Featured
Sun Siyam Iru Veli Maldives appoints Ali Adam as General Manager, Victor Zanotti as Executive Chef
Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives has welcomed fantastic new additions to its management team by appointing Ali Adam – as new General Manager, and Victor Zanotti as Executive Chef.
Ali Adam, who is native Maldivian, brings a wealth of experience to Sun Siyam Iru Veli, having worked in some of the most successful resorts and fantastic brands in the Maldives, such as Dhigufaru, Vilamendhoo, Mirihi, and Vakarufalhi Island Resorts. He also held the position as Roaming General Manager for Crown & Champa Resorts overlooking the likes of Komandoo, Kuredu, Meeru, Veligandu, and Vilamendu Island Resorts.
Ali has spent the last 20 years holding managerial positions in the Maldives and comes with an overall experience of more than 24 years within the tourism and hospitality industries, displaying exemplary work ethics, and an exceptional attention to detail.
In his new role at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, he will carefully manage all day-to-day operational matters and ensure consistent delivery of the exceptional and unique guest experiences based on Iru Veli’s and Sun Siyam Resorts brand ethos of “making memories together.”
When asked about his new role at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Ali quoted, “I am very excited to be a part of the Iru Veli family, we have such a genuine team and a lot of fantastic and creative ideas. Our goal is to provide the most memorable stay and unforgettable experiences to our guests. Iru Veli is famous for its laid-back beach chic and unbeatable premium all-inclusive value which makes it perfect for couples of all ages, honeymooners, and those celebrating a special occasion. We will continue to exceed our customer’s expectations and work hard on maintaining that standard in the industry”.
Originally from Peru, but raised in Italy, Executive Chef Victor Zanotti’s passion for food and cooking was ignited at a very young age when he found himself drawn to the kitchen to help his grandmother prepare vast courses for their often-held family dinners on their farms. Since then, he has gone on to hone his skills at some of the most exceptional dining establishments in his hometown while gathering culinary skills and experience during his time traveling the world on cruise ships. Chef Victor left Italy as Head Chef at the celebrated Elisir restaurant and made his debut in the Maldives as the Italian Specialty Chef at Vakkaru Maldives. He then moved to Cocoon Maldives as Executive Chef, before being headhunted by Raffles Maldives where he was appointed the Italian Specialty Chef, in addition to Head Chef.
Chef Victor says of his new role: “My culinary discipline and practice focusses heavily on authenticity, freshness, and sustainability, hence my gardening skills will come to fruition with Iru Veli’s farm island called Llohi, where our guests can meet the farmers and learn about the produce grown that is by now, already over 38 varieties of fruits and vegetables which are supplied to the resorts. I’m extremely excited to champion my personal values at Iru Veli and contribute to the resorts’ food & beverage offering.”
Intimately familiar with all stages of kitchen operations, Chef Victor will head and manage all kitchen operations while meticulously crafting signature menus, sourcing top-quality produce, creating mouthwatering recipes, supervising food production, developing and implementing the highest kitchen standards, while making sure green and sustainable practices are followed in his kitchens.
With these two new additions to its wonderful team, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives elevates its already sumptuous and chic guest experiences to loftier heights.
Just a 35-minute seaplane ride away from Malé Airport, the tranquil five-star island retreat of Iru Veli lies in the Dhaalu Atoll, undoubtedly one of the most naturally beautiful atolls in the Maldives. The 125 boutique suites scattered across the island and over the lagoon all feature luxurious interiors and terraces that lead directly into the warm, inviting waters of the lagoon or onto the breathtaking beaches.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru plans Easter weekend of activities and dining
Angsana Velavaru is inviting guests to celebrate Easter with a two-day island programme featuring family activities, ocean experiences and seasonal dining from 4 to 5 April 2026.
Located within a lagoon in South Nilandhe Atoll, the resort will host a series of activities designed for families, couples and travellers seeking a seasonal getaway by the sea. The programme includes a combination of wellness sessions, marine experiences and leisure activities intended to bring guests together during the Easter holiday period.
Mornings begin with yoga sessions overlooking the lagoon, followed by opportunities to explore the island’s marine environment through guided snorkelling excursions and discovery experiences organised by the Endheri Marine Centre.
Throughout the day, guests can take part in a range of recreational activities across the island. These include beach kite flying, aqua aerobics sessions and bird feeding at the island’s sanctuary. Adventure-focused experiences are also available, with water sports such as family tube rides and sunset cruises offering guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding lagoon.
Dining experiences form a central part of the Easter programme. Guests can participate in interactive activities including cocktail-making sessions and the Wok & Toss dining experience, which allows visitors to engage with the resort’s culinary team. The programme also includes Easter buffet lunch and dinner at Kaani Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are served in a relaxed island setting.
Evening entertainment includes live music performances, DJ sessions and outdoor film screenings under the stars, creating a relaxed atmosphere for guests to gather and socialise.
Children’s activities are organised through the Ranger’s Club, where a dedicated Easter programme features creative workshops such as bunny mask making, Easter egg painting and string art. Traditional activities including Easter egg hunts and beach races are also planned for younger guests.
The Easter programme at Angsana Velavaru combines marine exploration, family-friendly activities and seasonal dining experiences, offering guests an opportunity to celebrate the holiday while enjoying the island’s natural surroundings.
Cooking
Patina Maldives hosts Chef Shannon Bennett for exclusive April residency
From 1 to 5 April 2026, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will host Shannon Bennett, one of Australia’s most recognised culinary figures and the creative force behind Belongil. The residency brings together a chef known for shaping dining as an emotional and reflective experience with a destination defined by perspective, creativity and purpose.
Bennett’s career extends beyond traditional notions of cooking. Through projects such as Vue de Monde and Belongil, he has explored dining as a medium for memory, connection and emotion, placing emphasis on experience rather than consumption. His approach centres on creating moments that remain with guests long after the meal has ended.
At Patina Maldives, the residency represents a convergence of shared values. Over five nights, guests are invited to take part in a limited series of dining experiences shaped by intention, curiosity and a sense of place. Rather than recreating Belongil in another setting, the programme evolves its philosophy, drawing inspiration from the natural rhythm and clarity of the Maldivian environment.
Commenting on the collaboration, Bennett said Belongil was conceived as more than a place to eat, but as a space for ideas, connection and lasting moments. He noted that Patina Maldives reflects a similar sense of purpose, adding that bringing his work into the island setting offered an opportunity to create experiences that feel grounded, honest and meaningful.
Patina Maldives continues to develop its identity by providing a platform for global creative voices to shape new conversations and perspectives. The residency with Bennett aligns with this approach, positioning cuisine as one element within a broader cultural and experiential narrative.
Tom Bray, Director of Lifestyle at Patina Maldives, said the resort exists to bring people closer to ideas, creativity and self-discovery. He added that welcoming Bennett reflects this philosophy, describing the residency as an experience designed to shift perspective rather than focus solely on gastronomy.
The residency is presented as an experience defined by intention rather than spectacle. Taking place over five nights on a single island, it brings together Patina Maldives and one of the culinary world’s most reflective minds for a programme shaped by presence, purpose and a sense of moment that cannot be replicated in the same way again.
Featured
You & Me Maldives unveils curated Premium All Inclusive programme
You & Me Maldives, the adults-only luxury retreat under The Cocoon Collection, has announced the launch of its new Premium All Inclusive experience, aimed at enhancing island stays through a more seamless and comprehensive offering in the Indian Ocean.
The Premium All Inclusive experience is designed to begin from the point of arrival. Guests receive complimentary access to The Cocoon Collection Lounge at the seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, where services are provided to ensure a smooth transition before the journey to the resort.
On arrival at the island, guests are welcomed in their villas with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine and a selection of canapés. The Premium All Inclusive plan includes unlimited premium beverages by the glass, featuring a curated range of wines, signature cocktails, top-shelf spirits, international beers and non-alcoholic options. The in-villa minibar is replenished daily with soft drinks, international beers, red and white wines, as well as assorted snacks. For stays of five nights or more, guests also receive two bottles of premium liquor from a selected list, provided once during the stay.
The experience further includes a range of activities. Guests staying a minimum of three nights are offered one sunset cruise and one snorkelling excursion per stay, while those staying seven nights or more are entitled to a catamaran cruise. Unlimited use of snorkelling equipment and non-motorised water sports, including canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, is also included, subject to weather conditions.
Dining forms a central part of the Premium All Inclusive concept. Guests can enjoy three themed dining evenings, including a seafood barbecue under the stars featuring prawns, lobster and oysters. For stays of five nights or more, guests may also take part in a complimentary group cooking class, with a choice between ethnic or Italian cuisine, led by the resort’s culinary team.
Wellness offerings are also incorporated into the programme, with guests able to participate in up to three complimentary sunrise yoga sessions per stay, subject to availability.
The introduction of the Premium All Inclusive experience reflects the resort’s focus on personalised service and carefully curated stays. The offering is positioned to appeal to couples seeking relaxation, romance or activity-led experiences within an adults-only island setting.
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