Featured
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives hosts memorable Kite Festival for in-house guests
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, a property under Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts – Sri Lanka’s leading hospitality chain – recently completed yet another successful Kite Festival for its in-house guests.
The coveted Maldives resort true to its reputation as a world-renowned adventure and family island embodied the spirit of relaxation and family togetherness with over 50 traditional and modern kite designs brightening up the coast and skies of the island.
“Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives prides itself in providing an exceptional holiday experience to pamper the modern traveller through lavish relaxation and unique experiences,” General Manager Sanjeeva Perera said.
“Located a mere 20 minutes from Male, our adventure island guarantees action-packed water sports and endless fun for every type of thrill seeker, in search of a truly unique vacation that brings together the best of sun, sand, sea and excitement.”
The Kite Festival was set to the backdrop of the cool ocean breeze, breathtaking orange sun, rippling blue ocean waves, and offered a mix of traditional and modern kite designs, with opportunities for guests to experience art & local culture coupled with world-class entertainment.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives also offered guests the opportunity to partake in kite-making and flying competitions (‘Best Kite’, ‘Furthest Flown Kite’, ‘Fancy dress like a kite’) including activities such as face painting and childrens’ games, conducted under strict Covid-19 health & safety regulations and the ‘Cinnamon Care’ program – The Cinnamon Standard for Care and Cleanliness.
“Overall the Kite Festival was a resounding success in which we were able to ensure our guests continued to enjoy their slice of paradise, despite the challenges, while adhering to the necessary safety and health guidelines in place. It is our prerogative that whilst we must ensure the safety of not only our guests, but also our staff, that we do not falter to find new, innovative ways to provide guests with safe outlets to enjoy their holiday with us,” Perera said.
“At Cinnamon we continue to push the boundary to constantly innovate – putting guests needs, safety above all. I am pleased that we were able to create yet another inspiring moment for our guests in accordance with the brand ethos of Cinnamon. We originally began the Kite Festival in 2018, and are pleased to have been able to continue in this annual tradition even under the prevailing conditions.”
The implementation of the Cinnamon Standard for Care and Cleanliness throughout all Cinnamon properties ensures the delivery of a safe and unobtrusive experience for guests, with strict measures in place according to domestic and World Health Organisation guidelines.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is Sri Lanka’s largest hotel owner with a portfolio of 15 hotels and resorts in both Sri Lanka and the Maldives with a passion for style and a penchant for fun. Adding to its portfolio, the much-anticipated project valued at $1 billion Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort, will be opening in mid-2022.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
Featured
Halloween at Sun Siyam Iru Veli turns fantasy, not fright
Sun Siyam Iru Veli marked Halloween with a one-day island celebration, “Whimsy Over Wicked,” reimagining the tradition of fright as a fairytale of fantasy on 31 October. The programme invited guests of all ages to immerse themselves in themed workshops, entertainment, and dining experiences designed to encourage creativity and the joy of make-believe.
At the Turtle Kidz Club, children joined a full-house Pumpkin Workshop, decorating pumpkins with gemstones, bright colours, and playful patterns. As the sun set over Fresh Water Beach, the festivities shifted to a Masquerade Evening, where guests enjoyed island beats and signature cocktails and mocktails against a golden horizon. The celebration continued at Turtle Beach with a Beach BBQ Dinner, presenting a Halloween-inspired menu in a storybook setting with live music by the sea.
The night concluded with a private “Cinema Under the Stars” screening, offering an open-air experience that captured the spirit of the occasion.
Through “Whimsy Over Wicked,” Sun Siyam Iru Veli highlighted creativity, connection, and the island’s natural setting. Guests departed with memories shaped by laughter, imagination, and a shared celebration under the Maldivian night sky.
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