Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort Maldives receives gold for Covid-19 readiness

The Best Luxury Hideaway Resort in the Maldives as per Luxury Lifestyle Awards in 2021 continues to impress, this time with a new health-related accolade.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is now a Covid-Ready Gold certified property, administered by Hotel Resilient and verified by the Maldives’ own auditing company, NSURE.
Gold Certification status verifies that Hideaway is following international and local guidelines, industry best practices, and the latest scientific research related to the pandemic.
To receive this top-ranking credential, Hideaway had to meet each and every global and local standard overseen by Hotel Resilient which included enhanced cleaning, risk controls, physical distancing, and response plans.
Since last year, the resort has focused a lot of time, energy, and resources into combatting the pandemic and reducing its negative effects.
Several new strategies and policies were put in place, such as the creation of coronavirus-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the formation of a Covid-19 Taskforce, and the hiring of new staff specifically dedicated to Covid-19.
This dedication to safety, coupled with the unique geographic disposition of the Maldives, is the perfect frontline defence.
All resorts are situated on their own islands, accessible only by speedboat or seaplane and only accessible after getting a negative PCR test. They are thus separated from each other, the capital city, and the main airport. This “one-island, one-resort” concept has kept the hospitality industry afloat in these challenging times and strengthened the public health response in the Maldives.
Balancing vacation and fun with health and safety is a unique challenge, but one that the Hideaway team takes seriously.
Hotel Resilient’s Gold Certification is a culmination of all these measures and highlights the fact that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is doing everything it can to be a safe tropical destination for tourists during the pandemic.
“I would like to sincerely express my gratitude for the COVID-READY GOLD Certification and the amazing work accomplished by our team. More than ever, our priority is still unchanged and the health and safety of our guests and team members is our utmost priority,” Resident Manager Christophe Adam said.
While externally seeking this recognition, Hideaway Beach also turned internally and has been vaccinating staff against Covid-19. Through their #strongertogether campaign, and in close cooperation with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Tourism, and Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital and Dhidhdhoo Atoll Hospital, Hideaway Beach established a vaccination centre and was able to offer the vaccine to all staff members that wanted to receive it.
At this time, the resort is excited to report 94 per cent of their staff have received two doses and are thus fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
“With the use of all tools we have in-hand such as masks, cleaning tools, resort app, and communication materials, we believe managing safety and cleanliness procedures and effective communication of those procedures to guests as well as associates is possible during this pandemic,” Safety & Security Manager Akhil P Chandran said.
He is joined in the sentiment by the Resort Doctor, Dr Anita Gurung who works tirelessly in the Covid-19 response and ensuring the well-being of all guests and associates on the island.
“Proud to be a part of a team who is prepared to welcome you to where you can relax in a safe and tranquil environment while we ensure your safety and well-being is taken care of. With our vaccination efforts and common-sense approach to Covid safety at the resort, I am sure we will all get through this together,” she said.
For travellers who are anxious about Covid-19 or vacationing during a pandemic, look no further: the Best Luxury Hideaway Resort in the Maldives has the health and safety of guests and staff as its main focus, both before and during your stay.
Tourists travelling during the pandemic can rest easy knowing their favourite hotel has made mitigating Covid-19 a top priority, and now has the gold medal and vaccine card to prove it. Thus, guests can make it their top priority to rest, relax, and rejuvenate in our slice of paradise in the Maldives.
To inquire about Hideaway or book a stay at the resort, please visit www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com or send an email to reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com.
Featured
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives announces grand opening

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is preparing for the launch of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, a serene island retreat set to open on April 1st. To commemorate the opening, the resort is offering an exclusive introductory promotion, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious escape with a range of benefits. The special offer includes Stay 4, Pay 3 and Stay 7, Pay 5 packages, along with exceptional upgrades available for a limited time.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is the final addition to Centara’s collection of four distinctive properties in the Maldives, each tailored to different traveller preferences. The resort features 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater accommodations that harmonise with the surrounding natural beauty. This private island sanctuary seamlessly merges Thai-inspired hospitality with Maldivian charm, offering world-class dining across multiple restaurants and bars, as well as revitalising wellness experiences at the Spa Cenvaree Retreat.

The opening of this property also marks the completion of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a visionary project that aims to redefine experiential travel in the Maldives. As part of this exclusive multi-island destination, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers refined tranquility combined with immersive experiences. Guests staying at the resort also have access to the exciting water attractions and vibrant amenities of the neighbouring Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.
Andrew Jansson, Cluster General Manager of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives & Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming opening, stating, “From our picturesque beachfront and overwater villas to our exquisite dining and holistic wellness journeys, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of this magnificent property exceeds expectations. We look forward to offering travellers a truly distinctive experience that captures the essence of both Centara’s signature warm hospitality and the beauty of this Maldivian paradise.”
To celebrate the grand opening, Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting guests to take advantage of the Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Bookings made before June 30th, 2025, for stays between April 1st and October 15th, 2025, will qualify for the Stay 4, Pay 3 or Stay 7, Pay 5 packages. The offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary sparkling wine and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, and additional perks for CentaraThe1 members.
Featured
Embrace Maldives’ hidden summer with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

Beyond the well-known winter appeal of the Maldives lies an underrated gem—summer. From May to October, the islands transform into a sanctuary of intimate escapes, breathtaking marine encounters, and uninterrupted tranquillity, offering a side of the Maldives that remains one of travel’s best-kept secrets. This year, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to rediscover summer in the Maldives through curated experiences across its four island resorts, each tailored to romance, diving, adventure, and relaxation.
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives provides an ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic summer retreat. Overwater bungalows offer a tranquil atmosphere, where the gentle lapping of waves sets a soothing rhythm for the days ahead. For those desiring an exclusive adults-only escape, Platinum Island offers elevated privacy and sophistication, creating the perfect environment for seclusion. As the sun sets, private sandbank dinners and candlelit beachside feasts transform ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
For diving enthusiasts, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Home to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs and in close proximity to iconic dive sites, Ellaidhoo provides exceptional opportunities for marine exploration. Divers can witness the Maldives’ marine life in its full splendour, and encounters with Tripod, the island’s beloved three-finned turtle, add a unique charm to every dive. Whether exploring the legendary house reef or venturing to sites such as Fish Head and Maaya Thila, every descent promises an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ocean’s wonders.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives serves as the ultimate summer playground for thrill-seekers, where the ocean’s energy meets endless opportunities for adventure. Home to the world-renowned surf break, Pasta Point, the island attracts seasoned surfers eager to ride its perfectly peeling waves. Beyond surfing, the resort offers an array of exhilarating water sports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, ensuring every adrenaline-seeker finds an activity suited to their passion. Whether carving through the waves or speeding across crystal-clear waters, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives encapsulates the thrill of ocean adventure.
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives redefines summer living, blending stylish beachfront retreats with effortless indulgence. Days unfold at a leisurely pace, with sun-drenched afternoons by the infinity pool, gourmet dining that highlights the flavours of the sea, revitalising spa treatments, and sunrise yoga sessions designed to awaken the senses. Whether savouring exquisitely crafted dishes, indulging in personalised wellness experiences, or simply embracing the island’s serenity, Velifushi offers an escape where time slows down, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the art of island living.
Far from the winter crowds, summer in the Maldives reveals a season of untold beauty, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for unforgettable experiences. Whether diving into vibrant marine ecosystems, embracing barefoot luxury, or savoring moments of pure tranquillity, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes travellers to uncover one of the islands’ best-kept secrets
Cooking
Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi

Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.
A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.
During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.
At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.
While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.
-
Featured1 week ago
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives announces grand opening
-
News7 days ago
Cricket icon Rohit Sharma enjoy family vacation at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
-
News1 week ago
Noku Maldives invites guests to spellbinding Earth Hour 2025 celebration
-
Awards1 week ago
Amilla Maldives recognised for inclusive travel at 2025 Experientialist Awards
-
Family1 week ago
Celebrate Easter with ‘Blooming Bunny Bash’ at Sun Siyam Iru Veli
-
News6 days ago
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo offers rich culture, vibrant traditions this Eid-al-Fitr
-
News1 week ago
Celebration of relaxation, creativity, togetherness this Eid al-Fitr at SO/ Maldives
-
News5 days ago
Creating artful moments: Shimha Shakeeb captures essence of island life at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands