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Minor Hotels announces first Avani branded property in Maldives bringing laid-back luxury to Baa Atoll
Minor Hotels’ Avani brand will make its Maldives debut with the opening of Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort in early Q2 2023. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort will be Minor’s sixth property in the country, increasing the hotel owner, operator and investors currently present in this paradisiacal setting.
The first hotel opening in this highly coveted area of the Maldives for more than three years, the arrival of Avani+ Fares in the ubiquitous Baa Atoll will shake up the hospitality landscape. A stunning new private island resort, Avani+ Fares will offer all the attention to detail, experiences and unparalleled service that one would expect of a premium Maldivian escape without the ostentation.
A new-build property on a natural tropical island showcasing the very best that Avani has to offer, Avani+ Fares will be home to a variety of accommodation options. From beach pool villas and four-bedroom beach pavilions to picture perfect three-bedroom over water villas sitting across the island’s large turquoise bay, the accommodation will offer a stylish modern sanctuary, maximising breezy spaces and ergonomic lighting, as well as tech focused amenities to suit the needs of the most discerning guest. Avani+ Fares will appeal to couples, families and friends with an array of dining, fitness, water sport recreation and pampering spa treatments.
Resting on a naturally protected island on the western edge of Baa Atoll, the resort will provide easy access to the world renowned Hanifaru Bay, home to what is regarded as the Indian Ocean’s best biodiversity and underwater ecosystem and one of the best places to see manta rays. With twelve individual dive sites off the beach at Fares, divers are spoilt for choice. In addition, guests will have access to the Avani house reef, a 220-metre reef teeming with marine life including turtles and dolphins and the nearby Fares reef which is 600 metres off the shore.
One of the stunning islands that make up the Maldivian archipelago, Fares boasts a 2.6-kilometre lagoon in front of the island, offering privacy and serenity as well as playing host to an abundance of reefs and marine life and of course serving as the backdrop for incredible sunsets. Due to the perfect positioning at the edge of the atoll, the resort enjoys zero light pollution for unforgettable stargazing. A picturesque paradise of stunning turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Avani+ Fares Maldives is only a 35-minute journey by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Throughout their stay, guests will be treated to a wide selection of Maldivian and international-inspired cuisines at each of the seven restaurants, in addition to private beach and in-villa dining. Each aims to expand guests’ taste horizons with a variety of choices to push the boundaries of island dining whilst minimising carbon footprint with seasonal ingredients. Organic produce will be sourced from the resort’s mini farm and catch of the day delivered daily by local fishermen. Young guests will have the run of the first kids-only restaurant in the Maldives serving nutritious, universally loved food.
AvaniFit’s new gym concept keeps guests in tip top condition offering fitness programmes designed in partnership with a high-performance coach. Those seeking to bliss out and indulge in some pampering can hide away from the world in style at AvaniSpa, which will offer various rejuvenating treatments alongside thoughtful wellness options. AvaniKids provides everything to keep children and teens happy and entertained so adult guests can enjoy some ‘me’ time.
“The arrival of Avani+ Fares in the Maldives meets a growing niche in demand for guests seeking alternatives to traditional luxury by providing a contemporary new offering, enabling a wider audience to experience one of the world’s most exclusive destinations,” said William Costley, Minor Hotels’ Senior Vice President of Operations for Asia. “Avani+ Fares will continue to highlight Avani as a trailblazing hotel brand, filling a gap in the Maldivian hotel landscape and delivering exceptional products in a fresh and accessible manner.”
Between swimming, snorkelling and diving at the protected house reef and discovering the island’s native flora, guests can fully enjoy a slice of paradise steeped in biodiversity and natural beauty.
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Villa Resorts partners with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to expand GCC presence
Villa Resorts has appointed Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy as its Sales Representative for the GCC region, emphasising the company’s commitment to strengthening relationships with travel trade partners and enhancing its engagement with GCC travellers seeking exceptional luxury experiences.
The Villa Resorts portfolio features several distinguished properties: Villa Nautica, an exclusive retreat embracing a maritime lifestyle; Villa Park, an adventure-filled destination blending luxury with excitement; Royal Island, a boutique resort in Baa Atoll celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs and proximity to Hanifaru Bay; and Villa Haven, a serene escape redefining quiet luxury and indulgence in the Maldives.
To facilitate its expansion in the GCC, Villa Resorts has partnered with Dubai-based Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy, a leading firm in the hospitality and tourism sector. Leveraging the consultancy’s expertise and established networks, Villa Resorts aims to strengthen its connections with travel trade partners and luxury travellers across the region.
Mohamed Azmeel, Cluster Director of Sales at Villa Resorts, highlighted the strategic value of the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy enables us to harness their extensive expertise and networks in the GCC region. We look forward to deepening our engagement with travellers who prioritise personalised, high-end hospitality.”
Ahmed Fathallah, General Manager – Destination Marketing at Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy, also expressed excitement about the partnership. He noted, “Representing Villa Resorts in the GCC is an honour. This region demonstrates a strong demand for luxury travel and unique experiences. With Villa Resorts’ diverse portfolio, we are confident in enhancing their brand presence and fostering meaningful engagements in this vibrant market.”
Established in 2001, Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor in the hospitality and tourism industry. Its in-depth knowledge of the GCC market will be instrumental in supporting Villa Resorts’ mission to deliver unparalleled luxury and unforgettable experiences to travellers from the region.
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Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives
As part of its ‘Masters for Masters’ series, The Nautilus Maldives will host Denise Hoefer, Germany’s No. 1 padel player and one of the world’s top 50 most influential figures in the padel industry, for an exclusive Padel Masterclass from March 22 to 25, 2025. This exceptional event invites guests to enhance their padel skills under the expert guidance of a global champion, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ Indian Ocean.
Padel, recognised as the world’s fastest-growing sport, has captured the hearts of 30 million enthusiasts globally, according to the International Padel Federation. This March, The Nautilus will provide a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in this thrilling game during a four-day Padel Masterclass led by Denise Hoefer, Germany’s top-ranked female padel player and captain of the German national team. Participants will refine their techniques on The Nautilus’s state-of-the-art padel court, while experiencing the island’s signature blend of world-class coaching and timeless, unscripted hospitality.
The Padel Masterclass will feature a tailored mix of group and private sessions, catering to players of all levels. Younger participants will have the chance to join the Young Wonderers program, offering specially designed classes that introduce the sport in a fun and engaging way. After an energising day on the court, guests can unwind at Solasta Spa, where exclusive treatments by Maison Caulières—such as Spinal Connection Deep Tissue Healing, Volcanic Stone Therapy, and Warm Poultices—promise ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. These tranquil spa experiences provide a perfect complement to the day’s dynamic activities, leaving participants refreshed and revitalised.
With just 26 ultra-luxury houses and residences, The Nautilus offers an intimate sanctuary within the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by powder-soft white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, this private island retreat redefines bespoke hospitality. Every element is meticulously crafted to inspire, offering guests an unparalleled ultra-luxury experience focused on relaxation, renewal, and discovery. Whether honing padel skills or embracing the serenity of island life, The Nautilus stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travellers.
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Year of excellence: Ifuru Island Maldives shines as global luxury destination
1 December 2024 marks a significant milestone for Ifuru Island Maldives as the resort celebrates its first anniversary. Over the past year, this luxury destination in the heart of the Maldives has captivated guests from around the globe and earned prestigious accolades. Among its honours are recognition as one of the Top 100 Luxury Hotels and Resorts of the World 2024 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards and the title of Best Beach Resort, Maldives, from the Seven Star Luxury Hotel Awards.
Situated in the picturesque Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island boasts a pristine 1-kilometer stretch of white sandy beach with stunning sunset views. The resort’s design strikes a harmonious balance between sociability and seclusion, featuring 147 elegant beach suites and villas arranged as ‘Retreats’ and ‘Villages.’ These accommodations include options with direct beach access and private pools, making the resort an ideal destination for multigenerational vacations and special celebrations.
Guests have enjoyed an unparalleled culinary journey across six restaurants and four bars, highlighted by a 24-hour premium all-inclusive dine-around concept. From locally inspired Maldivian dishes to internationally curated flavours, Ifuru Island has become a culinary destination for discerning travellers.
The resort offers a variety of activities, including dolphin watching, diving, cultural immersions, and rejuvenating treatments at the Xanadu Spa. Families have particularly appreciated the Coconut Kids Club, ensuring younger guests experience the magic of the Maldives alongside their parents.
Reflecting on the first year’s accomplishments, Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives, noted, “Our first year has been an incredible journey of welcoming guests, creating unforgettable moments, and achieving recognition on a global scale. These awards affirm our commitment to excellence and our passion for delivering exceptional experiences. We are excited to continue building on this foundation as we look toward the future.”
As Ifuru Island Maldives celebrates its achievements and anticipates the future, the resort remains dedicated to delivering world-class luxury, impeccable service, and a truly magical experience for every guest.
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