Featured
Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio resorts in Maldives present romance at best
Regarded as one of the most romantic destinations in the world, the Maldives is known for its quixotic beauty – sugar sand beaches and crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean. It is considered a luxury escape for good reason, where painted sunrises melt into fiery sunsets, and the only decisions one has to make is whether to take a dip in a private pool or the ocean. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives present the ideal backdrop and setting to celebrate love with curated romance packages to make your escape truly magical.
The resorts invite guests to cherish time for each other this Valentines Day – from intoxicating adventures on the water, to sun-kissed spa days and starry-night dinners, romance is never far away at these resorts in the Maldives that bring all the ingredients together to create a vista for a perfect romantic rendezvous, from exchanging the words ‘I Do’ at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, getting wed in style at W Maldives, designing an amorous beach proposal at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, to embarking on a secluded honeymoon at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. Each of the resorts is located on its’ own private island, creating an exclusive and peaceful environment, almost as though they were designed for couples to spend carefree time together where they can delight in moonlit picnics, soothing massages and crafted experiences in one of the world’s most romantic retreats.
Uncover some of the best stops to breathe in the beauty and celebrate the love and experiences that you’d never forget this Valentine’s Day.
Memorable moments for two at JW Marriott Maldives Resort
With amethyst sunsets against azure blue waters and every second customised to one’s most wishful likes, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a sliver of paradise on the crescent shaped Vagaru island in Shaviyani Atoll, the perfect setting for a commitment ceremony, a renewal of vows or a romantic getaway. The resort is well-known for its’ bespoke experiences, from petal-covered pathways leading towards the gentle waves, local drummers keeping the beat and dreamy beach dinner set-ups as the sun explodes into a million colours dipping into the horizon. Guests are invited to celebrate memorable moments as they indulge in a luxurious setting overlooking the mesmerising turquoise waters with private romantic dinners, cocktails and a spa treatment.

This Valentine’s Day, starting the day in the most romantic of ways, couples can soak up the sun as they enjoy a floating breakfast with champagne in their own in-villa private pool. To truly revel in the magic of the Maldives, couples can enjoy a 5-course private romantic beach dinner in front of their villa complete with fairy lights and the soundtrack of the ocean waves as the sun goes down.
‘Island Touch’ spa package at Spa by JW presents 120 minutes of bliss with a choice of four treatments from the menu with body, hair and skin treatments to leave guests feeling beautiful inside and out. Taking place in the Deluxe Suite Relaxation Room with the exclusive use of the couple’s steam bath and ice room, couples can create forever memories.

His & Her at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa includes:
- Daily breakfast for two persons at Aailaa restaurant
- One-time interactive Steak Masterclass at the Overwater Shio restaurant with red wine pairing, followed by a BBQ session and plating techniques
- One-time Ultimate Aromatherapy Treatment, signature massage for two persons at the overwater Spa by JW

It’s a date at W Maldives
Set in the middle of the Indian Ocean on a heart shaped island, W Maldives is surrounded by a white sandy beach, pristine turquoise waters and one of the most amazing house reefs in Maldives, home to unscripted diversity of marine life, unmistakably a utopia for couples. Whether one is looking for an intimate getaway or a renewal of vows, W Maldives will fuel the guests’ lust for life and make their stay truly extraordinary. Guests can even have the ultimate Maldivian castaway experience and Say I-do at Gaathafushi, W Maldives’ very own secluded island residing just a stone’s throw away from the main island.

W Maldives invites guests to indulge in a luxurious dreamy escape for two in tropical paradise this Valentine’s Day, with exceptional romantic dinners and pampering massages overlooking the idyllic ocean in overwater treatment rooms at the AWAY® Spa. Imagine spending the romantic day at the castaway Gaathafushi Island paired with a 5-course culinary journey along with proposal sand art, a drone shoot and a flirty breakfast in bed the next morning. Couples can also choose to sail out on ESCAPE, their luxury yacht and enjoy a romantic sunset with a private 5-course dinner hosted by their very own personal chef on-board.

The W Got You Covered Package at W Maldives includes:
- Daily buffet breakfast at KITCHEN
- Daily three-course lunch and dinner in a designated restaurant for two
- Unlimited beverages from the All-Inclusive Beverages List served in all restaurants and bars, only, during the designated service hours
- Complimentary in-room W MIXBAR for non-alcoholic beverages
- Complimentary non-motorized activities and snorkeling gear
Romantic Retreat at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa sits in the middle of a shimmering turquoise lagoon and is postcard-perfect with swaying palms kissing white sandy beaches. Its’ ocean view and overwater villas are the perfect getaway spots for a bit of romance. Be it a proposal or just a romantic getaway – the five-star resort elevates it all to make a stay paradise-like. The dedicated team will orchestrate a romantic set-up while the couple indulges in snorkelling, diving or just lazing by their private plunge pool; from a beautiful décor featuring a gazebo made of flowers on the edge of azure waters, soulful music and Champagne. Simply set the scene in a place of surreal beauty, and let the connoisseurs lead the way.

Within the enchanting orchard of lush foliage and exotic flowers of the resort there is also a special garden to commemorate the love and commitment between two individuals. Couples are exclusively invited to eternalise their love by hanging a customised engraved wooden plate with their names on a dedicated Honeymoon tree in the garden. The environment conscious can also participate in the resort’s signature “Adopt a Coral”, coral propagation initiative with a couple’s special heart-shaped coral frame. Shine Spa for Sheraton, located on it’s own private island offers the ultimate in privacy and seclusion as well as total relaxation while destination dining experiences on the beach leave couples with memories of a lifetime.

The resort has curated a special “Revel in Romance” experience for couples to indulge in this Valentine’s Day. Guests are invited to a romantic dinner in a captivating atmosphere of the beach and continue the celebration with a heartfelt breakfast dedicated to treasured time spent together. The experience includes a table for two at Kakuni Beach for dinner, pre-dinner sunset cocktails, a four-course dinner, live band as entertainment, a special turndown amenity, a sunrise or floating breakfast once during stay and more.

The Romantic Escape package at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa includes:
- Accommodation in a premium over-water bungalow or villa
- An indulging couple treatment at the award-winning Shine Spa: 50-minute traditional aromatherapy massage for two, followed by a choice of two additional treatments: express facial, body scrub or body wrap.
- A 5-course private degustation dinner under the stars paired with a selection of premium wines
A dreamy getaway at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort sits in the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, surrounded by the Indian Ocean offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a magical underworld and be privy to the stunning coral reefs and exotic fauna of the Baa Atoll. A Valentine’s Day getaway here promises understated glamor— dinner under starlight on silky white sands, Maldivian offerings, Champagne to blur the edges, and of course indulgent spa treatments in dreamlike settings. Heavenly Spa by Westin™ features uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, almost drowning you in liquid serenity.

The resort has prepared a special Valentine’s Evening planned with a 5-course beach dinner or a 5-course set menu offered at their specialty dining venue, Pearl. To elevate the experience, guests can also opt for a Lobster & Champagne experience with a private romantic destination dining setup. At the Heavenly Spa, “The Art of Love” package promises true indulgence with a couples massage, facial for two and a Heavenly Bath. The adventurous couples can also add a couple’s diving experience or a romantic sunset cruise to enhance their stay and memories.

The Romantic Escape package at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort includes:
- Daily breakfast at Island Kitchen
- Access to the arrival lounge at the Seaplane Terminal
- Romantic welcome amenities upon arrival
- One time floating or in-villa dining breakfast
- Dinner at Island Kitchen or Hawker and once at The Pearl every four days
- The Art of Love experience by Heavenly Spa (60 minutes couple massage, 30 minutes facial, and 30 minutes heavenly bath with sparkling wine and romantic decoration)
- Choice of one time Candlelight Dinner by the Beach (5-course set menu with a Champagne glass) on February 14, 2023, or private Barbeque Destination Dining for two on another day (wine not included).
- One-time sunset yoga session / breathing workshop with our wellness guru, or personal training session with our fitness instructor for two
- Use of snorkeling equipment and ocean kayaks (up to two hours)

To know more about couple getaway offers at the resorts click here and for further details on Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives click here.
Featured
Huvafen Fushi partners with Forbes Travel Guide in pursuit of five-star status
Huvafen Fushi, the resort internationally recognised for pioneering signature Maldivian luxury, has announced its official association with Forbes Travel Guide (FTG), the only independent global rating system dedicated to luxury hospitality.
The decision marks a deliberate step for the resort, underscoring its commitment to meeting the gold standard of intuitive service on an international scale. After two decades of setting architectural and experiential milestones—such as unveiling the world’s first underwater spa and introducing the Maldives’ first underground wine cellar, Vinum—Huvafen Fushi is now focused on demonstrating its exceptional service culture against the industry’s most rigorous and objective criteria.
The resort’s ultimate aim is to attain the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating in 2026.
General Manager Noel Cameron stated, “For Huvafen, luxury is effortless and authenticity shines through. Our brand has always been about trailblazing and crafting moments that transcend the ordinary. Now, we’re putting our confidence to the test by inviting the global authority on luxury to evaluate the very core of our offering: the quality and consistency of how we make our guests feel.”
Unlike rating systems that rely on volume or guest reviews, the FTG evaluation process is entirely independent, with anonymous professional inspectors assessing properties based on up to 900 stringent standards. The criteria place significant weight on emotional connection and anticipatory service—the subtle, intuitive gestures that have long defined Huvafen’s approach.
This partnership marks a new chapter for Huvafen Fushi, reflecting its evolution towards uncompromising, verified excellence. It positions the resort to resonate even more strongly with discerning, forward-thinking travellers seeking authentic connection and meaningful transformation.
Celebration
Sun Siyam Olhuveli kicks off festive season with Charith N. Silva Cake Mixing
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has ushered in the holiday season with a new twist on its much-loved annual Festive Cake Mixing event, held on 23 November. This year, the celebration was led by acclaimed Sri Lankan chef and viral social media personality Charith N. Silva, the creative force behind @wildcookbook and one of South Asia’s most influential culinary storytellers.
Charith, a sensation across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram with an audience of several million, is widely recognised for his bold fire-cooking techniques, visually striking outdoor food rituals, and distinctive, high-energy narrative style. He recently secured a coveted place on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 list in the Arts (Art & Style, Food & Drink) category, underscoring his growing influence on contemporary food culture in the region. He is one of a new wave of young chefs blending local flavours with global inspiration and is the owner of the restaurant “Wildish” in Colombo.
Bringing his creative flair to Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Charith said, “Bringing my energy to Sun Siyam Olhuveli was surreal; the people, the Maldivian spirit, the flavour play, everything clicked into one unforgettable festive moment.”
This year’s cake mixing unfolded like an island celebration, complete with lively music, bursts of aromatic spices, and an energetic atmosphere. Resort teams and guests layered fruits, nuts, and spirits in a spirited display, with Charith driving the momentum through his trademark spontaneity. The result was a vibrant, social, and playful reimagining of a classic festive tradition.
Festivities continued on 24 November with an exclusive live cooking demonstration by Charith, giving guests the chance to experience his signature “wild” cooking style firsthand against the lagoon backdrop of the resort.
“This celebration reflects the new creative pulse of Sun Siyam Olhuveli. Charith brought an energy that aligns perfectly with our evolving lifestyle identity, making this year’s cake mixing one of our most memorable yet,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli.
With the festive season now in full swing, Sun Siyam Olhuveli invites guests to join MYSTIVAL 2025–2026, the resort’s year-end celebration taking place from 21 December 2025 to 8 January 2026, featuring hypnotic beats, immersive dining, playful rituals, and a series of kaleidoscopic island experiences designed to inspire connection and celebration.
Cooking
Cooking with culture: Maldivian Kandu Kukulhu at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Maldivian cuisine is celebrated not simply as nourishment but as an expression of island heritage and identity. Among its most significant traditions is the preparation of Kandu Kukulhu, the Maldives’ signature rolled tuna curry. Rooted in local custom and passed down through generations, the dish forms the centrepiece of the resort’s weekly Maldivian cooking classes, offering guests an intimate introduction to the flavours, techniques, and narratives that shape the islands. As part of the resort’s signature culinary journey, it brings Maldivian culture to life through authentic tastes and thoughtful storytelling.
Deeply embedded in local tradition, Kandu Kukulhu reflects centuries of craftsmanship and care. At Vilu Reef, the cooking class is led by the resort’s Maldivian chefs, who demonstrate each stage with the precision and intuition inherited through long-standing practice. Guests learn how to slice the tuna, layer it with aromatic spices, and bind the rolls with coconut or pandan leaf. As the curry gently simmers in coconut milk, its aroma fills the air, offering a vivid portrayal of everyday island cooking—an experience that resonates long after the final tasting.
Kandu Kukulhu, which translates to “chicken of the sea,” is a quintessential Maldivian tuna curry and a powerful tribute to the nation’s enduring connection to the ocean.
“Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s culinary story celebrates Maldivian heritage, moving beyond simply serving fresh seafood,” said Chef de Cuisine Mohamed Hameed, known as Chef Printey. “It is a connection to our islands, our people, and the traditions that shaped Maldivian cuisine. By sharing these methods, we bring our cultural narrative to life in the most sincere way.”
The cooking class forms a key part of the Maldivian Roots Signature Experience, which highlights the flavours, crafts, and cultural expressions that define the Maldives. It reflects Sun Siyam’s philosophy of celebrating island life through meaningful encounters and genuine Maldivian spirit. The experience is available to all guests at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and can be booked in advance during their stay.
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