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Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi: World-class marine biology innovation
Shaviyani Atoll boasts one of the Maldives’ largest lagoons with crystal white sand, turquoise waters and abundant marine life. The Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is located on the western rim of the Atoll and is famous for its tranquil blue vistas across the Indian Ocean to a never-ending horizon. First certified by Green Globe in 2021, the resort has been re-certified for its high standard of sustainable tourism with exceptional contributions to marine biology.
Samuel Dixon, Sustainability Manager, says, “We’re so proud to achieve our second Green Globe Certification as we strive to become market leaders in sustainable practices and innovation that inspires the next generation of eco warriors.”
Sustainability Lab Project
In February 2022, Fairmont Maldives launched the Sustainability Lab, which was officially opened by the Maldives Minister of Environment Aminath Shauna, Maldives Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi, and Maldives’ Special Envoy for Climate Change Ms Sabra Ibrahim Noordeen.
As tourism continues to grow and develop in the Maldives, so too does concern regarding single-use plastic and its impact on the pristine ecosystems. Experts claim that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Fairmont Maldives’ mission is to fully recycle all the plastic waste generated by the resort and surrounding local communities, and ultimately, remove ocean plastic from the Maldivian environment.
The Sustainability Lab is the first of its kind in the archipelago, containing specialised machinery designed by Precious Plastic that transforms and repurposes plastic waste into beautiful bespoke souvenirs for guests, useful school equipment, and unique and exquisite furniture.
The Sustainability Lab has already made a difference by recycling over 3,720kg of plastic into a variety of different products including luggage tags in the shapes of marine animals, school rulers, clip boards, tables, chairs, beach paddles, plant boards and much more. The lab has also started recycling glass by separating bottles by colour before crushing and embedding them into 25mm plastic sheets designed for tables.
Fairmont Award Scheme for Schools
As part of the Sustainability Lab Project the resort launched the Fairmont Award Scheme in December 2021. The scheme is active across 12 schools with numerous workshops, educational presentations and activities being conducted including beach and reef clean ups.
Fairmont Maldives also hosts these schools at the resort where the students are led through a workshop by local Maldivian Sustainability Ambassadors. Students are given a detailed orientation of the Sustainability Lab and the entire process from plastic waste to recycled plastic products. By showing children first-hand how plastic is not just garbage but can be used to make their very own furniture, the resort hopes to clearly demonstrate creative and useful ways of recycling waste. Fairmont Maldives aims to inspire the next generation of eco-warriors, who will lead the change in protecting the local environment and biodiversity from plastic pollution.
Marine Conservation: The Coralarium & Turtle Rangers
The Coralarium is the world’s first semi submerged art installation and most importantly it is the centre of Fairmont Maldives’ coral restoration program. The Coralarium is made using PH neutral non-toxic compounds that contain no harmful pollutants to marine life and help stimulate coral growth by catching vital biomass on its structure. After 5 years underwater, the Coralarium is covered in new live coral and provides the perfect habitat space for over 120 different fish species and marine life.
Protecting the Maldives’ rich biodiversity is essential to Fairmont Maldives sustainability. One of the most endangered marine species in the Maldives is sea turtles. The biggest problem facing sea turtles in the world today, is the large quantity of plastic and ghost nets (discarded commercial fishing nets) polluting the oceans.
In January 2022, Fairmont Maldives launched the Turtle Rangers Programme, where guests come and learn about turtles from the resort’s resident marine biologist. As part of the programme, guests can join guided snorkel tours to the house reef to collect photo ID data of turtles and actively help in the turtle conservation program. The resort has also launched branded rash-guards in collaboration with the Turtle Rangers Program, with all revenue from sales re-invested back into the Sustainability Lab Project.
To further emphasise the importance of tackling the plastics & ghost net problem, the resort has partnered with the Olive Ridley Project, an NGO based in the Maldives focusing on turtle research. A variety of conservation tasks, including nest protection, baby turtle release, rescue missions and photo ID tracking to monitor migration and lifecycle patterns are conducted as part of the program. In the last 18 months, the resort has released over 800 baby turtles born on their beaches, greatly contributing to the survival of the Maldivian Green and Hawksbill population. The resort hopes over the next few years to be able to contribute a larger quantity of photo ID data, essential for tracking migration patterns of the resident turtle population, as well as make new discoveries in turtle animal behaviour.
Featured
Love, adventure, and island magic at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s extravaganza
This Valentine’s Day, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives will once again serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable celebration of love and harmony with the second season of Paradise Pulse: Hearts in Harmony. From February 12 to 17, 2025, the resort will welcome couples to experience a week-long celebration filled with romance, unforgettable moments, and special experiences designed to make Valentine’s Week truly memorable.
Each day at the resort will begin with intimate culinary delights available for pre-booking, including a dreamy ‘Breakfast in Bed’ and a ‘Romantic Lagoon Mimosa Breakfast,’ allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking sunrises. As the evening unfolds, love will take centre stage with exclusive dining experiences, such as a private ‘Sandbank Dinner’ under a starlit sky, a sophisticated ‘Wine Lover’s Dinner’ with curated pairings, or a relaxed ‘Lovers’ Feast and Beach BBQ.’
This year, Paradise Pulse will enhance the Valentine’s Day experience with a fusion of electronic dance music and sensual belly dancing, building upon the success of the previous year. Throughout the week, world-class entertainment will elevate the romantic atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Celebrated Trance music artist and producer from the UK, DJ Chris Metcalfe, will return to the Maldives, setting the mood with his electrifying beats. Additionally, Brazilian belly dancer Lurdiana Tejas—an internet sensation with 2.5 million followers—will captivate audiences with her enchanting performances, adding an exotic flair to the celebration.
Guests will have the opportunity to celebrate love in an extraordinary way with specially curated Valentine’s experiences. These exclusive offerings will be available for an additional charge, ensuring a truly memorable celebration in paradise. Adventurous couples can embark on thrilling ocean excursions, explore the rich Maldivian marine world, or participate in the extraordinary Whale Shark Mission, providing a rare chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. The excitement can be further elevated with a Jet Car ride, complete with stunning aerial captures, or a romantic Floating Love Experience, allowing couples to drift into serenity together.
For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s award-winning spa will offer couples an opportunity to reconnect and rejuvenate. The ‘You & Me’ experience, an 80-minute synchronised massage designed for ultimate relaxation, and the ‘Be My Valentine’ treatment, a luxurious 105-minute full-body pampering ritual, will provide indulgent moments of tranquility.
Live music and DJ nights at Lagoon Bar and The Bar will set a romantic tone, complemented by dazzling Belly Dance and Fire Show performances. The Retro and White Party will invite guests to dance under the Maldivian sky, while themed games, scavenger hunts, and couple’s challenges will present playful opportunities to celebrate love.
To make the occasion even more special, Sun Siyam Olhuveli will offer a curated Valentine’s Gift Pack, allowing guests to surprise their significant others with thoughtful keepsakes that capture the essence of romance.
With its breathtaking beauty, immersive experiences, and unparalleled luxury, Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Valentine’s Week Celebration promises couples an extraordinary escape filled with love, adventure, and island magic.
Featured
JW Marriott’s latest Maldivian retreat opens in Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 luxury hotel brands, has announced the opening of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, marking the second JW Marriott resort in the Maldives. Situated in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and only 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, the resort provides an idyllic sanctuary designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit in a tropical oceanic paradise.
Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott, highlighted the resort’s dedication to blending luxury with holistic well-being, emphasising its ability to offer a peaceful escape where every detail inspires balance and rejuvenation. He noted that with the Maldives’ natural beauty as a backdrop, the resort aims to provide an exceptional experience that resonates with guests seeking tranquility, mindfulness, and world-class service.
Featuring 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort combines traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to foster a deep connection with nature. Each villa is designed for relaxation, offering expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons. The Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence, positioned above the turquoise waters, provides an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views. This elegant residence caters to families and groups of friends, offering a refined space to connect and create lasting memories while enjoying panoramic ocean vistas.
The resort’s architecture, envisioned by Turkish architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Atolye4N, seamlessly integrates Maldivian design with modern elements inspired by the island’s natural beauty. The arrival jetty, modelled after the graceful flight of the Maakana heron, sets the tone for the resort’s aesthetic. The villas reflect traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, featuring kajan roofs, vibrant turquoise doors, and neutral-toned interiors. Thoughtful design elements, including Maldivian lacquerware crafts and contrasting textures, contribute to a serene and harmonious retreat.
Committed to sustainability, the resort has partnered with INVENA in a groundbreaking environmental initiative. This collaboration introduces a 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure, designed with the Self-Assembly Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to mitigate wave action and prevent beach erosion. Additionally, the structure fosters vibrant marine ecosystems by creating reef habitats that attract diverse fish and coral species. Guests will have the opportunity to engage with this innovative project, contributing to scientific efforts addressing climate challenges.
The resort features seven distinct dining venues and bars, offering a diverse culinary experience that showcases global flavours and high-quality ingredients.
Veyo, the international restaurant, provides a menu celebrating fresh ingredients and panoramic views. Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, boasts a striking two-story design inspired by ocean waves, where premium cuts of meat are served with breathtaking Indian Ocean views. Nikkei, perched above, presents a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites influenced by Peruvian, Japanese, and European traditions. Riva delivers a sophisticated interpretation of Indian Ocean cuisine, blending Indian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian flavours in a contemporary fine-dining setting. Pure focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the island’s natural bounty, with herbs such as rosemary, mint, basil, thyme, and sage harvested directly from the JW Garden. Tito’s, a deli and patisserie, offers an array of handcrafted delights, including chocolates, macarons, truffles, cakes, and pastries designed to indulge the senses.
For those seeking exclusive dining experiences, the resort provides bespoke private dining options in intimate settings, allowing guests to create unforgettable culinary memories.
The overwater Spa by JW offers renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products, making it the first spa in the Maldives to collaborate with the brand. The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, incorporates BABOR’s prestigious anti-aging skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with deep-sea active ingredients for a transformative wellness experience.
Fitness and wellness enthusiasts can enjoy sunrise yoga sessions, a state-of-the-art fitness centre overlooking the ocean, and a lap pool. For adventure seekers, the resort offers marine activities such as snorkelling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Additional experiences include dolphin safaris, parasailing, and sunset cruises for those seeking relaxation and serenity.
The resort’s meticulously designed public spaces provide moments of tranquility for reflection, helping guests restore balance and focus. Whether indulging in gourmet cuisine, unwinding at the spa, or engaging in ocean adventures, every aspect of the resort is designed to inspire renewal and connection.
The resort embraces the joy of togetherness with its Family by JW program, which offers thoughtfully curated experiences that encourage families to create lasting memories. Designed to cater to guests of all ages, the resort features a dedicated Kids’ and Teens’ Club, a colourful playground, and a child-friendly swimming pool to ensure younger visitors are entertained and engaged.
The JW Kids’ Club offers enriching activities designed to educate and inspire children through exploration and play. Families can participate in interactive cooking classes, using fresh, sustainably grown produce from the JW Garden. The garden not only supplies ingredients for the resort’s cuisine but also serves as a space for guests to reconnect with nature through gardening. Through a combination of vibrant adventures and shared moments of creativity, the Family by JW program ensures a memorable and joyful experience for all generations.
Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, emphasised the resort’s commitment to reflecting the timeless beauty of the Maldives while providing an unforgettable journey. He stated that the goal is to offer guests a true sanctuary where luxury and well-being converge. With JW Marriott’s signature warmth and hospitality, the resort invites guests to immerse themselves in the magic of the Maldives, nurturing both mind and body.
Featured
Janice Wong brings edible art to OZEN LIFE MAADHOO
For those with a refined sweet tooth and a love for the Maldives, THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced an exclusive collaboration with celebrated pastry virtuoso Janice Wong. The renowned chef will be present at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 24th to 26th April 2025, transforming the island into a hub of culinary innovation. Guests will have the opportunity to experience bespoke dessert creations, interactive workshops, and captivating chocolate installations.
During her residency, Chef Wong will unveil her signature edible chocolate wall art—an impressive three-metre-tall masterpiece crafted from sustainably sourced chocolate. Designed to reflect the Maldives’ vibrant marine ecosystem, the installation will feature intricate coral-inspired designs, with 100 ‘reef-like’ cavities containing hand-painted bonbons for guests to enjoy. In addition to this centrepiece, she will host live dessert stations at the resort’s overwater venues, offering delicacies such as Yuzu Meringue Clouds and Salted Caramel Lava Spheres, carefully paired with sommelier-selected dessert wines.
On 24th April, a four-hands gourmet dinner at the underwater restaurant M6m will showcase a collaboration between Chef Wong and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s Executive Chef Alok. This exclusive event, limited to just 40 guests, will present a dessert degustation menu that reimagines Maldivian flavours through modernist techniques and locally sourced ingredients.
Younger guests will also have the chance to explore their creativity through daily chocolate art workshops, where Chef Wong will guide families in crafting edible masterpieces using chocolate crayons, rice paper, and miniature canvases. Each child will leave with a personalised creation and a keepsake brochure detailing the week’s activities.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Chef Wong expressed her inspiration from the Maldives’ natural beauty. She noted that her goal at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is to blur the lines between art, nature, and gastronomy, creating lasting impressions both on the palate and in memory.
All experiences will be seamlessly integrated into the resort’s INDULGENCE™ Plan, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the festivities. From sunset bonbon tastings to private consultations with Chef Wong, the programme exemplifies THE OZEN COLLECTION’s commitment to Refined Elegance, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
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