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Sharman Joshi chooses Hideaway, Lily Beach for Maldives family getaway

Renowned Bollywood actor Sharman Joshi, along with wife Prerana Chopra and their children are currently resort-hopping at Lily Hotels in the Maldives.
Joshi is quite popular in India and beyond, coming from a family that boasts a long line of actors.
He himself has acted in several Bollywood hits like Style (2001), Rang De Basanti (2006), Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006), Golmaal Returns (2008), and most recently Mera Fauji Calling (2021).
He is probably most famous for his role as Raju Rastogi in the internationally acclaimed film 3 Idiots (2009), a coming-of-age comedy that became the highest grossing Indian film at that time. It is considered a perfect movie with a great message about education that is enjoyed by audiences around the world – an instant Bollywood classic for sure.

Everyone needs a break from both the stressors of work and school, and the Joshi family is no exception.
After the Maldives, the renowned luxurious island retreat situated just next door reopened its doors to the Indian market in July, it was the perfect timing for the family to enjoy a relaxing vacation.
First up on their trip was Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.
A hidden jewel tucked away deep in the Maldives, Hideaway offers the rare opportunity to experience true luxury and seclusion – exactly what the Joshi family wanted.
Located on Dhonakulhi Island in Haa Alifu Atoll, this five-star resort is one of the largest, with pristine, untouched, and picturesque island settings throughout. This meant that there was much fun to be had for the whole Joshi family exploring the resort where space meets privacy.
Joshi shared glimpses of this paradise on his Instagram, with snapshots of family time in their villa’s pool, bicycling around the island, and a couple’s photo with his wife, surrounded by scrumptious looking food.

The family chose Lily Beach Resort & Spa as the second stop on their grand Maldivian tour.
Lily Beach is a luxury all-inclusive five-star resort located on Huvahendhoo Island in the South Ari Atoll, just a short 25-minute flight by seaplane from the capital Malé and Velana International Airport.
This proximity, as well as the reputation of its legendary all-inclusive plan – The Platinum Plan, make it a sought-after destination.

The Joshis have had a blast with plenty of watersports for everyone, an ocean adventure with unforgettable sightings of whale sharks and manta rays, a massage day at Tamara Spa, and a healthy sampling of Lily Beach’s out-of-this-world dining experiences – including Tamarind, the award-winning Indian/Thai fusion restaurant that all Indian guests are raving about after visiting.
The all-inclusiveness, diverse food options, a variety of leisure and sporting activities, and world-class service from both Hideaway & Lily Beach create the perfect vacation whether it be romantic experiences for couples or fun times for families, there is something for everyone – If you ask the Joshi family after their relaxing and rejuvenating time in the paradisical Maldives, they will surely tell you the same.
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Sun Siyam unveils new identity and signature experiences

Sun Siyam has unveiled a milestone transformation as it celebrates 35 years of Maldivian hospitality. More than a visual refresh, the brand’s evolution introduces a new statement anchored in The Home of the Maldivian Spirit, reinforcing its position as one of the Maldives’ most culturally authentic resort operators. The transformation enhances guest journeys through the introduction of Signature Experiences across all six resorts and strengthens customer relationships via Siyam Rewards.
The group has unified its five Maldivian resorts and Sri Lankan retreat under a single identity, The House of Siyam. To provide greater clarity for guests and partners, properties are now grouped under three distinct collections: Luxury, Privé, and Lifestyle.
- Luxury Collection: Representing the highest calibre of island indulgence, led by Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, this collection offers premium exclusivity.
- Lifestyle Collection: Designed for energetic adventure and diverse experiences, Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World form part of this portfolio.
- Privé Collection: Centred on privacy and bespoke comfort, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, and Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka comprise this category.
A central feature of the transformation is the introduction of Signature Experiences, designed to extend beyond villa stays and integrate Maldivian heritage and imagination into every visit. Guests may participate in Maldivian Roots, a weekly culinary and cultural series, book the Maldives’ first overwater photo studio, the Insta Villa, or enjoy the atmosphere at the Sun Siyam Beach Club. Other offerings include the Wow Welcome, Hidden Treasure Chests, Plant Based Bliss dining, and Moonlit Cinemas.
The brand has also launched Siyam Rewards, a digital membership programme offering personalised itineraries, room upgrades, and optional carbon offsets. Members benefit from rewards starting with their first booking. Each stay contributes to marine conservation and community projects through the group’s sustainability initiative, Sun Siyam Care.
Reflecting on this milestone, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, Founder, Owner & Managing Director, said, “When we founded Sun Siyam in 1990 and later opened our first resort in 1998, our goal was simple: to share the warmth of our islands and our people with the world. This transformation keeps that soul alive while giving us the space to innovate for the next generation of free-spirited travellers.”
Chief Executive Officer Deepak Booneady added, “This rebrand is not just about design, it is about experience. It is about cultural authenticity, purpose-driven hospitality and creating moments that spark joy. With the Maldives’ widest choice of villas, the region’s most generous premium all-inclusive plan and now our Signature Experiences, we are setting the stage for the future of island travel.”
The redesigned website, sunsiyam.com, brings the new brand identity across all touchpoints with a look and feel that is both distinctly Maldivian and modern.
The rebrand was developed with leading industry experts: JHAGGER&CO as brand advisors; StudioSixty7, led by Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero, for interior restyling; and Dominik Ruhl, a Maldives hospitality pioneer, for operational standards and experiences. Implementation was carried out by Sun Siyam’s operations team, General Managers, Resort Managers, and brand, sales, marketing, and public relations teams, coordinated by Abdulla Thamheed, VP of Operations.
The outcome is a design system that retains Maldivian heritage while embracing a contemporary edge.
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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort wins ‘Best Design Resort’ at TTM Awards

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has been named ‘Best Design Resort’ at the TTM Awards 2025, an accolade that recognises architectural excellence combining innovation with distinctive aesthetics. The award highlights the resort’s position as one of the Maldives’ most striking luxury properties, known for its design vision and refined guest experiences.
Located on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, the resort is distinguished by its architectural concept created by Singapore-based WOW Architects. Its design draws inspiration from the natural environment of the Maldives, incorporating organic forms and local motifs with a modern interpretation. Among the resort’s most notable structures are the Whale Bar, shaped in the likeness of a whale shark, and the overwater Iridium Spa, designed to resemble a seashell, both exemplifying the seamless integration of luxury and nature.
The property’s design approach extends across its 77 private villas, positioned to offer either ocean or jungle views. Each villa is designed to blend with the island landscape, integrating sustainable elements while maintaining comfort, privacy, and style. The resort’s spaces reflect a balance between contemporary lines and Maldivian influences, creating a distinct sense of place.
The TTM Awards, presented annually during Travel Trade Maldives (TTM), recognise outstanding contributions to the region’s hospitality sector. This year’s award reinforces The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s reputation as a leader in design and attention to detail.
Since its opening, the resort has become known for uncompromising luxury, featuring celebrated dining options, an extensive wine cellar, and curated experiences supported by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. The recognition at the TTM Awards 2025 further strengthens its status as a global benchmark in design-led hospitality.
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Festive escapes await at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has announced its Festive Early Bird package, inviting guests to celebrate the holiday season amidst tropical gardens and white sandy beaches. Available for stays between 20 December 2025 and 10 January 2026, the offer combines dining, family-friendly experiences, and wellness, creating a seamless festive escape.
The package includes a full-board meal plan across the resort’s restaurants. Children aged 11 and under stay and dine with compliments when sharing accommodation with their parents, reinforcing the family-focused spirit of the season.
Each day begins with a buffet breakfast at Feast, featuring fresh juices, coffees, and teas. Lunch is served à la carte across four venues, with menus showcasing Mediterranean, Indian, Mexican, and Asian-inspired cuisine. Evenings offer either a buffet dinner at Feast or a curated three-course à la carte menu at selected outlets. Adults also receive dining credits to experience the distinctive Thai flavours of Baan Thai or seafood specialities at Sea Salt.
Guests benefit from complimentary shared speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport, ensuring a smooth arrival. During their stay, they may enjoy activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, and tennis. Additional relaxation awaits at Shine Spa for Sheraton, where a 15% saving is available on selected treatments.
The resort has tailored the festive programme with carefully considered details, blending leisure, cuisine, and wellness to create lasting memories. The Festive Early Bird package reflects the essence of a Maldivian holiday, combining turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and moments of celebration.
Reservations for the Festive Early Bird package are open until 15 October 2025, offering guests the opportunity to secure a seasonal retreat at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.
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