Featured
Glamorous European flair lands in paradise this summer with debut of Le Méridien Maldives Resort

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, a 154-villa resort on the island of Thilamaafushi, welcomes creative-minded travellers to experience chic island living from August 1, when the stylish European-inspired brand is expected to make its debut in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
Secluded in a southeastern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is located on Thilamaafushi, a natural island defined as “island surrounded by vast lagoon” in Dhivehi, the local parlance of the Maldives.

Spanning nine hectares, the island is an eco-conscious haven abundant with indigenous flora and fauna, enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs bursting with vibrant marine life, including pods of Manta Rays and turtles.
The resort is accessible by a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana International Airport.

Guests at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa are invited to step out of their daily routine and into a glamorous getaway with notes of nostalgia.
Every aspect of the resort’s design takes cues from the Paris-born brand’s mid-century design aesthetic and European heritage inspired by the era of glamorous travel, presented through a Maldivian lens.
Enveloped by a shimmering lagoon with vast hues of Maldivian blues and fringing reefs abound with marine life, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa unlocks the charm of the Maldives in style, celebrating the destination’s iconic flat lagoons, endless blues and pristine beaches through the distinct European spirit of savouring the good life.
At Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, guests can feel free to indulge in the simple pleasures of life – where wandering sans agenda and lingering longer is encouraged.
The resort’s distinct timeless chic design is inspired by the formation of the Maldives archipelago, emulating the Atoll’s unique topography, its bordering reefs, coral gardens, marine life and underwater pinnacles known as “Thilas”.
Interior and exterior design celebrates the Maldives’ distinct life and culture and vibrant landscape, fused with mid-century modern and Bauhaus aesthetics to present a resort that sits in harmony with the natural environment.

Each villa’s design evokes mid-century philosophies and unites the concept of art and industrial design with clean lines, a muted colour palette and a juxtaposition of renewable materials that fosters simplicity, openness and functionality.
A selection of one- and two-bedroom villas are tucked among the tropical landscape and dotted over the Indian Ocean and feature unparalleled views across the whitewashed beaches, the Indian Ocean or turquoise lagoon.
Families and groups will enjoy the Thilamaafushi Villa, a three-bedroom villa set in its own alcove of the island on the beach.

Guests will be able to dine at six restaurants and bars showcasing global tastes and locally harvested produce, as well as enjoy treatments from sustainable international brands at Explore Spa by Le Méridien.
The hotel will also take part in Le Méridien’s signature brand programmes that evoke the glamour of a summer spent on the French Riviera. This includes “Au Soleil”, which encourages a summer state of mind with activations at “Golden Hour”, the magical hour at the end of a day under the sun; and Le Scoop by Le Méridien, which invites guests to pair a glass of rosé with a refreshing scoop of gelato or sorbet.
Families can take advantage of the Le Méridien Family and Kids’ Hub, with programming that ranges from day and night nature trails, a mini marine conservation program, folklore storytelling, sustainable art classes and micro-green planting in The Greenhouse.

Families can also explore a purposefully-curated menu of expeditions that include a nature safari, marine talks and coral restoration, family foraging and cooking classes in The Greenhouse and expeditions to the resort’s wholly owned private island, Bodu Finolhu as well as, a range of resort-wide experiences that nurtures discovery and conservation of the surrounding environment.
The resort also presents a boutique lifestyle space that features an ocean facing fitness studio and yoga pavilion as well as an interactive creative arts studio for guests to stay balanced and inspired during their travel.

The opening of the Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa will mark Marriott’s seventh launch in the Maldives.
Marriott brands already present in the Indian Ocean tourist paradise include St. Regis Hotels & Resorts (The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort), W Hotels (W Maldives), Sheraton Hotels & Resorts (Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa), Westin Hotels & Resorts (The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort), and JW Marriott (JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa).
The world’s largest hotel company is also preparing to debut its flagship luxury brand, The Ritz-Carlton, in the Maldives.
Rates start from $600 per night in a Sunrise Overwater Villa inclusive of breakfast and dinner. For further information or to make a reservation, please visit www.lemeridien-maldives.com.
Action
Siyam World welcomes Javier Saviola for youth football extravaganza

Siyam World Maldives is inviting young football enthusiasts to take part in an extraordinary experience with Argentine football legend Javier Saviola. From April 24th to 28th, 2025, aspiring players aged 5 to 12 will have the unique opportunity to train with the former FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Argentina national team star in an action-packed Football Camp at the resort’s FIFA-sized stadium.
Following in the footsteps of football icons such as Alessandro Del Piero, Esteban “Cuchu” Cambiasso, Carles Puyol, Marco Materazzi, Robert Pirès, Rio Ferdinand, and Pepe Reina, this five-day camp promises intensive coaching sessions, interactive drills, and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with Saviola. The camp will take place daily from 16:30 to 18:00, providing young players with a rare chance to refine their skills under the mentorship of a world-class footballer. With limited spots available, early reservations are strongly recommended.
Javier Saviola, a retired Argentine footballer, is renowned for his exceptional dribbling and goal-scoring abilities. His career highlights include league titles with Barcelona and Benfica, a UEFA Europa League victory with Sevilla, and an Olympic gold medal with Argentina in 2004. Additionally, he was named South American Footballer of the Year in 1999 at just 18 years old.
Siyam World is already recognised for redefining island escapism, and its commitment to delivering remarkable sporting experiences is no exception. Whether hosting high-energy football camps or curating a lineup of world-class events, the resort continues to push the boundaries of entertainment, sports, and luxury in the Maldives.
Culture
Echoes of tradition: timeless rhythm of Boduberu at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

Steeped in history and rhythm, the Boduberu drummers have echoed for centuries, carrying with them stories of seafarers, islanders, and a culture deeply connected to the ocean. Among the drummers at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is Naseem, whose grandfather was a renowned Boduberu performer in his home island of Lhaviyani Atoll. As a child, Hassan would sit by the beach, mesmerised by the powerful drumbeats that seemed to summon the sea breeze itself. His grandfather would recount a time when Boduberu was not merely music but a tradition passed down through generations, binding communities through song, dance, and shared history.
Boduberu, meaning “big drums” in Dhivehi, originated as a form of communal entertainment where islanders gathered to celebrate, sing, and dance in unison. Over time, it evolved into a cherished national art form, performed during festivals, ceremonies, and as a warm welcome to visitors. The music is driven by the deep, resonant beats of large drums, accompanied by rhythmic clapping, powerful chanting, and synchronised movements. As the tempo builds, the energy becomes infectious, culminating in an exhilarating crescendo where dancers lose themselves in the rhythm, embodying the true spirit of the Maldives.
At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu remains a living tradition, offering an invitation to step into the heartbeat of Maldivian culture. Whether performed under the starlit sky by the ocean or woven into intimate celebrations, each performance brings authenticity and excitement, creating a profound connection between guests and the island way of life. Recently, a couple celebrating a birthday at the resort received a heartfelt surprise when the resort’s team arrived with a beautifully crafted cake, accompanied by the powerful beats of Naseem and his fellow drummers. The rhythmic melodies filled the air as staff and performers joined together to sing in Dhivehi, transforming the occasion into an experience far beyond an ordinary birthday celebration.
For Naseem, every performance serves as a tribute to his grandfather, preserving the stories, songs, and rhythms of his ancestors. For the guests of Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu is more than just entertainment; it is an invitation to experience the Maldives as it has been for generations—alive with music, tradition, and the enduring spirit of its people.
Guests can now enjoy exclusive benefits through Cinnamon DISCOVERY, the brand’s loyalty program in collaboration with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), which connects them to a portfolio of over 800 hotels across 40 brands in 100 countries. As the first Sri Lankan hospitality brand to join GHA DISCOVERY, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts offers members meaningful rewards, personalised experiences, and access to exceptional stays at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, and Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives.
Featured
Love, adventure, and island magic at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s extravaganza

This Valentine’s Day, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives will once again serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable celebration of love and harmony with the second season of Paradise Pulse: Hearts in Harmony. From February 12 to 17, 2025, the resort will welcome couples to experience a week-long celebration filled with romance, unforgettable moments, and special experiences designed to make Valentine’s Week truly memorable.
Each day at the resort will begin with intimate culinary delights available for pre-booking, including a dreamy ‘Breakfast in Bed’ and a ‘Romantic Lagoon Mimosa Breakfast,’ allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking sunrises. As the evening unfolds, love will take centre stage with exclusive dining experiences, such as a private ‘Sandbank Dinner’ under a starlit sky, a sophisticated ‘Wine Lover’s Dinner’ with curated pairings, or a relaxed ‘Lovers’ Feast and Beach BBQ.’
This year, Paradise Pulse will enhance the Valentine’s Day experience with a fusion of electronic dance music and sensual belly dancing, building upon the success of the previous year. Throughout the week, world-class entertainment will elevate the romantic atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Celebrated Trance music artist and producer from the UK, DJ Chris Metcalfe, will return to the Maldives, setting the mood with his electrifying beats. Additionally, Brazilian belly dancer Lurdiana Tejas—an internet sensation with 2.5 million followers—will captivate audiences with her enchanting performances, adding an exotic flair to the celebration.
Guests will have the opportunity to celebrate love in an extraordinary way with specially curated Valentine’s experiences. These exclusive offerings will be available for an additional charge, ensuring a truly memorable celebration in paradise. Adventurous couples can embark on thrilling ocean excursions, explore the rich Maldivian marine world, or participate in the extraordinary Whale Shark Mission, providing a rare chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. The excitement can be further elevated with a Jet Car ride, complete with stunning aerial captures, or a romantic Floating Love Experience, allowing couples to drift into serenity together.
For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s award-winning spa will offer couples an opportunity to reconnect and rejuvenate. The ‘You & Me’ experience, an 80-minute synchronised massage designed for ultimate relaxation, and the ‘Be My Valentine’ treatment, a luxurious 105-minute full-body pampering ritual, will provide indulgent moments of tranquility.
Live music and DJ nights at Lagoon Bar and The Bar will set a romantic tone, complemented by dazzling Belly Dance and Fire Show performances. The Retro and White Party will invite guests to dance under the Maldivian sky, while themed games, scavenger hunts, and couple’s challenges will present playful opportunities to celebrate love.
To make the occasion even more special, Sun Siyam Olhuveli will offer a curated Valentine’s Gift Pack, allowing guests to surprise their significant others with thoughtful keepsakes that capture the essence of romance.
With its breathtaking beauty, immersive experiences, and unparalleled luxury, Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s Week Celebration promises couples an extraordinary escape filled with love, adventure, and island magic.
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