerated reefs and savouring produce from the hydroponic farm—ensuring luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. As OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to lead in eco-conscious hospitality, it reinforces THE OZEN COLLECTION’s ethos of ‘Refined Elegance,’ where each stay contributes positively to the planet.
Featured
Experience elegance and serenity at Coco Bodu Hithi’s exclusive Coco Residences

Coco Bodu Hithi, a hospitality resort owned by Maldivians, is renowned for its sleek design and comfort. The resort features expansive 184-square-metre residences, each equipped with a private pool, offering elevated privileges to guests across 24 exclusive Coco Residences.
Suspended above the crystal-clear lagoon, these overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, surrounded by endless shades of blue and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Recognised for its outstanding hospitality, Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of Best Service Resort at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed with a refreshing Kurumba and a basket of tropical fruits, while the resort ensures seamless and attentive service throughout their stay.
Guests staying in Coco Residences benefit from a range of exclusive privileges, including the dedicated service of a Mithuru, who ensures a smooth and personalised Maldivian experience. These privileges include an Executive Champagne Sunset Cruise, a Cocktail Party, and a Guided Wine Tasting with the Resident Sommelier, along with other unforgettable experiences that showcase the breathtaking turquoise waters and endless horizon.
For environmentally conscious and culturally curious travellers, the resort offers a variety of enriching activities. Visitors can participate in Coral Planting and other tailored initiatives with the resident Marine Biologist or experience the excitement of a Boduberu performance on the island.
To further enhance the guest experience, the package includes complimentary breakfast options, ranging from a dine-around breakfast to an in-villa Floating Breakfast, complete with a photographer for a keepsake. Guests also receive a daily replenished minibar stocked with beers and soft drinks, along with special residence bar benefits.
Wellness plays an integral role in the resort’s offerings, allowing guests to embark on a journey of balance, rejuvenation, and inner harmony through daily sunrise or sunset yoga sessions. Additionally, visitors can indulge in relaxation with the resort’s signature Coco Fusion Massage or a soothing Balinese Massage, both designed for deep rejuvenation.
Coco Bodu Hithi seamlessly combines adventure and exclusivity, offering captivating dive sessions, exhilarating water sports, and thoughtfully curated signature experiences. The resort has also welcomed high-profile celebrities, ensuring unforgettable stays in the Maldives.
For those looking to experience the ultimate getaway, the Coco Summer Escape offer provides a 40% discount along with a complimentary meal plan upgrade, allowing for an even more indulgent stay at Coco Bodu Hithi.
-
Action1 week ago
Le Méridien Maldives unveils stunning padel court
-
Family1 week ago
Easter in paradise: Ifuru Island Maldives Candyland celebration
-
Awards1 week ago
Forbes Travel Guide’s dual 5-star rating for One&Only Reethi Rah, One&Only Spa
-
Meditation1 week ago
Lily Beach Resort introduces ‘Harmonic Bliss Week’: Maldives’ first floating sound bath
-
Family7 days ago
Wands, wings, Easter things at Amilla Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Bold fusion of music, island vibes: W Maldives to host W PRESENTS with Pretty Girl
-
News1 week ago
Return of Ifuru Maldives perfume: Fragrance that captures island life
-
Featured1 week ago
Experience elegance and serenity at Coco Bodu Hithi’s exclusive Coco Residences