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Authentic Traditional Souvenirs of Maldives

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Since the beginning of tourism in Maldives during the 1970’s the local crafts have gained a vast popularity among tourists. The various crafts and handiwork of Maldivian craftsmen have always intrigued travelers from all over the world. However over time the magnificent works of art has fallen victim to rising tides of cheap imitations and unauthentic replicates. While this may be due to the high production costs from traditional methods, when applied to large scale production, unauthentic products cannot even come close to the real ones in both beauty and uniqueness. Souvenir shops in the city and in islands usually trade both cheap imports and original local handicraft. For travelers it is vital to know that what they are paying for is authentic works of art.

Lacquer works

Also known as “Liye Laajehun”, Maldivian lacquer works are and always has been a magnificent art which has produced creative designs that have survived through the Maldivian history. Since ancient times, the techniques have been applied to create vases, jewelry boxes, and kitchen utensils of fabulous beauty, for the royals of Maldives.

It is a highly decorative art carried out by skilled artists in which lathes are used to paint layers of colored lac over shaped wood. Usually the artist starts with a bright color and ends with a dark color such as black. The artist then uses a sharp tipped object to carve designs exposing the bottom layers. A finishing polish is applied and the work is ready for use.

Dhoni crafts

Dhonis or sail boats are a major invention of Maldivians as they were the first modes of transportation among Maldivians. They are designed to withstand the vigor of the oceans and to provide swift motion. Crafting of miniature models of these ancient works of art is known as Dhoni crafting.

Such models of varying sizes and quality are available in Maldives. Maldivian artists use timber which is carved into models that represent the ancient vessels. The parts are polished and varnished before they are constructed into models.

Wood carvings

Due to the remoteness and abundance of plants in Maldives, ancient natives used wood from the trees to create objects to optimize their work and fulfill their needs. Objects such as kitchen utensils and containers were carved from wood. The carvings are sometimes polished and can represent magnificent designs.

Wood carving has evolved to create works of art such as miniature models that represent the early Maldivians and their culture. These wood carvings are sometimes painted and sometimes subjected to lacquer work. Carvings of images and text into wood was also carried out by early Maldivians. Traditional Maldivian mosques have large wooden planks with text carved into them.

Mat weavings

Mats or “Kunaa” were vital to the early natives. They were mostly used for seating and sleeping among other uses. Mats have also been delivered as royal gifts by the Maldivian Sultans. The artistic designs created during the weaving are still comparable to modern textures. However the technique used is very simple and mostly it is just the creativity of the weaver that produces astonishing designs.

Screw-pine leaves are collected and dried in the sun. Natural dyes are then used to dye them into three basic colors, black, brown and yellow. A simple loom and a knife are used to slit screw-pine leaves to produce the varying patterns on the mat.

Coconut shell products

Coconut is one of the most abundant fruits in Maldives. It is one of those fruits that can be used during all stages of its maturation. In fact the coconut palm, one of the most abundant palm trees in Maldives, is the Maldivian national tree and has been used for multiple purposes throughout history.

The trunks are used for timber while the husks are used to make coir ropes.The leaves are used for weaving mats and creating thatching for roofs. The eakles are used to create brooms. The shell is cleaned, dried, and polished, before it is used to create ornaments or other works of art. “Raa Bandhi” is a container created from two coconut shells joined to increase capacity. It is used to collect and store toddy from coconut palms.

Coir ropes

Coir Ropes are an important part of Maldivian civilization, as they have multiple purposes. They were extremely important to early Maldivians during the building of huts and construction of sailing vessels and hammocks. Ancient Maldivians chose the coconut husks as it is a strong material as well as an easily available resource.

The coconut husks are soaked for about two or three weeks by burying them in the beach. They are then pounded and beaten into fibers which are washed and sun dried. They are then hand rolled and woven into ropes of different sizes. The coir ropes or “Roanu” are now mainly used in ornamental purposes.

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Emerald Maldives hosts tennis masterclasses with Filippo Volandr

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Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, a distinguished 5-star deluxe property and member of The Leading Hotels of the World, has announced a collaboration with Filippo Volandri, the esteemed coach of the Italian National Tennis Team.

From February 21 to 28, 2025, Volandri will conduct six exclusive tennis masterclasses, designed to cater to both children and adults seeking to improve their skills on the court.

As the coach behind Italy’s 2024 Davis Cup victory and a key figure in the Italian national tennis team, Volandri brings extensive expertise and a passion for the sport. Known for his strategic approach and ability to inspire players of all levels, he offers a coaching experience that is both insightful and engaging.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to enhance their tennis abilities under Volandri’s tailored guidance. Whether seasoned players or newcomers to the sport, attendees will benefit from expert insights into technique, strategy, and gameplay. These sessions will take place at the resort’s world-class tennis facilities, set against the serene backdrop of the Maldives, creating an unforgettable environment for skill development.

Rohit Chhettri, General Manager of Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The collaboration with Filippo Volandri provides our guests with an extraordinary opportunity to learn from one of tennis’s finest coaches while enjoying the unmatched luxury and natural beauty of our resort.”

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Family fun meets Premier League coaching: Kuramathi and Campioni experience

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Families seeking the ultimate summer escape in 2025 will find the perfect destination with Kuramathi and Campioni. These two exceptional partners offer a holiday experience where children can combine their love for football with the thrill of training alongside former Premier League players and UEFA coaches at breathtaking resorts. The exclusive Campioni football training camps cater to children aged 4-15 years, running across two weeks with three football legends. Liverpool and England star John Barnes MBE, accompanied by a UEFA coach, will lead sessions from July 28th to August 1st. Meanwhile, England icons Harry Redknapp and Stuart Pearce MBE will join from August 4th to August 8th, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for budding young footballers.

Campioni’s ethos, “Train Like A Pro,” offers a unique chance for children to be coached for two hours daily by some of English football’s most celebrated figures. These interactive and engaging sessions focus on fundamental skills while emphasising teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With personalised guidance provided throughout, participants gain invaluable insights from the experts and create unforgettable memories.

While children hone their skills on the pitch, parents are free to unwind in a variety of ways. They can relax on the beach, explore the island, work out in the gym, visit the spa, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the training sessions from the sidelines.

The Campioni experience extends beyond football. Families are invited to participate in additional activities, such as welcome drinks at the start of the week, a mid-week parents’ game featuring the football legends, and an end-of-week medal and certificate presentation. These events ensure everyone in the family enjoys a dynamic and engaging holiday.

Kuramathi, a renowned Maldivian resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for this unique experience. Famous for its winding white sandbank and tropical jungle spanning the 1.8km island, the resort features 12 room categories, 12 restaurants, 6 bars, evening entertainment, and an array of facilities. Options range from one-bedroom Beach Villas and Two-Bedroom Beach Houses to overwater villas perched above the island’s turquoise lagoon, making it a perfect choice for families.

Off the field, Kuramathi’s complimentary Bageecha Kids’ Club caters to children aged 3-12 years with indoor and outdoor play areas, arts and crafts, splash pads, and a large swimming pool. Activities for older children include badminton, football, ping pong, baseball, and basketball. For couples seeking a romantic evening, extended kids’ club hours are available at an additional charge, alongside 24-hour babysitting for younger children.

The resort also offers unique environmental activities, such as eco-centre presentations, hermit crab trails, tree planting, and visits to hydroponics gardens, encouraging younger guests to learn about sustainable practices.

For adventurous families, Kuramathi provides a fully equipped dive school with multilingual instructors who guide participants through PADI and SSI courses, including options for children as young as eight. Guests can also explore the ocean through snorkelling safaris, turtle discovery trips, dolphin excursions, and semi-submarine tours. Water sports such as windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and catamaran lessons are available for children aged 12 and above.

While children are occupied, parents can relax at the spa or enjoy evening cocktails at the Champagne Loft or pool bars. Dining options include international cuisine at the buffet restaurant and specialty venues like The Reef, La Belle Vie, and Siam Garden. Nightlife on the island is vibrant, with live music, beachside movie nights, DJ performances, and more.

Kuramathi and Campioni promise a summer holiday filled with excitement, learning, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Naomi Cavaday hosts exclusive tennis camp at JA Manafaru

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Tennis enthusiasts of all levels are encouraged to participate in an engaging five-day tennis camp hosted by former British tennis star Naomi Cavaday, as part of JA Manafaru’s ‘Naturally Better Festive Programme.’

From January 1st to 5th, 2025, Naomi Cavaday will provide expert coaching to both adults and children at the resort’s tennis court from 4 to 5 pm daily. With a career that includes competing at Wimbledon and in all four Grand Slam tournaments, Naomi offers players a unique opportunity to receive personalised guidance from a former WTA professional. Whether participants are beginners or advanced players aiming to refine their skills, her competitive spirit and passion for coaching promise to elevate their performance.

The tennis camp aims to deliver an inspiring and dynamic experience for all participants, offering a chance to learn from Naomi’s extensive expertise. Guests will benefit from high-quality coaching and gain valuable insights into the sport, all within a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Jason Kruse, General Manager at JA Manafaru, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Naomi Cavaday to host our tennis camp as part of our ‘Naturally Better Festive Programme.’ Her vast experience and genuine love for the game will undoubtedly inspire guests of all ages, helping them improve their skills and enjoy a memorable tennis experience during their stay.”

Naomi Cavaday, a former British tennis player, turned professional in 2006 and competed in WTA events and all four Grand Slam tournaments. She represented Great Britain as the number one player in the Billie Jean King Cup and has achieved significant victories, including matches against top players such as Venus Williams and Martina Hingis. Beyond her playing career, Naomi is a respected commentator for Sky, Eurosport, and the BBC, where she shares her expertise with global audiences. As a coach, she is dedicated to mentoring and developing new generations of tennis players.

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