Featured
JOALI Maldives brings global artists to create immersive art dinners
Guests at the artistic island escape, JOALI Maldives, can combine gastronomical experiences with art and education this summer, as a new series of immersive painting events is launched.
Monthly art dinners at the artistic hub will see theExecutive Chef, preparing paints using herbs and flowers from the island’s own Chef Garden, for an interactive experience led by female artists from around the world.

During the specially curated dinner, guests at one of the Maldives’ newest resorts, are invited to participate in interactive art pieces set up in the host restaurant, in a unique experience led by one of a series of guest artists guiding the evenings on the magical Maldivian island.
Whether guests are experienced artists or novices, the art dinners are designed to be open to all, inviting participants to explore their creativity in a fun, interactive environment around a long communal table at the resort where art is at its heart, in a warm, social setting.

The art dinners series will take place starting from May at each of the resort’s restaurants where guests can explore culinary creativity while immersing in artistic exploration at the tropical haven.
Part of the Women in Arts programme, an initiative from JOALI’s founder Esin Güral Argat to give back to the local community, the art dinner series is a continuation of the JOALI philosophy supporting the artistic community and pioneering gender equality. Local art can be found all over the luxurious island retreat, which pays homage to its Maldivian roots through art and design.

The works of art created through the programme are on display and sold at the JOALI Art Studio for guests to purchase, showcasing local talent and generating much-needed revenue for the remote island community.
“JOALI certainly goes beyond providing guests with picturesque views of the Maldivian landscape,” said Enver Arslan. “We hope that this one-of-a-kind holiday destination will enrich guests’ experience by infusing it with spectacular art installations, immersing visitors in the splendour of art and nature.”

Four dining destinations will be participating in the summer series, reflecting the diversity of the resort’s culinary offerings with flavours from around the world.
Bringing an Asian feel, there are two offerings. Vandhoo, a specially designed dining experience encompasses Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Mediterranean cuisines while Saoke, a distinctly Japanese restaurant, has been designed by world-renowned restaurant architect Noriyoshi Muramatsu. With breathtaking Indian Ocean views, the floating restaurant serves select sakes, sushiand a choice of teppanyaki or kotatsu seating for iron-griddle enthusiasts.
Bellinis will also feature in the events programme, famous for being home to the island’s perfect cocktails, notably, Bellinis and homemade Limoncellos, with a carefully crafted menu by Michelin star Chef Theodor Falser. In addition to its mouth-watering aperitifs, the Mediterranean fine dining experience offers a taste of authentic Italy in the heart of the Maldives.

The art dinners experience would not be complete without the magical al fresco dining under the stars at Tuh’u, where guests can relish the flavours of the Levant on the sand surrounded by the sparkling palms and the night sky. The island’s more casual affair offers a different atmosphere for guests to delve into their inner artists guided by the inspiration of nature.
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
Featured
World Art Day inspires new Graffiti Club at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has launched the Graffiti Club to mark World Art Day, introducing a team-led initiative focused on artistic expression, collaboration and storytelling through art.
The resort said the initiative brings together more than 18 team members from across different departments, reflecting a shared interest in creativity. As part of the project, selected back-of-house spaces have been turned into canvases, transforming staff areas into spaces for artistic work.
Inspired by the natural environment of the Maldives and the Maamunagau lagoon, the first set of artworks features marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. The resort said the designs reflect the biodiversity of the destination and its connection to the surrounding ocean. Additional artwork is also being developed as the project continues.
InterContinental Maldives said the initiative is rooted in its brand culture and service philosophy, Inspire Incredible, and is intended to support creativity, collaboration and self-expression among team members.
Renuka Gupta, cluster director of learning and development, said creativity exists in every individual, regardless of role or background. She said the initiative was created to provide team members with a space to express themselves, connect with colleagues and contribute to the environment in which they work each day.
The resort said the Graffiti Club forms part of its wider approach to workplace culture, with a focus on creativity, wellbeing and personal expression alongside the guest experience.
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