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Vacay while the sun shines this summer in Maldives

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Visiting the Maldives is always a good idea, particularly in the summer. One can soak in sunny blue skies and picture-perfect views with the many curated experiences by hotels across the islands. With alluring beaches, painted landscapes and tranquil shores it provides the space for a perfect summer vacation as one relaxes to the sound of the waves. Maldives is an ideal retreat in the summer with water sports activities that travelers of varied skill levels can enjoy such as snorkeling, parasailing, scuba diving, surfing and much more.

These resorts from Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio in Maldives are offering deals and experiences allowing travellers to choose from a variety of options between the curated multi-generational holiday packages at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, the luxury epic stay at W Maldives with one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, the family-friendly Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, and the wellness retreat at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort located at BAA Atoll – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site, as they step onto this secluded haven, surrounded by the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. Whether one is looking for the thrill of jetting underwater with a Seabob, snorkelling with the gentle giants of the sea, dining in unique settings or simply soaking up the sun and sand with endless shades of blue, these resorts all have something in store.   

Savour the Endless at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

Located on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, the luxurious five-star resort makes for a mesmerizing destination that focuses on holistic well-being and enriching, thoughtfully curated experiences. 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 boasts of an impressive collection of 1,200 labels and private beach dinners. Traveling with children is now even easier with the FAMILY BY JW™ – Little Griffins Kids Club where the children can enjoy 100 exciting activities. As one of the largest kids club in the Maldives, the FAMILY BY JW™ – Little Griffins Kids Club has much to offer.

For this summer, guests can combine their getaway with a gastronomy adventure by opting for the all-inclusive package “Savour the Endless” and enjoy all the benefits of a luxury island stay, without a worry in the world. The indulgent package includes three meals a day, with unlimited beverages from the resort’s all-inclusive beverage list, served in all restaurants and bars. Dinner can be upgraded to a private dinner experience, set on the hotel’s stunning private beach, once during the stay and the package also offers discounts on the food bill when dining at signature restaurants, Hashi, which serves fine Japanese cuisine, and Shio, an overwater grill. The resort also features a wide variety of non-motorised water sports on offer included complimentary with the package, from Glass Kayaks for the ones who like to stay above the water, to snorkelling for those looking to explore the world below.

DETOX. RETOX. REPEAT. at W Maldives

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 is available for complete island buyout, allowing a group access to 77 private Escapes (Villas) located both on the beach and overwater – each with its own plunge pool and sundeck; six creative gourmet dining venues and lounge bars, overwater treatment rooms at AWAY ®️ Spa, and the world beneath the waves at DOWN UNDER with reef sharks, in one of  the best house reefs in the Maldives for a quintessential escape. For those who would like to get the best of both island and ocean life, the luxurious two-cabin ESCAPE yacht is ready to sail for day-long adventures, private dive trips, sunset proposals, overnight excursions, or even for exclusive airport transfers. Whether one is overworked, under-slept or partied out, AWAY® Spa promises the outcome needed, in the time available, with the perks to get that glow on. The resort invites guests to keep their healthy routine or indulge as they have the option to do both and DETOX. RETOX. REPEAT.

W Maldives invites guests to an unforgettable adventure at sea with an exciting menu of experiences on offer above and below the azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean this summer.  From big game fishing and night fishing to a unique night diving or night snorkelling experience, guests can explore the mesmerizing marine life.  Giving visitors an aerial view of the island, taking off from the state-of-the-art parasailing boat, DREAM, guests can take to the skies and enjoy all the views.  Additionally, perfect for the summer months, W Maldives invites guests to GET WET and cool down at their pool parties, with frozen cocktails at WET with DJ tracks to keep the beat up. The experience also includes a live grill and bites, along with the free flow of frozen cocktails, the ideal way to beat the heat!

W Maldives has your back with their all-inclusive package, WE GOT YOU COVERED! – the resort’s all-inclusive package that will take care of meal and beverage needs, breakfast through dinner, along with complimentary in-room W MIXBAR for non-alcoholic beverages, non-motorised activities and snorkelling gear, valid until January 10, 2023. 

Break Away at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Located in North Male Atoll on the private Furanafushi Island, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa pays tribute to the island’s opulent and lush vegetation. The island is a haven, a hideout, enriched by private nooks, enchanting views, and manicured gardens. Easily accessible by a 15-minute scenic speedboat journey from Velana International Airport in Male, the resort is a preferred choice for those who favor convenient travel. Featuring seven restaurants and bars, two freshwater pools, a tennis court, a 24-hour gym and plenty 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.

This summer, guests can avail the all-inclusive offer which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and select beverages, daily use of snorkelling gear, paddleboards, kayaks and use of the tennis courts, along with complimentary round-trip speed boat transfers to Velana Airport and free Wi-Fi across the resort. One of many unique and thrilling watersports experiences offered at the resort includes Flyboarding that lets you experience the thrill of flying using jet propulsion powered by a watercraft. The resort  also offers  unique destination dining including Lagoon Lunch experiences, an ideal combination of sun & sea where guests can enjoy a hearty three-course lunch, barefoot in the calm, turquoise blue waters of the lagoon, and feel the water beneath their feet as they feast on sumptuous treats, and soak in the scenic views of their natural surroundings. The lunch on a sandbank is a quintessentially Maldivian, iconic experience, and by far one of the most popular dining excursions. Often featured on the covers of glossy editorials, this highly personalized trip is known to be the epitome of a true Maldivian vacation. The resort also welcomes guests to spend their afternoon with a long and relaxing picnic in a secluded location on the island, in their villa or on one of the lagoon islets.

Discover diverse Nature and Wildlife at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

Nestled on a beautiful coral island of the BAA Atoll, the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site in the Maldives, the five-star wellness resort is designed by award-winning architects PEIA Association from Italy, featuring 70 spacious villas, four restaurants and bars, the Heavenly Spa by Westin, the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT fitness center and the Westin Family. BAA Atoll is home to a handful of extraordinary and thriving reefs; home to no less than 250 species of vibrant coral and over 1,200 fish species; a bucket-list dream for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

This summer, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, located in Baa Atoll, offers guests the chance to get up-close-and-personal with manta rays at the world’s largest natural manta feeding destination with their Rendezvous with Manta Rays package which includes a Manta Ray snorkel trip, a turtle snorkel trip, one time scuba dive in the house reef and one time scuba dive in open water. Guests will have the rare opportunity to snorkel with the gentle giants at the protected site of Hanifaru Bay just 18 kms from the resort, which can attract more than 100 rays around the time of the full moon. With the season underway, guests can witness the spectacle first hand before the end of November or to plan ahead for the next season. Whilst guests regularly spot energetic and acrobatic spinner dolphins, particularly during cruises, there are also around 1,200 species of reef and reef-associated multi-coloured fish in the Baa Atoll region alone. Up to seven species of turtles can also be found nesting along the island’s pristine sandy beaches at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and may, at times, include threatened and critically endangered species such as the green turtle and hawksbill turtle and leatherback turtle.

To know more about the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in Maldives click here. For more information, please visit www.marriott.com

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Kandooma Maldives adds pickleball to recreational offerings

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Kandooma Maldives has introduced a new pickleball court, expanding its recreational facilities as the paddle sport continues to gain popularity worldwide.

Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is a sport that is relatively easy to learn and suitable for players of different ages and abilities. The new facility allows guests to participate in singles or doubles matches, offering an additional recreational activity for families, couples and groups staying at the resort.

The pickleball court is open daily from 6am to 6pm, with paddles and balls available for guests to borrow from Reception.

Court reservations can be made through the resort’s Recreation or Front Office team. Each villa is entitled to one complimentary hour of court use per day.

The introduction of pickleball forms part of Kandooma Maldives’ efforts to expand its recreational offerings and provide guests with more opportunities to participate in sports and group activities during their stay.

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Awards

Heritance Aarah wins Gold in Leading All-Inclusive Resort category at SATA 2026

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Heritance Aarah has won Gold in the Leading All-Inclusive Hotel/Resort category at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, recognising its Premium All-Inclusive offering in the Maldives.

Located in Raa Atoll, Heritance Aarah offers beach and overwater accommodation alongside dining, wellness, marine activities and cultural experiences. The resort’s Premium All-Inclusive concept focuses on providing guests with a range of experiences and personalised services throughout their stay.

Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, attributed the achievement to the resort’s team.

“This award is a tribute to our team, whose commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences brings together the very best of Heritance Aarah while celebrating the beauty and character of the Maldives,” Jayawardena said.

Susith Jayawickrama, Managing Director of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, said the award recognised the resort’s approach to hospitality and the efforts of its employees.

“This recognition is a proud moment for everyone at Heritance Aarah. Our Premium All-Inclusive experience has always been about going beyond the expected, delivering thoughtful service, exceptional dining, and moments that profoundly connect our guests with the Maldives. This award is a reflection of the passion, commitment and consistency of our team, who continue to raise the bar every day,” Jayawickrama said.

Dining forms a central part of the resort’s offering, with seven restaurants and five bars serving international and Mediterranean cuisine, seafood and overwater dining experiences.

Among its dining venues is Ambula, which combines Sri Lankan and Maldivian culinary traditions through a specially developed menu. Ralu Lounge features one of the largest rum collections in the Maldives.

The resort has also introduced new dining concepts, including Fehi Raha, a garden-to-table experience set within its organic garden. The concept incorporates seasonal produce grown on the island into its menus.

For families, the Ufa Ghadhiya ice cream truck offers ice cream, sundaes and tropical popsicles.

Beyond dining, Heritance Aarah provides a range of recreational and wellness activities, including snorkelling, diving and ocean excursions in Raa Atoll. Guests can also access treatments at IASO Medi Spa and explore Maldivian traditions, craftsmanship and cultural heritage through the resort’s Maldivian Village.

The resort’s adults-only Ocean Suite Wing caters to couples seeking greater privacy, offering overwater accommodation, butler service, private leisure spaces and exclusive dining options. The main island accommodates couples, families and multigenerational travellers.

According to the resort, the SATA 2026 recognition reflects the contribution of its employees across culinary operations, wellness, guest services and recreational activities, as well as its continued focus on developing its Premium All-Inclusive offering.

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Awards

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives secures Best Resort of the Year title at AHA Asia Hotel Awards

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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has been named Best Resort of the Year at the 2026 AHA Asia Hotel Awards, held at Capella Bangkok in Thailand. The recognition places the resort among leading hospitality properties across Asia, acknowledging its approach to luxury hospitality, guest experiences, design and service.

The award was presented during the 15th edition of the ceremony, which marked a milestone in the programme’s history. Established in 2010 by LIFESTYLE Magazine as the CHA China Hotel Awards, the programme expanded in 2026 to become the AHA Asia Hotel Awards, bringing together hotels and resorts from across the region.

The decision to host the gala in Bangkok for the first time reflected the programme’s broader ambition to recognise achievements in hospitality beyond China. The ceremony brought together hospitality leaders and industry representatives to celebrate achievements in luxury accommodation, resort experiences, design, wellness and service.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives received the Best Resort of the Year award in recognition of its approach to providing guest experiences that combine contemporary design, personalised service and a connection to the island’s natural surroundings.

“To receive this recognition alongside some of Asia’s most respected hospitality names is a proud moment for all of us at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives,” said Thomas Weber, General Manager.

“Our island has its own character, and we have always believed that the most meaningful experiences come from allowing guests to discover it at their own pace. This award belongs to our team, whose care, dedication and genuine warmth bring that philosophy to life every day. We are equally grateful to our guests for choosing to share their time and special moments with us.”

Located in Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives features 41 beachfront villas, 36 overwater villas, three two-bedroom beach villas and the Boduge Residence. Each accommodation category includes a private pool, with designs intended to offer privacy while maintaining a connection to the island’s landscape and surrounding Indian Ocean.

The resort offers a range of experiences centred on its location, including guided house reef exploration with marine experts, underwater activities and opportunities to learn about Maldivian traditions through cultural programmes.

Its dining experiences include seafood and international cuisine, as well as private dining arrangements on The Shack, a secluded sand cay. Spa Alila offers treatments and wellness programmes designed around relaxation and wellbeing.

“An award such as this reflects the dedication of many people working together, often through the smallest details that guests may never see,” said Jamal Ahmed, Resort Manager.

“We take great pride in creating an atmosphere where service feels personal and unforced, and where every guest feels genuinely welcomed. It is especially rewarding to see the efforts of our colleagues recognised on a regional stage.”

The latest recognition follows another achievement for Alila Kothaifaru Maldives in 2026, when the resort received the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award. The accolade places the property among the top 10 per cent of hotels worldwide based on traveller reviews and ratings.

The two awards recognise the resort’s performance from both industry and guest perspectives, reflecting its focus on service standards, guest satisfaction and experiences connected to the Maldivian environment.

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives continues to focus on delivering personalised hospitality, maintaining service standards and developing experiences that allow guests to explore the natural and cultural attractions of the Maldives.

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