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Feel Maldivian Embrace at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands
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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a 100-villa resort on the beautiful beaches of the North Male Atoll opening in Q2 2021, is focusing its attentions on cultural immersion in the Maldives.
Every decision in the resort’s design and development has been made by looking at it through a prism of Maldivian island life to ensure guests feel the warmth and generosity of these rich traditions and are able to explore them further through the design, service, dining, landscaping and experiences at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.
The totality of island life at the resort is closely linked to Bodu Beru, an indigenous form of dance and drumming.
Crafted from coconut wood, the national tree of the Maldives, bodu beru drums are one of the oldest known traditions from the region, dating back to the 11th century. Bodu Beru is central to Maldivian ceremonies and celebrations and this authentic local spirit will be brought into the resort though art and music.
Each villa will have a unique Bodu Beru artwork personalised with a Dhivehi number, and every evening an elegant sunset ritual will be performed by Maldivian gentlemen distilled from that traditional drum procession.
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A torchlit procession will gather to light a central round torch, marking the setting of the sun and the transition from a day of discoveries to a night of indulgence and reflection.
The Maldivian embrace will also be felt through the high level of service at the hotel.
On arrival, guests will be met by the blowing of the Sangu horn, which traditionally would have been blown in island communities to announce an arrival or important news.
A welcome drink made from local screw pine, an exotic fruit dense in nutrients, will be shaken and served in the villa by the Aris Meeha, who will greet the guests in Dhivehi.
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Each villa will have its own Aris Meeha – a butler concept inspired by the historic royal courts of the Maldives, one of the highest-ranking positions in the Maldivian Royal household.
Similar to a modern-day butler, Aris Meeha will be considered guests’ closest confidante whilst on the islands and fulfil every detail of their stay.
In addition, the resort will have a Moodhu Edhuru (loosely translated as guru of the sea) who will pass on local folklore inspired by the rich Maldivian marine culture, narrating stories each evening around the beach campfire.
The immersion in local cultures also reaches into the hotel’s dining concepts. The team will work closely with local fishermen, to provide the freshest fish, seafood and the well-known local lobsters, and to ensure that the fish is caught sustainably.
Fresh vegetables and herbs will be cultivated in the resort’s organic garden and guests can learn to cook Maldivian dishes including mashuni, a breakfast staple made with tuna and fresh coconut, and sample the local bites, hedhika, for afternoon tea.
The resort’s signature cocktail selection is inspired by the maritime spice routes that shaped the Maldivian story and includes five spices: cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin and turmeric.
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On the islands themselves there are thousands of palms and carefully selected native plants and shrubs, all of which have been saved from deforestation or chosen from local nurseries to eliminate the negative impact of importation.
The 30m Banyan tree in the resort’s spiral garden — dedicated to the resort’s architect, the late Kerry Hill – is an excellent example of this as it was transplanted from Medhukumburudhoo Agricultural Island on the Shaviyani Atoll.
The Maldivian embrace is central to the resort’s ethos will bring a real sense of place to the resort for guests to enjoy and explore.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives will have 100 simple, yet staggeringly beautiful villas built across four picture-perfect paradise islands, all with ocean and lagoon views of the crystal-clear waters.
Guests will be able to dine at seven different restaurants, as well as enjoy exceptional treatments by Bamford at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
Families will delight in the full Ritz Kids programme as well as a range of experiences to protect and explore the ocean around them, including Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassador of the Environment programme.
Featured
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts earns top honours at 2025 Traveller Review Awards
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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.
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OZEN LIFE MAADHOO earns Green Globe Gold Certification
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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.
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Experience elegance and serenity at Coco Bodu Hithi’s exclusive Coco Residences
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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.
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