Featured
OBLU SELECT Sangeli: Microcosm of sustainable stewardship
Situated in the North-Western tip of Malé Atoll, Maldives is the island of Sangeli, home to OBLU SELECT Sangeli. This luxury five star resort is operated by the popular Indian Ocean hospitality brand Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts, who have chosen Green Globe to certify the sustainable operations of their OBLU, OZEN and Atmosphere resorts.
Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts’ Sustainability Management Plan is applied across their group of properties and states its desire to, “Carry out its business in line with our company’s guiding principles of being conscious of global environment issues and acknowledge our responsibility towards the environment. While the well-being of our guests remains the fore-front, we commit ourselves to carrying out operations in a sustainable manner, taking every step to minimise operational impact on, and preserve the environment wherever we operate.”
OBLU SELECT Sangeli is a 50 minute boat ride from the Maldives capital of Malé. The Resort is a popular destination for nature lovers with snorkeling and diving in the inner lagoon and outer reef. The Resort has its own in-house Marine Biologist dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues faced by the planet, while leading marine talks and interacting with guests.
Scientist and diver, Giorgia Maggioni says, “Throughout my studies, I’ve always been passionate about corals. Working as Marine Biologist at OBLU SELECT Sangeli allows me to actively contribute to the preservation of the most diverse ecosystem, the coral reef, through its restoration and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, being in a resort environment, I get an opportunity to educate our guests and I take pride in showing them our successful coral restoration project and all the sustainability measures adopted by the resort.”
Being located on an Indian Ocean atoll island, the management of OBLU SELECT Sangeli are committed to do the best they can to mitigate the causes of climate change and protect their paradise. Since going solar in 2020, the resort has generated 1,327,082 Kwh of electricity, which has reduced diesel generation by 358,671 litres. This is a carbon reduction of 947 tonnes of CO2e, or the equivalent of 379 round trips flights between the UK and the Maldives.
The vegetation across the island is precious and vital to OBLU SELECT Sangeli’s ongoing operations and managing water resources is therefore vitality important. The iconic tropical Coconut Palm flourishes on Sangeli as it is endemic to the Maldives. The grey water produced by the resort is recycled so it can be safely used for irrigation of the Coconuts Palms – the Maldives national tree – and all island vegetation. The resort produces potable water via desalination and bottles its own drinking water in reusable glass. While the resort also collects rainwater, it prides itself on educating staff and guests on water saving behaviours so none of this valuable resource is wasted.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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