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THE OZEN COLLECTION unveils expansion plans with OZEN PRIVÉ ATHIRI GILI in Maldives, OZEN MANSION KOLKATA in India

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THE OZEN COLLECTION extends its portfolio with two new properties, OZEN MANSION KOLKATA in India and OZEN PRIVÉ ATHIRI GILI in Maldives. The new additions will bring distinctive, unique concepts to the portfolio – be it an elegantly lavish interlude amidst the old-world charms of Kolkata or a sustainable, secluded sojourn in the Maldives.

Soulful, sustainable sanctuary in Maldives

OZEN PRIVÉ ATHIRI GILI, set for a Q4 2024 launch in South Malé Atoll, brings to the fore an inspiring getaway with sustainability and seclusion at the heart of every experience.

The tranquil resort will have 38 enchanting pool villas and private dining havens scattered throughout the scenic island, offering a selection of multi-cultural dining experiences.

An exceptional fully encompassing holiday plan will offer guests the ultimate carefree escape, with the freedom to dine anytime, anywhere – at one of the pre-booked dining havens or in the comfort of their villas. Quintessentially Maldives, a Spa Village by ELE | NA ELEMENTS OF NATURE will beckon those who want an extremely exclusive and private wellness experience.

At OZEN PRIVÉ ATHIRI GILI there will be a genuine focus on innovative eco practices to protect the delicate tropical ecosystem. Sustainable initiatives will include rainwater harvesting, renewable energy, a biogas plant, a bio pond swimming pool, the use of geothermal, recyclable materials, zero food waste, organic farming, a drip irrigation system, and the ‘3R’ concept for waste management.

Infusing THE OZEN COLLECTION experience into the City of Joy

In Q4 2023, the brand will make its first foray into India with OZEN MANSION KOLKATA. Enviably located in Kolkata’s New Town area, just a couple of minutes away from Eco Park and 10 minutes from International Airport, the grand hotel will be reminiscent of an impressive, stately residence with event venues that reflect a timeless elegance.

Boasting 235 units with minimum 70-square-meter club rooms and two presidential suites with maximum 400 square meter space and a private pool, this spectacular city-focused property also serves up a unique ‘club lounge’ concept. The exclusive lounges will highlight and be named after iconic cultural elements of Kolkata, such as Victoria, Chowringhee, Eden Garden, Howrah, and Kalighat.

The hotel is set to be the city’s event venue of choice with approximately 6500 square meter worth of impressive indoor and outdoor venues. This will include a sprawling, pillar less, state of the art banquet hall with pre-function space, open air courtyard and lawn, board rooms, three expansive conference rooms, and a pool party hall with open-air space.

Plans include three signature eateries, an international all-day dining restaurant, private dining areas, two bars, and a bakery cum café. Epicureans will be dighted with a glorious mix of favourite THE OZEN COLLECTION outlets and progressive new culinary concepts.

The lively city life experience will be punctuated with delightful leisure amenities such as a 1000 square meter swimming pool with a sprawling deck area, a children’s playroom, and a venue for wedding rituals and ceremonies by the gorgeous poolside area. An expansive ELE | NA ELEMENTS OF NATURE spa and wellness centre will round off the indulgent facilities.

Salil Panigrahi, the Managing Director of Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, says: “We are continuously evolving ourselves into a more resonating brand every day, in true Joy of Giving spirit. With the two upcoming THE OZEN COLLECTION resorts, we are pushing the boundaries on the guest experience. Expanding into India is a homecoming for me, with OZEN MANSION KOLKATA giving us a chance to enrich lives in India.”

In addition to these two properties, THE OZEN COLLECTION also has a resort in the pipeline in Sri Lanka. OZEN SECLUDED TANGALLE will take the brand to the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean.

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COMO Maalifushi launches freediving with Maldivian pioneer Fahd Faiz

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COMO Maalifushi has announced the launch of its new freediving programme, developed in collaboration with Fahd Faiz, the first Maldivian freediving instructor and a prominent advocate for marine conservation in the country. This initiative reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to delivering transformative guest experiences while promoting sustainability, education, and professional development within its team.

Running from 27 July to 10 August 2025, Fahd Faiz’s residency marks the official introduction of freediving training at COMO Maalifushi. The programme centres on equipping the resort’s marine team with advanced skills in breath-hold diving, safety protocols, and heightened underwater awareness. These freediving techniques are set to be incorporated into the resort’s PADI offerings, providing guests with an opportunity to engage with the ocean in a more mindful and unrestricted manner.

Fahd Faiz is the founder of Freedive Maldives, the country’s first locally owned freediving centre, established in 2015. A world record holder in static apnea, he has trained more than 1,000 students and currently serves as President of the Maldives Freediving Association. As the country’s sole PADI Instructor Trainer, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the freediving landscape both in the Maldives and internationally.

Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Maldives, remarked, “Having Fahd with us at COMO Maalifushi has been an inspiring experience for the team. His passion for the ocean, combined with his exceptional expertise and dedication to education, aligns perfectly with our brand’s ethos of holistic wellness, sustainability, and authentic connection to place. This new freediving initiative not only strengthens our internal capabilities but also enriches the experience we offer our guests, allowing them to encounter the marine world in a deeper and more tranquil way. We are proud to support Fahd’s mission and delighted to introduce freediving at COMO Maalifushi.”

During his residency, Fahd is leading immersive training sessions with the resort’s marine team, focusing on breath control, rescue techniques, equalisation, and mental conditioning—skills essential to freediving and valuable in ensuring guest safety and engagement.

This new freediving experience at COMO Maalifushi is poised to become a signature offering, inviting guests to explore the depths of the Indian Ocean on a single breath, amidst vibrant coral gardens, tropical reef fish, and the meditative silence of the sea.

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Tailored tranquillity and adventure at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

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Long celebrated as a quintessential romantic escape, the Maldives is now enchanting travellers of every age — from families with children and teenagers to couples and solo adventurers. The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents a setting where guests can share extraordinary experiences and create lasting memories, whether they are seeking exhilarating marine encounters, exceptional dining, or a tranquil wellness retreat.

The resort’s JW Little Griffins Kids Club, among the largest in the Maldives, offers a captivating world for younger guests. Designed around the theme of a beachside pirate shipwreck, the outdoor space features a 13-metre-long pirate ship, a dedicated children’s pool, and miniature amenities such as sun loungers. Over 100 engaging activities are on offer, including pizza-making classes, island discovery walks, kite flying, sandcastle building, and the JW Beach Olympics. Children under the age of 12 dine free of charge. Teenagers aged 12 and above have access to a private pool and lounge, as well as indoor entertainment such as PlayStation gaming and karaoke — ensuring a tailored experience for every age group.

For those drawn to the ocean, the resort’s Dive & Water Sports Centre offers a comprehensive array of aquatic experiences. From snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and scuba diving to dolphin spotting and deep-sea fishing, activities are designed to suit all interests and skill levels. Adventure-seekers can indulge in jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, and kite surfing, while guests preferring a gentler pace can opt for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a traditional banana boat ride. The resort’s experienced team ensures each encounter with the ocean is both safe and unforgettable.

Those in pursuit of serenity can unwind at the overwater SPA by JW, where contemporary design harmonises with the soothing rhythm of the sea. Guests may select from a variety of rejuvenating treatments, including restorative massages, crystal facial therapies, and invigorating body rituals — all designed to promote inner and outer balance. A tranquil swim in the outdoor pool, framed by sweeping ocean views and gentle breezes, completes the experience.

Culinary exploration at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is nothing short of exceptional, with five distinctive restaurants offering flavours from across the globe. Fiamma serves beloved Italian classics, while Kaashi offers Thai cuisine high in the treetops with panoramic sea views. Hashi presents refined Japanese teppanyaki over water, and Shio provides premium meats and seafood in a fine dining atmosphere. Aailaa offers a global dining experience throughout the day, with live cooking stations adding an interactive flair. Guests may also enjoy cocktails at Wabi Sabi, rare aged rums at Rum Baan, and a selection of curated wines from the resort’s expansive cellar. For more intimate occasions, private Destination Dining options include an eight-course Indian tasting menu at RIHA or bespoke meals under the stars or in-villa.

Solo travellers are equally well catered for, with the resort offering a unique combination of seclusion and luxury. Without the need to accommodate group plans or shared schedules, guests travelling alone are free to tailor their stay as they wish — from early morning yoga overlooking the Indian Ocean to private snorkelling sessions guided by marine biologists. The resort’s spacious overwater villas provide a peaceful refuge for reading, journaling, or quiet contemplation. Private dining options allow solo guests to enjoy gourmet cuisine in complete privacy, and the dedicated Thakuru (butler) service ensures every detail is attended to with care.

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Wellness visionaries unite for SOUL Festival 2025 at Soneva Fushi

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If the terms ‘peak performance’ and ‘breathwork’ are not yet part of one’s vocabulary, they are likely to be after five days at SOUL Festival 2025. Set to take place from 9th to 13th October at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, this year’s edition marks the highly anticipated return of Jamie Wheal and Julie Webster, co-founders of the Flow Genome Project and two of the most prominent figures in the world of transformational wellness.

Following their captivating sessions at last year’s festival, the pair return with a newly curated programme of immersive experiences designed to enhance movement, mindset and emotional wellbeing. Mornings begin barefoot, awakening the body; days are enriched with science-based insights into the brain’s most powerful states; and evenings are grounded in restorative practices that leave participants centred, clear, and recharged. The Flow Genome Project’s methods, which are followed by elite athletes, creatives, CEOs and even special forces operatives, will once again be brought to life amidst the serene meeting point of jungle, ocean and refined luxury.

Throughout the festival, guests can expect movement practices that reconnect them with their bodies, workshops aimed at fostering greater ease in relationships, and breathwork sessions that promote nervous system recovery and a deep sense of calm. The experience is a journey in learning how to attune, release, and rediscover one’s natural rhythm.

Joining Jamie and Julie this year are Sanctum founders Luuk Melisse and Gabriel Olszewski, Nathalie Schyllert of Bodyism, Peigín Crowley of Ground Wellbeing, and a host of leading names in holistic health and performance, including Tim Gray, Dr Timm Golueke, Roses Gabor, Frida Redknapp, Kirsten King, Adrienne Adhami, Dong Juan, Anika Lefebvre, and Nils Behrens.

SOUL Festival is Soneva’s annual celebration of visionaries, seekers, and innovators from across the globe. This year’s programme is ambitious, the setting is extraordinary, and places are limited. Guests booking before 31st August 2025 will enjoy a 10% saving with the SOUL Festival early bird offer.

Returning home unchanged may not be an option.

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