Featured
Wellness focused start to the year at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

A quiet, relaxed and de-stressed atmosphere is everyone’s inner wish and what better way to reset and start the year than at the luxurious JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa or the wellness oasis of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. January 3 marked International Mind-Body Wellness Day, an opportunity to celebrate what a healthy mind and healthy emotions mean to achieving a healthy body. The mind, body and soul connection plays an integral role in our overall health – A healthy body drives a healthy mind and vice versa, promoting a holistic way of perceiving human well-being.
On the occasion of International Mind- Body Wellness Day, guests at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa located in Shaviyani Atoll, were pampered with uninterrupted relaxation with wellness sessions and the launch of two exclusive Ayurvedic oil based treatments at the award-winning overwater Spa by JW. When our mind is rested, our body heals. Ayurvedic oils are created keeping in mind this benefit and are widely used to this day because of their effectiveness and no rush benefits. Ayurvedic oils are made by adding holistic healing herbs and balance them with the help of natures, the oils formulations are made keeping in mind the 3 doshas – Vatta, Pitta and Kapaha.
On International Mind-Body Wellness Day, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa which promotes mindfulness and holistic well-being true to its brand, launched two new treatments at Spa by JW, available at the resort for a month till January 31, 2023:
- Shiro-Abhyanga – This traditional Ayurvedic head massage is performed with medicated herbal oil and aims to improve the flow of chakras in the body. It involves a variety of pressure techniques, including circular massage strokes that focus on marmas points, promoting sleep and stimulating the natural healing abilities of the body.
- Padabhyanga – This treatment alleviates muscle stiffness, relax the tiredness of the foot by applying moderate pressure in circular motions. It aims to balance the three doshas, to restore fluid transport in the body channels and provides energy to the body.
On this year’s International Mind-Body Wellness Day, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, situated on the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, crafted a special program with three different classes to reconnect body, mind and soul. Starting with a sunrise Yoga session against the backdrop of uninterrupted ocean views, followed by Mantra meditation to release the worries of the mind. The wellness resort also curated a stretching session specially for women, where they could enhance their strength, flexibility, coordination and range of motion. For the body, the Heavenly Spa offered a special experience known as ‘Detox Journey’ to leave the toxins and stress behind. Consisting on 30 minute of Heavenly scrub followed by 30 minute green tea wrap, and 60 minute Heavenly signature massage topped off with a fresh a rejuvenating juice to complete the journey. Last but not least the resort offered digestive drinks for a good sleep at their Sunset Bar, inspiring guests to rise rested and ready to take on a new day.
To know more about the Marriott Bonvoy Portfolio of resorts in Maldives click here. For more information, please visit www.marriott.com.
Featured
Experience timeless Maldivian elegance at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

Machchafushi, meaning ‘Fish Island’ in Dhivehi, encapsulates the essence of this serene retreat in South Ari Atoll. As part of The Centara Collection, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa embodies the true spirit of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate connection with the ocean, marine life, and the island’s cultural heritage.
Situated within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a UNESCO-recognised site, Machchafushi provides year-round access to remarkable marine experiences, vibrant coral ecosystems, and unforgettable underwater explorations, including the famous Kudhimaa shipwreck. Once a secluded, uninhabited island, Machchafushi holds a special place in the cultural landscape of the Maldives. Today, as part of this protected marine reserve, it continues to remain authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its natural surroundings.
Marine life is at the heart of the Machchafushi experience. The island offers some of the world’s highest whale shark resighting rates, with encounters available throughout the year. Guests may also encounter graceful manta rays and a colourful abundance of tropical fish drifting through crystalline waters. Encircled by a renowned house reef—stretching nearly five times the island’s size—the area is home to over 1,000 species of fish and 200 varieties of coral, creating an underwater paradise.
South Ari Atoll is celebrated as one of the Maldives’ finest diving regions, featuring over fifty dive sites teeming with marine life. Kudarah Thila presents a UNESCO-protected labyrinth of overhangs and swim-throughs populated by fusiliers and snappers, while Broken Rock captivates divers with its dramatic canyon of corals and macro life, ideal for underwater photography. Dhigurah Beyru and Maamigili Corner are noted for encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins. The 52-metre Kudhimaa Wreck has evolved into a thriving coral habitat, now home to lionfish, batfish, groupers, and the well-camouflaged stonefish and frogfish. Nearby, Anemone Alley flourishes beneath the seasonal seaplane platform, forming a vibrant ecosystem that draws snorkellers and divers alike. The house reef remains the beating heart of Machchafushi—a world-class natural wonder beneath the waves.
Beyond the ocean, the island tells a story of its own. At its centre stands a centuries-old Banyan Tree, known locally as the Ummeedhu Tree, or ‘Wish Fulfilment’. This living symbol invites guests to pause and reflect, taking part in the Sacred Thread Ceremony, where wishes and intentions are tied to the tree’s branches—creating a bond that endures long after their stay.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Machchafushi’s philosophy, ensuring the preservation of both its natural beauty and cultural legacy. Every sunrise, dive, and golden thread tied to the Ummeedhu Tree becomes part of a continuing narrative—one that celebrates the Maldives’ heritage and invites guests to create lasting memories in harmony with nature.
Entertainment
Spooky celebrations await at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with ‘The Return of the Mummy’

Sun Siyam Olhuveli will transform into a realm of ancient legends and eerie excitement this Halloween with its themed celebration, The Return of the Mummy. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in two days of themed activities, family games, and live entertainment throughout the resort.
The highlight of the celebration will be a beachfront performance by Swedish DJ and rising international talent Caroline Roxy. A multifaceted artist—DJ, singer-songwriter, producer, fashion designer, and former model—Caroline is known for fusing energetic electronic beats with pop-inspired rhythms. Drawing on her musical upbringing and experience performing at festivals in cities such as Stockholm and Los Angeles, she is set to deliver an electrifying performance that promises to bring a captivating energy to the shores of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

The festivities will begin on 31 October 2025 with a Halloween Beach Fest, featuring mummy-themed games, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treat adventures, and the popular Mummy Dance Freeze for younger guests. As night falls, the Lagoon Bar will become the centre of the celebration, with flickering lights, pulsing music, and a much-anticipated DJ set by Caroline Roxy. Her performance will combine haunting melodies with powerful electronic rhythms, setting the tone for an unforgettable Halloween evening.
Celebrations will continue on 1 November 2025 with treasure hunts, themed cupcake and marshmallow workshops for children, and a sunset pirate cruise. Adults can take part in a Halloween boot camp before the evening concludes with a fire show and live music by Hightides at the Lagoon Bar.
Blending ancient Egyptian mystery with island charm, The Return of the Mummy at Sun Siyam Olhuveli invites guests to experience a unique Halloween adventure where the legends of the past meet the magic of the Maldives.
Excursions
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.
Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.
The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.
Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.
“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.
For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.
-
Featured1 week ago
Shangri-La Villingili Resort reopening announced for December 2025
-
Featured1 week ago
Minor Hotels to reopen NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort in December 2025
-
Featured7 days ago
Karan Veer Mehra celebrates Bigg Boss success at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives
-
Action7 days ago
Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli
-
News1 week ago
Amilla Maldives announces special experiences for Autumn, year-end holidays
-
Featured1 week ago
Ifuru Island Maldives brings New Orleans vibes to festive season
-
Featured7 days ago
Finolhu showcases Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer
-
Featured1 week ago
Crafting memories: Sirru Fen Fushi and The Clay Studio Maldives collaborate