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.
Drink
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island welcomes world-class vintner Kai Schubert to Ithaa

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island will welcome internationally acclaimed winemaker Kai Schubert, co-founder of Schubert Wines in New Zealand, for an exclusive wine dinner at the resort’s iconic Ithaa Undersea Restaurant on Monday, 6 October 2025.
Renowned for producing world-class Pinot Noir and an exceptional portfolio of wines, Schubert Wines has earned a place on prestigious wine lists worldwide. Schubert’s visit presents Maldivian wine enthusiasts and resort guests with a rare opportunity to engage with a distinguished vintner whilst enjoying an extraordinary culinary experience.
The evening will showcase a specially curated five-course gourmet menu, each dish thoughtfully paired with Schubert Wines to highlight their elegance and complexity. Guests will be guided through the pairings by Schubert himself, gaining personal insights into his winemaking philosophy and journey.

With the breathtaking underwater setting of Ithaa providing a remarkable backdrop, the dinner promises an unforgettable occasion that brings together fine cuisine, distinguished wines and one of the most unique dining environments in the Maldives.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island forms part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty programme for Hilton’s 24 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members booking directly through preferred Hilton channels enjoy instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows nearly any combination of Points and money to be used for bookings, exclusive member discounts unavailable elsewhere, and complimentary standard Wi-Fi. Members also benefit from contactless technology via the Hilton Honors mobile app, enabling digital check-in, room selection, and room access through Digital Key.
Celebration
Siyam World unveils ten days of sports, music, dining, and Halloween spectacle

Siyam World Maldives, part of the Sun Siyam Resorts Lifestyle Collection, is preparing to host ten days of activities and entertainment from 20 to 31 October 2025. The programme will combine sports, culinary showcases, music events, and a large-scale Halloween experience.
The line-up begins with a three-day Rugby Camp from 20 to 22 October, led by England rugby player Danny Care. This will be followed by a Football Camp from 23 to 27 October, with former professionals Marco Negri, Marco Materazzi, and Ciru Caruso guiding young participants through drills, games, and training sessions.
Culinary highlights will feature Chef Junichi Tanaka and sake sommelier Yasuyuki Suzuki at the resort’s Japanese fine-dining venue, Arigato. Chef Tanaka, co-founder of Bincho Tanaka in Ito, Japan, is recognised for his approach combining charcoal cooking, fermentation, and cultural storytelling. Together with Suzuki, they will present a set menu paired with Japanese sake.
On 28 October, the resort will mark its fourth anniversary with a beachside celebration featuring DJ performances by LOVRA and Tom Zanetti. The event will create a festival-style atmosphere with live music and dancing.
For Halloween on 31 October, Siyam World will introduce a themed haunted walkthrough inspired by The Conjuring Universe. Characters including Annabelle, The Nun, La Llorona, and the Crooked Man will be featured. Guests who complete the walkthrough will be able to attend a dance performance inspired by one of the franchise’s stories, followed by a Halloween party with DJs and live acts.
Sara Siyam, Director of Marketing at Siyam World, commented: “At Siyam World, we don’t just host events, we create legendary experiences. Our fourth birthday and Halloween takeover are more than celebrations – they are experiences that continue to redefine events in the Maldives.”
Alongside the scheduled events, guests will have access to Siyam World’s wider facilities and activities, including spa treatments, watersports, horse riding, the island’s go-kart track, and the resort’s 24-hour WOW! All-Inclusive package.
The October programme reinforces Siyam World’s positioning as a resort designed for large-scale experiences, combining sports, entertainment, and dining with its ‘no-rules, just vibes’ philosophy.
Featured
From elves to Bond-inspired parties: Mercure Maldives Kooddoo reveals Festive Royale 2025

This festive season, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is set to host Festive Royale, a holiday celebration designed exclusively for adults, where glamour meets playful mischief and every evening offers a new story. Running from 22 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, the resort will transform into a lively stage for cheeky elves, daring parties, and sparkling celebrations that extend well beyond midnight.
Santa’s scout Elf and his companions will take charge at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, bringing mischief and energy to the celebrations. On Christmas Eve, Alita Restaurant will be transformed into a lively Elves’ playground for the Elf on a Shelf Christmas Eve Gala Dinner, followed by a DJ-led party beneath the stars. On Christmas Day, the Grinch will make a dramatic appearance, while guests will enjoy a festive breakfast, followed by indulgent lunch and dinner buffets. With the Elves in charge, the holiday mood will remain playful, spirited, and delightfully mischievous.
As the year concludes, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo will unveil Operation Countdown, a New Year’s Eve event inspired by the suave world of James Bond. The evening will begin with cocktails at the Pool Bar Deck, leading into a gala dinner marked by style, intrigue, and celebration. The night will culminate in a poolside countdown party, with DJ performances carrying the festivities into the early hours of 2026. On New Year’s Day, Alita Restaurant will welcome guests for an extended champagne brunch.
Beyond the nightly festivities, the resort will provide opportunities for both fun and rejuvenation. Guests may join pool gatherings, cocktail-making and cooking classes, or restore balance with yoga, meditation, and treatments at Suvadiva Spa. Mornings will bring ‘Elf on a Shelf’ hunts with hidden prizes, while evenings will offer reflective experiences such as sound healing under the stars, creating a balance between playful energy and mindful renewal.
Cluster General Manager, Riaan Drever, remarked: “This is the season where Elves run wild, the Grinch takes centre stage, and the New Year feels like the set of a Bond film. At Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, guests can expect celebrations that combine mischief with glamour, keeping the island alive with energy from morning hunts to late-night beats.”
This December, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo invites guests to embrace a festive playground of charm, cheek, and celebration, where no two nights are ever the same and every moment holds the promise of something unexpected.
-
Cooking1 week ago
Milaidhoo Maldives marks Chefs Day with ‘Around the World in Five Courses’ culinary journey
-
Action1 week ago
Maldives welcomes first PADI TecRec Dive Center
-
News1 week ago
Kuramathi Maldives refreshes spa menu with enhanced treatments
-
Drink1 week ago
Oktoberfest comes to shore at SO/ Maldives with bratwurst & beats
-
News1 week ago
Bandos Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification
-
News1 week ago
The St. Regis Maldives reimagines art of celebration this festive season
-
News1 week ago
‘Haunted Elegance’ at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo: Adults-only Halloween under the stars
-
News1 week ago
‘Secrets of the Haunted Manor’: Addams family-inspired Halloween at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa