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Celebrate castaway Christmas, New Year at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the pioneer of sustainable, barefoot luxury in the Maldives, unwraps its Christmas & New Year 2022/23 line up. From cricket on the beach to gingerbread water villa crafting and a series of festive feasts with all the trimmings, this island paradise is the ultimate location in which to spend the most wonderful time of the year.
The festive fun will centre around the theme ‘On the Borders of the Laccadive Sea’, drawing cultural inspiration from the Maldives and its neighbours India and Sri Lanka. Kicking off on the 22nd December 2022 all the way through to the 4th January 2023, the yuletide offerings include:
Festive fun in the Sun
Whether islanders prefer to get crafty or work up a sweat Santa-style, there’s fun in store for everyone at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives this season. Guests can sign up for a gingerbread house-making class with a difference as they recreate a Gili water villa in all its biscuity glory, whittle their own wooden decorations, and get into the festive mood with a special tree-lighting ceremony on the beach.
For those who favour active pursuits, a tennis match or a surf lesson with Santa Claus, cricket on the beach, snorkelling with turtles, a New Year’s Day dolphin cruise and a football tournament are all on offer. Little ones will revel in the opportunity to watch Christmas movies with their toes in the sand at Gili’s cinema under the stars, enjoy a spot of beachside story-telling and receive gifts delivered to their villa courtesy of Santa on a speedboat!
Cultural activities
Drawing on the rich culture of the three nations bordering the Laccadive Sea – the Maldives, India and Sri Lanka – Gili Lankanfushi will provide guests with the chance to fully immerse themselves in local customs.
Beginning with a Maldivian Maahifun tree-lighting ceremony traditionally used to mark the beginning of Ramadan, guests can also try their hand at Maldivian woodcraft, traditional fishing and rope macrame-making. Indian-inspired activities range from henna painting– a must for all celebrations! – to Kalaripayattu classes, one of the world’s oldest forms of martial arts, originating in Kerala. Little ones will love the Fenkulhi after-dinner experience, a playful activity in which water and coloured dye are thrown at one another.
Sri-Lankan influences include curry-making classes utilising homegrown spices from the island’s very own kitchen garden, a ‘Tea in Ceylon’ masterclass and a Sri Lankan wine-tasting session in Gili’s private wine cellar.
Christmas cocktails, culinary delights
Gili Lankanfushi will offer a range of very special ‘bucket list on the beach’ gastronomic experiences to help guests celebrate in style this Christmas. Foodies will be spoilt for choice with offerings ranging from a pan-Laccadive curry feast to a Mediterranean spice souk bazaar and, of course, a family-style Christmas feast with toes in the sand! And for the guest who has tasted it all (until now!) Gili Lankanfushi’s sensory supper will see diners transported to a secret island location for a blind-dining experience.
It wouldn’t be Christmastime at Gili without a captivating new cocktail menu from Gili’s leading mixologists and three new tipples promise to tantalise all tastebuds. These include:
- Ceylon Siyabala: Straight from the hills of Ceylon, the Sri Lankan-inspired ‘Ceylon Siyabala’ combines Arrack and Drambuie with zingy tamarind, lime and ginger to create the perfect refreshing sip – perfect for cooling down on hot beach days.
- Taj Mahal: Hailing from India, the ‘Taj Mahal’ blends curry leaf-infused gin with grand marnier, turmeric, ginger, lemon, apple and agave, providing a flavour sensation in a glass.
- Taaza Kurumba: Inspired by its Maldivian home turf, the ‘Taaza Kurumba’ is a creamy concoction of coconut rum, midori, Malibu, coconut and pineapple. If you could distill the essence of Gili Lankanfushi, this would be it!
Gili Lankanfushi enjoys an unspoilt island location in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé Airport. Perfectly suited for couples, families, solo travellers and groups alike, the resort combines rustic eco-design, unparalleled service and stunning natural scenery with a laid-back-luxury, ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy. The award-winning eco-resort celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2022, following a complete refurbishment of all 45 villas in 2019.
Nightly rates at Gili Lankanfushi start from $1,397, based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite with breakfast included. For more information or to book please visit www.gili-lankanfushi.com
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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.
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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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Heritance Aarah joins forces with LQA for unparalleled guest experiences
Heritance Aarah, a distinguished Premium All-Inclusive barefoot paradise in the Maldives, has partnered with Leading Quality Assurance (LQA), a UK-based organisation specialising in evaluating and enhancing hospitality standards. This collaboration aims to elevate the guest experience and establish new benchmarks within the Maldivian hospitality industry. Heritance Aarah is the first property within Aitken Spence Hotels and the first Sri Lankan hotel chain to adopt LQA standards, positioning itself as a pioneer in quality excellence.
LQA focuses on evaluating various aspects of guest experiences, incorporating internationally recognised benchmarks, emotional intelligence, and brand-specific standards. Through the actionable insights and comprehensive benchmarking data provided by LQA, the resort aims to measure and enhance its performance against global competitors.
Heritance Aarah has earned numerous accolades for its exceptional offerings, including recognition as the Best Beachfront All-Inclusive Family Resort by ‘Forbes’ and the Best Resort in the World – Indian Ocean by the ‘Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards’. As the first LEED Gold-certified property in the Maldives, the resort demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, further solidifying its global reputation.
The partnership with LQA is set to refine service standards across critical touchpoints, including reservations, check-in, check-out, and the overall guest journey. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the resort’s mission to deliver unforgettable and seamless experiences for its guests.
Renowned as a premier culinary destination in the Maldives, Heritance Aarah offers a distinctive all-day dining concept across seven restaurants and five bars, curated by award-winning chefs and culinary Olympians. Guests can also indulge in a variety of wellness activities, such as Tai Chi, Reiki healing, Shirodhara, Tibetan Kunye healing sessions, Moxibustion with mantra chanting, and yoga.
By integrating LQA’s expertise with its own exceptional offerings, Heritance Aarah reinforces its position as a leader in hospitality and sustainability in the Maldives. This partnership highlights the resort’s dedication to redefining excellence and creating extraordinary memories for every guest.
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