Featured
Now is the time to celebrate: Accor Maldives Collection invites guests to turn missed celebrations into memorable ones
As friends, family and loved ones come together again, the five-star resorts across the Accor Maldives Collection invite guests to celebrate missed milestones and past occasions with once-in-a-life-time experiences. From big birthdays to heartfelt anniversaries, vowel renewals, engagements and new family members, the teams at each of the resorts can make dreams come true with each celebration. Whether it’s exchanging vows in paradise or marking a big birthday milestone with a private pool party or reuniting with friends over adrenalin fuelled activities, the Accor Maldives Collection offers casual catch-ups, extravagant festivities and special private moments so that those missed celebrations become the most cherished.
Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives – for a dreamy engagement to remember
An engagement or a renewal of vows should be one of the more memorable and cherished experiences in life. The team at Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives do the utmost in creating a truly personalised event inspired by a couples’ own heart warming story. From an idyllic beach set up to a ceremony under the iconic azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the resort has a paradise-like setting to ignite or rekindle the romance for its guests.
To help loved ones celebrate their romance, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives offers the Beach Side Affair package which includes a hosted wedding ceremony, dedicated coordinator and Master of Ceremony, welcome drinks for the couple, wedding cake and marriage certificate, as well as a romantic turn down service and floral bath along with an in-villa breakfast the following day. The Beach Side Affair is available from USD700++ per person based on two people sharing. The romance transcends throughout the resort — from the expansive villas with private pools, to the adventurous aquatic experiences, golden sunsets and coastal dining as well as access to the island’s private luxury yacht.
Rates start from USD500 in an Overwater Pool Villa Lagoon. To book or for more information, email Resort.Kuredhivaru.Reservations@movenpick.com or phone +960 656 3000
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort – for an unforgettable anniversary for two
Anniversaries are an important part of life when couples come together to celebrate their relationship and love. For those wanting to extend their anniversary beyond a single day, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort transports couples far away from the distractions of everyday life to relax, reconnect and align together in their own privacy. The luxury five-star resort offers a selection of handpicked extraordinary experiences to heighten the senses so that an anniversary becomes one that is never forgotten.
From gourmet delights including a floating breakfast in the private villa pool and a candle lit wine pairing in the resort’s cellar, to adventurous days spent snorkelling throughout the island’s two house reefs, Robinson Crusoe island hopping, magical tiger shark encounters, and a private sunset cruise on the resort’s luxury yacht; each moment of the day can be elevated to an extraordinary experience. Not forgetting the resort’s Spa oasis which offers a wide range of treatments for couples and the legendary butlers who will do everything to ensure needs are met.
The Romance Package is available for USD1200++ for two guests and includes breakfast and dinner, one daily Sundowner cocktail per person at Long Bar, one floating Breakfast, one Romantic Private Dinner in Villa and One Raffles Signature Massage, 90 minutes per person. For more information or to book, visit www.raffles.com/maldives
Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi – for a nurturing first family holiday
While some people think of the Maldives as a honeymoon destination or only for couples, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is an island paradise designed for all ages to enjoy. Ideal for a first getaway as a new family, every detail of a little one’s first holiday has been carefully thought through with convenience and relaxation in mind.
The spacious villas with separate living areas create an opportunity for parents to have some alone time to sit under the stars whilst the extensive wellness offering provides the ultimate in parent pampering, and the many restaurants on the island mean that parents need only to think about what to order from the gourmet-laden menus.
The natural habitat of the island is a tonic for worn out parents offering them the opportunity to recharge whether that is walking barefoot in the golden sand or swimming in one of the Maldives’ largest lagoons. Parents can watch in delight as their little ones’ imaginations thrive whilst they make friends in the kids club (suitable from infancy to age 12 and over) and discover the magical sights and sounds from life on an exotic private island.
For families, the newly introduced package “More Escapes” offers an exotic escape for four nights where the focus is to reset, reconnect, and rejuvenate with the resort’s bespoke wellness programmes created by the Willow Stream Spa. The package includes daily buffet breakfast and dinner, two return seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport to Fairmont Maldives, and 20% discount on any spa treatments.
Rates start from USD4,999 a night (including Tax and service charge, Excluding Green Tax). For more information or to book, visit www.fairmont.com/reservations/checkavailability/
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa – for a supercharged reunion with friends
There is no better place to reunite with friends and loved ones from around the world than the idyllic setting of the Maldives. For those looking to book a special getaway to enjoy long missed quality time with friends, the all-inclusive Pullman Maldives Maamutaa offers a paradise playground where guests can play, reset and reconnect The resort has created a range of ‘retreats’ to suit reunions of all kinds including wellbeing journeys, to tailor made adventures.
Referred to as the most generous all-inclusive resort in the Maldives, friends can make the most of the exclusive benefits to enjoy together. From boot-camp workouts on the beach and daily yoga sessions to talks led by a marine biologist, nature walks, and guided snorkelling; there’s an abundance of activities for groups of friends who share a passion for living life to the fullest. The resort also provides a selection of tailored themed evenings where long awaited catch ups can continue into the starry night skies.
Rates start from USD870 per villa per night including taxes, for 2 adults on ultra All inclusive basis (excluding transfers). For more information or to book, visit www.pullmanmaldivesmaamutaa.com/
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo – for a big birthday bash
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort is exclusively for adults and offers a unique boutique experience, perfect for hosting a milestone birthday celebration. Surrounded by untouched nature, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, it’s a bucket list worthy place to visit. The dedicated team at the resort are on hand to create an itinerary of celebrations throughout an island stay. Guests can throw their very own private pool party in paradise complete with DJ. More private, low key activities include a private cinema evening on the beach, PADI diving tours, snorkelling expeditions, dolphin cruises, and a variety of water sports. On-land activities range from tennis and beach volleyball to cooking classes, and karaoke.
Rates start from USD550 per villa per night including taxes, for 2 adults on ultra All inclusive basis (excluding transfers). To enquire about celebrating a special milestone, please visit www.mercuremaldiveskooddooresort.com
Featured
AIDA brings over 2,000 tourists to Maldives in major economic boost
Maldives recently welcomed the Italian-flagged cruise ship AIDA, carrying 2,139 tourists. Operated primarily for Swiss, Austrian, and German visitors, the ship arrived on December 8, 2024, from Muscat, Oman. This visit marks the first cruise ship arrival since regulatory changes were implemented at the request of the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA).
The AIDA’s stopover is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. The influx of tourists is likely to benefit various businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, local dhonis, guesthouses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé. This surge in activity is anticipated to further solidify the Maldives’ position as a leading cruise destination in the region.
This milestone underscores the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings. Beyond its economic impact, the AIDA’s visit is expected to enhance foreign reserves and contribute to broader national economic growth. The vessel is scheduled to depart the Maldives on December 9, 2024, at 6 PM, after a brief yet impactful visit.
The Maldivian tourism industry continues to thrive despite global challenges. This achievement follows recent accolades, including being named the World Travel Awards’ (WTA) World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year and earning the title of World’s Leading Green Destination for the first time. The successful introduction of cruise tourism marks the beginning of a promising new chapter, with future visits poised to further invigorate the industry and local economy.
Celebration
A Soaring Festive: celebrate the season in style at Ifuru Island Maldives
This festive season, Ifuru Island Maldives invites guests to a tropical paradise celebration under the theme ‘A Soaring Festive.’ Taking place from December 21, 2024, to January 10, 2025, the event promises a vibrant, entertainment-filled program designed to create joy, excitement, and lasting memories.
Catering to diverse preferences, A Soaring Festive offers an array of experiences, from dynamic nightlife and unique performances to relaxed island vibes, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Renowned DJ Rawlo will headline the nightly entertainment, captivating audiences with high-energy performances and dynamic beats. Breaking away from conventional DJ stereotypes, Rawlo’s electrifying sets promise to keep guests dancing under the stars until late into the night.
Adding to the festive lineup, the talented duo Synthetic Seduction—comprising Evgeniya and Olcay—will deliver versatile performances, including soulful saxophone melodies, lively DJ sets, and engaging duo band shows. Whether guests are enjoying cocktails by the pool or dancing on the sand, this duo creates the perfect ambiance for both relaxation and high-energy fun.
For those seeking visual artistry, Jonas and Aygul will dazzle with awe-inspiring fire shows, mesmerising LED displays, skillful juggling acts, and elegant belly dancing. Their multi-faceted performances promise to light up the island with unforgettable entertainment.
Complementing the headline acts, ‘A Soaring Festive’ features a variety of activities designed to enhance the holiday experience. Guests can participate in beach games, competitions, and themed culinary events that celebrate the flavors of the season, ensuring a celebration filled with joy and excitement.
Featured
New deep-sea fish species discovered in Maldives: Chromis Abadhah
In a breakthrough for marine science, a new species of fish has been discovered in the pristine waters of the Maldives. Named Chromis Abadhah, the species derives its name from the Maldivian Dhivehi word Abadhah, meaning perpetual, symbolising the ongoing commitment to planetary conservation. The name also acknowledges the support of the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, which funded the research.
The fish was first spotted near Maafilaafushi in the Kaafu Atoll. Subsequent studies revealed that the species inhabits multiple regions of the Maldives, ranging from Lhaviyani Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll. Researchers documented the fish in eight distinct locations, indicating that it may be distributed across various parts of the country.
Chromis Abadhah resides at depths between 95 and 110 metres, in the mesophotic zone, where sunlight begins to fade. This habitat sets it apart from other species in its family, which are typically found in shallower waters of around 30 meters.
The new species belongs to the ‘Dan’ba’ family, a group of damselfish commonly found in Maldivian seas. However, Chromis Abadhah is distinct from its relatives in several ways:
- Unlike other Chromis species, it lacks the characteristic black cross line near the neck.
- Its upper shell comprises 14 bones, compared to the typical 13 seen in related species.
While other Chromis species, such as Chromis axillaris, Chromis pelora, and Chromis woodsi, are found in various parts of the world, Chromis Abadhah appears to be endemic to the Maldives, making it a unique addition to the region’s biodiversity.
The study was a collaborative effort involving Maldivian experts and international scientists. To better understand the species, researchers captured four specimens using a specialised net. Their findings, published in a scientific paper, highlight the importance of deep-sea exploration in uncovering hidden marine treasures.
The identification of Chromis Abadhah underscores the Maldives’ rich marine biodiversity and the critical role of research in its preservation. This discovery also emphasises the importance of protecting deep-sea habitats, which often harbour unique and endemic species.
-
Lifestyle1 week ago
Maldives: The new haven for over-55 travelers
-
News1 week ago
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives receives Wellness Heaven Award 2026 nominations
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Kurumba Maldives, Marvin Humes ring in 2025 with exclusive beachfront DJ set
-
Featured1 week ago
Villa Resorts partners with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to expand GCC presence
-
Action1 week ago
JOALI BEING hosts inspirational tennis workshops with Sascha Zverev, Alexander Zverev Foundation
-
News1 week ago
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort gets Green Globe Certification for excellence in sustainability
-
News1 week ago
Dream island getaway at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives to locals, expats
-
Action1 week ago
Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives