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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, adventure, and island magic at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s extravaganza
This Valentine’s Day, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives will once again serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable celebration of love and harmony with the second season of Paradise Pulse: Hearts in Harmony. From February 12 to 17, 2025, the resort will welcome couples to experience a week-long celebration filled with romance, unforgettable moments, and special experiences designed to make Valentine’s Week truly memorable.
Each day at the resort will begin with intimate culinary delights available for pre-booking, including a dreamy ‘Breakfast in Bed’ and a ‘Romantic Lagoon Mimosa Breakfast,’ allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking sunrises. As the evening unfolds, love will take centre stage with exclusive dining experiences, such as a private ‘Sandbank Dinner’ under a starlit sky, a sophisticated ‘Wine Lover’s Dinner’ with curated pairings, or a relaxed ‘Lovers’ Feast and Beach BBQ.’
This year, Paradise Pulse will enhance the Valentine’s Day experience with a fusion of electronic dance music and sensual belly dancing, building upon the success of the previous year. Throughout the week, world-class entertainment will elevate the romantic atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Celebrated Trance music artist and producer from the UK, DJ Chris Metcalfe, will return to the Maldives, setting the mood with his electrifying beats. Additionally, Brazilian belly dancer Lurdiana Tejas—an internet sensation with 2.5 million followers—will captivate audiences with her enchanting performances, adding an exotic flair to the celebration.
Guests will have the opportunity to celebrate love in an extraordinary way with specially curated Valentine’s experiences. These exclusive offerings will be available for an additional charge, ensuring a truly memorable celebration in paradise. Adventurous couples can embark on thrilling ocean excursions, explore the rich Maldivian marine world, or participate in the extraordinary Whale Shark Mission, providing a rare chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. The excitement can be further elevated with a Jet Car ride, complete with stunning aerial captures, or a romantic Floating Love Experience, allowing couples to drift into serenity together.
For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s award-winning spa will offer couples an opportunity to reconnect and rejuvenate. The ‘You & Me’ experience, an 80-minute synchronised massage designed for ultimate relaxation, and the ‘Be My Valentine’ treatment, a luxurious 105-minute full-body pampering ritual, will provide indulgent moments of tranquility.
Live music and DJ nights at Lagoon Bar and The Bar will set a romantic tone, complemented by dazzling Belly Dance and Fire Show performances. The Retro and White Party will invite guests to dance under the Maldivian sky, while themed games, scavenger hunts, and couple’s challenges will present playful opportunities to celebrate love.
To make the occasion even more special, Sun Siyam Olhuveli will offer a curated Valentine’s Gift Pack, allowing guests to surprise their significant others with thoughtful keepsakes that capture the essence of romance.
With its breathtaking beauty, immersive experiences, and unparalleled luxury, Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s Week Celebration promises couples an extraordinary escape filled with love, adventure, and island magic.
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JW Marriott’s latest Maldivian retreat opens in Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 luxury hotel brands, has announced the opening of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, marking the second JW Marriott resort in the Maldives. Situated in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and only 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, the resort provides an idyllic sanctuary designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit in a tropical oceanic paradise.
Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott, highlighted the resort’s dedication to blending luxury with holistic well-being, emphasising its ability to offer a peaceful escape where every detail inspires balance and rejuvenation. He noted that with the Maldives’ natural beauty as a backdrop, the resort aims to provide an exceptional experience that resonates with guests seeking tranquility, mindfulness, and world-class service.
Featuring 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort combines traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to foster a deep connection with nature. Each villa is designed for relaxation, offering expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons. The Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence, positioned above the turquoise waters, provides an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views. This elegant residence caters to families and groups of friends, offering a refined space to connect and create lasting memories while enjoying panoramic ocean vistas.
The resort’s architecture, envisioned by Turkish architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Atolye4N, seamlessly integrates Maldivian design with modern elements inspired by the island’s natural beauty. The arrival jetty, modelled after the graceful flight of the Maakana heron, sets the tone for the resort’s aesthetic. The villas reflect traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, featuring kajan roofs, vibrant turquoise doors, and neutral-toned interiors. Thoughtful design elements, including Maldivian lacquerware crafts and contrasting textures, contribute to a serene and harmonious retreat.
Committed to sustainability, the resort has partnered with INVENA in a groundbreaking environmental initiative. This collaboration introduces a 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure, designed with the Self-Assembly Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to mitigate wave action and prevent beach erosion. Additionally, the structure fosters vibrant marine ecosystems by creating reef habitats that attract diverse fish and coral species. Guests will have the opportunity to engage with this innovative project, contributing to scientific efforts addressing climate challenges.
The resort features seven distinct dining venues and bars, offering a diverse culinary experience that showcases global flavours and high-quality ingredients.
Veyo, the international restaurant, provides a menu celebrating fresh ingredients and panoramic views. Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, boasts a striking two-story design inspired by ocean waves, where premium cuts of meat are served with breathtaking Indian Ocean views. Nikkei, perched above, presents a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites influenced by Peruvian, Japanese, and European traditions. Riva delivers a sophisticated interpretation of Indian Ocean cuisine, blending Indian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian flavours in a contemporary fine-dining setting. Pure focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the island’s natural bounty, with herbs such as rosemary, mint, basil, thyme, and sage harvested directly from the JW Garden. Tito’s, a deli and patisserie, offers an array of handcrafted delights, including chocolates, macarons, truffles, cakes, and pastries designed to indulge the senses.
For those seeking exclusive dining experiences, the resort provides bespoke private dining options in intimate settings, allowing guests to create unforgettable culinary memories.
The overwater Spa by JW offers renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products, making it the first spa in the Maldives to collaborate with the brand. The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, incorporates BABOR’s prestigious anti-aging skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with deep-sea active ingredients for a transformative wellness experience.
Fitness and wellness enthusiasts can enjoy sunrise yoga sessions, a state-of-the-art fitness centre overlooking the ocean, and a lap pool. For adventure seekers, the resort offers marine activities such as snorkelling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Additional experiences include dolphin safaris, parasailing, and sunset cruises for those seeking relaxation and serenity.
The resort’s meticulously designed public spaces provide moments of tranquility for reflection, helping guests restore balance and focus. Whether indulging in gourmet cuisine, unwinding at the spa, or engaging in ocean adventures, every aspect of the resort is designed to inspire renewal and connection.
The resort embraces the joy of togetherness with its Family by JW program, which offers thoughtfully curated experiences that encourage families to create lasting memories. Designed to cater to guests of all ages, the resort features a dedicated Kids’ and Teens’ Club, a colourful playground, and a child-friendly swimming pool to ensure younger visitors are entertained and engaged.
The JW Kids’ Club offers enriching activities designed to educate and inspire children through exploration and play. Families can participate in interactive cooking classes, using fresh, sustainably grown produce from the JW Garden. The garden not only supplies ingredients for the resort’s cuisine but also serves as a space for guests to reconnect with nature through gardening. Through a combination of vibrant adventures and shared moments of creativity, the Family by JW program ensures a memorable and joyful experience for all generations.
Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, emphasised the resort’s commitment to reflecting the timeless beauty of the Maldives while providing an unforgettable journey. He stated that the goal is to offer guests a true sanctuary where luxury and well-being converge. With JW Marriott’s signature warmth and hospitality, the resort invites guests to immerse themselves in the magic of the Maldives, nurturing both mind and body.
Featured
Janice Wong brings edible art to OZEN LIFE MAADHOO
For those with a refined sweet tooth and a love for the Maldives, THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced an exclusive collaboration with celebrated pastry virtuoso Janice Wong. The renowned chef will be present at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 24th to 26th April 2025, transforming the island into a hub of culinary innovation. Guests will have the opportunity to experience bespoke dessert creations, interactive workshops, and captivating chocolate installations.
During her residency, Chef Wong will unveil her signature edible chocolate wall art—an impressive three-metre-tall masterpiece crafted from sustainably sourced chocolate. Designed to reflect the Maldives’ vibrant marine ecosystem, the installation will feature intricate coral-inspired designs, with 100 ‘reef-like’ cavities containing hand-painted bonbons for guests to enjoy. In addition to this centrepiece, she will host live dessert stations at the resort’s overwater venues, offering delicacies such as Yuzu Meringue Clouds and Salted Caramel Lava Spheres, carefully paired with sommelier-selected dessert wines.
On 24th April, a four-hands gourmet dinner at the underwater restaurant M6m will showcase a collaboration between Chef Wong and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s Executive Chef Alok. This exclusive event, limited to just 40 guests, will present a dessert degustation menu that reimagines Maldivian flavours through modernist techniques and locally sourced ingredients.
Younger guests will also have the chance to explore their creativity through daily chocolate art workshops, where Chef Wong will guide families in crafting edible masterpieces using chocolate crayons, rice paper, and miniature canvases. Each child will leave with a personalised creation and a keepsake brochure detailing the week’s activities.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Chef Wong expressed her inspiration from the Maldives’ natural beauty. She noted that her goal at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is to blur the lines between art, nature, and gastronomy, creating lasting impressions both on the palate and in memory.
All experiences will be seamlessly integrated into the resort’s INDULGENCE™ Plan, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the festivities. From sunset bonbon tastings to private consultations with Chef Wong, the programme exemplifies THE OZEN COLLECTION’s commitment to Refined Elegance, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
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