Featured
Nova Maldives crafts new wellness rituals inspired by traditional Maldivian medicine
Nova Maldives has launched a selection of unique spa treatments based on the sacred wisdom of Traditional Maldivian Medicine. The distinctive healing rituals invite guests to form connection with nature and enhance their body and soul’s well-being.
Traditional medicine, or “Dhivehi Beys”, is integral to the Maldivian heritage. Over the centuries, Maldivian healers acquired medical knowledge from travellers who passed through the remote island country and adapted them using locally available and imported products. Dhivehi Beys are characterised by Arab, Persian, Indian, Chinese and even ancient Greek medicinal traditions, and carries with them the secrets about the benefits of natural cycles of nature, its environment, as well as the healing and nourishing effects of the diverse flora and fauna in the nation.
The Drift Away Treatment helps balance the emotional state of mind, while also reviving the physical energy centreing around detoxifying the body and improving the blood flow. Inviting guests on a 90-minute journey of rejuvenation and healing, the treatment starts with a cleansing foot ritual. It is then followed by a short meditation and a full body massage focusing on the back. Will skilled expertise, Nova’s spa therapists will perform a combination of strokes and classical movements, relieving stress and sending the body into an immediate slumber with a noni leaves mask used for their backs. The evergreen leaves of the noni tree, also known as Indian Mulberry, are famous for their various healing properties. They have been used to tend to arthritis, abdominal swelling, headache, skin problems, and rheumatism. Guests are assured to feel like they are floating while getting spoiled from head to toe in the breathtaking Eskape spa suit.
The Maldivian Serenity Treatment, centred around coconut oil and the Dhiggaa plant, is rich in vitamin E and nourishes the skin. Starting the treatment with a cleansing foot ritual, two therapists will work on the guest synchronically to transport them to a realm of harmony and relaxation. The guests will breathe in the scent of coconut oil as their scalp is massaged. The benefits of the Dhiggaa plant, also known as sea hibiscus, extend to relieving stomach pain, fractured bones and sprained muscles, gonorrhoea, and fever. At the same time, the coconut oil used in the treatment works as an anti-wrinkle and antioxidant. With a trunk roller massage relaxing their muscles, releasing the tension of knots, and detoxifying their skin, guests will get a fully immersive experience that will put both their body and mind in a complete state of serenity.
Nova’s signature Tropical Body Polish Treatment allows guests to immerse themselves in deep relaxation. The journey will begin with steam melting the stress away as guests’ skin is cleansed and polished with a purifying scrub of coconut and morning glory leaves. This delicate flower that blooms in shades of blue, pink and purple, possesses impressive healing abilities. It is a blood purifier and an antioxidant that calms nerves, treats insect bites, reduces swelling and helps relieve joint pain. This remarkable flower also helps smoothen the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and scars. Nova’s signature scrub is used to remove dead skin cells and encourage new cells’ regeneration, leaving a smooth and responsive canvas ready to absorb the deeply nourishing coconut body oil. Treating the skin to an ultimate level of softness, the journey continues with a facial massage to balance the mood and to let go of all worldly cares. It concludes with a relaxing cranial head sacral therapy that relaxes guests’ bodies and renews their souls.
Perched overwater against the dream-like backdrop of azure blue of Nova’s lagoon, Eskape spa features three blissful treatment rooms. A Thai Sala, a relaxation room and a yoga pavilion, takes guests to a world of wellness experiences designed to reconnect and awaken their senses.
Book your good soul days and stay informed: www.nova-maldives.com. Get in touch with: hello@nova-maldives.com.
Cooking
From pizza to pasta: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives unveils Pibati Sul Mare
“Pibati” in Sanskrit translates to “to drink, absorb, or imbibe,” reflecting a profound connection to savouring and enjoying sensory experiences such as food and drink. Guided by this philosophy, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has unveiled a refined concept for its beachside restaurant under the leadership of Executive Chef Frank Wackerhagen. The newly reimagined dining destination invites guests to explore Italy’s cherished culinary traditions.
Renamed Pibati Sul Mare—Italian for “by the sea”—the restaurant serves lunch, specialising in artisanal pizzas and handcrafted pastas. Its menu features a harmonious blend of Italian classics and island-inspired flavours, such as the Margherita pizza and the exquisite Linguini allo Scoglio di Panna, a mixed seafood dish in a garlic cream sauce. These dishes are crafted with high-quality ingredients, including fresh, homegrown herbs cultivated on the island, creating comfort food that captures the island’s vibrant essence.
Nestled against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, Pibati Sul Mare offers a serene retreat for diners seeking a memorable culinary experience. The setting combines coastal charm with contemporary elegance, featuring airy, open spaces designed to immerse guests in the scenic surroundings. Soft, earthy tones and natural materials contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance, while exceptional service ensures every guest feels cared for and attended to.
Whether enjoying a gathering with family or savouring a moment of tranquility, Pibati Sul Mare provides an unforgettable dining experience. It promises to captivate the palate and create cherished memories that linger long after the visit.
Featured
Tripadvisor names Ayada Maldives Best of the Best Resort for luxury and excellence
Ayada Maldives has been recognised as the No. 1 Traveler-Ranked Best of the Best Resort in the Maldives by Tripadvisor for 2024. This prestigious accolade, based on authentic guest reviews, highlights the resort’s dedication to unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences.
This achievement reinforces Ayada Maldives’ status as a premier destination for discerning travellers. The resort has also received acclaim for its exquisite overwater villas, pristine beaches, and world-class culinary offerings, earning additional recognition across categories for hospitality excellence and sustainability.
Renowned for its timeless beauty and immersive luxury, Ayada Maldives continues to redefine the art of indulgence. The resort acknowledges the trust and support of its esteemed guests, which inspire ongoing efforts to set new benchmarks in luxury travel.
Located in the pristine Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Ayada Maldives is a luxury resort offering an authentic Maldivian retreat. With a selection of opulent villas and suites, world-class dining options, and a wide range of recreational activities, the resort provides a personalised experience for every guest. Globally celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and vibrant social media presence, Ayada Maldives remains a standard-bearer for luxury travel in the Maldives.
Featured
From sunrise to sunset: Valentine’s Day bliss at Kuda Villingili
This Valentine’s Day, love takes centre stage at Kuda Villingili, a premier romantic retreat in the Maldives. With its sun-drenched beaches, indulgent dining options, and rejuvenating spa experiences, Kuda Villingili provides couples with an idyllic setting to rekindle joy and celebrate their love stories.
Since its inception, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been synonymous with romance. Its powdery white shores, crystal-clear waters, and expansive vistas offer a sanctuary where serenity and passion intertwine. The resort’s private villas are thoughtfully designed to enhance intimacy, featuring Beach Villas with private pools and views of both sunrise and sunset. Meanwhile, the Water Villas, perched over a vibrant blue lagoon, promise complete privacy and panoramic views of turquoise waters. Whether guests wake to the gentle hues of sunrise from ocean-facing beds or savor sunset’s fiery glow from their private pools, every moment in these villas is crafted to be a dream come true.
For Valentine’s Day 2025, Kuda Villingili invites couples to immerse themselves in romantic experiences as unique as the destination itself. Guests are encouraged to create joyful memories and redefine their love stories within this tropical paradise.
One of the highlights is the floating breakfast experience, offering an indulgent start to the day. Served in the privacy of villa pools, the breakfast includes gourmet selections paired with a bottle of Victoire Prestige Brut Rosé Champagne, setting the tone for a luxurious day.
In the evening, the ‘Crimson and Aqua’ dining experience by the largest pool in the Maldives promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests can savour Cantonese-style lobster, dumplings, and an array of desserts amidst tranquil waters and a lush tropical garden. Handcrafted cocktails, sparkling wine, or a bottle of red or white wine ensure every detail is perfect for the occasion.
For a more intimate setting, Mar-Umi Beach offers Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a curated menu designed for couples seeking both culinary adventure and romance. The dining experience is elevated with a bottle of sake or the finest sparkling wine, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Alternatively, couples can indulge in the ‘Sands of Love’ buffet at The Restaurant, featuring tropical delicacies and live cooking stations. Set beneath swaying palms and a starlit sky, this culinary offering blends exquisite flavours with an enchanting ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation, The Spa provides a Valentine’s package designed for connection and indulgence. This 2.5-hour coconut-inspired journey includes full-body massages, scrubs, and a floral bath, offering rejuvenation for the body and soul.
Throughout the day, guests can toast to love with specialty cocktails and mocktails at The Bar, crafted to capture the joy of connection. In the evening, The Bar transforms into a cozy venue for screenings of classic romantic movies, complemented by snacks and an intimate atmosphere.
To further celebrate love, Kuda Villingili offers complimentary activities such as partner yoga, couples’ painting sessions, heart-opening yoga flows, and outdoor games. Each experience is curated to foster connection and create enduring memories.
Kuda Villingili embodies the essence of romance through its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and turquoise waters. From private destination dining to stargazing under Maldivian skies, every moment is tailored to inspire intimacy and celebrate the extraordinary.
This Valentine’s Day, Kuda Villingili invites couples to rediscover romance in a haven where love is celebrated, cherished, and immortalised.
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