Featured
Korean food festival lands at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, located on Baa Atoll, the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site in the Maldives is hosting a Korean Food Festival from November 1 to 15, 2022 where guests can spoil their taste buds with one of the world’s finest cuisines. Hail from Seoul, guest Chef Soon-ae Yang has crafted authentic Korean delicacies available for dinner at Hawker – the resort’s casual outdoor dining venue with uninterrupted ocean views – breakfast corner at Island Kitchen, and to conduct Korean cooking class every Sunday and Wednesday.
The Korean Food Festival is part of an effort to present guests the chance to experience tasty and exotic cuisines from other parts of the world while they are staying at the five-star resort, including to cater the growing number of Korean guests to make them feel like home. Korean food is attracting more and more foodies from around the world. South Korea’s cuisine is varied, spicy and emphasises on healthy eating. Kimchi, or pickled cabbage, is the national dish, and is vital to any meal in the country.
During the Korean Food Festival, guests will enjoy a variety of dishes from Korea, featuring world-famous Bibimbap (Korean bowl of rice with assortment of vegetables), GamJa Jeon (traditional Korean potato pancake), Kimchi Fried Rice, Dak Gangjeong (crispy, sweet and sour fried chicken) to Haemul Ramen (Korean spicy noodles with shrimps, squid, crab and mussels). Chef Yang has also prepared few Korean breakfast dishes, available daily at Island Kitchen from 7 AM to 10:30 AM where guests can savour Miyeok Guk (seaweed soup), Gamja Jorim (potato salad), Jap Chae (glass noodles with vegetables and soy sauce) and many more.
With almost twenty years of experience working for different embassies, prestigious leading hotels and top-notch restaurants, such as the VIP Lounge of the Pyeonchang Paralympic Games, Chef Yang will apply her knowledge and expertise to engage with the guests, and to share her knowledge with the resort’s culinary team, to introduce new gastronomy trends and techniques, including to add more nutritious dishes to the menu on a weekly basis to align with the Westin Eat Well philosophy providing guests with balanced and nutritious cuisines.
Designed by award-winning architects PEIA Association, the resort offers 70 villas, distinct eco-friendly Italian design, exceptional dining experiences and a transformative wellness offering. Built overwater, the Heavenly Spa by Westin enhances the sense of calm the water brings, the spa has range of treatments to leave guests re-energised and nourished in both mind and body. With a choice of four unique outlets, The Pearl, Island Kitchen, Hawker and Sunset Bar, guests can experience a delightful range of cuisines during their stay. There is also a state-of-the art WestinWorkout® Fitness Studio with TRX® functional training equipment – great for pre-run workouts, suspension training and offers app based instructional videos by TRX Master Instructors. In addition, there all the facilities expected from a luxury escape including a multi-function recreation ground for tennis, basketball and volleyball. The island life of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort may appear slow for most city dwellers. It has, however, a special rhythm, that allows one to take a step back, immerse themselves with the Atoll’s natural wonders go back home with novel experiences.
For more information: www.westin-maldives.com
Celebration
Reethi Beach Resort’s 2024 festive season takes guests ‘Under the Sea’
Reethi Beach Resort has announced its highly anticipated 2024 festive season celebrations, scheduled to take place from December 21st to January 7th, under the enchanting theme ‘Coral Kingdom Under the Sea.’ The resort’s festive program is set to immerse guests in the vibrant world of the Indian Ocean’s rich marine life, combining elegant dining experiences, adventurous activities, and cultural entertainment to create an unforgettable holiday season.
As the resort transforms into a magical underwater haven, visitors will be greeted by breathtaking decor reflecting the kaleidoscope of colours found in the surrounding coral reefs. Every venue will resonate with the theme, featuring shimmering reef-inspired arrangements, oceanic hues, and atmospheric lighting. Reethi Beach Resort aims to offer a visual and sensory celebration that embodies the spirit of the Maldives.
According to Valentin Osolos, General Manager at Reethi Beach Resort, the curated program is designed to provide something special for everyone—whether guests wish to indulge in gourmet delights, explore the wonders of the sea, or celebrate with family and friends. This year’s festivities are intended to allow guests to experience not only the beauty of the Maldives but also the joy and togetherness that the holiday season represents.
The 2024 festive lineup will include a series of elevated themed dinners, featuring culinary creations inspired by both local and international cuisines. Highlights will include the lavish Christmas Eve Gala Dinner and the New Year’s Eve Countdown Celebration, complete with live entertainment and a vibrant beachside atmosphere.
Throughout the season, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities that cater to both relaxation and excitement, such as Private Champagne Breakfasts on the beach, Cheese & Wine Tastings under the stars, and lively Hookah Nights. For families, the festive program will feature Treasure Hunts, Pizza Making Classes, and special high teas that bring a touch of elegance to the afternoons.
The festivities will also showcase the resort’s commitment to Maldivian culture and sustainability. Traditional Boduberu performances and Maldivian Cooking Classes will invite guests to engage with the island’s heritage and natural environment, enriching their experience of the Maldives.
The season will culminate in the much-anticipated New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown Party. Guests will be treated to a grand feast, set against the backdrop of live music, dance shows, and a dazzling display of fireworks as the clock strikes midnight. The celebrations will continue with an upbeat beach party, inviting guests to dance the night away under the stars and welcome 2025 in style.
Action
Emerald Maldives hosts sessions with Olympic gold medalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
The world-renowned 5-star Deluxe All-Inclusive Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, affiliated with The Leading Hotels of the World, has announced a partnership with tennis star and celebrated athlete Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.
From November 13th to 19th, 2024, Pavlyuchenkova will host two tennis masterclasses, offering two 1-hour sessions designed to help tennis enthusiasts elevate their game.
Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova has made a significant mark on the international tennis stage. A 2020 Olympic Games gold medalist in mixed doubles, she is also a Grand Slam singles tournament finalist and the winner of 18 WTA tournaments.
The masterclasses will provide guests with the opportunity to refine their tennis skills through personalised coaching from Pavlyuchenkova. Whether participants are seasoned players or new to the sport, they will benefit from her championship-level insights, which cover everything from serve technique to court strategy. The sessions will take place at the resort’s tennis facilities, offering a perfect backdrop of sun, sea, and lush island landscapes to complement the training experience.
“We are thrilled to welcome Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to our resort. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity for our guests to learn from one of the best in the sport, all while enjoying the unmatched luxury and beauty of our island paradise,” commented Mr. Rohit Chhettri, General Manager of Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa.
Celebration
Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa celebrates two years of unmatched luxury and global recognition
The world-renowned 5-star Deluxe All-Inclusive Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, recently celebrated its two-year anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey of excellence and luxury.
Since its opening, Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa has achieved remarkable success in international markets, establishing itself as a distinguished destination in the luxury travel sector. The resort has garnered numerous prestigious accolades: In 2023, it received high honours from Booking.com and Agoda, both with near-perfect scores, and was named the Indian Ocean’s Leading New Resort at the World Travel Awards. Additionally, the World Luxury Hotel Awards recognised the resort as a global leader in the luxury all-inclusive villa segment. This success continued into 2024, with the resort securing the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award and maintaining its near-perfect scores from Booking.com and Agoda, reflecting its unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction.
To commemorate this special anniversary, the resort hosted a lavish event on Tuesday, October 1st, inviting guests to partake in the celebrations. The festivities began with a poolside cocktail reception, followed by an expansive buffet featuring a diverse selection of international dishes. The evening progressed with a lively party, headlined by DJ Umar, while guests indulged in exclusive experiences at the Emerald Spa, making it an unforgettable day of indulgence and relaxation.
Located on an intimate 7-hectare island surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and lush tropical vegetation, Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa offers 80 luxurious villas, including 42 Overwater Villas and 38 Beach Villas. Beyond its stunning accommodations, the resort boasts a world-class spa, a state-of-the-art Gym & Sports Centre equipped with Technogym equipment, as well as facilities such as an overwater tennis court and padel court. Families can also take advantage of the amenities provided by the Diving Center and Kids Club, while dining options abound with five exquisite restaurants and two stylish bars.
Collectively, these elements create a true sanctuary where nature and luxury coexist in perfect harmony. The resort remains dedicated to delivering an authentic, personalised experience, thanks to its international team of professionals who ensure that every guest feels valued and well-cared for.
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