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Le Méridien Maldives Resort perfects organic, ‘farm-to-table’ dining

Published

3 years ago

November 27, 2022

The Maldives’ luxury resort cuisine has evolved significantly from the country’s typical hamburgers and handmade beach BBQ lunches. Instead, island resorts throughout the nation have emerged as hotspots for Michelin-starred chefs to practice their craft and display their talents. Many chefs find the task of fusing more “basic” ingredients with haute cuisine to produce delectable dishes fascinating, and the outcomes are consistently pleasantly surprising.

Healthy eaters are aware that using fresh, organic foods that are sustainably sourced is the secret to gourmet cooking. In the Maldives, the “farm-to-table” notion is more than just a trendy culinary trend; it’s a way of life, a lifestyle that has been carried down through generations, including eating habits.

Chefs work closely with local farmers and fishermen who daily bring in fresh catch and organic food at the island resorts. Many opulent resorts are also devoting substantial areas of their land to growing food for their visitors, following the global trend that pushes for complete traceability and transparency of the items at the dining table. Every element is regional and in season.

The Greenhouse at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa has perfected sustainable farming, incorporated cutting-edge concepts, and achieved cult status for their incredibly fresh and delectable Greenhouse experience. The culinary adventure, which is appealing to the romantic to the family-friendly, encapsulates and uplifts the joyful spirit of a day in the Maldives.

Eating, with its deeply local roots, has always been central to our physical, social and even spiritual existence, but never have we been more conscious of the ways in which our food is produced and consumed. At 430sqm, The Greenhouse is one of the Maldives’ largest state-of-the-art hydroponic farms that has been purposely designed to promote sustainable farming and consumption. The Greenhouse is a blueprint for the resort’s food menus and provides a physical link between the plate and the chef’s mindset – one not just occupied with creating beautiful food, but with the origins of the ingredients used.

“This trend toward organic, sustainably-sourced meals was sparked by worries about animal cruelty, environmental sustainability, and human health, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only intensified it. Nowadays, people are more aware, sensitive, and responsible,” says Nilesh Singh, the General Manager at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa.

“We are serious about sourcing every single ingredient from ethical sources. We grow as much as we can in our Greenhouse. The menus use only the freshest, high-quality ingredients to tempt guests on a daily basis.”

Smart sustenance. A significant step towards self-sufficiency, The Greenhouse is a semi-automated hydroponic system that produces fresh leafy vegetables for resort guests and consumption on neighbouring islands. Developed in conjunction with Singapore-based company Kok Fah Technology Farm, The Greenhouse uses a range of state-of-the-art technologies, including an automated irrigation system that captures and recycles rainwater. This produces clean vegetables that are free of pesticides, grown in a stress-free environment and particularly nutrient-rich through the use of peat moss. Various leafy vegetables, Maldivian chillies, tomatoes and herbs have already been successfully grown in The Greenhouse with plenty more to follow – the harvest target is about 30 kilograms daily and up to 11 tonnes of vegetables annually. Now that’s a lot of fibre.

Designed to promote sustainable farming and consumption, The Greenhouse is nurtured and managed by the resort’s Head Horticulturist Juby Thomas. An environmentalist by heart, she followed this career path as hydroponics being the latest technology in agriculture. For her, this is the future of farming.

“Our Greenhouse is first and the biggest among various Maldives resorts. We grow the veggies fully organically with the latest technology, ie. Hydroponically, and our greenhouse is partially automatic it controls the temperature and light intensity which makes our greenhouse smarter than others. We also harvest the rainwater. We have big tanks which stores 30,000 litres of rain water,” she says.

“One of the challenges is to have rain water all year around. Although RO water can also be used but not all plants do well. I always faced the challenges as the opportunity to learn and understand more. My goal is to have more and more varieties of plants so as to fully utilise our large greenhouse even during off season.”

Juby’s curiosity is enlivened everyday as she explores the growth process of diverse plants and vegetables on the island of Thilamaafushi. Interacting with guests during The Greenhouse tour is the highlight of her day. She recommends to taste the Crystal Summer Roll from the Harvest Table, a holistic menu that is elevated with the freshest of ingredients, bringing together the spirit of organic dining with the love for mother nature.

“The staff, the hard work, dedication and the helping nature of the staff is what makes it more rewarding,” Juby says.

But the hard work isn’t left to the staff alone – guests can also get involved, taking on some gardening in the greenhouse or utilising ingredients during cooking classes. Ideal for foodies, there’s also the Harvest Table, a weekly supper club dining experience that spotlights hydroponic farming practices while enjoying imaginative dishes with a conscience.

The Greenhouse is just one way Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is leading in the way of sustainability. When Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa welcomed its first guests in September 2021, it marked the debut of Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts in one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. The 141-villa resort lies secluded in a southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll on the natural island of Thilamaafushi; an eco- conscious hideaway of indigenous flora and fauna surrounded by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs teeming with marine life. To ensure that this biodiversity is not only preserved, but thrives, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is committed to environmental consciousness in line with Marriott International’s Serve 360 sustainability policy – with a range of pioneering programmes that promote a culture of best practice throughout resort operations: coral restoration programmes, fresh drinking water in glass bottles, efficient recycling methods, and harnessing the power of the sun.

Owing to the exemplary work in their efforts to promote and practice eco-conscious holidays, the resort recently earned the prestigious BCA Green Mark GOLDPlus Award, an internationally recognised green building certification scheme tailored for the tropical climate.

Related Topics:dining Le Meridien Le Méridien Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

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

Published

1 day ago

October 23, 2025

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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

Published

1 day ago

October 23, 2025

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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

Published

2 days ago

October 22, 2025

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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.