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Vakkaru Maldives scoops 3 prestigious awards at 2021 World Travel Awards

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Vakkaru Maldives ends another year on a high with multiple wins at the 28th World Travel Awards 2021.

The private island sanctuary, which only opened doors in 2017, scooped three prestigious titles this year.

For the second year in a row, it was crowned the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort. Industry experts and guests also voted again for the sprawling signature four-bedroom Vakkaru Over Water Residence as the Maldives Leading Hotel Suite and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards acknowledges, rewards and celebrates excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. With winners in each category determined by travel and tourism industry professionals and everyday travellers, it is the ultimate stamp of industry excellence.

These new honours validate the world-class facilities and signature hospitality that Vakkaru Maldives offers its guests and reinforce its position as one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives and the Indian Ocean.

The resort has set itself apart with innovative hospitality concepts and memorable guest experiences, such as the launch of “Vakkare” last year. This enhanced service standard focuses on providing the utmost care in all its forms, with a commitment from all members of the Vakkaru team to make a sincere and creative effort to surpass guest expectations.

Additionally, vacationers can also enjoy a range of unparalleled experiences. These range from signature wellness treatments for the body, mind and soul in the luxurious overwater Merana spa and sunrise yoga sessions on the pristine white sand beach to private tennis lessons with some of the world’s top players and the finest gourmet experiences to be had in the Maldives.

With its enviable location in Baa Atoll, named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011, the luxury resort also offers some of the Indian Ocean’s best bluewater experiences, from scuba diving and snorkelling to watersports.

Couples embarking on a life journey together can enjoy several exceptionally romantic experiences at this private water retreat. These include exclusive night-time use of the spa, where indulgent treatments are followed by a healthy and nutritious dinner underneath the starry skies. Or, private excursions to a nearby sandbank to enjoy Champagne and canapés as they admire another spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.

With the double title of “Maldives Leading Hotel Suite” and “Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite”, the luxurious Vakkaru Over Water Residence is well suited to families or a group of friends looking to enjoy the ultimate holiday in complete privacy.

Drawing on the rich traditions of Maldivian style, it is one of the largest overwater residences in the country. And located at the end of the water villa jetty, it guarantees unobstructed views of the ocean’s Fifty Shades of Blue and the spectacular sunsets.

The two-storey residence, spread over 971 square metres, has its own infinity pool and comes with a dedicated chef. Inside the sprawling space are four bedrooms and perfectly fitted bathrooms with spacious tubs and private steam rooms.

Outside, the vast, versatile terrace includes a dining area, multiple relaxation spaces, a private spa pavilion and a staircase that leads directly to the sea.

Other thoughtful guest benefits include VIP passage through Malé’s Velana International Airport. In addition, the on-call team of butlers facilitate numerous in-resort and in-villa privileges on the island, from complimentary sundowners and private beach barbecues to family film nights with unlimited popcorn, candyfloss and ice cream, and celebratory afternoon teas.

Speaking about the resort’s latest accolades, Iain McCormack, General Manager, Vakkaru Maldives, said: “This recognition for the second year in succession is a wonderful honour. These awards are a testament to the tireless efforts of all Vakkaru team members to deliver our brand of inspirational hospitality and exceptional service to every guest.”

“There is no greater reward for us than knowing that we were able to exceed guest expectations. These important wins will encourage us to continue working with even more enthusiasm to offer our guests extraordinary and memorable experiences at our timeless sanctuary.”

Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its spectacular sea life, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless sanctuary recently named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort in the World Travel Awards.

An awe-inspiring 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport takes you to this secluded reef island, shaded by coconut palms and blessed with calming ocean views and powder-soft white-sand beaches.

Here 113 beautifully appointed Over Water and Beach Villas are elegantly designed to respect their surroundings, while exceptional dining experiences and amenities await.

Among our industry-leading offerings is overwater Merana Spa, complete with an Ayurveda practice and a regular host to residencies by the world’s most inspiring wellness practitioners.

Children and teens are generously catered for in the Parrotfish Club and Coconut Club respectively, while guests of all ages can play against world-famous pros through a best-in-class coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis.

Threading all those services and facilities together, our unique hospitality concept Vakkare places a sincere, proactive commitment to care at the core of all we do.

For more information, visit www.vakkarumaldives.com.

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World-first overwater padel tennis court launched at Meyyafushi Maldives

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Meyyafushi Maldives, a new five-star premium all-inclusive boutique resort, has introduced what it describes as a world-first in resort recreation: a fixed overwater padel tennis court. Positioned above clear lagoons and framed by sweeping sunset views, the court offers guests an opportunity to play and unwind in a distinctive setting surrounded by panoramic ocean vistas.

Located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, the overwater court allows players to take part in a match while immersed in the natural calm of the surrounding seascape. Guests staying at the resort are offered one hour of complimentary padel tennis as part of the premium all-inclusive package. The setting provides a secluded and tranquil space for both beginners and experienced players to practise with the sound of the ocean beneath.

“Padel tennis has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and we wanted to bring it to life in the most spectacular way possible,” said Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager of BeKind Hotels & Resorts. “Playing on water, surrounded by endless blues, transforms the game into something transcendent – it’s active luxury at its finest.”

The overwater court forms part of Meyyafushi’s wider range of facilities, which include an underwater dining restaurant, an overwater wine cellar, water pool suites with slides, a mini bowling lane, and an adults-only sky bar featuring a glass-bottom infinity pool. Each facility has been created to offer experiences that encourage connection, exploration and wellbeing.

With uninterrupted sunset views and a distinctive overwater location, Meyyafushi Maldives’ padel tennis court marks a global first for the sport, bringing together physical activity, landscape and design in a single setting.

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Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa unveils ‘White Shores & Golden Lights’ festive season

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This festive season, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites guests to rediscover the joy of togetherness in what it calls the world’s gathering place. From 1 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, the resort will transform into a luminous sanctuary under its signature theme, White Shores & Golden Lights – a palette of shimmering whites and sunlit gold inspired by the purity of the season and the golden glow of new beginnings.

The festive spirit officially begins on 1 December with a Tree Lighting Ceremony, setting the tone for a season of warmth, celebration, and community. Following a period of serene island relaxation, the programme resumes in full from 21 December onwards, offering a vibrant calendar of curated experiences that continues until the Orthodox Beach Buffet Dinner on 7 January.

Guests are welcomed into an atmosphere where refined island living meets festive cheer. The line-up includes festive aqua aerobics, barefoot beach games, Gingerbread House Decorating, and the energetic Colour Run & Paint Me Wall Marathon along the shoreline. Younger guests can enjoy themed pyjama parties, while those seeking adventure may explore a variety of water sports and wellbeing rituals.

The highlight of the season is the Christmas Eve Gala Dinner, presented along the oceanfront where waves meet the shore and golden lights illuminate the evening. With live music, seasonal cuisine, and candlelit elegance, the event combines the island’s natural beauty with cherished festive traditions.

On Christmas Day, Santa makes a memorable arrival at Kakuni Beach, delighting guests of all ages. Throughout the festive period, in collaboration with Reefscapers, the resort offers coral frame-building workshops, giving guests the opportunity to support reef restoration efforts and contribute to the preservation of the Maldives’ marine environment.

As the year comes to a close, guests are invited to welcome 2026 beneath the stars. Night Under the Stars, the resort’s New Year’s Eve celebration, features a coastal gala with champagne, gourmet dining, fireworks, and live entertainment that continues well past midnight.

From peaceful mornings at Shine Spa to evenings sampling global flavours accented with Maldivian character, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers an elevated festive experience. Whether travelling as a family, as a couple, or alone, guests will find each day filled with moments to remember and each evening touched with a sense of magic.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to experience the magic of the festive season with us,” says Greg Allan, General Manager of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. “Each moment of our festive programme has been thoughtfully designed to reflect Sheraton’s ethos of heartfelt hospitality – bringing people together through meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.”

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is also presenting a Festive Special Offer for this season. Guests may enjoy exclusive savings on beach or overwater accommodation, along with daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, return speedboat transfers, and access to selected festive events and activities. Bookings made before 30 November 2025 will be eligible for stays between 20 December 2025 and 10 January 2026.

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Villa Nautica’s festive glow: Yoga at sunrise, fireworks at midnight

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Villa Nautica will embrace the festive spirit from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, offering guests an easy island rhythm that flows from bright mornings by the water to music-filled evenings on the sand. The season begins with illuminated beaches and relaxed barbecues, gradually building through creative afternoons and live performances. Christmas Eve will feature a gala dinner, followed by Santa’s arrival on 25 December. The celebrations will culminate in a vibrant New Year’s Eve countdown with fireworks, before settling into a calm reset on New Year’s Day and concluding with Orthodox Christmas.

The programme balances practicality with a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. Mornings will bring sunrise yoga, family pool activities, and interactive cooking sessions, while evenings will feature poolside soirées, wine-paired dinners, and sunset cruises. With simple yet photogenic settings, the lagoon and sky take centre stage in shaping the mood. Guests—whether couples, friends, or families—can participate freely without losing the island’s easy pace.

For younger visitors, the festivities will centre around the kids’ club, where cookie and cupcake decorating, beach games, origami and craft sessions, storytelling, and cosy movie nights will take place. Small groups and attentive care ensure that creativity and play remain the focus, allowing parents to enjoy uninterrupted moments around the island.

A highlight of the season will be the Champagne Lucky Draw & Disco. From 1 to 31 December, each bottle of champagne purchased at resort bars or restaurants will serve as an entry to the draw. Guests are advised to keep their entry stubs for the live draw, held at 01:00 during the New Year’s celebration, where the prize will be a seven-night stay in a Water Villa for two.

Throughout the festive period, private experiences will feel as memorable as the larger celebrations. Guests may enjoy candlelit dinners on the sand, floating breakfasts, or early morning snorkelling sessions to begin the year anew. Whether seeking a lively shoreline celebration or a quiet evening stroll beneath lanterns and palms, Villa Nautica offers an atmosphere where every festive moment can glow in its own way.

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