Featured
Kandolhu Maldives welcomes new Executive Chef
Kandolhu Maldives continues to raise the bar as an esteemed dining destination in the North Ari Atoll by welcoming Executive Chef Andrew Smith into its fold.
A British national, Chef Andrew brings 14 years of experience honed in a distinguished portfolio of Michelin-acclaimed restaurants, several private resort islands, and luxury properties in the United Kingdom, the Maldives, and Seychelles.
Fuelled by a resolve to exceed expectations, his key achievements include earning a Michelin star during his stint as Sous-Chef in Thackeray’s at Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent. In 2011, he successfully clinched a Michelin bib gourmand within three months as Group Head Chef in George & Dragon.
Before joining Kandolhu, he served as a Consultant Chef at Oakley Hall Hotel and at a Five AA Rosettes and a Michelin star fine-dining restaurant in London. Asked about his new outpost in the intimate 5-star resort, Chef Andrew remarks: “It is a fantastic little island that offers our guests a wealth of experiences. I believe that the beauty is in the fact we can offer tailored culinary experiences to our guests and treat them as a family by creating unique experiences.”
Declaring his aspirations of what’s to come in the dining scene of Kandolhu, he expressed his plans to reinstate touches of Maldivian cuisine into the bill of fare and expand bespoke dining experiences with a Chef’s Table.
Now at the helm of the kitchen of Kandolhu, Chef Andrew deftly binds the nuanced styles of his humble team to deliver distinctive gastronomy that catapults Kandolhu on the culinary map.
Kandolhu presents the brilliance of authentic hospitality paired with raw luxury and intuitive service. Fringed by a house reef offering endless underwater adventures and a plethora of dining options, this tiny island makes for that perfect haven.
Featured
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
-
News1 week agoAutograph Collection Hotels debuts in Maldives with The Halcyon Private Isles: Signature retreat of individuality, immersion
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Mirage Lagoon Maldives wins top family hotel honour at Little Steps Family Travel Awards
-
News1 week agoSO/ Maldives rolls out red carpet for spectacular festive season
-
Action1 week agoAyada Maldives: Sanctuary where ocean conservation shapes every experience
-
Action7 days agoNew Year’s voyage of indulgence: InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau’s private yacht experience with Chef Tom Aikens
-
Drink1 week agoOZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI celebrated for wine perfection at global awards
-
News1 week agoThe Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invites guests to Celestial Festive journey beyond horizon
-
News1 week agoThe Standard, Maldives launches ‘We Got You Covered’ campaign to ensure seamless stay, rain or shine


