Featured
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi unveils world renowned ZUMA restaurant
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi unveils the latest addition to its collection of 10 distinctive culinary experiences at the iconic resort paradise with the debut of the world-renowned Contemporary Japanese concept Zuma at the resort in the archipelago. With breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Indian Ocean combined with Zuma’s unique style and elegance, the new restaurant, opening early this year, is set to deliver a truly unforgettable experience to its international clientele.
Founded in London in 2002 by creator and co-founder Rainer Becker, and now present across 17 locations worldwide, the globally acclaimed Zuma is inspired by the traditional Japanese izakaya. Zuma Maldives is inspired by the beauty of its stunning location, complementing its surroundings with the use of natural materials and local design techniques. The restaurant features a dramatic entrance combining elements of timber, light and granite creating an immersive optical illusion leading guests into the vibrant restaurant space. The majestic island bar, robata and sushi counter take center stage in the middle of the venue and forms the focal point for diners.
“We are thrilled to be bringing Zuma’s international cuisine to the Maldives on the shores of such a breathtaking and iconic destination,” said Zuma creator and co- founder Rainer Becker. “We share Waldorf Astoria’s focus on exceptional attention to detail and look forward to delivering unmatched culinary experiences to guests with Zuma’s award-winning Japanese cuisine.”
“With its legacy of global culinary excellence, Zuma is the perfect addition to Waldorf Astoria Maldives’s fine selection of specialty dining venues. This pristine setting surrounded by crystal blue waters combined with Zuma’s legendary elevated izakaya concept, will provide a dream to the senses for luxury leisure seekers around the world,” said Etienne Dalancon, general manager, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

Zuma Maldives will serve its specialty dishes made famous in its international outposts, including thinly sliced seabass with yuzu, truffle oil and salmon roe, roasted lobster, shiso ponzu butter and spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili and sweet soy, among others. The restaurant will also feature a dedicated lounge area where Zuma’s signature beverages can be enjoyed as the sun sets over the island and the stunning turquoise waters that surround it.
Guests experiencing Zuma Maldives while staying at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi can enjoy the resort’s array of activities available, whether it be unwinding in one of 10 luxurious spa treatment villas, exploring the ocean’s incredible marine life, or traversing the island’s dazzling white sand beaches by bicycle or on foot. Those looking for the ultimate escape and unparalleled levels of privacy and personalized service during their visit can stay at Ithaafushi – The Private Island, the largest private island in the Maldives.
Situated in one of the most beautiful, sought-after locations in the world, the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers guests unparalleled, bespoke service and unforgettable experiences. Set in a tropical paradise, the resort features 119 all-pool Beach, Reef and Overwater villas across three inter-linking islands.
Featured
Villa Nautica’s festive glow: Yoga at sunrise, fireworks at midnight
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.
Featured
JOALI BEING launches global campaign ‘Joyful Journeys of Well-Living’
JOALI BEING, the world’s first well-being island, has announced the launch of its new global brand campaign titled “Joyful Journeys of Well-Living.” The campaign celebrates the art of self-discovery, inviting travellers to reconnect with their inner selves through bespoke and transformative experiences.
Building upon JOALI BEING’s core philosophy of the “Joy of Weightlessness,” the campaign embodies the essence of harmony between mind, body, and spirit. It encourages guests to explore holistic pathways designed to restore balance and inspire personal growth.
Joyful Journeys of Well-Living serves as an invitation to travellers seeking meaningful change and renewal. The campaign narrates stories of individuals discovering joy through purposeful living, mindful connection, and immersive well-being experiences at JOALI BEING.
The visuals capture the island’s tranquil landscapes and nurturing spaces — from oceanfront sanctuaries to treetop villas and transformative healing sessions led by resident experts. The campaign presents JOALI BEING as more than a destination; it is a journey towards well-being, creativity, and self-transformation.
Each guest journey at JOALI BEING is founded on the resort’s Four Pillars of Well-Being — Mind, Skin, Microbiome, and Energy. Through tailored programmes, guests can embark on integrative wellness experiences encompassing sound therapy, movement and fitness, hydrotherapy, nutritional guidance, and energy-healing sessions curated by specialists.
The island features a series of advanced well-being spaces, including:
- CORE: a movement and fitness zone
- AREKA: a transformative treatment centre
- KAASHI: a hydrotherapy hall
- SEDA: a sound-healing room
- Ocean Sala: an open-air meditation and relaxation deck
Each space is designed to nurture a profound connection with nature and the self.
The Joyful Journeys of Well-Living campaign has been conceptualised and produced by JOALI BEING’s in-house team in collaboration with creative partners and visual storytellers from across the globe. The multi-platform campaign integrates film, digital, and print media to convey JOALI BEING’s ethos — a celebration of joy, transformation, and harmony.
The visual narrative draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the Maldives, reflecting JOALI BEING’s immersive design philosophy. The imagery captures the rhythm of the ocean, the play of light, and the flow of energy that define the spirit of the island.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins Best Waterside Hotel at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2026
Coco Bodu Hithi has been recognised on the global stage, winning Best Waterside Hotel (Riverside, Lakeside, Seaside) at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2026, held on 3 November 2025 in the UK. It is the second consecutive year the resort has been honoured by the publication, following last year’s win for Best Service, reaffirming its focus on heartfelt Maldivian hospitality and refined island living.
Described by Condé Nast Johansens as an “over-water, over-indulgent Maldivian island outpost,” Coco Bodu Hithi offers an intimate retreat of comfort and calm. The resort’s 32 Water Villas and 24 Coco Residences, each measuring 184 square metres and featuring private pools, provide secluded spaces set above the lagoon, where nature, design, and comfort come together to reflect the island’s romantic ambience.
Known for contemporary design infused with Maldivian heritage, the resort continues to welcome travellers seeking time by the sea, complemented by culinary collaborations with celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs. The experience balances privacy and comfort throughout a guest’s stay. With turquoise waters, quiet spaces, and experiences designed for connection and shared discovery, the resort presents a considered take on island living.
Located 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the island combines accessibility with seclusion—close enough for convenience, yet removed for privacy and serenity. As part of Coco Collection, the resort offers bespoke experiences, attentive service, and sustainable practices, shaping stays that feel personal and reflective of relaxed, authentic island life.
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