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Celebrate castaway Christmas, New Year at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
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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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Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts earns top honours at 2025 Traveller Review Awards
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Delivering unforgettable travel experiences remains at the heart of hospitality, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives has once again been recognised for its commitment to excellence at the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2025. Now in its 13th year, the awards are based on over 360 million verified guest reviews, reflecting traveler experiences. As a homegrown brand from Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to redefine hospitality in the Maldives with its collection of tropical sanctuaries.
With a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives continues to captivate travellers seeking an idyllic island retreat in the Meemu Atoll. This island serves as the perfect getaway for couples seeking ultimate relaxation and escape, while the exclusive 18+ Platinum Island provides an adults-only haven. The Platinum Beach Bungalows offer undisturbed tranquility for those desiring a true escape from the world. The resort’s chic overwater bungalows, complete with glass floors revealing the wonders beneath and private terraces with hammocks, provide an intimate and serene retreat, ideal for honeymooners.
Also earning a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives stands out for its contemporary design, resembling the shape of a manta ray. Vaavu Atoll, the least commercialised atoll in the Maldives, offers quiet beaches and empty dive sites, giving guests the opportunity to experience untouched beauty. The shipwreck at Vaavu Atoll is a popular diving destination, home to a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. With a combination of thrilling water sports and laid-back island vibes, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives serves as a perfect choice for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
Receiving a rating of 9.0, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the Maldives, particularly among surfers and ocean lovers. Located just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, the resort is home to the world-renowned Pasta Point, one of the most consistent surf breaks in the region. The island’s lively atmosphere, diverse recreational offerings, and welcoming hospitality make it ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s play area that provides a safe and engaging space for fun-filled activities. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the resort offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
With a rating of 8.9, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is recognised as a diver’s paradise, celebrated for its legendary house reef and year-round diving opportunities. Located in the North Ari Atoll, the resort offers one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, attracting diving enthusiasts eager to explore its rich marine biodiversity. The rustic charm of Ellaidhoo, combined with its commitment to marine conservation, provides an authentic island experience where guests can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Whether diving with reef sharks, enjoying beachside dining, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Ellaidhoo offers a distinctive retreat for underwater adventurers.
Marking the launch of an exciting summer offer, guests planning a Maldivian getaway for a minimum of four nights between May 1, 2025, and October 31, 2026, will receive complimentary speedboat transfers. Additionally, for an elevated travel experience, GHA Discovery membership offers even greater rewards and exclusive benefits. From the moment guests sign up, they can earn and redeem Discovery Dollars (D$), access member-only rates, and enjoy carefully curated local experiences. With privileges available at every membership level, GHA Discovery enhances each stay by offering recognition and unique opportunities to explore the destination in an immersive way.
Combining the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality with the natural beauty of the Maldives, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives continues to offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
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OZEN LIFE MAADHOO earns Green Globe Gold Certification
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THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has been awarded the Green Globe Gold Certification after maintaining certification for five consecutive years. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, seamlessly integrating world-class luxury with innovative sustainability practices to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Maldives.
At the heart of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s achievements lies a comprehensive approach to conservation. The resort’s team of in-house marine biologists leads a coral restoration project aimed at revitalising a 300-meter section of the house reef. This initiative employs 80 coral frames supporting over 2,000 coral fragments. Collaborations with organisations such as Manta Trust, Olive Ridley Project, and Parley, along with an upcoming partnership with Miyaru NGO, strengthen marine protection efforts while guest education programs enhance awareness of ocean conservation.
According to Nuria Camps Suarez, Head Marine Biologist at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the coral restoration project represents more than just conservation—it symbolises a commitment to future generations. By restoring the house reef, the resort is actively rebuilding a thriving ecosystem. Partnerships with organisations such as Manta Trust and Parley further amplify the impact, ensuring the preservation of the Maldives’ marine heritage.
The resort also integrates renewable energy solutions, featuring one of the Maldives’ largest floating solar panel systems. This system comprises twelve platforms with 720 panels, supplemented by 1,095 rooftop solar units, collectively generating 30% of the island’s energy requirements and significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s dedication to a zero-waste philosophy is reflected in its advanced waste management systems. A fully automated organic composter processes three tons of green waste weekly, converting it into nutrient-rich fertiliser, while in-vessel shredders transform garden clippings into compost. Additionally, glass bottles are crushed and repurposed for minor construction projects.
Sustainable dining is also a cornerstone of the resort’s eco-conscious approach. The hydroponic farm enhances gastronomy by growing lettuce and herbs in a soilless system, reducing water consumption from 250 litres to just 50 litres per kilogram. This method meets 70% of the island’s lettuce demand while providing fresh, organic ingredients to its award-winning restaurants.
These sustainability initiatives are seamlessly incorporated into the guest experience, allowing visitors to enjoy bespoke activities such as snorkelling among regenerated reefs and savouring produce from the hydroponic farm—ensuring luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. As OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to lead in eco-conscious hospitality, it reinforces THE OZEN COLLECTION’s ethos of ‘Refined Elegance,’ where each stay contributes positively to the planet.
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Experience elegance and serenity at Coco Bodu Hithi’s exclusive Coco Residences
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Coco Bodu Hithi, a hospitality resort owned by Maldivians, is renowned for its sleek design and comfort. The resort features expansive 184-square-metre residences, each equipped with a private pool, offering elevated privileges to guests across 24 exclusive Coco Residences.
Suspended above the crystal-clear lagoon, these overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, surrounded by endless shades of blue and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Recognised for its outstanding hospitality, Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of Best Service Resort at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed with a refreshing Kurumba and a basket of tropical fruits, while the resort ensures seamless and attentive service throughout their stay.
Guests staying in Coco Residences benefit from a range of exclusive privileges, including the dedicated service of a Mithuru, who ensures a smooth and personalised Maldivian experience. These privileges include an Executive Champagne Sunset Cruise, a Cocktail Party, and a Guided Wine Tasting with the Resident Sommelier, along with other unforgettable experiences that showcase the breathtaking turquoise waters and endless horizon.
For environmentally conscious and culturally curious travellers, the resort offers a variety of enriching activities. Visitors can participate in Coral Planting and other tailored initiatives with the resident Marine Biologist or experience the excitement of a Boduberu performance on the island.
To further enhance the guest experience, the package includes complimentary breakfast options, ranging from a dine-around breakfast to an in-villa Floating Breakfast, complete with a photographer for a keepsake. Guests also receive a daily replenished minibar stocked with beers and soft drinks, along with special residence bar benefits.
Wellness plays an integral role in the resort’s offerings, allowing guests to embark on a journey of balance, rejuvenation, and inner harmony through daily sunrise or sunset yoga sessions. Additionally, visitors can indulge in relaxation with the resort’s signature Coco Fusion Massage or a soothing Balinese Massage, both designed for deep rejuvenation.
Coco Bodu Hithi seamlessly combines adventure and exclusivity, offering captivating dive sessions, exhilarating water sports, and thoughtfully curated signature experiences. The resort has also welcomed high-profile celebrities, ensuring unforgettable stays in the Maldives.
For those looking to experience the ultimate getaway, the Coco Summer Escape offer provides a 40% discount along with a complimentary meal plan upgrade, allowing for an even more indulgent stay at Coco Bodu Hithi.
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