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Meet Kandooma Maldives’ change-maker Mark Eletr
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, General Manager, Mark Eletr celebrates his one year anniversary this month and has already clocked up a hefty list of achievements.
A seasoned hotelier, Mark arrived to the Maldives in November 2021 from Vietnam.
“I’ve worked in many luxury resorts around the world, completed refurbs and new openings and on joining Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives it was more about looking after a success story and taking the property into its next chapter.”
Talking about the achievements over the last 12 months, Mark is humble and only when prompted volunteers information on the projects that he has put into action, and there are many.
“I am particularly proud of our new Surf Corner located on the south east side of the island. It was a customer experience that was missing and also a revenue opportunity. We attract a large number of surfing specific guests to the island each year and giving them something that was barefoot and uber casual, nearby and desirable was key,” Australian-born, Mark explains that he talked to surfing guests and business partners to get a feel for their needs and could draw on his career experience working in island destinations to help him plan it out.
“I realised there was nowhere for friends, partners, parents or siblings to sit and watch their friends or family surf from the beach. I have kids and it’s my job to watch them have fun, so I got my thinking cap on, put myself into the same position as the guest. It inspired me. I planned new cabanas for relaxing, seating with permanent shade umbrellas to withstand the winds and a Surf Shack serving snacks like hot pies and drinks.” he said. “All the feedback we have received is extremely encouraging.”
Mark has grand plans for the venue and is currently considering some new additions to the area which overlooks a small inlet which attracts black tip sharks. But he says we’ll just have to wait and see.
Upkeep to any island resort takes hefty resources and funding. Since Mark’s arrival, and working closely with his on-property Engineering team he has prioritised and completed everything from re-roofing to painting as well as new flooring in the main restaurant and replacing decks throughout the property.
“Property maintenance is a big area that needs to be given constant attention and a rolling plan. We are playing a bit of catch up but we are getting there. Our climate is harsh and it does take a toll on buildings, decks and equipment.”
Regeneration is something which he is very keen about, which seems strange for a GM who is less about working within the lines and more about big ideas and making things happen.
“If you don’t try there is no risk or reward. Try and fail, well at least you know and go back to the drawing board. Try and win, then celebrate and look for the next opportunity.”
He seems to be winning.
In terms of regeneration you’ll see new Frond Circles where fallen palm tree fronds are arranged in a circle, much like a clock face, layer upon layer, to a height of 1.5 metres.
“We are monitoring how long it will take for them to decompose naturally and we take measurements regularly.”
He has also reduced daily path sweeping of the white sands, opting for enriching natural habitats and eco systems for small animals and insects, through using the rustic appeal of garden waste such as leaves, twigs and bark in garden areas to encourage natural seeding. So far the evidence indicates that it’s working.
Mark says, “by incorporating the regenerative areas into our landscape, we’ve also reduced the heat and bright glare for guests particularly during the hottest hours of the day when it can be both sweltering and blinding.”
The resort is currently doubling its renewable energy generated from solar power by adding corrosion proof marine grade photovoltaic panels to the roofs of 19 one-bedroom over water villas and the 2 bedroom overwater pavilion. This project will bring the resort’s solar power to 518.52 KWp.
Perhaps one of his favourite projects was the built-in barbecue area in the garden adjacent to the Crew Cafe (staff canteen).
“It’s a giant bbq that any Aussie would be proud of mate!” he says with a wide grin.
“Our engineering team built the structure out of bricks and mortar and then we installed the grill. It’s working a treat. We even incorporated a wok station.”
Delighting his own crew is important to him.
“Happy staff make for happy guests. It’s my commitment to my team to continue to try and improve their facilities on the island. I work very closely with our HR team and our owners,”
Under his guidance the Kandoo Kids’ Club has been upgraded with essential maintenance and a spruce up to delight the younger guests.
“Our Kids’ Club team don’t just stay within the confines of the Kandoo Kids’ Club venue on the island. We actively encourage kids to learn about the island, the different habitats and have fun, so treasure hunts and discovery walks are all part of our day to day.”
So what is next? Mark shares the projects he is currently advancing.
“I’m focused on our Chef’s garden and elevating it in terms of selection and production quantities and we are currently trialling our new guest app making all of the resort information, room service, mini bar and chatting to a team member in real time available from a guest’s smart device.”
Mark explains while the resort is in the final stages of the testing phase the guest app has been well received and the use of technology has been embraced by both the resort team and the guests.
Perhaps the most exciting project from a rooms perspective is that Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives will unveil a new 3-bedroom Beach Pool Villa towards the end of the year. Currently the pool element is under construction and the project is running to schedule.
“It’s already been sold for the festive season, so we have to have it ready in time. Nothing like pressure, eh?”
It’s easy to see why Mark has so quickly garnered the label the Change Maker, but he credits these successes and the ability to make change so quickly to the team and owners.
“I think it’s a journey. For me it was about earning trust and then getting our crew on board with the different ideas, working with the owners to prioritise the big spends on their asset and to build a culture which continually strives to maintain the property for a great guest experience.”
For information about Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives visit www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com
Featured
From sunrise to sunset: Valentine’s Day bliss at Kuda Villingili
This Valentine’s Day, love takes centre stage at Kuda Villingili, a premier romantic retreat in the Maldives. With its sun-drenched beaches, indulgent dining options, and rejuvenating spa experiences, Kuda Villingili provides couples with an idyllic setting to rekindle joy and celebrate their love stories.
Since its inception, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been synonymous with romance. Its powdery white shores, crystal-clear waters, and expansive vistas offer a sanctuary where serenity and passion intertwine. The resort’s private villas are thoughtfully designed to enhance intimacy, featuring Beach Villas with private pools and views of both sunrise and sunset. Meanwhile, the Water Villas, perched over a vibrant blue lagoon, promise complete privacy and panoramic views of turquoise waters. Whether guests wake to the gentle hues of sunrise from ocean-facing beds or savor sunset’s fiery glow from their private pools, every moment in these villas is crafted to be a dream come true.
For Valentine’s Day 2025, Kuda Villingili invites couples to immerse themselves in romantic experiences as unique as the destination itself. Guests are encouraged to create joyful memories and redefine their love stories within this tropical paradise.
One of the highlights is the floating breakfast experience, offering an indulgent start to the day. Served in the privacy of villa pools, the breakfast includes gourmet selections paired with a bottle of Victoire Prestige Brut Rosé Champagne, setting the tone for a luxurious day.
In the evening, the ‘Crimson and Aqua’ dining experience by the largest pool in the Maldives promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests can savour Cantonese-style lobster, dumplings, and an array of desserts amidst tranquil waters and a lush tropical garden. Handcrafted cocktails, sparkling wine, or a bottle of red or white wine ensure every detail is perfect for the occasion.
For a more intimate setting, Mar-Umi Beach offers Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a curated menu designed for couples seeking both culinary adventure and romance. The dining experience is elevated with a bottle of sake or the finest sparkling wine, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Alternatively, couples can indulge in the ‘Sands of Love’ buffet at The Restaurant, featuring tropical delicacies and live cooking stations. Set beneath swaying palms and a starlit sky, this culinary offering blends exquisite flavours with an enchanting ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation, The Spa provides a Valentine’s package designed for connection and indulgence. This 2.5-hour coconut-inspired journey includes full-body massages, scrubs, and a floral bath, offering rejuvenation for the body and soul.
Throughout the day, guests can toast to love with specialty cocktails and mocktails at The Bar, crafted to capture the joy of connection. In the evening, The Bar transforms into a cozy venue for screenings of classic romantic movies, complemented by snacks and an intimate atmosphere.
To further celebrate love, Kuda Villingili offers complimentary activities such as partner yoga, couples’ painting sessions, heart-opening yoga flows, and outdoor games. Each experience is curated to foster connection and create enduring memories.
Kuda Villingili embodies the essence of romance through its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and turquoise waters. From private destination dining to stargazing under Maldivian skies, every moment is tailored to inspire intimacy and celebrate the extraordinary.
This Valentine’s Day, Kuda Villingili invites couples to rediscover romance in a haven where love is celebrated, cherished, and immortalised.
Featured
Dreamlike retreat: explore Maldives with Marriott Bonvoy Resorts
The Maldives is a destination where summer feels eternal, offering turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and serene tranquility. Through the ‘Endless Summer’ campaign by Marriott Bonvoy, travellers are invited to escape the winter cold or bask in perpetual sunshine with a limited-time offer. Guests can choose from a selection of luxurious resorts in the Maldives and enjoy benefits such as a full-board dining plan, complimentary speedboat or seaplane transfers, or up to USD 250 in resort credit. Additional perks include non-motorised water sports like paddle-boarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing, depending on the property. This exclusive offer, valid for a minimum stay of four nights, is available for bookings between January 20 and February 28, 2025, and includes Marriott Bonvoy points to unlock future travel opportunities.
The North Malé Atoll is a marine sanctuary renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and secluded luxury. Just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, it hosts three Marriott Bonvoy resorts. These waters, rich with stingrays, nurse sharks, turtles, and dolphins, offer exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities for adventurers of all levels. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, features 100 villas with ocean or lagoon views, infinity pools, and personalised butler service. Dining options span Cantonese, Japanese, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, while the Ritz-Carlton Spa offers treatments inspired by Yin and Yang. Guests can also explore curated dining and art installations at Fari Marina Village and participate in the Defining Moment ceremony featuring Boduberu drumming.
The JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, located in the largest lagoon of Kaafu Atoll, offers 80 luxurious pool villas with ocean views. The resort combines contemporary design with personalised service and features seven dining venues, including Athiri and Nikkei, which serve steak and Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. The Spa by JW offers exclusive treatments by BABOR, while younger guests can enjoy activities at the Family by JW Kids’ Club and the teens’ zone.
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, set on a private natural island, provides 176 beachfront cottages and overwater villas that blend rustic charm with modern comforts. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons and lush palm groves, the resort offers family-friendly programs such as beach picnics, cooking classes, and nature walks. Its farm-to-table dining and coral restoration initiatives, alongside complimentary stays and meals for children under 12, make it a sustainable and family-oriented retreat.
North Ari Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, and Baa Atoll showcase the Maldives’ extraordinary natural beauty. North Ari Atoll is famous for iconic dive sites and whale shark migration routes. W Maldives, reopening in March after a transformation, offers 77 overwater and beach villas with bio-boho designs. Guests can explore the house reef, enjoy unique dining experiences, and participate in private island excursions.
In Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort features 77 villas with private pools and panoramic views. The resort offers Ayurvedic treatments, the Maldives’ largest hydrotherapy pool, and signature experiences like the Champagne Sabering Ritual. Dining options include Japanese Kaiseki at T-Pan and a wine cellar boasting 650 labels.
Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, which features 69 villas surrounded by lush foliage or perched above turquoise waters. The resort offers Japanese cuisine, pan-Asian flavours, and holistic wellness programs. Children under 12 stay and dine for free, making it a family-friendly haven.
In Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa combines mid-century modern design with eco-conscious features such as a large organic garden. Guests can enjoy culinary experiences, spacious villas, and abundant marine life around its thriving house reef.
The Shaviyani Atoll offers ultimate seclusion at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, with 60 villas and personalised butler service. Families can enjoy the extensive kids’ club and adventure activities, while food enthusiasts indulge in farm-to-table dining. Water-sports like jet skiing and parasailing cater to thrill-seekers.
As the sun sets over the Maldives, Marriott Bonvoy invites travellers to embrace the promise of an eternal summer in this idyllic paradise.
Featured
Turquoise waters, starry nights: Valentine’s Day magic at Dusit Thani Maldives
This Valentine’s Day, couples are invited to immerse themselves in the ultimate romantic escape at Dusit Thani Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and unparalleled luxury, the resort provides an idyllic setting for celebrating love.
Situated in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to rekindle romance and create cherished memories.
The resort’s All-Inclusive Escape to Romance package has been specially designed to elevate Valentine’s Day celebrations. This exclusive offer includes:
- Luxurious accommodations in either beachfront or overwater villas.
- Delectable dining experiences with all-inclusive options.
- A private dining experience under the stars.
- Couples’ spa treatments at the award-winning Devarana Wellness, ensuring complete relaxation.
Valentine’s Day Highlights
On February 14th, a series of enchanting events will be hosted to mark the occasion:
- Romantic Beach Dinner: Guests can savour a gourmet meal paired with fine wines under a starlit sky, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
- Couples’ Sunset Cruise: A magical experience on the water allows couples to admire the beauty of the Maldivian sunset.
- Devarana Wellness for Two: Signature spa treatments will provide an opportunity for relaxation and reconnection.
- Love-Inspired Cocktails: Handcrafted cocktails will be available at the resort’s bars for a special Valentine’s toast.
Dusit Thani Maldives is described as more than just a destination—it is a place where love blossoms. According to Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives, “This Valentine’s Day, we are delighted to offer couples an opportunity to celebrate their love in one of the most romantic settings in the world.”
Couples are invited to celebrate the season of love at Dusit Thani Maldives, where the natural beauty of the Maldives serves as the perfect backdrop for a memorable Valentine’s Day.
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