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Atmosphere Hotels ramps up sustainable tourism initiatives
Sustainability has been a way of life at Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts since the beginning. From earning Green Globe Certifications for all six resorts to building an impressive solar power setup, the company has been steadily introducing impactful green initiatives at its properties.
The internationally recognised Green Globe Certification for environmental sustainability involves an intense journey of working through 44 core environmental criteria and up to 380 compliance indicators, depending on the destination.
“Sustainability is at the heart of our business and the experience we offer. Our guests are increasingly looking at eco-friendly travel, and we as a company are equally invested in sustainable operations that reduce our environmental footprint. We implement initiatives and action plans in all our resorts to optimise energy and water use, as well as effectively manage waste,” Salil Panigrahi, Founder and Managing Director of Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, said.
Leading in solar energy infrastructure
The group is among the leading hospitality companies having largest solar power generation capacity in the Maldives.
They have an extensive solar power installation, with 6274 solar panels across resorts, boasting of a total capacity of 2.17 MW. Their Floating Solar Installation at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is the largest in the destination.
The company sources 10 per cent of its total energy from solar – effectively reducing carbon emissions by about 2,000 tons per year.
With several ongoing solar projects nearing completion, the Atmosphere Group is all set to become the company with largest production capacity in Maldives for solar energy generation soon.
Optimising energy consumption
Energy efficiency is built into all levels of operations at the Atmosphere resorts.
LED lights are installed in indoor and outdoor areas with timers for optimised energy usage.
Villas feature inverter technology air conditioning, and majority are fitted with efficient key-card based energy management systems.
Most of the hot water demand (80 per cent) is catered from renewable resources, such as waste heat from gensets (via heat exchange) or solar heaters.
Battery-operated vehicles and bicycles are used for transport on the island, to reduce the environmental impact.
Responsible waste management
All resorts use twin chamber incinerators for effective combustion of waste with minimal environmental impact. And, the use of state-of-the-art compactors and bottle crushers reduces the waste to minimum prior to organised disposal.
Equal importance is placed on disposing wastewater responsibly, with an inhouse water treatment plant. The treated wastewater is reused for irrigation and gardening, in an energy-efficient process.
Green operations for safe, eco-friendly stay
Staying strong to its sustainable luxury ethos, the company has implemented a host of green initiatives in resort operations.
The potable water comes from an in-house saltwater desalination plant and drinking quality water is sourced through on-site water bottling plants, served in the attractive reusable glass water bottles. This initiative significantly reduces plastic waste – the company avoids the disposal of more than 100,000 plastic water bottles from each resort per year.
In addition, sustainable practices are found across the resorts. For example, only bio-degradable chemicals are used for cleaning in the villas, laundry, kitchens, and other operational areas.
Guests will find plastic-based amenities replaced with biodegradable alternatives – from bamboo toothbrushes to paper straws. Even the miniature toiletry bottles are replaced with larger, pump-topped bottles in all the villas.
Atmosphere resorts practice strict Covid-19 protocols in line with the laws and regulations set forth by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) of Maldives. The company has also partnered with Diversey for highly reliable cleaning and hygiene solutions.
All aspects of operations have been elevated, to ensure the resort is safe to welcome guests for a pure and serene stay.
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic and fast-growing Indian Ocean hospitality brand with extensive resort development and management experience.
Set in some of the most beautiful Maldivian islands, the group operates five best in class resorts ranging from luxury to classic properties in two sub-brands, White Label Set by Atmosphere, and The Selection of OBLU by Atmosphere.
Atmosphere’s first property, Atmosphere Kanifushi, opened its doors in December 2013, followed by three resorts: OBLU by Atmosphere at Helengeli, OBLU SELECT at Sangeli, and the newest addition, VARU by Atmosphere.
The expansion continues with OBLU XPErience Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili – set to open in the Male Atoll in the summer of 2021.
OZEN RETREAT TANGALLE, scheduled to open in 2023, will take the brand to the south coast of Sri Lanka.
Renowned for their impeccable service and world-class dining experiences, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts offer guest-centric holiday experiences through first-of-its-kind resort plans inspired by the brand’s core philosophy, ‘Joy of Giving’.
From elegantly designed beach villas and overwater villas to a range of all-encompassing experiences – guests enjoy a truly relaxing and carefree holiday at each resort, elevated by warm and personalised hospitality.
Cooking
From pizza to pasta: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives unveils Pibati Sul Mare
“Pibati” in Sanskrit translates to “to drink, absorb, or imbibe,” reflecting a profound connection to savouring and enjoying sensory experiences such as food and drink. Guided by this philosophy, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has unveiled a refined concept for its beachside restaurant under the leadership of Executive Chef Frank Wackerhagen. The newly reimagined dining destination invites guests to explore Italy’s cherished culinary traditions.
Renamed Pibati Sul Mare—Italian for “by the sea”—the restaurant serves lunch, specialising in artisanal pizzas and handcrafted pastas. Its menu features a harmonious blend of Italian classics and island-inspired flavours, such as the Margherita pizza and the exquisite Linguini allo Scoglio di Panna, a mixed seafood dish in a garlic cream sauce. These dishes are crafted with high-quality ingredients, including fresh, homegrown herbs cultivated on the island, creating comfort food that captures the island’s vibrant essence.
Nestled against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, Pibati Sul Mare offers a serene retreat for diners seeking a memorable culinary experience. The setting combines coastal charm with contemporary elegance, featuring airy, open spaces designed to immerse guests in the scenic surroundings. Soft, earthy tones and natural materials contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance, while exceptional service ensures every guest feels cared for and attended to.
Whether enjoying a gathering with family or savouring a moment of tranquility, Pibati Sul Mare provides an unforgettable dining experience. It promises to captivate the palate and create cherished memories that linger long after the visit.
Featured
Tripadvisor names Ayada Maldives Best of the Best Resort for luxury and excellence
Ayada Maldives has been recognised as the No. 1 Traveler-Ranked Best of the Best Resort in the Maldives by Tripadvisor for 2024. This prestigious accolade, based on authentic guest reviews, highlights the resort’s dedication to unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences.
This achievement reinforces Ayada Maldives’ status as a premier destination for discerning travellers. The resort has also received acclaim for its exquisite overwater villas, pristine beaches, and world-class culinary offerings, earning additional recognition across categories for hospitality excellence and sustainability.
Renowned for its timeless beauty and immersive luxury, Ayada Maldives continues to redefine the art of indulgence. The resort acknowledges the trust and support of its esteemed guests, which inspire ongoing efforts to set new benchmarks in luxury travel.
Located in the pristine Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Ayada Maldives is a luxury resort offering an authentic Maldivian retreat. With a selection of opulent villas and suites, world-class dining options, and a wide range of recreational activities, the resort provides a personalised experience for every guest. Globally celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and vibrant social media presence, Ayada Maldives remains a standard-bearer for luxury travel in the Maldives.
Featured
From sunrise to sunset: Valentine’s Day bliss at Kuda Villingili
This Valentine’s Day, love takes centre stage at Kuda Villingili, a premier romantic retreat in the Maldives. With its sun-drenched beaches, indulgent dining options, and rejuvenating spa experiences, Kuda Villingili provides couples with an idyllic setting to rekindle joy and celebrate their love stories.
Since its inception, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been synonymous with romance. Its powdery white shores, crystal-clear waters, and expansive vistas offer a sanctuary where serenity and passion intertwine. The resort’s private villas are thoughtfully designed to enhance intimacy, featuring Beach Villas with private pools and views of both sunrise and sunset. Meanwhile, the Water Villas, perched over a vibrant blue lagoon, promise complete privacy and panoramic views of turquoise waters. Whether guests wake to the gentle hues of sunrise from ocean-facing beds or savor sunset’s fiery glow from their private pools, every moment in these villas is crafted to be a dream come true.
For Valentine’s Day 2025, Kuda Villingili invites couples to immerse themselves in romantic experiences as unique as the destination itself. Guests are encouraged to create joyful memories and redefine their love stories within this tropical paradise.
One of the highlights is the floating breakfast experience, offering an indulgent start to the day. Served in the privacy of villa pools, the breakfast includes gourmet selections paired with a bottle of Victoire Prestige Brut Rosé Champagne, setting the tone for a luxurious day.
In the evening, the ‘Crimson and Aqua’ dining experience by the largest pool in the Maldives promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests can savour Cantonese-style lobster, dumplings, and an array of desserts amidst tranquil waters and a lush tropical garden. Handcrafted cocktails, sparkling wine, or a bottle of red or white wine ensure every detail is perfect for the occasion.
For a more intimate setting, Mar-Umi Beach offers Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a curated menu designed for couples seeking both culinary adventure and romance. The dining experience is elevated with a bottle of sake or the finest sparkling wine, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Alternatively, couples can indulge in the ‘Sands of Love’ buffet at The Restaurant, featuring tropical delicacies and live cooking stations. Set beneath swaying palms and a starlit sky, this culinary offering blends exquisite flavours with an enchanting ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation, The Spa provides a Valentine’s package designed for connection and indulgence. This 2.5-hour coconut-inspired journey includes full-body massages, scrubs, and a floral bath, offering rejuvenation for the body and soul.
Throughout the day, guests can toast to love with specialty cocktails and mocktails at The Bar, crafted to capture the joy of connection. In the evening, The Bar transforms into a cozy venue for screenings of classic romantic movies, complemented by snacks and an intimate atmosphere.
To further celebrate love, Kuda Villingili offers complimentary activities such as partner yoga, couples’ painting sessions, heart-opening yoga flows, and outdoor games. Each experience is curated to foster connection and create enduring memories.
Kuda Villingili embodies the essence of romance through its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and turquoise waters. From private destination dining to stargazing under Maldivian skies, every moment is tailored to inspire intimacy and celebrate the extraordinary.
This Valentine’s Day, Kuda Villingili invites couples to rediscover romance in a haven where love is celebrated, cherished, and immortalised.
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