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Fire cupping, chakra aligning, ‘natural Botox’: wellness specialist Domingos Folgado comes to Vakkaru Maldives

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From March 15 to April 13, Vakkaru Maldives is set to welcome wellness expert Domingos Folgado to the resort for a special residency.

A wellness consultant, therapist, acupuncture expert and qualified personal trainer who works with clients from his base in London, his residency at Vakkaru represents a rare opportunity for guests to enjoy the breadth of his knowledge surrounded by the restorative beauty of the Indian Ocean.

A graduate of the Instituto Medico Naturista de Lisboa in his native Portugal, Domingos’ diverse skill sets have been accrued over a 20-year career in the health and fitness industry.

During his time at Vakkaru, he will be on hand to assist guests with one-off appointments or to lead multi-day personalised, holistic programmes that combine his varied specialisms.

“It’s rare to encounter a wellness practitioner with a range of specialties as diverse and developed as those held by Domingos Folgado. With the principles of Vakkare so integral to the spirit of Vakkaru, we are delighted that he will be able to share his expertise and insights with guests as they enjoy a relaxing break on our peaceful private island,” Vakkaru Maldives General Manager Iain McCormack said.

Many of the distinctive treatments Domingos will provide in Vakkaru are inspired by his lifelong interest in traditional medicines and massage techniques.

A specialist in rebalancing the body, he will offer Chakra Hot Stone Aromatherapy treatments to balance emotions and calm the spirits.

His Facial Rejuvenation with Acupuncture and Gua Sha treatment is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine and provides a natural alternative to Botox; Fire Cupping Therapy tackles blood flow blockages to induce a deep sense of relaxation.

Domingos is also proficient in naturopathy, therapeutic massage, sports techniques, pilates and KORE therapy, and will be able to meld different treatments and disciplines according to guests’ needs and wishes.

He will also be available to lead seminars on topics ranging from joint protection to detox methods and benefits.

During his stay, Domingos will primarily be based at Vakkaru’s overwater Merana Spa, and his residency represents the latest expression of the resort’s unique hospitality concept Vakkare.

Placing the concept of care at the core of all Vakkaru offers, Vakkare provides guests with endless opportunities for self-care, deep rest and meaningful relaxation.

In addition to availing of Domingos’ services, visitors to Vakkaru will be able to enjoy complimentary sunrise yoga sessions, alongside classes in breathwork and meditation, Ayurvedic treatments, and a variety of massages and facials.

“I’m delighted to visit Vakkaru Maldives. At this time, I know the resort’s sincere commitment to caring for the health and wellbeing of all who stay here is more appreciated than ever, and I look forward to providing bespoke treatments and programmes that will leave guests revitalised, restored and ready to face the year to come with energy and enthusiasm,” Domingos Folgado said.

Nestled in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Vakkaru 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 Over Water and Beach Villas are elegantly designed to respect the surrounding tropical nature and Maldivian charms.

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.

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo earns prestigious spot in TripAdvisor’s top 10% global hotels

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has been honoured with a prestigious accolade, being named among the top 10% of hotels worldwide in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This esteemed recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and earning rave reviews from travellers across the globe.

Selected from hundreds of thousands of listings, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo’s inclusion in the prestigious list is a testament to its dedication to offering authentic, heartfelt experiences for its guests. The resort’s personalised service and its ability to deliver unique, memorable stays have made it a favourite among travellers seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Situated in the pristine Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is an adults-only boutique resort that blends local Maldivian culture with modern luxury. The resort features 68 beautifully designed villas that offer guests the ultimate in privacy and comfort. Known for its house reef teeming with vibrant marine life, the resort provides an immersive experience in the Maldives’ natural beauty. Guests can explore the coral reefs, enjoy a variety of international dining options, and indulge in a genuine sense of discovery.

With its focus on providing a serene escape for couples and solo travellers, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has become a cherished destination for those looking to unwind and recharge in an idyllic setting. Its recent recognition from TripAdvisor further underscores the resort’s exceptional reputation in the hospitality industry.

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Americans dreaming of Maldives: honeymoon searches soar in 2025 rankings

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Maldives has once again secured its place as one of the world’s most coveted honeymoon destinations, ranking second globally among Americans planning their post-wedding getaways in 2025.

According to a new study by UK-based swimwear brand Pour Moi, which analysed Google search data across the United States, the Maldives received 73,700 annual searches from honeymooning Americans eager to escape to its world-famous turquoise waters and luxury overwater villas.

The Indian Ocean paradise trails just behind Seychelles, which claimed the top spot with nearly 75,000 searches. Greece, Costa Rica, and Italy rounded out the top five.

The research examined over 490 global destinations to uncover where newlyweds are dreaming of heading this year. With its postcard-perfect beaches, serene lagoons, and opulent resorts offering private pools, spas, and gourmet dining, the Maldives continues to stand out as the ultimate destination for romance, relaxation, and indulgence.

“This stunning group of islands remains one of the most sought-after spots for couples who want an unforgettable start to married life,” said Marina Nicoli, Marketing Manager at Pour Moi. “The Maldives offers that rare combination of seclusion, natural beauty, and luxury that honeymooners crave.”

While entire countries were ranked based on interest, individual destinations within these countries also caught the spotlight. Santorini, Greece, emerged as the top individual honeymoon destination, followed by Bali in Indonesia and Italy’s Amalfi Coast. However, the Maldives’ reputation as an all-encompassing destination—offering entire islands as private resorts—cements its appeal to Americans looking for the perfect blend of privacy and pampering.

The Maldives’ second-place ranking highlights a continuing trend among U.S. couples seeking intimate, far-flung getaways. Pour Moi’s findings show a shift away from traditional city escapes toward nature-rich retreats that promise rest, romance, and Instagram-worthy moments.

Top 10 Countries for U.S. Honeymoon Searches in 2025:

  • Seychelles – 74,960 searches
  • Maldives – 73,700 searches
  • Greece – 49,100 searches
  • Costa Rica – 47,000 searches
  • Italy – 36,900 searches
  • Thailand – 25,800 searches
  • Fiji – 25,600 searches
  • Japan – 24,500 searches
  • New Zealand – 18,300 searches
  • Iceland – 15,180 searches

With the Maldives already a firm favourite among international travellers, this new data reaffirms its global status as a dream destination—especially for couples ready to celebrate the start of their forever.

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Savour flavours of Asia at Inguru, Kuramathi’s lagoon-side gem

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Nestled on the serene lagoon side of Kuramathi and overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, Inguru offers more than just a dining experience—it provides a sensory escape. The restaurant’s contemporary design, featuring elegant wooden accents, open-air seating, and soothing tones, harmonises with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Whether serving a casual lunch or hosting a romantic evening meal, Inguru creates a stylish yet relaxed ambiance that enhances every moment. Between 11:00 and 17:00 hrs, guests can enjoy light and flavourful Asian dishes with a Western twist—ideal for a leisurely midday break by the water.

As the sun sets, Inguru transforms into a refined dinner venue, offering a curated Asian Fusion menu from 19:00 to 22:30 hrs, open to guests aged six and above. The newly introduced dishes celebrate bold, fresh flavours, including Coconut & Pineapple Cooked Shrimp Ceviche, Tarragon-Flavoured Octopus Tartare, and Soy Marinated Salmon Bruschetta. Main courses feature richly spiced Indonesian Beef Rendang, aromatic Mas Kirugarudiya reef fish curry, and Kukulhu Musanmaa presented with a modern twist on traditional recipes.

With its picturesque setting and flavourful cuisine, Inguru delivers a truly memorable island dining experience, whether by day or night.

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