Featured

The Nautilus Maldives unplugs with tech-free ‘mindcation’ package

Published

4 years ago

November 3, 2022

The most exclusive ultra-luxury private island resort in the Maldives is also one of the best designed sanctuaries for unplugging. The Nautilus Maldives invites guests to untether themselves from the pull of infinite scrolling to reconnect instead with themselves, nature, and the world at large. Freeing guests from the minute-to-minute stresses and distractions associated with technology, the new MindCation package at The Nautilus aims to inspire families and couples to embrace time away from their screens by providing a different kind of vacation experience, one that invites them to power down and focus on enjoying quality time with one another.

Upon arrival at The Nautilus, guests will be encouraged to put laptops, cell phones, and all other digital devices into a wooden lockbox placed in each house and residence. Flat screen TVs will be carefully tucked away and replaced by a speaker or an iPod with relaxing music as well as a series of mindful Meditation Podcasts designed by Ananda in the Himalayas to help guests calm anxieties, stay in the present and start or end their day in a positive mindset. To maintain the island’s serene ambience, the use of electronic devices outside of one’s house will also be discouraged. Instead, The Nautilus hopes guests will disconnect and reconnect with themselves via a menu of expert-led treatments and activities, from detox regimens and healing massages to crystal singing bowls and restorative yoga practices.

The Nautilus’s Solasta Spa programme will offer a holistic integration of restorative, rejuvenating spa treatments, movement, mindfulness, daily scheduled activities, hands-on wellness workshops and natural health practices. Guests will be inspired to engage in daily meditation and mindfulness practice as the first step in ‘your journey back to self.’ One can even rent out the entire island for the ultimate alone time with loved ones.

With The Nautilus’s digital detox philosophy, guests will be encouraged to experience one-on-one Reiki sessions with one of the Solasta Spa experts as well as unwind with Antar Mauna and Yoga Nidra meditation practices to focus on cultivating multiple levels of well-being. Another treatment at The Nautilus that serves as an antidote to any internet addiction is Healing through Aqua with Tibetan Singing Sound Bath that can be enjoyed in the comfort of one’s private house pool. Combining unique healing through aqua and Sound Therapy, the buoyancy of water aids range of motion, while hydrostatic pressure and the ripples of sound waves from the Tibetan Singing bowl, stimulate the brain waves to relax, calm, and relieve stress and boost overall well-being.

Other Solasta Spa treatments designed to uplift on both physical and mental levels, will also be included in the MindCation programme:

Shiatsu: A form of therapeutic bodywork from Japan on Qi meridians, which are described as energy flows through meridians to energise, stimulate blood circulation, and help eliminate toxins. It’s often described as a form of acupressure. But Shiatsu massage involves more than just acupressure. It also includes stretches and kneading techniques to improve the range of motion in the joints.
Abdominal Detox: Inspired by Chi Nei Tsang, this treatment is based on the practice of Taoist monks who believed that unresolved emotional issues are stored in the digestive system and that poor “emotional digestion” is one of the main reasons for ill health. This treatment relieves physical blockages and uplifts emotional wellbeing.
Arnica Bath: A warm bath with Arnica bath oil soothes tired, overworked joints and muscles to promote relaxation and increases the metabolic rate.
Shirodhara and Abhyanga: This treatment combines Ayurvedic therapies to relieve neck and shoulder tension. The therapy begins with Abhyanga, a rhythmic massage which uses herbal oils to stimulate the circulation of blood, lymph and prana (energy). This is followed by Shirodhara, during which a steady stream of oil is gently poured over the forehead to improve clarity of mind. Research also suggests that Shirodhara may enhance the quality of sleep.
Moksha: Solasta Ayurvedic Signature, this holistic therapy is inspired by the concept of Moksha, which signifies a liberation of the senses and a release of the free flow of Prana or energy. This treatment has been personalising to work on different levels of the human body and consciousness to create a sense of overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Moksha Nautilus Signature is a full body massage that uses traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic techniques practiced for thousands of years in India. It begins with traditional oil application with long strokes on the entire body followed by pressure points release thereby stimulating the muscular-skeletal system, leaving you with increased energy and a heightened sense of vitality. This immediately eliminates sluggishness and simultaneously helps to release any discomfort or blockages, aches, and pains. The therapy continues with slow release along the spine followed by abdominal circulation, and ending with relaxation, toning, and easing muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, head, and scalp. The therapy works on the physical system but its effects go deep into the recesses of the mind and emotions. The result is a feeling of complete rest, repair, and rejuvenation.

The precious time away from electronics at The Nautilus can also be used for other adventures on the island, such as enjoying traditional and sustainable local fishing, sailing in a Maldivian Dhoni vessel and diving and snorkelling at the world renowned Hanifaru Bay, part of the UNESCO Biosphere in the Baa Atoll – the site of one of the most spectacular congregations of manta rays in the Maldives and a majestic underwater world.

To take things to the next level of tranquility, guests can unplug by participating in specially designed Art of Bohemia activities such as drawing and music lessons, macramé making and crochet classes and Boduberu drumming lessons. Landscaping and gardening and special cooking workshops, which are focused more on the three senses: smelling, touching, and feeling, will provide guests with all the necessary advice and recipes, as well as promote awareness of oneself.

Guests at The Nautilus can also experience the Ananda world of creative, healthy cuisine with a specially curated menu incorporating the six fundamental food tastes of sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent and combined with the three macronutrients of protein, fat and carbohydrates, vital to good health.

For more information on the MindCation package or any of The Nautilus’s other offerings, visit https://www.thenautilusmaldives.com/offers or contact us directly via email at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com or by phone at +960 660 00 00.

Awards

Reethi Faru Resort celebrates culinary team’s success at Hotel Asia and FHAM

Published

6 hours ago

October 5, 2026

m@ldives

Reethi Faru Resort has announced three medal wins by members of its culinary team at the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge and the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge.

At the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge, Chef Rohit Kabdal received a Gold Medal in the Decorated Cake category, recognising his work in cake design, presentation and technical execution.

Chef Abhishek Sharma also represented Reethi Faru Resort at the competition, earning a Bronze Medal in the Hot Cooking Fish category.

At the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge, Chef Mayank Bijalwan secured a Silver Medal in the Dress the Cake category, adding a third medal to the resort’s recent culinary achievements.

The results highlight the range of skills within Reethi Faru Resort’s culinary team, spanning pastry, cake presentation and hot kitchen techniques.

According to the resort, participation in professional culinary competitions provides its chefs with opportunities to develop their skills, exchange knowledge and test their abilities alongside other industry professionals.

The achievements also form part of Reethi Faru Resort’s wider focus on dining and guest experience, with its culinary team involved across the resort’s restaurants and food and beverage offerings.

Reethi Faru Resort congratulated Kabdal, Bijalwan and Sharma on their respective achievements, describing the results as recognition of their commitment, technical ability and creativity.

The three medals add to the resort’s recent culinary accolades and reflect its continued emphasis on professional development within its kitchen team.

Cruising

Ifuru Island Maldives unveils ‘Echoes of the Ocean and Stars’ festive programme

Published

10 hours ago

October 5, 2026

m@ldives

Ifuru Island Maldives will celebrate the 2026 festive season with “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars”, an immersive Christmas and New Year programme running from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027.

Inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldivian ocean, the night sky and the festive season, the theme will bring together marine and celestial elements across the resort’s décor, entertainment, dining, activities and guest experiences.

At the centre of the concept is the idea that the ocean carries memories, while the stars represent dreams and new beginnings. Rather than presenting the festive season as a series of standalone events, Ifuru Island plans to create a connected journey spanning Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas.

The visual identity of “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will combine an underwater-inspired world with celestial elements. Bioluminescent-inspired colours, reef motifs and glowing details will be paired with stars, constellations and moonlit features throughout the resort.

The colour palette will include deep ocean blue and midnight navy alongside pearl white, silver, soft turquoise, pink and purple, with accents of celestial gold. Coral forms, waves, shells and reef-inspired features will be combined with stars and festive details, giving traditional Christmas elements an interpretation inspired by Ifuru Island’s natural surroundings.

The concept will extend beyond decorations to dining, entertainment, activities, uniforms, signage and festive communications.

The resort said the theme is also intended to reflect the emotions associated with the festive period. The ocean represents peace, connection and possibility, while the stars symbolise hope, dreams, guidance and new beginnings.

The festive journey will begin on 21 December and continue through 10 January, encompassing Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.

Christmas Eve on 24 December will feature festive dining and entertainment, while Christmas Day on 25 December will centre on family celebrations and relaxed island experiences.

On 31 December, Ifuru Island will mark New Year’s Eve with the main celebration of the festive period, before welcoming 2027 on New Year’s Day with activities centred around the island setting and surrounding ocean.

Celebrations will continue from 1 to 10 January during the Orthodox festive period, including Orthodox Christmas.

According to the resort, the broader concept is intended to connect the entire guest experience, with the island’s natural environment forming part of the festive setting. The ocean will provide inspiration during the day, while the night sky will shape the atmosphere after sunset.

Dining experiences, entertainment and activities will each form part of the wider “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” narrative, giving guests different experiences throughout their stay while maintaining a consistent creative theme.

The programme is designed for guests travelling with family, friends or loved ones, with Ifuru Island aiming to combine its natural surroundings with festive celebrations and shared experiences.

The full festive programme, including entertainment, activities, culinary experiences and special events, will be announced separately.

“Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will run at Ifuru Island Maldives from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027. Christmas Eve will be marked on 24 December, Christmas Day on 25 December, New Year’s Eve on 31 December, New Year’s Day on 1 January and the Orthodox festive period from 1 to 10 January 2027.

Cooking

Milaidhoo Maldives welcomes JAG Head Chef Laurence Tan for October culinary residency

Published

14 hours ago

October 5, 2026

m@ldives

Milaidhoo Maldives will welcome Chef Laurence Tan, Head Chef of Michelin-starred JAG in Singapore, for two culinary experiences on the island in October.

Tan’s interest in cooking began at home, inspired by his parents and by preparing and sharing food with his family. After experimenting in the family kitchen, he went on to attend culinary school before joining The White Rabbit in Singapore in 2016, where he began developing his professional career.

He later worked at Tower Club before joining JAG in 2020. Working alongside Chef Jeremy Gillon, Tan developed an approach centred on precision, seasonality and the integrity of individual ingredients.

He progressed from Chef de Partie to Junior Sous Chef and later Sous Chef. When Gillon took on an international consultancy in Taiwan, Tan assumed leadership of the JAG kitchen.

He is now Head Chef of the restaurant, which retained its Michelin star in 2026, reflecting the consistency and quality of its cuisine under his direction.

During his visit to Milaidhoo, Tan will introduce guests to elements of JAG’s culinary philosophy while sharing some of the techniques and ideas that shape his cooking.

On 16 October, he will conduct an intimate cooking class, giving guests an opportunity to learn directly from him and explore his approach to ingredients, technique and flavour.

The following evening, on 17 October, Tan will host a five-course dinner limited to 16 guests.

The menu will begin with Hiramasa crudo with tomatoes and sea grapes, followed by Gambero Rosso with Jerusalem artichoke and cashew. Lobster ravioli with lobster bisque will precede Tajima Wagyu MB8 tenderloin with celeriac and black autumn truffle.

Dessert will feature a dark chocolate parfait with buckwheat ice cream and tonka bean. A preserved lemon sorbet will be served between courses, while the evening will open with a leek and potato croustade.

The collaboration reflects Milaidhoo’s culinary philosophy, which places emphasis on craftsmanship, curiosity, shared experiences and the role of dining in creating memorable moments.

The cooking class will take place on 16 October, followed by the five-course chef’s dinner on 17 October, with the latter limited to 16 guests.