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Let your imagination soar this festive season with ‘Around the World’ festive celebration at Vakkaru Maldives

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Experience a festive holiday season surrounded by snow-white sands and countless shades of shimmering blue at Vakkaru Maldives. This year the world is your oyster as the timeless sanctuary gears up to take you  on a whirlwind adventure, “Around The World”. 

Spanning Asia, Europe, the Middle East and everywhere in between, the journey allows you to reconnect and celebrate with family and friends. Share unforgettable experiences  together, from festive cocktails and gourmet cuisine to ocean adventures and the  spectacular New Year countdown. 

From bespoke menus, wine journeys, and private dinners to kids’ talent shows, sports tournaments and bespoke wellness programmes, this island paradise has something to get  everyone of all ages into the festive spirit. Special culinary events include a Lobster and Champagne Dinner, Marakkesh Night, Robatayaki Dinner, and South African and Australian  wine tastings. Those looking to make wellness resolutions for the new year can sign up for  the daily yoga and meditation sessions with the resident yoga teacher. Additionally, there are  workshops on coconut oil, head & shoulder massages, and the Secret of Healthy Living by  Siddhalepa Ayurveda with Dr Kalani Perera. 

Complementing your festive getaway is an engaging programme of leisure activities,  including training by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, rejuvenating spa experiences, and calming  yoga and meditation sessions. Explore beyond our resort’s white sand borders and explore  Baa Atoll’s unique marine environment with Splash and our resident marine biologist. Additionally, superb entertainment with dazzling fire and light art shows, dance troupes, live  bands and DJ performances make this year-end a festive season to remember. 

Those looking to make health-related resolutions for the new year can book a consultation  with Domingos Folgado, a visiting award-winning wellness practitioner, therapist, acupuncture expert and qualified personal trainer from Portugal. This will be the third time Folgado will visit the timeless sanctuary to motivate guests to change their lifestyle and  improve their overall wellbeing.

Young islanders have not been overlooked. Activities for them include the Young  Ambassador of the Ocean workshop – a bespoke programme for kids and teens designed  by recent visiting expert, Oliver Steeds, which inspire a love for the sea and coral reef, and a passion for protecting it. There is also plenty of fun things to do including Kids Tennis  Clinic by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, chocolate mixology, Little Masterchef, Santa Parade,  Movies Under the stars and Beach Olympics. In addition, older kids and families can  participate in football matches, padel tennis fun, beach obstacle race, tennis tournament and  more. 

The festivities kick off on 24 December with evening cocktails followed by a sumptuous  Christmas Eve Gala buffet dinner featuring live cooking stations with specialities from around  the globe, a live band, DJ and entertainers. On Christmas Day, meet and greet Santa Claus  and enjoy plenty of fun games for the whole family, with prizes and giveaways to add extra  festive cheer. In the afternoon, the main pool is transformed into a tropical oasis with pool  games, signature cocktails from the pop-up bar and a groovy soundtrack from DJ Leila. 

On New Year’s Eve, Vakkaru invites all guests to travel the globe in one fantastic night with our  ‘Around the World’ Gala Dinner and party by the beach. Starting with a selection of signature  cocktails at Isoletta Beach, then usher the new year amid some of the world’s most famous  landmarks as you enjoy culinary delights from Japan, India, Italy, Egypt and more. Funky  entertainers and live acts keep the party grooving until the clock strikes 12 and the sky lights  up with a spectacular fireworks display. Start 2023 in style with our fun pool party featuring  DJ Leila, exciting pool games and your favourite cocktails to toast yet another smashing  year. 

Speaking about the festive calendar, General Manager Iain McCormack said, “This year, we  want our guests to be swept up in the joyous spirit of the season as our private island  sanctuary is transformed into a tropical wonderland celebrating our ‘Around the World’  theme. The team has worked hard to create exceptional, immersive experiences for all ages.  Every last detail has been taken care of so our guests can relax and enjoy their time with  those who matter most.”  

To experience the most cherishable time of the year at Vakkaru Maldives, guests can book the resort’s Festive Getaway Early Booker which includes up to 25% discount on luxury accommodation and daily breakfast. The offer is available to book until 22 December 2022, applicable for a minimum stay of 5 nights and stay period from 23 December 2022 till 11 January 2023.

For reservations and general information,visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact  reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.

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From wellness to culture: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts embodies new era of Maldivian travel

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The Maldives continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s premier island destinations, achieving global acclaim while maintaining steady growth in visitor arrivals. The country was recently named Best Beach Destination at the World Tourism Awards 2025 in Brussels and ranked among the Top Ten Countries for Food in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives recorded over 1.7 million tourist arrivals as of 21 October 2025 — a 10% year-on-year increase. The destination is on course to meet its ambitious target of 2.3 million arrivals by year-end, with the final quarter expected to bring the highest influx of visitors as the nation enters its peak travel season.

Sustained demand from key markets including India, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom, alongside rising interest from the Middle East and Europe, continues to fuel this growth. The trend reflects a broader global shift towards experience-led travel, where visitors seek meaningful, immersive stays rather than conventional leisure holidays.

As arrival numbers climb, the focus within the Maldives tourism industry is evolving from volume to value. Hospitality brands are responding by offering experiences that highlight authenticity, sustainability, and cultural engagement. Among them, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts — which operates four properties across the Maldives — is redefining the concept of island travel through wellness, cuisine, and culture.

The brand’s approach extends beyond accommodation, curating distinctive experiences that deepen the guest journey. From spa rituals rooted in Asian wellness traditions at Mandara Spa and Chavana Spa to private beachfront dinners celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage, each stay is designed to be both restorative and enriching. Guests who book directly also receive exclusive credits and tailored experiences, reinforcing the Maldives’ growing appeal as a destination for conscious and immersive travel.

This direction mirrors the Maldives’ evolving tourism strategy, which prioritises authenticity and quality over volume. As the nation edges closer to another record-breaking year, its success lies not only in the number of arrivals but in its ability to offer enduring, high-calibre experiences — a vision shared by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as it continues to shape the future of island hospitality across the region.

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Centara Maldives unveils bespoke National Day escapes for UAE holidaymakers

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As one of the most notable occasions in the GCC calendar, UAE National Day presents the perfect opportunity to plan a dream island getaway at one of Centara Hotels & Resorts’ Maldivian destinations. Travellers can discover their own piece of paradise across four distinctive properties: Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection. Each resort offers a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, island activities, and rejuvenating spa experiences — the ideal way to celebrate the spirit of the occasion with a tropical touch.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

Located a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives provides an elegant island retreat ideal for celebrating special moments with family and friends. The resort features a range of overwater villas and beachfront residences, each complete with a private pool, jacuzzi, or both — offering guests an opportunity to truly unwind and disconnect from the outside world.

Set within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the resort offers an array of experiences, from exciting water sports and excursions to restorative wellness treatments at the tranquil SPA Cenvaree Retreat. Dining choices include international buffets at The Gallery, modern Mediterranean flavours at Bluefin, and light bites at Coco Drift’s swim-up bar. Guests can also toast to the occasion with a refreshing drink at Sunset Social.

In celebration of UAE National Day, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives invites guests to reconnect with loved ones through an exclusive stay package. Guests booking before 15 December for stays until 20 December can enjoy four nights for the price of three or seven nights for the price of five, with complimentary round-trip transfers included.

Additional benefits include:

  • Upgrade to the Half Board Plus meal plan when booking a Room with Breakfast
  • Club access
  • Complimentary sparkling beverage at Sunset Social on the first evening
  • One complimentary couples’ treatment at SPA Cenvaree Retreat
  • A 15% discount and triple points for CentaraThe1 members

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

Nestled in the scenic North Malé Atoll, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives offers a vibrant, underwater world-themed escape perfect for families. The resort combines play and relaxation through its lazy river, splash zones, and water playgrounds, alongside the acclaimed SPA Cenvaree, a Candy Spa for children, and a lively kids’ club. Accommodation includes oceanfront and overwater villas, complemented by diverse dining experiences.

Families can enjoy the ultimate island holiday where children stay, play, and dine for free on all stays before 15 December. Perfect for the UAE National Day long weekend, the offer includes:

  • Special room rates
  • Complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers
  • Free stays and meals for up to two children aged 11 and under
  • A 15% discount and triple points for CentaraThe1 members

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

For couples and solo travellers seeking tranquillity, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives offers an adults-only sanctuary designed for relaxation and connection. Guests can wake to panoramic sea views from oceanfront or overwater villas with direct lagoon access. The resort features world-class dining, a yoga pavilion, award-winning SPA Cenvaree, and water sports including windsurfing, parasailing, and snorkelling.

To mark UAE National Day, guests can take advantage of 30% off all villas (and 45% off for CentaraThe1 members), along with 50% off transfers for stays of two to four nights. The package also includes:

  • Sparkling beverage and fresh fruit upon arrival in overwater villas
  • A three-course poolside dinner under the stars for Half Board Plus guests and above
  • Buy-one-get-one-free spa treatments
  • 20% discount on food and beverages
  • 10% off water sports and excursions
  • Complimentary snorkelling and kayaking equipment

Bookings and stays are valid until 10 January 2026.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

Set amidst breathtaking ocean views and a UNESCO-protected marine reserve, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection caters to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Home to an award-winning house reef and several renowned dive sites, guests can spend their days exploring coral reefs or discovering a historic shipwreck, followed by spa treatments and gourmet dining.

Guests can enjoy 45% off flexible rates for CentaraThe1 members and 30% off for non-members, along with 30% off seaplane transfers for stays of two to six nights until 10 January 2026.

The offer includes:

  • Handmade chocolates and tropical fruit upon arrival in overwater or pool villas
  • A complimentary picnic lunch for families or a private beach dinner for couples (Half Board Plus and above)
  • Buy-one-get-one-free spa treatments
  • Complimentary stays and meals for children aged six and under
  • 20% discount on à la carte dining and floating breakfasts (Club Pool Villas only)
  • 10% discount on water sports and excursions
  • Complimentary snorkelling gear and kayak use

For more information or reservations, guests can visit Centara Hotels & Resorts and explore exclusive UAE National Day offers available across all Maldivian properties.

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Holistic journeys at One&Only Reethi Rah: Year of global wellness expertise

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One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to continue their wellness journey at the renowned One&Only Spa, which has recently received a prestigious five-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide — the first and only spa in the Maldives to earn this recognition. Surrounded by tropical greenery, the spa offers a tranquil retreat where ancient healing practices meet modern techniques, providing tailored treatments that promote lasting wellbeing.

Throughout the year, One&Only Reethi Rah has hosted leading international wellness practitioners, and the remainder of 2025 will feature an inspiring series of experiences guided by acclaimed experts. From holistic therapies and Ayurveda to Pilates, yoga, Barre, and CrossFit, each visiting specialist brings unique expertise and methodology to the island, delivering highly personalised sessions designed around each guest’s individual needs.

Beginning in October, Ayurveda specialist Dr Shreejit Ghadigaonkar will offer personalised consultations and treatments based on one of the world’s oldest healing systems, using herbal remedies, massage, and holistic therapies to restore balance. During the same period, Shannon Fenton, a Pilates and yoga instructor, will lead mindful movement sessions to enhance posture, body awareness, and overall wellbeing.

In November, bespoke fitness coach Nicky Holender will introduce tailored programmes focused on strength, endurance, and motivation, while holistic therapist Darya Gudkova will offer deeply restorative treatments combining Eastern traditions with a contemporary understanding of anatomy and psychology.

The season will continue into December and January with Sanam Heravi, a STOTT-certified Barre specialist, whose sessions use intelligent movement to support rehabilitation and life transitions. Guests seeking high-intensity training will be able to train with Zubaid Toefy, a CrossFit coach with a background in Muay Thai and Olympic weightlifting, known for his dynamic and disciplined approach.

Each visiting practitioner contributes distinct expertise to the spa’s offerings, enabling guests to explore individual paths towards vitality, clarity, and inner balance 

Whether guests are beginning a new wellness journey or deepening established rituals, the One&Only Spa provides a setting for intentional transformation. From sunrise yoga sessions to deeply restorative treatments, every moment is designed to strengthen the connection between mind, body, and nature within the serene environment of the Maldives.

For guests seeking advanced skincare, the spa also presents a curated selection of facial treatments that combine cutting-edge technology with high-performance formulations. Through partnerships with globally renowned brands such as Augustinus Bader, the spa offers rejuvenating therapies that leave the skin feeling nourished, firm, and radiant.

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