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.
Awards
Baros Maldives wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort title at 2025 World Travel Awards

Baros Maldives has been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2025 by the prestigious World Travel Awards, a recognition that underscores the resort’s enduring dedication to delivering heartfelt and intimate experiences that are quintessentially Baros.
Nestled in the tranquil waters of North Malé Atoll, the Baros Water Villas are a refined expression of effortless luxury and seclusion. Each villa has been thoughtfully crafted to offer direct access to the turquoise lagoon, spacious sun-drenched decks ideal for peaceful reflection, and, in select accommodations, private pools with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Every element is designed to foster connection—with nature, with oneself, and with the timeless essence of Baros.
Beyond the villas lies Baros’ legendary house reef—teeming with vibrant marine life and coral gardens. Guests are invited to explore this underwater wonder through serene morning swims or sunset snorkelling sessions alongside turtles and schools of colourful reef fish.
Proudly Maldivian-owned and welcoming guests for over five decades, Baros Maldives has built a legacy of authentic hospitality and understated elegance. With just 75 villas, a team known for its warm, personalised service, and curated island experiences, the resort continues to offer stays that feel deeply personal and memorable.
Ibrahim Shijah, General Manager of Baros Maldives, expressed gratitude on behalf of the resort, “Our heartfelt thanks go to our guests, partners and the entire Baros team. This recognition is an honour and a wonderful reminder that the spirit of Baros continues to resonate with those who return to our shores time and again.”
As Baros celebrates this milestone, travellers are warmly invited to experience—or rediscover—the quiet magic that makes the island an enduring favourite in the Maldives.
Awards
Angsana Velavaru wins top honour for Water Villas at World Travel Awards

Angsana Velavaru has been honoured as Maldives’ Leading Water Villa Resort at the prestigious World Travel Awards, cementing its reputation as one of the nation’s premier destinations for overwater luxury. The accolade highlights a growing recognition of travel experiences that blend privacy, spacious design, and understated elegance.
Situated in the serene South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru is home to the renowned InOcean Pool Villas—a collection of standalone overwater villas entirely surrounded by open sea and detached from the island’s main area. This thoughtful separation ensures an exceptional level of privacy and uninterrupted ocean vistas, creating an atmosphere that is both tranquil and refined.
Available in one- and two-bedroom configurations, the InOcean Pool Villas are designed for both flexibility and comfort. Each villa spans two levels and features a private infinity pool, an open-air deck, and generous living spaces. The rooftop terrace offers an additional retreat—ideal for sunset drinks, casual barbecues, or simply enjoying the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. These villas cater equally to couples in search of serenity and families desiring meaningful togetherness.
Guests also benefit from proximity to Azzurro Restaurant and Bar, an elegant Mediterranean-inspired dining venue perched over water. The restaurant delivers a carefully curated menu in a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, complemented by sweeping sea views that enhance the overall dining experience.
Reflecting on the recognition, General Manager Ahmed Zahir expressed gratitude: “This award is a reflection of the unwavering dedication of our entire team. At Angsana Velavaru, we strive to offer a thoughtful and personalised stay. The InOcean Pool Villas represent a unique proposition in the Maldives—space, serenity, and a slower pace that deeply resonates with our guests. This honour encourages us to further elevate our standards and remain aligned with what matters most to those who choose to stay with us.”
This award stands as a significant milestone for Angsana Velavaru, underscoring its continued commitment to delivering ease, comfort, and heartfelt hospitality. In a destination famed for overwater accommodations, the InOcean Pool Villa experience distinguishes itself through simplicity, spaciousness, and a seamless connection with the natural world.
Featured
SO/ Maldives unveils restorative wellness journey with Holistic Healer Karan Kumar

SO/ Maldives, the avant-garde private island retreat nestled in the Emboodhoo Lagoon, has announced a deeply restorative wellness journey for the wet season. This immersive experience is spearheaded by renowned Certified Holistic Healer, Karan Kumar, in collaboration with the resort’s resident wellness team.
Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport, SO/ Maldives blends high fashion with holistic living, offering a bold and stylish take on island luxury. The resort comprises 80 individually designed villas—ranging from beachfront sanctuaries to overwater havens—all boasting panoramic views, complete privacy, and vibrant marine surroundings. Every element of the property is curated to appeal to modern travelers seeking indulgence, creativity, and connection.
At the heart of the resort lies the SO/ Wellness Camp, a sanctuary where cutting-edge design meets nature to provide a transformative escape. More than a traditional spa, this tranquil retreat delivers a full-body and mind experience. Guests are invited to unwind in contemporary, organic-inspired treatment rooms featuring amenities such as a Vichy rainforest shower, steam and sauna rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with sweeping ocean views. The spa’s architectural design is inspired by the gentle movement of water and the island’s natural contours, creating a space that is simultaneously grounding and ethereal.
Central to the wellness offering is a curated selection of therapies that balance ancient practices with modern innovation. Programming includes sound therapy using full moon singing bowls, high-tech facials that combine astrology with skincare, and other bespoke rituals designed to restore and inspire. Whether seeking deep relaxation or a revitalizing boost, SO/ Spa offers guests a chance to reconnect with themselves in an environment that’s as stylish as it is serene.
As part of this season’s programming, guests can access personalised healing sessions at the SO/ Wellness Centre led by Karan Kumar. With over six years of experience, Kumar brings together Ayurveda, Reiki, Energy Healing, and mind-body therapies in a powerful integrative approach. His one-on-one sessions aim to address physical pain, emotional trauma, and energetic imbalances while unlocking each guest’s potential for joy, clarity, and inner strength.
Each session is intuitively tailored, creating a compassionate space for healing and introspection. Guests are encouraged to slow down, reconnect with their inner selves, and rediscover a vibrant sense of balance and wellness.
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