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Rekindle romance in utopia at Marriott Bonvoy portfolio resorts in Maldives
Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives presents a haven to celebrate your love this Valentine’s Day and beyond
A limitless horizon. Teal skies that melt into turquoise waters, and a gentle breeze that cocoons you. Picture the most breath-taking beach you’ve ever stepped foot on, and an impossibly idyllic island that makes for a dream getaway. These resorts from Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio in the Maldives present the ideal backdrop and setting to celebrate love with curated romance packages to make your escape truly magical – for Valentine’s Day and beyond.
The resorts blend all the ingredients together to create a vista for a perfect romantic rendezvous, from private romantic beach dinners at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, to exploring the life underwater together at W Maldives, designing an amorous beach proposal at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, to embarking on a secluded honeymoon at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. Each of the resorts is located on its’ own private island, creating an exclusive and peaceful environment, almost as though they were designed for couples to spend carefree time together where they can delight in moonlit picnics, soothing massages and crafted experiences in one of the world’s most romantic retreats.
Explore what’s on offer and prepare to make these five-star resorts the destination for your most ethereal romantic escapade yet, where one can relish culinary delights on the shores of pristine beaches, find relaxation in luxurious spa treatments to the sounds of the waves and raise a toast to love with magnificent sunsets overlooking the azure Indian Ocean.
Memorable moments at JW Marriott Maldives
With amethyst sunsets against azure blue waters and every second customised to one’s most wishful likes, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a sliver of paradise on the crescent shaped Shaviyani Atoll, the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. The resort is well-known for its’ bespoke experiences, from petal-covered pathways leading towards the gentle waves, local drummers keeping the beat and dreamy beach dinner set-ups as the sun explodes into a million colors dipping into the horizon.
Located on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents everything one needs for a luxurious stress-free vacation. The resort features 60 beach and overwater villas, all with private pools, spacious wooden decks and a wide array of amenities with personalized 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 unique destination dining experiences.
This February, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa invites guests to celebrate memorable moments with their His & Her package and indulge in a luxurious setting overlooking the mesmerising turquoise waters with a romantic private beach dinner, a signature couple spa treatment, and a Valentine’s corner with special treats for your special one.
It’s a date at W Maldives
Set in the middle of the Indian Ocean, located in North Ari Atoll, W Maldives is surrounded by a white sandy beach, pristine turquoise waters and one of the most amazing house reefs in Maldives, home to unscripted diversity of marine life, unmistakably a utopia for couples. W Maldives invites guests to indulge in a luxurious dreamy escape for two in tropical paradise, with exceptional romantic dinners and pampering massages overlooking the idyllic ocean in overwater treatment rooms at the AWAY® Spa.
For stays through the month of February, IT’S A DATE! At W Maldives featuring a curated package inclusive of a 60 min massage for two at AWAY® Spa, a three-course private dinner for two at Coral Terrace, one romantic bubble bath set up and a bottle of Champagne or non-alcoholic sparkling juice. Additionally they’ve lined-up a series of culinary happenings with four ways to dine this Valentine including – Dine Around the Island, offering 5-courses each at a different venue at the resort; XOXO, a private dinner at the beach or the coral terrace; Cruisin’ In Love, an extravagant escapade aboard the ESCAPE yacht or Castaway Valentine Bliss, an ultimate luxury indulgence with a combination of romance and relaxation at Gaathafushi private island.
Celebrate love at Sheraton Maldives
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa sits in the middle of a shimmering turquoise lagoon and is postcard-perfect with swaying palms kissing white sandy beaches. Its’ ocean view and overwater villas are the ideal getaway spots for a bit of romance.
Situated on a private island in North Male Atoll, the resort is accessible via a complimentary 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, making it an attractive destination for couples who prefer brief travel. Featuring seven restaurants and bars, two freshwater pools, Shine Spa located on a private island for maximum indulgence, a tennis court, a 24-hour gym and ample of on-island activities, the resort is the picturesque destination for honeymooners, or those looking at a getaway to rekindle their romance.
As part of the Cruise & Dine package, accommodation in a premium water bungalow or water villa awaits guests, along with an extravagant 5-course dinner at a designated dining venue paired with a selection of premium wines that accompany each course and shared and scheduled round trip transfers for two by speedboat.
Romantic escape at Westin Maldives
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort sits in the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, surrounded by the Indian Ocean offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a magical underworld and be privy to the stunning coral reefs and exotic fauna of the Baa Atoll. A romantic getaway here promises understated glamor— dinner under starlight on silky white sands, Maldivian offerings, Champagne to blur the edges, and of course indulgent spa treatments in dreamlike settings. Heavenly Spa by Westin™ features uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, almost drowning you in liquid serenity.
Celebrating love not just in February but right through till July, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites guests for A Romantic Escape with an in-villa floating breakfast to start the day followed by a rejuvenating spa treatment for two, to a romantic five-course dinner based on stimulating fresh ingredients – the perfect celebration of love awaits at this unique destination. The curated package includes The Art of Love experience by Heavenly Spa consisting of a 60-minute massage, a 30-minute facial and a 30-minute Heavenly Bath with sparkling wine. It also includes a one-time destination dining experience for two or a five-course menu paired with wine if you’re at the resort on February 14, 2022 and last but not least, an inspiring sunset yoga session or breathing workshop with their wellness guru will ensure a total reconnection with your loved one and yourself.
For further details on Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in Maldives click here.
Maldives recently welcomed the Italian-flagged cruise ship AIDA, carrying 2,139 tourists. Operated primarily for Swiss, Austrian, and German visitors, the ship arrived on December 8, 2024, from Muscat, Oman. This visit marks the first cruise ship arrival since regulatory changes were implemented at the request of the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA).
The AIDA’s stopover is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. The influx of tourists is likely to benefit various businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, local dhonis, guesthouses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé. This surge in activity is anticipated to further solidify the Maldives’ position as a leading cruise destination in the region.
This milestone underscores the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings. Beyond its economic impact, the AIDA’s visit is expected to enhance foreign reserves and contribute to broader national economic growth. The vessel is scheduled to depart the Maldives on December 9, 2024, at 6 PM, after a brief yet impactful visit.
The Maldivian tourism industry continues to thrive despite global challenges. This achievement follows recent accolades, including being named the World Travel Awards’ (WTA) World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year and earning the title of World’s Leading Green Destination for the first time. The successful introduction of cruise tourism marks the beginning of a promising new chapter, with future visits poised to further invigorate the industry and local economy.
This festive season, Ifuru Island Maldives invites guests to a tropical paradise celebration under the theme ‘A Soaring Festive.’ Taking place from December 21, 2024, to January 10, 2025, the event promises a vibrant, entertainment-filled program designed to create joy, excitement, and lasting memories.
Catering to diverse preferences, A Soaring Festive offers an array of experiences, from dynamic nightlife and unique performances to relaxed island vibes, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Renowned DJ Rawlo will headline the nightly entertainment, captivating audiences with high-energy performances and dynamic beats. Breaking away from conventional DJ stereotypes, Rawlo’s electrifying sets promise to keep guests dancing under the stars until late into the night.
Adding to the festive lineup, the talented duo Synthetic Seduction—comprising Evgeniya and Olcay—will deliver versatile performances, including soulful saxophone melodies, lively DJ sets, and engaging duo band shows. Whether guests are enjoying cocktails by the pool or dancing on the sand, this duo creates the perfect ambiance for both relaxation and high-energy fun.
For those seeking visual artistry, Jonas and Aygul will dazzle with awe-inspiring fire shows, mesmerising LED displays, skillful juggling acts, and elegant belly dancing. Their multi-faceted performances promise to light up the island with unforgettable entertainment.
Complementing the headline acts, ‘A Soaring Festive’ features a variety of activities designed to enhance the holiday experience. Guests can participate in beach games, competitions, and themed culinary events that celebrate the flavors of the season, ensuring a celebration filled with joy and excitement.
In a breakthrough for marine science, a new species of fish has been discovered in the pristine waters of the Maldives. Named Chromis Abadhah, the species derives its name from the Maldivian Dhivehi word Abadhah, meaning perpetual, symbolising the ongoing commitment to planetary conservation. The name also acknowledges the support of the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, which funded the research.
The fish was first spotted near Maafilaafushi in the Kaafu Atoll. Subsequent studies revealed that the species inhabits multiple regions of the Maldives, ranging from Lhaviyani Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll. Researchers documented the fish in eight distinct locations, indicating that it may be distributed across various parts of the country.
Chromis Abadhah resides at depths between 95 and 110 metres, in the mesophotic zone, where sunlight begins to fade. This habitat sets it apart from other species in its family, which are typically found in shallower waters of around 30 meters.
The new species belongs to the ‘Dan’ba’ family, a group of damselfish commonly found in Maldivian seas. However, Chromis Abadhah is distinct from its relatives in several ways:
- Unlike other Chromis species, it lacks the characteristic black cross line near the neck.
- Its upper shell comprises 14 bones, compared to the typical 13 seen in related species.
While other Chromis species, such as Chromis axillaris, Chromis pelora, and Chromis woodsi, are found in various parts of the world, Chromis Abadhah appears to be endemic to the Maldives, making it a unique addition to the region’s biodiversity.
The study was a collaborative effort involving Maldivian experts and international scientists. To better understand the species, researchers captured four specimens using a specialised net. Their findings, published in a scientific paper, highlight the importance of deep-sea exploration in uncovering hidden marine treasures.
The identification of Chromis Abadhah underscores the Maldives’ rich marine biodiversity and the critical role of research in its preservation. This discovery also emphasises the importance of protecting deep-sea habitats, which often harbour unique and endemic species.
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