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

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.
Featured
Experience timeless Maldivian elegance at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

Machchafushi, meaning ‘Fish Island’ in Dhivehi, encapsulates the essence of this serene retreat in South Ari Atoll. As part of The Centara Collection, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa embodies the true spirit of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate connection with the ocean, marine life, and the island’s cultural heritage.
Situated within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a UNESCO-recognised site, Machchafushi provides year-round access to remarkable marine experiences, vibrant coral ecosystems, and unforgettable underwater explorations, including the famous Kudhimaa shipwreck. Once a secluded, uninhabited island, Machchafushi holds a special place in the cultural landscape of the Maldives. Today, as part of this protected marine reserve, it continues to remain authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its natural surroundings.
Marine life is at the heart of the Machchafushi experience. The island offers some of the world’s highest whale shark resighting rates, with encounters available throughout the year. Guests may also encounter graceful manta rays and a colourful abundance of tropical fish drifting through crystalline waters. Encircled by a renowned house reef—stretching nearly five times the island’s size—the area is home to over 1,000 species of fish and 200 varieties of coral, creating an underwater paradise.
South Ari Atoll is celebrated as one of the Maldives’ finest diving regions, featuring over fifty dive sites teeming with marine life. Kudarah Thila presents a UNESCO-protected labyrinth of overhangs and swim-throughs populated by fusiliers and snappers, while Broken Rock captivates divers with its dramatic canyon of corals and macro life, ideal for underwater photography. Dhigurah Beyru and Maamigili Corner are noted for encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins. The 52-metre Kudhimaa Wreck has evolved into a thriving coral habitat, now home to lionfish, batfish, groupers, and the well-camouflaged stonefish and frogfish. Nearby, Anemone Alley flourishes beneath the seasonal seaplane platform, forming a vibrant ecosystem that draws snorkellers and divers alike. The house reef remains the beating heart of Machchafushi—a world-class natural wonder beneath the waves.
Beyond the ocean, the island tells a story of its own. At its centre stands a centuries-old Banyan Tree, known locally as the Ummeedhu Tree, or ‘Wish Fulfilment’. This living symbol invites guests to pause and reflect, taking part in the Sacred Thread Ceremony, where wishes and intentions are tied to the tree’s branches—creating a bond that endures long after their stay.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Machchafushi’s philosophy, ensuring the preservation of both its natural beauty and cultural legacy. Every sunrise, dive, and golden thread tied to the Ummeedhu Tree becomes part of a continuing narrative—one that celebrates the Maldives’ heritage and invites guests to create lasting memories in harmony with nature.
Entertainment
Spooky celebrations await at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with ‘The Return of the Mummy’

Sun Siyam Olhuveli will transform into a realm of ancient legends and eerie excitement this Halloween with its themed celebration, The Return of the Mummy. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in two days of themed activities, family games, and live entertainment throughout the resort.
The highlight of the celebration will be a beachfront performance by Swedish DJ and rising international talent Caroline Roxy. A multifaceted artist—DJ, singer-songwriter, producer, fashion designer, and former model—Caroline is known for fusing energetic electronic beats with pop-inspired rhythms. Drawing on her musical upbringing and experience performing at festivals in cities such as Stockholm and Los Angeles, she is set to deliver an electrifying performance that promises to bring a captivating energy to the shores of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

The festivities will begin on 31 October 2025 with a Halloween Beach Fest, featuring mummy-themed games, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treat adventures, and the popular Mummy Dance Freeze for younger guests. As night falls, the Lagoon Bar will become the centre of the celebration, with flickering lights, pulsing music, and a much-anticipated DJ set by Caroline Roxy. Her performance will combine haunting melodies with powerful electronic rhythms, setting the tone for an unforgettable Halloween evening.
Celebrations will continue on 1 November 2025 with treasure hunts, themed cupcake and marshmallow workshops for children, and a sunset pirate cruise. Adults can take part in a Halloween boot camp before the evening concludes with a fire show and live music by Hightides at the Lagoon Bar.
Blending ancient Egyptian mystery with island charm, The Return of the Mummy at Sun Siyam Olhuveli invites guests to experience a unique Halloween adventure where the legends of the past meet the magic of the Maldives.
Excursions
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.
Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.
The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.
Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.
“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.
For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.
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