Featured
Huvafen Fushi unveils new ‘pop-down’ underwater dining experience
Iconic Maldivian haven, Huvafen Fushi, has launched Immerse… Latitude 4°, an intimate new bespoke underwater dining experience eight metres beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean.
The sublime new ‘pop-down’ restaurant will transform Huvafen Fushi’s legendary world-first underwater spa into a profound private gastronomical experience, in which guests are enveloped in a mesmeric, ethereal space in tropical waters just 4° from the equator.
Complemented by a fully customisable menu individually tailored to guests’ culinary preferences, this inherently immersive submarine private dining venue will bring unprecedented depth and exclusivity to the Maldives’ pioneering pantheon of elite underwater restaurants.
After a romantic boardwalk stroll over the sunset-kissed lagoon, guests descend a few steps to discover their otherworldly private dining cocoon below the surface.
Positioned beside a panoramic window, a single elegantly dressed dining table provides unparalleled, uninterrupted views of the captivating reef nightlife; subtle mood lighting within accentuates the gently illuminated seascape outside.
The abundance and diversity of Huvafen Fushi’s marine life is exuberantly evident at every turn, and any time of day – but it is after dark, below the surface, that the reef dramatically reveals itself as a vivacious landscape of nocturnal predators on the hunt; of bioluminescent plankton sparking ‘fire in the ocean’; and of beautiful corals fluorescing under the gaze of UV torches.
The Immerse… Latitude 4° experience also provides a unique perspective on Huvafen Fushi’s coral propagation programme — the spa reef is home to several mature coral frames that have ‘graduated’ from the resort’s coral nurseries — while for guests who are uncomfortable with diving or snorkelling, it represents a revelatory opportunity to discover the magical world beneath the waves.
Huvafen’s executive chef will consult with guests in advance to design an individually tailored gastronomic journey perfectly attuned to their tastes; while the resort’s resident sommelier will also be on hand to present wine pairing recommendations to accompany each chosen dish.
The Immerse… Latitude 4° private dining experience is priced at $495++ per person, excluding beverages, for advance reservations only. Private breakfast experiences also available on request.
Opened in July 2004, Huvafen Fushi is situated in the Male Atoll and features the world’s first underwater spa rooms.
Just 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Huvafen Fushi exists in a dreamlike bubble; beyond the banal intrusions of flight or boat paths, wreathed only by horizon.
A sanctuary of iconic design and natural beauty, the resort’s 44 enrapturing, naturally modern villas – each with a private deck and freshwater infinity pool – are enhanced by the signature Thakuru butler service first pioneered by Huvafen Fushi.
An array of unique culinary experiences are infused with Huvafen’s customary serenity, from subterranean gastronomic adventures curated by renowned consultant sommelier Guillem Kerambrun at Vinum, the resort’s underground wine cellar; to laid-back Izakaya-style dining at Huvafen’s unmistakable overwater restaurant, now returned to its birth name, Salt.
Featured
Condé Nast Traveller applauds Maldives as a lovers’ paradise
The Maldives has long been synonymous with romance, and now it takes centre stage in Condé Nast Traveller’s curated list of the ‘Most Romantic Places in the World’. The magazine highlights the archipelago’s unparalleled ability to create dreamlike escapes for couples, setting a gold standard for intimate getaways.
From the moment you set foot in the Maldives, the enchantment begins. Confetti-like tropical fish flit through crystal-clear lagoons, while overwater villas offer vistas of mantas gliding gracefully beneath. Add in the luxury of floating breakfasts served in your private pool and intimate dinners on pristine beaches, and you have the perfect recipe for romance.
Condé Nast Traveller notes that while the Maldives caters to families too, its essence of romance is unrivalled. The country’s private island resorts, nestled amid lush jungles and encircled by house reefs, redefine luxury. With world-class spas, fine dining, and starlit experiences, the Maldives effortlessly marries natural beauty with bespoke hospitality.
The Maldives is home to some of the world’s most celebrated resorts, and Condé Nast highlights a few that stand out:
- Vakkaru Maldives: A lush retreat where couples can enjoy a private dinner and movie at the island’s jungle cinema under the stars.
- Six Senses Laamu: The brand’s latest addition to the Maldives offers an exceptional spa experience, complete with a couples’ suite for ultimate relaxation.
- Gili Lankanfushi Maldives: This eco-luxury resort epitomises romantic aesthetics with its overwater villas set against one of the country’s most mesmerszing lagoons.
For hoteliers and hospitality professionals in the Maldives, this recognition underscores the archipelago’s enduring allure as a romantic haven. It’s a reminder of the importance of maintaining world-class service, crafting unique guest experiences, and preserving the pristine beauty that defines the Maldives.
The Condé Nast Traveller mention is more than just an accolade; it’s an opportunity for local hoteliers to further cement the Maldives’ position as the ultimate destination for couples seeking an off-grid escape steeped in romance.
As the Maldives continues to set benchmarks in hospitality, there’s no doubt that its reputation as a lovers’ paradise will only grow stronger. For the industry, this is a call to celebrate the archipelago’s unique offerings and ensure that each guest leaves with memories as enduring as the turquoise waters that surround them.
Celebration
Ring in 2025 with spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La
As the countdown to 2025 approaches, JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La invites guests to celebrate the New Year with a festive feast and a toast to new beginnings. This unforgettable evening promises an array of culinary delights, live music, and exciting giveaways.
On 31st December 2024, guests can indulge in an exquisite buffet at Azur Restaurant, featuring a wide variety of flavours, including a selection of tapas, live grills, and decadent desserts. The festive ambiance will be enhanced by live music, setting the perfect tone to welcome the New Year. In addition to the celebration, JEN Maldives will offer exclusive giveaways, providing guests with the opportunity to win amazing prizes.
“We are delighted to end the year on a high note by expressing our gratitude to our valued guests,” said Manisha Chhetri, F&B Manager at JEN Maldives Malé. “This New Year’s Eve, we aim to create an evening filled with joy, delicious food, and exciting surprises as we welcome 2025 together.”
Guests attending the New Year’s Eve gala dinner will have the chance to win one of the following prizes:
- A 3-day, 2-night stay in a deluxe room at Shangri-La Singapore, including daily breakfast for 2 adults
- An exclusive Pool Brunch experience for 2 people at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La
- A 1-hour Balinese massage for 1 person at Aristo Spa
The winners will be selected and announced on the same night, following the countdown celebration at Azur Restaurant. JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La invites guests to join this unforgettable evening, with gala dinner tickets available for purchase directly at the hotel.
Featured
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands unveils sustainable holiday centrepiece
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, has introduced the Maldives’ most sustainable Christmas tree for 2024, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious holiday celebrations. The tree, crafted entirely from natural materials such as dry rattans and bamboo, ensures that every component will be repurposed after the festive season, leaving no waste behind.
Anthony Gill, General Manager of Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, emphasised the resort’s commitment to sustainability, stating that the Christmas tree exemplifies how luxury and environmental consciousness can coexist. He highlighted the use of thoughtful design and natural materials to create a visually striking centrepiece with a lasting positive impact.
The tree’s minimalist design reflects the resort’s dedication to balance and harmony with nature, showcasing the potential of renewable materials while embodying the festive spirit. Following the holiday season, the materials will be repurposed into practical or decorative items, aligning with the resort’s circular economy initiatives.
Guests are encouraged to view this remarkable centrepiece and engage in a festive experience that mirrors the resort’s core values of sustainability and thoughtful design.
This initiative complements Patina Maldives’ broader sustainability efforts, including renewable energy adoption, zero-waste kitchens, and marine conservation programs. By integrating these principles into holiday traditions, the resort reinforces its belief that luxury hospitality and environmental stewardship can work hand in hand.
-
Featured1 week ago
Six Senses Laamu honoured for groundbreaking marine conservation initiatives
-
Celebration1 week ago
Sheraton Maldives launches holiday festivities with Christmas Tree lighting
-
Excursions1 week ago
Fuvahmulah triumphs at 2024 DRT show as Best Shark Diving spot
-
Featured6 days ago
SAii Lagoon Maldives achieves Gold certification for sustainability excellence
-
Featured6 days ago
JW Marriott Maldives unveils luxury wellness escape
-
Awards1 week ago
Forbes Travel Guide ranks Maldives among top destinations for 2025
-
Celebration6 days ago
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes Santa on scooters for festive island Christmas
-
Fashion5 days ago
Aquazzura collaborates with JOALI Maldives to launch Maldives’ first-ever limited-edition capsule collection