Featured
Embracing 12 months in the Circle of Island Life: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands celebrates first anniversary
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has hosted a blissful celebration of island life as the resort marks its first anniversary in the paradise of Fari Islands. In a year introducing the Indian Ocean to a unique resort destination, the celebrations began with recently appointed General Manager, Renato De Oliveira at the helm, and in the hands of the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Fari Islands.
Twelve Poses of Yoga Circle
A pose for each month in the circle of life of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, 12 guests experienced an hour of energising yoga to prepare them mind, body and soul, for the celebrations ahead. This deep practice took place in the resort’s Mystique Garden at the foot of its 98-foot-tall banyan tree, planted in memory of the late great architect of the resort, Kerry Hill.
Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Programme
For both adults and children over fourteen, marine biologists trained by world-renowned oceanographic explorer, and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau, took up to 30 guests on a journey through the resort’s Ambassadors of the Environment Programme, exclusive to The Ritz-Carlton, and unique to the Indian Ocean. Guests observed marine life on the outer reef of the Atoll, using a flying drone operated by the team and forming part of a unique research programme to conserve the region’s waters. The session shared insights in to recent turtle rescue operations and the resort’s new Coral Regeneration Experience, inviting guests to create frames for new coral reef nurseries with organic clay.

12 Minute Spa Experience
A minute of bliss for every month of the resort’s first year, each guest was invited to the design masterpiece spa over the sparkling ocean lagoon, for a complimentary treatment to celebrate. Expert therapists guided guests in to a state of bliss with an express treatment incorporating the natural indulgence of organic Bamford products.
Embrace Island Quest
In a fun and engaging experience for all ages, guests explored every inch of the resort’s island paradise in a discovery tour testing observational and problem-solving skills. This made sure the little grey cells stay sharp while exploring the haven of Fari Islands, from gardens, lagoons to sandbanks.
MasterChef Cooking Class
For up to 10 guests the resort’s LA LOCANDA sets the scene for an unforgettable culinary journey through the senses. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ Chefs de Cuisine hosted an exclusive celebratory cooking class inspired by the global influences served across the resort’s seven restaurants. Guests learned how to prepare: Lebanese flavours by Chef Mohamed from Arabesque, Alaskan Crab Leg Tempura with Japanese Sweet and Sour by Chef Andrei from IWAU, Black Truffle Wagyu Beef with Asparagus and Cantonese flavours by Chef Franco form the Summer Pavilion, and a variety of desserts by local award-winning, Chef Aminath, including, Kiru Boakiba (Maldivian coconut pudding) and Dhonkeyo Kaju (Banana Fritters).
Anniversary Celebration Under the Ocean
Plugging in to nature is essential at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and below the crystal waters is a good place to start. The celebrations took guests on a special journey led by Dive Butler to explore the reefs and marine life surrounding the resort. With options to snorkel or scuba dive this was a unique opportunity to celebrate and capture unforgettable #RCMemories.

Coral Regeneration Experience with Coral Ceramics Snorkel
The resort’s marine biologists invited up to 10 guests to experience one of the Fari Islands’ many environmental projects. Escorted by boat to the new coral nurseries surrounding the islands, guests observed the planting of ceramic coral frames made by guests, working to preserve one of the most enchanting and diverse coral reef systems in the world.
Art Collection Tour
Led by the Ladies and Gentlemen of the resort, an insightful art tour invited up to 10 guests to explore the islands’ curated art collection. From the pieces found in every villa to the colourful mural located inside Ritz Kids.
Ritz Kids Night Out
Junior guests aged four-12 enjoyed a celebratory evening in the Ritz Kids Club, a futuristic indoor-outdoor space with playgrounds, napping pods, an area for video games and movies, and a pool with slides and jets. With its daily programme based on the four pillars of land, water, environmental responsibility and culture and a regular schedule of activities including sports, arts, crafts and cooking classes, the big night out included hours of games, activities and a movie to keep little minds buzzing.
Anniversary Cocktail and Dinner
With sand between toes and relaxing vibes, the pinnacle of the celebrations invite guests to gather for a toast at the elegant yet laid-back Beach Shack. The celebrations commence with a complimentary cocktail, including a Sangu sundowner, before the skies drop a blanket of stars in time to indulge in a lavish buffet, serving flavours from across the globe.

The property is ideally located at Fari Islands, in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, which is a 45- minute journey by speedboat or a 10-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport. The resort features white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs with marine life. Shaped by the Maldivian sun and shored by the Indian Ocean, guest villas at The Ritz Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands range in size from one to three bedrooms. The legendary service is refined by an Aris Meeha, island butler that define The Ritz-Carlton brand. The property offers a choice of outstanding culinary venues serving an array of international and local cuisines, in addition to a full suite of fitness and recreational facilities including Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassador of the Environment programme and a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa featuring Bamford amenities. Spaces have been designed by the renowned Kerry Hill Architects, to bring about a delicate balance of serene and social.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is part of Fari Islands, an archipelago that features three world-class hospitality brands inclusive of The Ritz-Carlton. Guests have access to a picturesque Fari Marina – the archipelago’s communal beating heart. Built around a vibrant Beach Club, Fari Marina features charming boutiques and a handpicked selection of dining options.
For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and reservations enquiries, please visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives
Featured
Love loud and laid-back: Valentine’s Day across CROSSROADS Maldives
At CROSSROADS Maldives, Valentine’s Day is designed as a full-day celebration that extends beyond a single romantic dinner, unfolding instead as a journey of connection, creativity and shared discovery. Set across two interconnected islands linked by a tranquil lagoon, the destination invites couples to shape their own rhythm of romance, moving fluidly between moments of energy, playfulness and quiet reflection.
Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé, CROSSROADS Maldives offers a multi-island Valentine’s escape that combines barefoot island living with a contemporary sense of togetherness. From sunrise through to starlight, couples are encouraged to explore experiences that engage both body and mind.
At SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, the day begins with a sunrise couple’s fitness run along the shoreline, followed by guided snorkelling experiences and pool-based wellness sessions. As the pace builds, playful activities take centre stage, including aqua zumba, beach and pool volleyball, water polo and a light-hearted couple’s “Amazing Race” around the island.
Creative expression forms an integral part of the programme, with hands-on workshops such as coconut painting, tie-dye art, cocktail and mocktail masterclasses, and relaxed karaoke sessions at the swim-up bar. For couples seeking slower, more intimate moments, SAii Spa offers extended Valentine’s journeys for two, featuring shared rituals, massages, facials and private bathing ceremonies, concluding with champagne and chocolate indulgences.
One of the most personal experiences takes place at the clay studio at The Marina @ CROSSROADS, where couples spend time shaping a single ceramic piece together. The finished item is kiln-fired and, if guests depart before completion, shipped to their home as a lasting keepsake of their time together.
Across the lagoon, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives presents a contrasting atmosphere with its Love Loud, Live Proud Valentine’s programme. Dance-led fitness sessions, couple-focused pool games and sunset partner yoga transition into beachfront dining, live music and Latin-inspired performances beneath the night sky.
As part of the celebrations, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives has introduced the LOVE ROCKS Valentine’s offer, providing couples with the opportunity to extend their stay beyond the day itself. The offer includes savings of up to 35 per cent, with bookings available from 12 January to 10 February 2026 for stays between 10 February and 31 March 2026.
As evening falls, Valentine’s dining experiences unfold across the destination’s beach and open-air venues, ranging from intimate multi-course dinners and relaxed barbecues to DJ-led beach parties at Hard Rock Cafe. Rather than centring on a single moment, Valentine’s Day at CROSSROADS Maldives is defined by a series of experiences chosen by each couple, allowing the celebration to feel personal, flexible and unhurried.
Featured
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru blends romance and wellbeing in February Valentine’s programme
This February, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites travellers to celebrate love through a series of intimate and thoughtfully curated Valentine’s experiences, set against the natural beauty of the Original Maldives, where romance, inner renewal and mindful presence unfold with ease.
From 10 to 14 February 2026, the resort presents a refined Valentine’s programme designed for couples seeking meaningful connection and timeless romance. Central to the celebration is destination dining on a private sandbank, where an exclusive Valentine’s dinner is served on a secluded stretch of white sand, surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Beneath the stars and by candlelight, couples are invited to savour a carefully curated menu in an atmosphere of quiet intimacy.
Romance is further elevated at Madi Hiyaa, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, with a specially crafted four-course Valentine’s menu. The experience begins with a rose-inspired sparkling welcome cocktail, setting an elegant tone for the evening. At Naiboli Bar, candlelit tables, subtle Valentine’s touches and live music create an unhurried evening by the sea, allowing guests to linger and connect.
On 14 February, couples may deepen their celebration at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa through the Romantic Spa Retreat, a 120-minute experience designed for reconnection. Guests may choose between Sunrise Nourished or Sunset Relief, each combining a signature body healer, a full-body massage and a mini facial, complemented by light refreshments enjoyed in the privacy of the spa pavilion.
Throughout February, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru also offers the “From Stress to Stillness” wellbeing journey, inviting guests to restore balance through a personalised consultation and a thoughtfully curated programme that includes Auricular Therapy, Counter Tech Move rituals and Yogic Sleep (Yoga Nidra). Rooted in understated elegance and a holistic philosophy of wellbeing, the month becomes an invitation to celebrate love while fostering calm, reflection and mindful presence.
Valentine’s celebrations extend to Dhawa Ihuru, where couples are invited to mark the occasion through relaxed moments by the sea. On 14 February 2026, guests are welcomed at Velavani Bar with a rose sparkling Valentine’s drink before continuing the evening at Riveli Restaurant, where a special Valentine’s sweet corner adds a romantic highlight to the dining experience. Throughout the month, guests may also unwind at 8lements Spa, where soothing treatments encourage relaxation, balance and quiet renewal, complementing the spirit of the season.
Excursions
Manta season experience returns as InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau announces 2026 retreat
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has announced the dates for its 2026 Manta Retreat, following the programme’s strong reception in recent years. The retreat will take place from 24 to 27 March 2026, coinciding with the Maamunagau manta season, when juvenile manta rays are commonly sighted in the resort’s lagoon just offshore.
The resort will once again partner with The Manta Trust, one of the world’s leading manta ray research organisations, to co-host the retreat and offer guests an immersive, educational experience centred on marine conservation. The programme is designed for travellers seeking purpose-led experiences and a deeper understanding of manta rays within their natural environment.
Located on the edge of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and adjacent to a known juvenile manta ray aggregation site, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau provides direct access to key research and observation areas. During the retreat, guests will be able to participate in guided reef snorkelling, manta excursions led by The Manta Trust, coral restoration and planting workshops, and a series of educational sessions. Participants will also have the opportunity to adopt and name a manta ray as part of the conservation initiative.
The partnership between InterContinental Maldives and The Manta Trust has been in place since 2019. The retreat will be led by The Manta Trust’s base leader, Meral Hafeez, who will guide guests through manta ray encounters while sharing insight into the organisation’s ongoing research and conservation efforts in the surrounding waters. The programme offers participants a behind-the-scenes look at the daily work of the research team, including observing and recording manta ray behaviour.
In 2023, Maamunagau Lagoon was recognised as an Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA), identifying it as a vital habitat for manta rays and a priority conservation site. The lagoon continues to serve as a key research area for The Manta Trust, allowing guests to observe manta rays in their natural environment within close proximity to the resort. Certified divers are also catered for, with access to dedicated dive sites where manta ray cleaning stations can be observed, highlighting the complex marine ecosystems of the Maldives.
Beyond the retreat activities, guests can enjoy the resort’s overwater villas, unwind at AVI Spa, or explore its range of dining experiences.
The participation fee for the Manta Retreat is USD 1,550++ per night, per room, based on double occupancy, with a minimum stay of four nights. The package includes one manta ray research trip, guided house reef snorkelling, manta ray adoption, educational workshops, and accommodation in a luxury villa or residence on a half-board basis.
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