Featured
Maldives Underwater Initiative at Six Senses Laamu rewarded for conservation

The Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) was recently recognised as a global leader in marine conservation during the 20th Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards.
Shortly after, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and his administration designated six naturally unique and eco-rich areas in Laamu Atoll as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This announcement comes just two months after the atoll was declared as a Hope Spot by Mission Blue.
Recognition for Conservation Progress
MUI, the marine biology team at Six Senses Laamu, consisting of hosts from the resort and its three partner NGOs: The Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and The Olive Ridley Project, has been named Marine and Coastal category winner at the 2021 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards. This is the second Skål trophy on display at Six Senses Laamu after the resort was crowned winners of the same category in 2018. Three independent sustainability experts judged 50 entrees from 26 countries, placing MUI top in its category ahead of five other projects.
“To receive this award twice is an incredible achievement,” explains Marteyne van Well, Six Senses Laamu General Manager, “and it is testament to the progress MUI has made in the realms of marine conservation since we won our first Skål Award three years ago.”
This award celebrates the team’s dedication to marine conservation through their research, education and community outreach work. Their research has been presented at both science symposiums and governmental meetings to drive policy change. They have provided 199 children in Laamu with marine conservation and environmental education and brought 566 students from local schools on snorkeling excursions. Since 2019, they have had 26,000 moments of education with guests and certified 165 children through their Junior Marine Biology Program.
Six Designated Marine Protected Areas
Just one day after the award was announced, MUI’s celebrations continued when the President of the Maldives, Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, announced six MPAs were coming to Laamu. The team has been working towards this milestone for many years.
“Since MUI was formed, our ultimate goal has been to protect Laamu’s marine habitats and keystone megafauna species through legislation,” says Philippa Roe, MUI’s Head Marine Biologist. “For years, the partners within MUI – Six Senses Laamu, the Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation, and the Olive Ridley Project – have been gathering research on Laamu’s marine ecosystems and species, much of which was used as evidence to support marine protection.”
The areas which have been designated for marine protection include the turtle nesting beach, mangrove and seagrass area of L. Gaadhoo (a neighboring uninhabited island of Six Senses Laamu), the channel between Six Senses Laamu and L. Gaadhoo, the mangrove of L. Hithadhoo (an inhabited island on the other side of Six Senses Laamu), as well as two channels, a mangrove, a wetland and an island in other areas of the atoll.
“The new MPAs, consisting of interconnected coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass meadows, will support Laamu’s community by safeguarding fish populations and livelihoods while maintaining climate-resilient reefs,” explains Shaha Hashim, the Maldives Project Manager for Blue Marine Foundation and a driving force behind the designation of the MPAs.
Home to Regenerative Travel Activism
The Skål award was not the only award received in Laamu last month. On December 15, 2021, the winners of the Regenerative Travel 2021 Impact Awards were announced, and Shaha was recognized as the Regenerative Activist of the Year. The award recognizes her dedication to these MPA designations by describing her as, “a voice for many who do not have the capacity or platform to speak, working towards fair and well-managed resources based upon scientific evidence.”
Now that these MPAs have been designated, the Environment Ministry will work with stakeholders, including Atoll and Island Councils, to develop management plans for each area. MUI and Blue Marine Foundation will continue to engage with local community members and leaders in the atoll, providing advice and assistance wherever needed.
Mission Blue Hope Spot
This welcome news comes just two months after the Laamu Atoll was declared as a Hope Spot by the international marine conservation non-profit Mission Blue. The Hope Spot announcement highlighted the importance of marine ecosystems in the atoll and the need for further protection.
Featured
Elemental escape: Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort invites guests to disconnect from the ordinary and immerse themselves in nature through a purposeful evening that celebrates the four elements—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. Under the Maldivian night sky, visitors embark on a sensory journey of mindful indulgence, blending sustainability, gastronomy, and elemental experiences.
A specially curated four-course menu takes diners on a sensory culinary experience, with each dish inspired by the four elements—paying tribute to nature’s balance and harmony. Carefully crafted to awaken the senses, this exquisite feast seamlessly merges sustainability with culinary artistry.
- Fire – Bold, smoky flavours that ignite the palate and awaken the senses.
- Earth – Deep, grounding flavours that honor the richness of the land.
- Water – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the purity and fluidity of the ocean.
- Air – Light, ethereal textures that embody the essence of the sky.
Set on the tranquil shores of Onu Onu Beach, this exclusive dining experience is illuminated by candlelight, offering a fusion of sustainable elegance and mindful gastronomy in observance of Earth Hour. The experience is priced at US$ 180 per person.
As the lights dim, Sirru Fen Fushi transforms into a sanctuary of reflection, connection, and sustainability, offering curated experiences designed to engage the senses:
- Fire – A vibrant Boduberu performance, bonfire, and dance bring the energy of the Maldives to life.
- Water – Handcrafted Earth-inspired mixology reflects nature’s purity.
- Air – Long-exposure photography at YASH Photo Studio captures the magic of the night.
- Earth – An exclusive stargazing session, guided by SpaceCat Astrotourism, offers a chance to reconnect with the universe.
Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration represents a commitment to sustainability and mindful living. Guests are encouraged to unplug, embrace nature’s elements, and contribute to a global movement toward a more conscious and sustainable future.
Family
Easter festivities at Le Méridien Maldives: perfect family getaway

This Easter, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites families to immerse themselves in a world of adventure, creativity, and island indulgence. From April 13th to 20th, a week of festive celebrations takes place across the resort, where children embark on magical discoveries, and parents enjoy the warmth of endless summer.
At the Family Kids Hub, excitement fills the air as young explorers dive into Easter-themed arts and crafts, engage in hands-on cooking workshops, and take part in interactive games designed to spark curiosity and imagination. The highlight of the celebrations is the much-anticipated Easter Egg Hunt, where children follow hidden clues across the island in search of sweet surprises, with a special visit from the Easter Bunny.
Beyond the Kids Hub, families can embark on unforgettable island experiences. The Marine Conservation Hub introduces children to the wonders of the underwater world, while guided snorkelling and dolphin cruises offer the opportunity to observe graceful creatures in their natural habitat. Adventure continues on land with beach games, sunset walks, and friendly matches on the resort’s padel court, providing moments of connection and laughter for all ages.
Easter at Le Méridien Maldives is also a journey of flavours. Curated dining experiences invite families to come together and savor life’s simplest pleasures. Easter weekend unfolds at La Vie with a sunset cocktail on the beach, where chilled rosé and golden hues create the perfect moment to pause and indulge. A five-course wine pairing dinner follows, guiding guests on an exquisite culinary journey, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to complement the finest wine selections. On Easter Sunday, the signature Au Soleil pool party brings the festivities to life, with poolside beats, live cooking stations, and crisp rosé for a relaxed afternoon under the Maldivian sun. The festivities culminate in a grand buffet featuring a sizzling barbecue grill, live cooking stations, and live music, bringing families together for a joyful island feast.
Family
Easter escape like no other: ‘Bunnies Gone Wild’ at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo

This Easter, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo invites guests to partake in a unique celebration with ‘Bunnies Gone Wild,’ a sophisticated yet playful take on the holiday season. Taking place from April 20th to April 27th, the adults-only resort is set to offer a week filled with indulgence, sensuality, and spirited mischief in the heart of the Maldives.
More than a traditional Easter celebration, ‘Bunnies Gone Wild’ is designed to redefine the holiday experience, merging the elegance of a luxury resort with an uninhibited sense of fun. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a lively and playful atmosphere that sets the stage for the festivities ahead.
At the core of the celebration is the ‘Bunnies Gone Wild’ Pool Party, encouraging attendees to embrace the playful spirit of Easter with a daring twist. Hosted at the main pool, the event will feature a live DJ, handcrafted cocktails, and gourmet canapés, ensuring a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
The celebratory spirit extends to the resort’s dining and drinking experiences. The Bunny Mixology Class will provide an opportunity to explore innovative cocktail combinations under the guidance of expert bartenders. Culinary highlights include the Easter Special Dinner at Alita Restaurant, offering a refined selection of international and local delicacies, as well as the Seafood Bounty Dinner, where the freshest flavours of the ocean will take centre stage.
Throughout the week, guests can look forward to unexpected delights, such as exclusive gift boxes delivered to their villas and secret surprises that embody the festive spirit. The Easter Movie Night at the Pool Bar will offer a more intimate setting, where guests can unwind with popcorn and a curated selection of films beneath the stars.
For those seeking relaxation or rejuvenation, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo will offer a variety of wellness-focused activities throughout the week. Sunset yoga sessions at the Pool Bar will provide an opportunity to stretch and unwind against the backdrop of a stunning sunset, while sound healing therapy at The Nest will offer a meditative escape through the soothing resonance of singing bowls. Additionally, the resort’s newly introduced Watsu session—a 60-minute water-based bodywork experience—will be available for couples seeking deep relaxation and connection.
With a blend of dynamic entertainment, indulgent dining, and restorative wellness experiences, ‘Bunnies Gone Wild’ is set to deliver an Easter celebration unlike any other. Combining sophistication with a sense of mischief, the event promises an immersive escape where every moment brings a new discovery.
-
Action1 week ago
Score big at Michael Owen’s football camp at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort
-
News1 week ago
The Art of Graceful Change: ELE|NA’s menopause retreat in celebration of International Women’s Day
-
Featured5 days ago
Elemental escape: Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration
-
Family4 days ago
Celebrate togetherness with bespoke family escape at The Nautilus Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Eid al-Fitr at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort: Family-friendly escape
-
Featured6 days ago
Varu Spa’s new holistic wellness experiences at Kandolhu Maldives
-
Action5 days ago
SAii Lagoon Maldives partners with GZ19 Padel to unveil padel tennis courts
-
Featured7 days ago
Westin Hotels elevate sleep experiences with holistic wellness initiatives