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World Tourism Day with Marriott in Maldives
With World Tourism Day (27 September), Marriott International has identified some of the biggest trends for the hospitality industry.
Some of these trends have reshaped (and are still reshaping) the industry despite the pandemic and will no doubt continue to have a significant impact on travellers’ behaviours.
Shift to greener travel
Travellers are increasingly more concerned about their impact on the world and there has been an increase in awareness of environmental and social issues.
According to recent research by Kantar, 58% of Asian consumers are willing to invest time and money supporting companies that do good, and in fact 63% are already factoring in sustainability concerns, at least once in a while, when making purchase decisions. Their top concerns for environment issues include water pollution, extreme weather events and air pollution.
Sustainable offerings that conscientious travellers to the Maldives can look forward to include initiatives to continue to eliminate single-use plastics, implementation of re-usable glass bottles for water and juices, usage of paper products around the resorts and initiating monthly dives against debris and clean-up days along with various other initiatives to promote the conservation of marine life and awareness of the same.
Apart from eco-conscious accommodation, travellers are also looking for meaningful travel initiatives.
Earlier this year, Marriott International launched the Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy program which aspires to shift the way vacations are perceived – from pure leisure to a value-adding opportunity that allows travellers to explore and build deeper connections in local communities.
The Adopt a Coral initiative at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites guests to participate in the fun and interactive coral-fragment plantation activity in an effort to promote reef habitats and generate new coral.
The resort has teamed up with Reefscapers, a coral propagation organisation appointed by the Maldivian Government as custodians of the coral colonies in the Gulhi Falhu lagoon which was slated to be destroyed as part of a reclamation project.
The activity is led by experts and offers a hands-on experience to participants while also providing an alternative business to the 250 inhabitants whose sole previous source of employment was fishing.
W Maldives has partnered with cutting-edge Hong Kong swimwear label Mazu Resortwear to create two exclusive prints with a bold message in mind. Made out of 12 salvaged plastic bottles, the limited edition swimwear collection is stealing the scene in style and is inspired by the team’s commitment to save the ocean.
At The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, guests can start young with their initiation into marine life conservation as their Marine biologist conducts educational talks with children and adults alike about the diverse marine life around the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Baa Atoll, where the resort is located.
All about human connection
The basics of hospitality continue to remain the bedrock of how we will emerge stronger from the pandemic
While this trend is not particularly new, it serves as an important reminder that at the heart of it, travellers are craving meaningful human connection, one of the best things that travel gives us! Whether it’s a business or leisure traveller, the importance of human connection and creating a personalised experience cannot be overstated.
In the travel and events space, the virtual event attendee desires bespoke experiences curated based on their needs and wants. Allowing them to pick and choose what to participate in and when, is a new level of personalisation touted as a trend to stay.
Leisure travellers to the Maldives can look forward to the Thakuru service at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa who assist guests in arranging a personalised itinerary during their stay recommending customised recreational activities on the island such as spa & wellness activities, private dining arrangements, and dolphin cruise to name a few.
Supporting local
Not just a trend, but an important undertaking for travellers who directly contribute to empowering the local economy
The pandemic has underscored, for many travellers, that everyone is in it together. Governments around the world were encouraging people to spur domestic travel by supporting local and for many, it was also about giving their favourite local business a fighting chance at survival.
At Marriott International, we are committed to supporting local communities.
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa uses Island Apothecary products – made from local natural ingredients, in some of the signature couple treatments at Spa by JW. This initiative supports women run businesses in the community as each bottle is mixed, bottled and shipped straight from the island homes.
With the theme of Tourism for Inclusive Growth designated for this year’s World Tourism Day, supporting local is not just a trend, but an important undertaking to help kick-start recovery and growth.
Celebration
Tropical Oktoberfest: experience German flavours and island vibes at Oaga Art Resort
Beer enthusiasts and experience seekers are being invited to a unique celebration at Oaga Art Resort – Oktoberfest in Paradise. From October 3rd to 5th, guests can look forward to a tropical twist on the classic Oktoberfest event, featuring a blend of German and Maldivian flavours, vibrant art installations, and immersive experiences.
Located amidst the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of the Maldives, Oaga Art Resort offers a luxurious escape. Guests can enjoy lounging by the infinity pool with a cool stein of beer, while taking in the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views. As the sun sets, attendees can mingle under a star-filled sky, sharing stories and laughter with fellow revellers.
Oaga Art Resort has curated a weekend filled with activities to delight the senses and entertain guests. The schedule includes:
Performances:
- Day 1: DJ performance by The Flag Twins, a dynamic British DJ duo known for their energetic and innovative sound.
- Day 2: Live music from Project Groove, a Maldivian band known for its eclectic blend of genres and high-energy performances.
- Day 3: Raa Baa Rave featuring DJ Afruh, a renowned Maldivian DJ and multi-instrumentalist recognised for his soulful and eclectic style.
Culinary Delights:
- A fusion of German and Maldivian flavours will be served throughout the weekend.
- Interactive cooking classes will allow participants to explore German cuisine, including beer-based recipes and pretzel-making.
- Refreshing beer-themed cocktails will also be available.
Creative and Educational Activities
Guests can unleash their creativity by participating in art sessions such as Beer Bottle Sculpture, Can Craft (Beer Edition), and Beer Can Planter. For those interested in learning more, there will be beer tastings and a German culture and beer trivia quiz.
Weekend Getaway Offer: A Tropical Paradise Awaits
Oaga Art Resort is offering a special Oktoberfest weekend package, which includes:
- Overnight stay in a choice of luxurious villa
- Roundtrip airport transfers for a seamless journey
- All-inclusive meals and drinks, featuring local and German cuisine
- Special rates for bookings with the code “OAGAFEST”: USD 400 per night for the Veyoge Gallery Pool Villa and USD 450 per night for the Haruge Beach Villa with a private pool.
Guests are encouraged to book early to take advantage of this exclusive offer and enjoy a unique blend of tropical paradise and German cheer.
Celebration
Diwali carnival at The Standard Maldives: cultural feasts, workshops, and spectacular performances
Experience a truly unique and festive celebration at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, where the magic of Diwali comes alive against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean. From October 28 to November 6, guests are invited to celebrate the Festival of Lights with a variety of exciting events and activities that reflect the vibrant spirit of this cherished holiday. The Diwali Carnival at the resort will feature everything from traditional Indian feasts to cultural workshops, dazzling performances, and engaging activities for all ages.
Diwali festivities highlights at The Standard, Maldives:
- Special buffet & traditional welcome – savour a specially curated Diwali menu featuring authentic Indian sweets, starters, and main dishes. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a traditional aarti (ceremonial light) and tika (forehead mark). Diwali-themed cocktails and mocktails will also be available at all resort restaurants.
- Festive décor & photo booth – the resort will be beautifully decorated with diyas (oil lamps), rangoli (intricate floor designs), fairy lights, and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere. From October 28 to November 7, guests can also capture memorable moments at the themed photo booth, complete with traditional costumes and props.
- Cultural workshops & activities – get hands-on with henna art, join a rangoli-making workshop, or participate in a friendly kite-flying competition. Both children and adults can enjoy traditional Indian games like Pithoo (spinning top) and Tambola (Bingo).
Live performances
Enjoy lively folk dances like Garba and classical music recitals that bring the rich cultural traditions of India to life on select dates.
Culinary experiences
For food lovers, The Standard offers a range of culinary delights to celebrate Diwali:
- Kula buffet (November 1): indulge in an Indian buffet corner featuring traditional Diwali sweets, along with authentic starters and main courses.
- Cooking demonstrations (November 5): at Gudu Guda Restaurant, witness cooking demonstrations of popular Diwali treats, followed by lunch. Priced at $45 per person.
- Tea & dessert pairing experience (November 6): at Todis Beach, enjoy a selection of Indian teas like masala chai and cardamom-infused blends paired with festive desserts. Priced at $12 per guest.
Fire show & festive attire contest
Wrap up the festivities on November 1 with a spectacular fire show and a cultural attire contest, where guests can compete for a special prize.
At The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, the serene and luxurious surroundings perfectly complement the joyous atmosphere of Diwali. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and elegant accommodations, the resort provides the ideal setting for a memorable celebration. Whether enjoying the traditional rituals or indulging in relaxation, guests will experience the vibrant essence of Diwali in a truly unforgettable way.
News
Mind, body, and soul in harmony: Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s revitalised wellness offerings
Sun Siyam Iru Veli continues to set a benchmark for wellness retreats, offering an immersive experience centered on relaxation and rejuvenation. In its ongoing commitment to enhancing guest wellness, the resort has enriched its wellness programs by introducing new activities designed to bring mind, body, and soul into perfect harmony.
The wellness programs at Sun Siyam Iru Veli have long been a core aspect of the experience, blending the natural beauty of the surroundings with expert-led practices to create an atmosphere of complete serenity. Guests are invited to participate in daily yoga sessions at sunrise or sunset, which help them connect with the tranquil environment while improving flexibility, strength, and inner peace. Additionally, a variety of fitness classes, tailored to all levels of ability, offer an active yet rejuvenating way to maintain fitness while enjoying an island getaway.
One of the most popular offerings is sound healing, where soothing sound wave vibrations guide guests into a deep state of relaxation. This ancient practice, known for its calming effects, pairs perfectly with the serene ambiance of the island, making it an unforgettable part of any wellness journey.
To further elevate the experience, the resort’s skilled wellness professionals, including the newly appointed expert Roshni Patel, who has nearly a decade of experience in yoga, sound healing, and fitness training, ensure that each activity is thoughtfully designed with guests’ personal goals in mind. Whether seeking to improve physical fitness, reduce stress, or embrace mindfulness, Sun Siyam Iru Veli provides tailored wellness experiences, such as:
- Group and Private Yoga Sessions: From Vinyasa to Hatha, these classes are conducted in serene outdoor spaces, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in nature’s healing beauty.
- Fitness Classes: Energising options like Zumba, HIIT, and strength training keep guests active and invigorated, all while maintaining a sense of relaxation in the tropical setting.
- Holistic Therapies: In addition to sound healing, the resort offers a variety of wellness treatments that combine ancient practices with modern techniques to help guests achieve inner balance and revitalisation.
As a resort dedicated to wellness, Sun Siyam Iru Veli provides an unparalleled opportunity for guests to reconnect with themselves through meaningful and transformative experiences. The carefully curated activities blend the natural elements of the Maldives with expert guidance to create lasting moments of impact. The lush surroundings, pristine beaches, and calming ocean views enhance every wellness session, allowing guests to fully unwind and return home refreshed.
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