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St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils new exquisite experiences amid reopening

The award-winning five-star property, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort announces the unveiling of new, exquisite experiences as it resumes operations on July 16, following a brief 45-day closure for a property rejuvenation. The highly anticipated reopening of the Vommuli Island resort welcomes guests back to Maldives’ finest address where the highest standard of luxury hospitality and unforgettable moments await.
With the goal of refining the guest experience, accommodations underwent an attractive refreshment with an installation of new wood, roofs, decks and paint finishes. The appealing property changes were conceived to match and enhance the unparalleled excellence of the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli’s signature services, world-class amenities and superior program offerings.
“We are thrilled to welcome our valued guests back to paradise as we introduce new and opulent innovations to Vommuli Island,” said Vincent Pauchon, General Manager at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “We have taken this time to thoughtfully reconceive our programming putting a special emphasis on fresh, unique concepts in the health & wellness, lifestyle, food & beverage and sustainability spaces.”
Following the property enhancements, guests can expect an elevated and impeccable private island stay that is emblematic of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli. For added allure, extensions for ALBA beach and all beach villas have been completed. Furthermore, a reef breaker has been installed in the lagoon, creating calmer waters for guests staying in overwater villas, recreational water activities, and to aid in reef rejuvenation, among other purposes.

In addition to the resort’s property updates, the world-renowned Iridium Spa, has introduced an Ayurveda Monsoon Stay package targeting those seeking extravagant wellness offerings complete with opulent, top-of-the-line treatments during the monsoon season, when the benefits of Ayurveda are greater than ever. Debuting on August 3rd, the 7-day and 14-day packages include a variety of innovative services for the body and mind under the guidance of Ayurvedic Physician and Spa Manager, Dr. Sudhi Suresh. The package also includes an expansive array of activities and treatments using herbal plants from the Ayurveda garden that will take guests on a transformative journey. Also included in the package are individual wellness consultations, daily group yoga, aqua aerobics, TRX, Tabata, beach boot camp classes and Ayurvedic sessions such as Abhyanga, Shirodhara and Choornaswedana. Lastly, enlightening wellness workshops, and an indulgent, anti-ageing caviar facial are featured in the Ayurveda Monsoon Stay package.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli will launch an exclusive Art Retreat. Hosted by Denise Schmitz, founder of We Love Art, the 3-day immersion begins with a welcome orientation and drink followed by sunset cocktails and dinner at Orientale. In addition to intimate painting sessions with Denise, the itinerary includes an array of thoughtful activities, such as sunrise and anti-gravity yoga, relaxing treatments at Iridium Spa, decadent dining, and unforgettable activities including a Turtle Quest and champagne sabering.
Cocktail connoisseurs and travelers alike are sure to appreciate the uniquely distinctive, new Bar Program, set to unveil in August. Featuring a captivating “Violet Hour” ritual and New York-inspired cocktails, the new program pays homage to the legacy and glamor of the original House of Astor. This extraordinary celebration of the art of drinking features a selection of 40 cocktail recipes inspired by five New York neighborhoods, merging the stylish charm of Manhattan with local infusions to create exquisite original creations.
In addition to this enchanting delight, the five-star property is further enriching its impressive culinary concepts with the introduction of a new restaurant concept, T-Pan. The artistic touch of presentations, exquisite ingredients, and the apogee of the art of simplicity are imbued in the gracious art of T-Pan. Located in a serene garden at the ledge of the white sand beach with breathtaking views of the Azure Indian Ocean, epicureans will relish in the wabi sabi Japanese Zen’s Celestial philosophy of appreciating beauty of imperfection, revered subtle nuanced and transience of all elements and journey of discovering the senses. Slated for its grand opening in November, T-Pan will offer Omakase menus with flavors of the finest ingredients from the Maldives and around the globe. Guests can enjoy exquisite Japanese whiskies and the finest collections of gins, beers, and specially curated tasting flights, meticulously directed by the chief mixologist. Teas from Boutique Japanese tea houses and bespoke Sakes from the world-famous Sake house Dassai are also must-have indulgences to be enjoyed above the rest.
The destination’s idyllic, natural environment is elevated by the finest expression of luxury that promises nonpareil relaxation and extraordinary moments. Set on more than 22-acres, the resort’s 77 transcendent villas scattered through the island each offer a plunge pool and private entrance for an unparalleled degree of seclusion and privacy. The premium two- and three-bedroom villas – including the famed John Jacob Astor Estate, the largest overwater villa in the Maldives – are perfectly poised for families and groups looking for a destination retreat to escape to.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is nominated as Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2022, Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Hotel Villa 2022, Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Island Resort 2022, Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Resort 2022, Maldives’ Leading Honeymoon Resort 2022, Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa 2022, Maldives’ Leading Luxury Island Resort 2022 and Maldives’ Leading Luxury Resort 2022 by World Travel Awards.
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Le Méridien Maldives hosts SSI’s ambitious global training video production

In August 2025, SSI, the world’s leading business-based dive training agency, embarked on an ambitious multi-week video shoot at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa in partnership with Sub Oceanic Maldives. The large-scale production will deliver a series of updated, high-quality training videos, lifestyle visuals and brand content to be shared with divers and dive professionals across the globe. More than a filming project, the initiative represents a strategic alliance between luxury hospitality, elite dive training and professional media production, with the aim of promoting diversity in the diving community and elevating how dive education is delivered worldwide.
Situated in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa offers an eco-conscious island sanctuary surrounded by 50 world-class dive sites. Its vibrant reefs and diverse marine life made it the ideal choice for SSI’s latest production. The partnership also reflects a shared commitment to marine education and exceptional guest experiences. General Manager Thomas Schult expressed pride in hosting the project, noting the resort’s thriving reef ecosystem as a perfect setting for professional dive content and for guests seeking to explore the underwater world.
Le Méridien’s alignment with SSI’s values of ocean conservation, marine education and engaging dive programmes strengthened its appeal as a partner. Guests are able to immerse themselves in the marine environment through curated diving and snorkelling activities offered by Sub Oceanic Maldives, the on-site SSI Training Center.
At the heart of the collaboration is Sub Oceanic Maldives, known for its professionalism, expertise and enriching guest experiences. The team has been instrumental in coordinating logistics, selecting locations, managing safety and assisting with underwater filming. Head of Operations Florian Gansl spoke warmly of the project, joking that the abundance of turtles on the resort’s house reef might frequently wander into shots. Two Sub Oceanic instructors, Alejandro Embid Ruiz de Conejo and Chun-Ping “Pyng” Lin, are also featured in the production, bringing local insight and technical expertise to the screen.
Earlier this year, SSI held a global casting call for instructors worldwide, receiving an overwhelming response. Six professionals were selected for their diving expertise, skill in demonstrating techniques and ability to inspire others while representing diverse ages, backgrounds and genders. The cast includes Alejandro Embid (Spain), Kornel Toth (Hungary), Gordos Mateo Gojunco (Philippines), Sita Angela Jaekel (Indonesia), Chun-Ping “Pyng” Lin (Taiwan) and Jacinta Kimani (Kenya), each bringing unique experience and cultural perspective to the project.
The shoot focuses on three main content areas: detailed skill demonstration videos to enhance SSI’s training materials, authentic diving footage showcasing the Maldives’ reefs and marine life, and lifestyle content capturing the complete dive travel experience, from preparation to post-dive relaxation. Behind-the-scenes moments are also being documented for future release, offering a glimpse into the teamwork, planning and passion behind the production.
More than a visual refresh, this initiative forms part of SSI’s long-term strategy to modernise dive education and provide its global professional network with engaging, up-to-date resources. The partnership between SSI, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa and Sub Oceanic Maldives exemplifies how world-class training, hospitality and dive operations can combine to promote eco-conscious travel, marine education and inspiring storytelling, encouraging the next generation of divers.
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Tiny flippers, big journey: sea turtles hatch at Alila Kothaifaru

A magical scene is unfolding at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, as the island becomes a nurturing ground for the next generation of marine life — sea turtle hatchlings. With four active nests currently incubating, guests and marine enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the emergence of these tiny creatures, expected to align with the next full moon.
Following a recent successful hatching, the remaining three nests have been identified as belonging to Green Sea Turtles — one of the largest sea turtle species inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters. Renowned for their smooth, heart-shaped carapaces and their herbivorous diet of seagrass and algae, these gentle marine giants play a vital role in sustaining healthy coral reefs and marine ecosystems. One additional nest is believed to belong to a Hawksbill turtle, although this has yet to be confirmed.
“Sea turtles are fascinating creatures. They lead largely solitary lives and migrate thousands of kilometres between their feeding and nesting grounds,” explains Fernanda Cortina Escalante, the resort’s resident Marine Biologist. “It’s incredibly special to witness this phase of their life cycle so closely here on our island.”
Turtle reproduction is an intricate and delicate process. These ancient mariners return to the very shores on which they were born to lay their eggs, usually under the cover of darkness. Female turtles dig nests in the sand, where the eggs incubate for 45 to 70 days before the hatchlings instinctively head towards the sea.
Green Sea Turtles can live between 60 and 80 years, grow up to 1.5 metres in length, and weigh as much as 300 kilograms. Their remarkable physiology allows them to hold their breath for up to five hours while resting, an impressive adaptation to life in the ocean.
“Hosting these nests provides us with a unique opportunity to educate guests about sea turtle conservation and promote greater awareness of marine biodiversity,” says Camille Berger, Euro-Divers Manager at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “We feel fortunate to share this meaningful experience with guests from across the globe.”
The resort places a strong emphasis on conservation, working closely with its in-house marine biologist to monitor and protect the nesting sites.
“A new generation of sea turtles has officially embarked on its journey into the ocean, with 61 tiny hatchlings recently making their way from nest to sea,” shares Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives.
“Moments like these remind us of both the beauty of nature and the responsibility we bear in preserving this extraordinary ecosystem. It is a true honour to be part of the journey of these magnificent creatures.”
Guests staying at the resort may have the rare opportunity to witness a live hatching — an unforgettable experience of nature at its most raw and awe-inspiring.
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Island traditions shine at Nova Maldives’ Maldivian magic festive programme

This festive season, Nova Maldives is set to welcome travellers with ‘Maldivian Magic – A Festive Fusion,’ a curated programme running from 21 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. Rooted in over 2,500 years of Maldivian heritage, the soulful celebration draws inspiration from the nation’s seafaring past, storytelling traditions, and rituals centred on joy and connection.
The festive itinerary invites guests to immerse themselves in enriching experiences that blend the serenity of the sea with vibrant seasonal celebrations. Morning adventures include Ocean Glides with Koamas—a thrilling jet ski excursion to encounter dolphin pods in their natural habitat—and snorkelling trips to observe whale sharks and manta rays in their graceful element. Those seeking a more tranquil experience may embark on a Private Catamaran Sunset Cruise, ideal for couples or friends, offering unhurried sails across turquoise waters under golden skies.
Evenings present further marine exploration, with night snorkelling sessions offering glimpses of nocturnal marine life—baby reef sharks, crustaceans, and colourful reef fish—bringing the quiet enchantment of the ocean to life after dark.
Gastronomy plays a central role in the celebrations, with a culinary theme titled “Taste of the Atolls.” At Wink Bar each afternoon, guests may join Elixirs of the Isles—a creative mixology class using local fruits and botanicals. Mizu, the resort’s overwater teppanyaki venue, hosts an Ocean Umami dinner experience that combines Japanese precision with Maldivian flavours. Meanwhile, FLAMES offers a Maldivian Fishermen’s Feast—a beachside seafood extravaganza accompanied by bubbles and live island music.
Adding a cultural touch to the culinary journey is Malaafaiy Keyn, a seasonal dining experience showcasing traditional Maldivian cuisine. Served on a handcrafted malaafaiy platter, the dish includes fragrant rice, spiced curries, and heritage side dishes, all enjoyed in a bespoke Mauloodh Haruge dining hall—creating a bridge between the past and present.
For guests seeking serenity, the Private Finolhu Sandbank Escape provides an opportunity to retreat to a white-sand islet. Here, chilled Prosecco, curated canapés, and the gentle rhythm of waves set the tone for a tranquil afternoon, perfect for individuals, couples, or anyone wishing to recharge.
At EsKape Spa, seasonal wellness offerings include the Kaashi Naashi Ritual, a rejuvenating treatment using coconut oil and shells, concluding with a soothing head massage. Also available is the Soulful Healing through Dhivehi Beys—a restorative oil massage incorporating local herbs, spices, and virgin coconut oil, drawing on ancestral knowledge and therapeutic practices to harmonise body and spirit.
The celebration begins with the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting, a starlit gathering filled with carols and island traditions. On Christmas Eve, guests are treated to a fire show and beach party, followed by a Gala Dinner featuring both Maldivian specialities and festive classics. Christmas morning sees Santa Claus arriving at Wink Beach, met with handcrafted cocktails and sweet treats to delight guests of all ages.
The New Year’s Eve festivities conclude the season in spectacular fashion, with a fireworks display and an evening of live music, DJ performances, and festive cocktails. On New Year’s Day, guests are invited to ease into 2026 with the First Brunch of ’26—a leisurely affair featuring live cooking stations and flavourful dishes in a sunlit, relaxed setting.
“Our festive offerings go beyond seasonal cheer,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager at Nova Maldives. “They embody the island’s rich cultural heritage, creating immersive moments of joy, tradition, and meaningful connection.”
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