Featured
Kurumba Maldives leads the way in fight against toxic sunscreen
Chosen as one of the leading green resorts in the region, Kurumba Maldives has a reputation of seeking to reduce its impact on its local environment as well as a desire to be 100% sustainable in all its practices Kurumba has now added global leading non water polluting sunscreen brand People4Ocean into its in spa and guest offering, giving all guests the opportunity to try these amazing creams first hand that not only fully protect all marine life but offer the user award winning sun protection plus a spa grade experience.
People4Ocean long heralded as the leading voice in the industry fighting the issue of toxic creams and the damage they are doing to our most endangered marine habitats says it welcomes the partnership with Kurumba to offer its guests a chance to try our products and make a choice to fully protect the sealife of the Maldives during their stay at this beautiful resort island.
The Ggobal problem, not many are aware that just 13% of the world’s oceans remain untouched by the damaging impacts of humanity, the first systematic analysis has revealed. Outside the remotest areas of the Pacific and the poles, virtually no ocean is left harbouring naturally high levels of marine wildlife. Huge fishing fleets, global shipping and pollution running off the land are combining with climate change to degrade the oceans, the researchers found.
Furthermore, just 5% of the remaining ocean wilderness is within existing marine protection areas. “We were astonished by just how little marine wilderness remains,” says Kendall Jones, at the University of Queensland, Australia, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, who led the new research. “The ocean is immense, covering over 70% of our planet, but we’ve managed to significantly impact almost all of this vast ecosystem.
P4O Sun Care is a story about skin health, ocean adventures and most of all, family. Together People4Ocean and LaGaia Unedited ; Mother, Daughters and Son, set out on a Global first. A natural sun system loved by skin, conscious of the environment and that gives back to ocean life. We believe our sun care solutions – and the people that use them – are a driving force towards healthier skin and cleaner oceans”. – People4Ocean Owners. Louise and Austin Laing.
People4Ocean 100% Natural Plant Based Ocean & Reef Safe Suncare
First launched in Australia back in 2018 and available in the UK from Jan 2021People4Ocean Sun Care is the creation of accomplished marine biologists, husband and wife team, Louise and Austin Laing. Working in collaboration with Australian Spa label La Gaia Unedited they developed a one-of-a-kind sophisticated sun care range, eco-consciously formulated to protect sensitive skins and natural ecosystems. The entire range excludes all water polluting elements. Formulas are skin-loving, combining clean and active botanicals with mineral-rich ingredients making them ocean & skin-conscious.
Using plant-based and local ingredients, the entire range is suitable for vegetarian (Australian sustainable beeswax being the only animal by-product to its formulas) and offers 100% plant-based products. There is overwhelming evidence, shown now through many studies, that mainstream sunscreens are polluting our waterways, entering our oceans and affecting aquatic life. Oxybenzone, Octinoxate and Octocrylene are just some of the most commonly usedUV-filters in chemical base sunscreens ingredients which are toxic to ocean life, acting as hormones disruptors on marine species and impacting coral reefs even from very small concentrations are unnecessarily damaging our oceans.
It is for this reason that all People4Ocean Sun Care formulations exclude water-polluting elements. Many people are unaware that 97% of sunscreens out there contain toxic ingredients harmful to marine life. In-fact, there is also research that the same ingredients can also be detrimental to human health following long term use. Ina global society and growing culture where consumers are more aware of their impact on the planet, and the role they have in preserving our ecosystems,People4Ocean is offering an alternative to the conscientious consumers looking at minimise their global footprint.
People4Ocean 4 Pillars in Sustainability:
- Free of all water polluting elements.
- True reef-ocean safe formulas.
- Low carbon packaging made from 100% recyclable sugarcane PEbioplastic.
- 4No single-use packaging.
All products are 100% Australian-made, including their packaging. Using solar energy and sustainable manufacturing practices the brand commits to its ground breaking sustainability ethos within the luxury skincare market with bio-plastic packaging, carbon neutral shipping methods and pro-actively working with Reef Conservation projects globally, as well as supporting local initiatives in the regions they are distributed in.
Kurumba Maldives, the iconic resort of the Maldives celebrates its 50th anniversary. Kurumba was the very first private island resort in the Maldives when it opened its doors in 1972, and a proud pioneer of the tourism industry in the country. Boasting its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, the resort is proud to be celebrating this unique milestone for the country, highlighting a journey that has encompassed a half century of significant achievement and growth, and countless memories for all of the guests who have visited this island over the years.
The island offers an array of accommodation, ranging from comfortable Superior rooms to the luxurious signature Kurumba 2 Bedroom Residence, boasting contemporary designs and architecture in a tropical paradise, a home away from home. Guests can enhance their days by experiencing seven different international restaurants, three bars and a shisha lounge, with some extraordinary culinary delectables prepared by a diversified and talented team. Night life in Kurumba is never boring; offering dining under the starlit skies, while sipping crafted cocktails and chilling to Live DJs and enjoying contemporary tunes from the best selection of Maldivian artists available.
The island is conveniently located in North Male’ Atoll, a brief journey of 10 minutes from the airport which makes a perfect Maldivian gateway more convenient and accessible. The compelling and diverse range of exciting activities, water sports and excursions, to ultimate relaxation therapies at the Veli Spa combined with traditional Maldivian herbs will ensure a state of calmness relaxation for all guests. Kurumba is proud to be the first spa resort in the Maldives to embrace those traditional remedies, protecting it for future generations.
Kurumba offers experiences for everyone. From family holiday getaways and romantic hideaways, to escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life, the resort has built a strong ratio of returning guests, while continuing to attract new fans from across the globe.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit https://www.kurumba.com
Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.
The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.
The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.
Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.
The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.
Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.
Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.
Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.
Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.
Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.
For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.
The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.
The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.
Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.
Ayada Maldives has announced a series of experiences to mark the Easter season, inviting guests to celebrate the occasion through a week of activities centred on family time, relaxation and shared island moments.
As the season approaches, the resort will host a programme designed to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Families are encouraged to spend time together in the island’s natural surroundings, while children take part in a variety of activities and explore the island environment.
Throughout the week, Easter-themed experiences will be integrated into daily island life. At the Zuzuu Kids Club, younger guests will have access to a range of creative and interactive activities designed to encourage imagination and discovery. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of wellness experiences including sunrise yoga sessions, spa treatments at AySpa, and quiet moments by private pools or along the beach.
Evenings will feature a range of social and culinary experiences, including beachside gatherings, live music and dining events set against the island’s coastal setting. These activities are intended to create a relaxed yet festive environment for guests to come together and enjoy the Easter holiday.
According to the resort, the Easter programme focuses on creating opportunities for guests to reconnect with family and friends while enjoying the island’s surroundings. The celebrations are designed to highlight shared experiences rather than a single event, allowing guests to enjoy the season at their own pace.
Through the programme, Ayada Maldives aims to offer visitors an opportunity to celebrate Easter in a setting defined by natural beauty, hospitality and time spent together.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Sun Siyam Resorts Privé Collection, marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the contributions of female team members and guests, recognising their role in shaping the experiences that define the island.
The resort hosted a white-themed sunset cocktail gathering on the beach on 8 March, where guests and female colleagues came together to mark the occasion. The event provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of women across various roles within the resort.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef highlighted the role of its female team members in delivering guest experiences, from operational support and administrative roles to culinary and guest service positions. The resort noted that these contributions play a significant role in shaping the overall guest journey on the island.
As part of the evening’s programme, the resort’s resident artist conducted a live painting session, reflecting the creativity and energy women bring to the hospitality sector. Guests were also served a selection of specially curated “White Theme” cocktails prepared by the resort’s bartending team to mark the occasion.
Commenting on the celebration, Thoha Yoosuf said the resort’s female colleagues bring intuition and warmth to their roles, helping create memorable experiences for guests. He added that the celebration recognised their dedication, leadership and commitment.
Through the event, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef highlighted the diverse roles played by women within its team, while recognising the culture and individuality that contribute to the resort’s working community.
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