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Direct from Mumbai to Maldives: Vakkaru Maldives’ effortless escape package makes weekend escape easier
Figuratively, the clamour of Mumbai and the calmness of the Maldives may seem a million miles away, but with Vakkaru Maldives’ inauguration launch of Effortless Escape from Mumbai to Vakkaru package, holiday-goers will be able to spring from the bustling city to the private island in half a day.
For those who want to make a stress-free retreat to a place that specialises in timeless serenity, this promises to be the ultimate weekend getaway.
A direct two and a half hours flight on Maldivian Airlines from Mumbai takes you to nearby Maafaru International Airport which lies in close proximity to Vakkaru Maldives home in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its exceptional sea life and incredible dive and snorkelling sites.

From the airport, it’s a scenic one hour and 20-minute speedboat transfer or 15-minute seaplane ride to the resort.
Available exclusively to guests travelling from India, the package includes direct international return flights from Mumbai to Maafaru International Airport, transfers, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, soft drinks during meals, and applicable service charges and taxes.

With check-in completed in a jiffy, Effortless Escape to Vakkaru guests can immediately commence their holiday.
Dive centre Splash is the resort’s gateway to the Maldives’ underwater marvels; overwater award winning Merana Spa is one of the Indian Ocean’s most blissful wellness destinations; resort facilities include the exceptional kids’ club Parrotfish Club, a 24/7 overwater gym, and best-in-class tennis coaching session by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis.

Vakkaru’s beautifully appointed villas are either set on the powder-soft sands of the beach or placed over the turquoise waters of its bath-warm lagoon, where residents can expect to see kaleidoscopic marine life from their private decks.

During leisurely meals, guests can indulge in abundant buffet breakfasts at Amaany Restaurant which features an Indian food station.
Guests may choose from the extensive dining options for lunch and dinner, including the laidback Italian restaurant Isoletta, South-East Asian specialities at Onu, beach grill at Vakku or Japanese delicacies at Lagoon Bar.
On selected evenings, Amaany offers Indian Ocean Splash buffet featuring a lavish spread of Indian, Sri Lankan and Maldivian cuisines.

For extra special occasions, guests can arrange private destination dining experiences under the shade of palm trees in Vakkaru’s lush organic garden, or on a private sandbank.
Available to book until July 31, the Effortless Escape to Vakkaru package is valid for stays from May 9 to October 31.
Both honeymoon and family-friendly, Vakkaru Maldives’ is also extending the offer to families. Special rates are available for two adults and two children below 12 years staying in Family Villa categories, and to four adults and two children staying in Two Bedroom Beach Pool Residences.
An introductory three-night packaged rate inclusive of direct flight starts from an enticing $3,900++.

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.
Celebration
Sirru Fen Fushi to host Eid al-Adha celebration from 27–29 May
Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort has announced its “Eid in Harmony” programme for Eid al-Adha, scheduled from 27 to 29 May 2026, offering guests a series of curated experiences centred on dining, cultural elements and leisure activities.
The programme is designed to provide a structured yet relaxed approach to the celebration, with a focus on shared experiences and engagement with the island environment. According to the resort, the initiative aims to bring together cultural traditions and hospitality offerings within a resort setting.
A central feature of the programme will be the Eid al-Adha Feast, a dining experience presenting a selection of dishes prepared for the occasion. The event will be set in a themed environment reflecting elements associated with Eid.
The resort will also introduce an “Eid Gift with Purpose” initiative, positioned as a gesture aligned with the values of giving and reflection associated with the occasion.
In addition, guests will have the option to participate in a Guest Archery Competition, offering a recreational activity designed to complement the island setting and provide an alternative form of engagement during the celebration period.
Alongside the programme, the resort has launched an “Eid Island Escape” offer, which includes a range of inclusions for guests staying during the period. These include a 30-minute jet lag recovery massage, daily breakfast at Raha Market, dinner on a dine-around basis across selected restaurants, and a one-time floating breakfast experience.
In a statement, the resort’s management said the programme is intended to reflect the values of togetherness and reflection associated with Eid al-Adha, while offering guests opportunities to spend time with family and participate in shared experiences.
Through the three-day programme, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort is presenting Eid al-Adha as a combination of dining, leisure and cultural activities within a resort environment.
Celebration
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives unveils Maldives Summer Escape for Eid al Adha
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has introduced its Maldives Summer Escape offer as part of its positioning for Eid al Adha travel, combining accommodation benefits with seasonal dining and guest experiences for families, couples and small groups.
Available for stays through to 31 October 2026, the offer is designed to support longer stays and multigenerational travel, with a focus on dining flexibility and island-based experiences within a private resort setting.
To mark the Eid period, the resort will present a series of guest experiences linked to the occasion. On 27 May, guests will be offered an Eid breakfast at Seasalt Restaurant, featuring live Arabic cooking stations prepared by Egyptian chefs, alongside dishes such as foul medames, manakish and shakshuka.
An Eid-themed dinner buffet will also be held the same evening, with regional dishes and live cooking stations forming part of the dining programme. On other days, guests will also have the option of visiting a nearby local island to observe traditional Eid celebrations in a Maldivian community setting.
From 27 to 29 May, Mirus Bar will host a series of evening activations including a shisha lounge and DJ sets. The resort said the programme is intended to create a social setting suited to both couples and groups.
The Maldives Summer Escape offer includes daily breakfast and three-course à la carte dinners at selected venues, along with a USD 75 dining credit that can be used for alternative experiences such as Teppanyaki, The Shack or private dining.
Additional benefits include 15 per cent off treatments at Spa Alila, 20 per cent off food and beverage purchases, and 20 per cent off return seaplane transfers.
The resort said the offer is particularly suited to families and groups, with villa accommodation designed to provide both shared living space and privacy, while also appealing to couples through its more understated approach to island stays.
Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, said the resort had designed the offer around the significance of Eid and the expectations of guests travelling during the period.
“Eid is a deeply meaningful time, centred on togetherness, reflection, and shared moments,” he said. “For those choosing to celebrate away from home, we’ve curated an experience that feels both intimate and considered — where thoughtful dining, unhurried surroundings, and the natural beauty of the island come together to create something truly memorable.”
Through the combination of seasonal programming, dining inclusions and additional guest benefits, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is presenting the Maldives Summer Escape as an option for Eid travel in the Maldives.
Celebration
Centara Maldives resorts to mark Songkran with Thai-inspired celebrations
Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives has invited guests to celebrate Songkran this April across its resorts in the Maldives, marking the Thai New Year through a series of experiences inspired by the brand’s Thai heritage.
The hotel group said the celebrations would reflect Thai culture and hospitality while adapting traditional Songkran elements to island settings in the Maldives. Across its resorts, the festival is being presented through activities centred on renewal, togetherness and shared experiences.
At Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, located within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the celebration is set to take place in a family-focused setting. The resort said guests could take part in water activities, beach games and poolside gatherings, followed by a Songkran carnival by the sea. Evening dining experiences will feature Thai flavours in a setting designed for families and groups.
At Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, the programme will include a beachfront parade and traditional Thai games. The resort said evening events would continue with a Thai-inspired dining experience, cultural performances and entertainment. Activities for younger guests will also be included as part of the celebrations.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, which caters to adults, is also marking Songkran with its own programme. The resort said guests could expect beachside activities, evening dining experiences and entertainment shaped around the festival’s themes of joy and togetherness.
Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives said the Songkran celebrations across its properties are intended to give guests an opportunity to experience Thai-inspired traditions in the Maldives while creating shared holiday experiences during the festival period.
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