Featured
Marriott International resorts in Maldives partner with national university to develop talent

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between The Maldives National University and seven Marriott International resorts in the Maldives took place on November 16th, 2021.
The MoU signing symbolises the significant step towards enhancing the existing relations between Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies (FHTS) and the tourism industry towards human capacity development.
The MOU was signed by the Vice Chancellor of The Maldives National University, Dr Mohamed Shareef and the respective General Managers of the seven Marriott Bonvoy Portfolio of resorts in the Maldives.
Marriott International is a 94-year-old company, recognised today as a top employer and for its superior business operations.
With W Maldives and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa having had their presence firmly established in the Maldives since 2006 and 2008 respectively, the recent years saw the opening of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort in 2016, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort in 2018 and JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa in 2019.
This year saw the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa taking Marriott International’s portfolio in the Maldives to seven resorts with 701 rooms in total. Marriott International has consistently strengthened its presence in the Maldives through the entrance of various brands in the country, from premium to luxury, and is present across a range of atolls.
“We are honoured to collaborate with The Maldives National University and be a part of the journey as the students begin and grow their careers in the thriving hospitality industry in the Maldives. Marriott International values and believes in the substance of learning and training – beyond what we do, we are committed to empowering future hoteliers to hone their skills and reach their full potential. Through this collaboration, it is our hope that the youths of the Maldives are not only equipped with skills, but are poised to be on the forefront of successful careers in the industry,” said Rivero Delgado, Marriot International Area Vice President for Singapore, Malaysia & Maldives.
“This collaboration is set to play a pivotal role in strategically expanding our talent pool, where we look forward to making a difference in the areas where we operate.”

The MOU facilitates the capacity development of students and staff of both establishments in terms of knowledge exchange, internships, collaborative technical expertise between the two parties.
The understanding aims to strengthen, promote and develop cooperation between the two establishments based on the intention to effectively contribute to the nation building strategies.
The agreement brings forward and promotes shared excellence and development strategies between both parties. This exciting partnership will support, strengthen and develop mutually beneficial collaborative activities that would both contribute to the industry and academia positively.

Marriott International’s seven resorts in the Maldives all offer differentiated experiences for guests with the portfolio consisting of both Luxury and Premium brands.
Through this partnership, the students will have the opportunity and access to a vast variety of learnings and trainings across departments, from operations to marketing and branding as well. A snapshot of the various features and offerings at the resorts is further detailed below.
Located on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents everything one needs for a luxurious stress-free family vacation. The resort features 60 beach and overwater villas, all with private pools, spacious wooden decks and a wide array of amenities with personalised Thakuru (Butler) service. Eclectic dining experiences are offered throughout the resort’s five dining venues, three full service bars, a wine room which houses 1,200 wine collections and private beach dinners.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is ideally located in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, which is a 45- minute journey by speedboat or a 10-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport. The resort features white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs with marine life. The legendary service is refined by an Aris Meeha, island butler that defines The Ritz-Carlton brand. The resort offers a choice of outstanding culinary venues serving an array of international and local cuisines, in addition to a full suite of fitness and recreational facilities including Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassador of the Environment programme and a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa featuring Bamford amenities.
Nestled between verdant rainforest and white-sand beaches on a private island, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort overlooks the alluring waves of the Indian Ocean. The private lagoon, Iridium Spa and outdoor infinity pool promise nonpareil relaxation and an exquisite culinary fare awaits at their six restaurants and bars. Each of their 33 on-land and 44 over-water villas promise picturesque ocean or garden views from private terraces and pools and the legendary St. Regis Butlers deliver bespoke service day or night.
Located in North Ari Atoll, W Maldives is a luxury private island resort, setting the stage to fuel the guests’ lust for life. The five-star resort features six restaurants and bars, a pampering AWAY Spa and the world beneath the waves at DOWN UNDER with reef sharks in one of Maldives’ best house reefs.
Set in a picturesque corner of Lhaviyani Atoll nestled on Thilamaafushi Island, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is a canvas inspired by the formation of the Atolls, fringing reefs and marine life. Spanning nine hectares, the island is an eco-conscious haven abundant with indigenous flora and fauna and is enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs bursting with marine life. The resort boasts of 144 villas, six restaurants & bars and Explore Spa by Le Méridien and is a playful sanctuary for the curious and creative traveler to discover the European spirit of savouring the good life.
Situated on a private island in North Male Atoll, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is accessible via a complimentary 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, making it an attractive destination for those who prefer brief travel. Featuring seven restaurants and bars, two freshwater pools, a tennis court, a 24-hour gym and ample of on-island activities including Sheraton’s signature Side-by-Side Family Program, the resort is the picturesque destination for honeymooners, families with young children or teens and solo travellers alike.
Nestled on a beautiful coral island of the Baa Atoll, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site, guests of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort can experience a tranquil wellness escape with uninterrupted ocean and pristine turquoise lagoon views. The resort boasts of a luxury overwater Heavenly Spa by Westin, offering a range of treatments to leave guests re-energised and nourished in both mind and body. With a choice of four unique outlets guests can experience a delightful range of cuisines during their stay.
Featured
ELE|NA and VOYA unite for ocean-inspired wellness at THE OZEN COLLECTION

In celebration of World Ocean Day, ELE|NA Elements of Nature has announced an exclusive partnership with VOYA, the globally renowned organic seaweed skincare brand. Launching in July, this collaboration introduces a new era of ocean-inspired wellness at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. Guests will experience a deeply immersive and personalised spa journey, rooted in the healing power of the sea.
The new spa menu is crafted around three core wellness pillars—REST, ZEST, and BALANCE—each designed to meet individual needs, from deep relaxation and stress relief to energy rejuvenation and emotional renewal.
Each guest begins their spa experience with a personalised consultation to align treatments with their wellness goals. The journey starts with a calming aromatic foot ritual and a mindful breathing ceremony, establishing a foundation for a meaningful and restorative session.
The spa menu features marine-inspired massages, facials, and body therapies that incorporate VOYA’s certified organic, seaweed-based ingredients, sustainably harvested from the Atlantic coast. Key offerings include:
- Massage Therapies: Deep Muscle Melter, Tranquil Touch, and the signature VOYAGER Massage Journey
- Marine Facials: Pro-Age, Skin Renewal, and Bespoke Touch Facials
- Marine Exfoliations & Wraps: Detoxifying body buffs, nourishing sugar polishes, and sun-soothing wraps
- Sleeping Rituals: Mindful Dreams Massage and Herbal Cocoon Wrap with singing bowls
ELE|NA extends the wellness experience beyond the treatment room through group sessions such as guided meditations, sea and sound therapies, and aroma-intent practices. Guests can also enjoy bespoke VOYA bathing rituals in-spa or in-villa, including Detoxifying Seaweed Baths and Warm Spiced Mud Baths.
Guests are encouraged to continue their wellness journeys at home with a curated retail collection of VOYA products, including body oils, essential oils, pulse point oils, and aromatic room scents—each inspired by the tranquility and vitality of the ocean.
With a shared commitment to sustainability, ELE|NA and VOYA honour the ocean through ethical sourcing and eco-conscious practices. This partnership goes beyond providing luxurious spa experiences—it pays tribute to the sea’s natural rhythms and healing energy.
As part of the World Ocean Day celebration, ELE|NA invites guests to reconnect with nature and their inner selves. The transformative power of the ocean is available starting this July at THE OZEN COLLECTION.
Featured
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts introduces curated all-inclusive getaways in Maldives

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is redefining stress-free travel with a trio of curated, all-inclusive offers across its Maldives properties. Each resort—Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, and Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives—presents a unique experience, ranging from surfside excitement to secluded luxury, with every aspect of the stay carefully bundled for a seamless holiday.
At Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, guests are invited to enjoy five nights of barefoot luxury, with packages starting at USD 3,499 nett for double occupancy in a Water Bungalow or USD 3,999 nett in an Over Water Suite. Tailored for travellers seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation, the offer includes:
- Return speed boat transfers
- A 4-course beach dinner featuring steak or seafood
- A 30-minute spa treatment
- Snorkelling and swimming experiences
- A local island visit
- Unlimited laundry services
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
For those in search of tranquillity, the adults-only Platinum Wing at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers a refined escape. With a minimum stay of seven nights in a Platinum Water Bungalow, the package is available at USD 6,999 nett for double occupancy and features:
- Return seaplane transfers with VIP lounge access
- A 4-course steak or seafood dinner by the beach
- A 45-minute spa treatment
- An island-hopping adventure
- A welcome bottle of wine, fruit basket, and bed decorations
- Unlimited laundry services
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, guests can indulge in serene overwater luxury with a seven-night stay starting from USD 6,999 nett for double occupancy in Water Bungalows and higher categories. The package highlights include:
- Return seaplane transfers with VIP lounge access
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
- A 4-course steak or seafood dinner by the beach
- A 45-minute spa treatment
- An island-hopping adventure
- A dolphin-watching excursion
- Unlimited laundry services
These exclusive offers are available for stays between 1 June and 31 October 2025, with bookings now open.
Whether it’s catching waves at the iconic Pasta Point at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, enjoying a sunset over the tranquil lagoon at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, or exploring the pristine waters surrounding Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, each resort promises a distinct and immersive experience. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts delivers three unforgettable all-inclusive escapes, designed for effortless relaxation with every detail expertly managed.
Featured
Travel that matters: indulge in sustainability at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

With World Environment Day (5 June) and World Oceans Day (8 June) approaching, and Sir David Attenborough’s highly anticipated film Ocean igniting renewed interest in marine conservation, more travellers are seeking meaningful ways to turn environmental concern into impactful action.
Coco Collection, a leading luxury resort brand in the Maldives, demonstrates that responsible travel and indulgent island experiences can coexist harmoniously. At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, located in the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll, guests are offered the opportunity to actively engage in ocean conservation efforts while enjoying a tranquil tropical retreat.
Far more than a scenic escape, the resort serves as a centre for daily, impactful sustainability work. Conservation initiatives at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu include:
- Coral restoration projects, led by the in-house marine biologist to regenerate local reef ecosystems.
- Sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, hosted at the Maldives’ first veterinary-run turtle rescue centre in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. Visitors can tour the centre, observe turtle feedings, and register in advance to volunteer.
- Turtle hatching monitoring, involving the observation of protected nests to ensure hatchlings can be safely guided back to the ocean.
- Guided snorkelling and diving excursions in the Baa Atoll’s thriving marine ecosystem, which is home to tropical fish, vibrant coral gardens, and sea turtles.
Following World Turtle Day on 23 May, the resort also commemorates the beginning of turtle hatching season. Weekly marine talks and immersive conservation activities allow guests to deepen their understanding and connection to the ocean.
In 2024, the Olive Ridley Project’s Maldives Research team reported 168 new turtle nests, over 5,264 successful hatchings, and nearly 3,500 turtle sightings. Since 2013, the project has surpassed 40,000 recorded sea turtle encounters, with Coco Collection associates logging the highest number of turtle encounters in the Maldives.
In addition to marine conservation, the resort offers a broad range of water sports — including water skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking — along with cultural experiences through its Coco Experiences programme.
Recognised among the top resorts in the Indian Ocean by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is celebrated for its authentic Maldivian heritage, breathtaking natural surroundings, and steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Whether visitors are nature enthusiasts, aspiring conservationists, or simply seeking a purposeful and mindful retreat, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu provides a rare opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Sir David Attenborough and contribute to lasting environmental stewardship.
As sustainability-focused holidays approach, the resort is preparing a range of experiences for both guests and staff. Planned activities include tree planting, Saifodhu (a traditional Maldivian high tea accompanied by a display of homemade goods), a sustainable dining experience, and a sustainability presentation led by the resort’s Marine Educator and the ORP team in celebration of World Environment Day. For World Oceans Day, the island is also set to host various sustainability-driven events and experiences.
-
Awards1 week ago
2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards: Kagi Maldives ranks in top 10% globally
-
Awards1 week ago
TripAdvisor names Meeru Maldives a top 10% hotel worldwide for 2025
-
Meditation1 week ago
Kuda Villingili Maldives to host aqua fitness icon Rajni Maker for Global Wellness Day
-
News1 week ago
Celebrate Eid Al-Adha with bold beats, barefoot dining, revitalising escape at W Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Ifuru Island Maldives launches ‘Blend’ private yacht experience
-
Featured6 days ago
Global Wellness Day 2025 at Milaidhoo: journey of transformation and reconnection
-
Awards6 days ago
OBLU SELECT Sangeli achieves Green Globe Gold Certification for fifth consecutive year
-
Action6 days ago
New era of luxury Wellness: Pilates Reformer arrives at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort