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
AIDA brings over 2,000 tourists to Maldives in major economic boost
Maldives recently welcomed the Italian-flagged cruise ship AIDA, carrying 2,139 tourists. Operated primarily for Swiss, Austrian, and German visitors, the ship arrived on December 8, 2024, from Muscat, Oman. This visit marks the first cruise ship arrival since regulatory changes were implemented at the request of the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA).
The AIDA’s stopover is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. The influx of tourists is likely to benefit various businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, local dhonis, guesthouses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé. This surge in activity is anticipated to further solidify the Maldives’ position as a leading cruise destination in the region.
This milestone underscores the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings. Beyond its economic impact, the AIDA’s visit is expected to enhance foreign reserves and contribute to broader national economic growth. The vessel is scheduled to depart the Maldives on December 9, 2024, at 6 PM, after a brief yet impactful visit.
The Maldivian tourism industry continues to thrive despite global challenges. This achievement follows recent accolades, including being named the World Travel Awards’ (WTA) World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year and earning the title of World’s Leading Green Destination for the first time. The successful introduction of cruise tourism marks the beginning of a promising new chapter, with future visits poised to further invigorate the industry and local economy.
Celebration
A Soaring Festive: celebrate the season in style at Ifuru Island Maldives
This festive season, Ifuru Island Maldives invites guests to a tropical paradise celebration under the theme ‘A Soaring Festive.’ Taking place from December 21, 2024, to January 10, 2025, the event promises a vibrant, entertainment-filled program designed to create joy, excitement, and lasting memories.
Catering to diverse preferences, A Soaring Festive offers an array of experiences, from dynamic nightlife and unique performances to relaxed island vibes, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Renowned DJ Rawlo will headline the nightly entertainment, captivating audiences with high-energy performances and dynamic beats. Breaking away from conventional DJ stereotypes, Rawlo’s electrifying sets promise to keep guests dancing under the stars until late into the night.
Adding to the festive lineup, the talented duo Synthetic Seduction—comprising Evgeniya and Olcay—will deliver versatile performances, including soulful saxophone melodies, lively DJ sets, and engaging duo band shows. Whether guests are enjoying cocktails by the pool or dancing on the sand, this duo creates the perfect ambiance for both relaxation and high-energy fun.
For those seeking visual artistry, Jonas and Aygul will dazzle with awe-inspiring fire shows, mesmerising LED displays, skillful juggling acts, and elegant belly dancing. Their multi-faceted performances promise to light up the island with unforgettable entertainment.
Complementing the headline acts, ‘A Soaring Festive’ features a variety of activities designed to enhance the holiday experience. Guests can participate in beach games, competitions, and themed culinary events that celebrate the flavors of the season, ensuring a celebration filled with joy and excitement.
Featured
New deep-sea fish species discovered in Maldives: Chromis Abadhah
In a breakthrough for marine science, a new species of fish has been discovered in the pristine waters of the Maldives. Named Chromis Abadhah, the species derives its name from the Maldivian Dhivehi word Abadhah, meaning perpetual, symbolising the ongoing commitment to planetary conservation. The name also acknowledges the support of the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, which funded the research.
The fish was first spotted near Maafilaafushi in the Kaafu Atoll. Subsequent studies revealed that the species inhabits multiple regions of the Maldives, ranging from Lhaviyani Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll. Researchers documented the fish in eight distinct locations, indicating that it may be distributed across various parts of the country.
Chromis Abadhah resides at depths between 95 and 110 metres, in the mesophotic zone, where sunlight begins to fade. This habitat sets it apart from other species in its family, which are typically found in shallower waters of around 30 meters.
The new species belongs to the ‘Dan’ba’ family, a group of damselfish commonly found in Maldivian seas. However, Chromis Abadhah is distinct from its relatives in several ways:
- Unlike other Chromis species, it lacks the characteristic black cross line near the neck.
- Its upper shell comprises 14 bones, compared to the typical 13 seen in related species.
While other Chromis species, such as Chromis axillaris, Chromis pelora, and Chromis woodsi, are found in various parts of the world, Chromis Abadhah appears to be endemic to the Maldives, making it a unique addition to the region’s biodiversity.
The study was a collaborative effort involving Maldivian experts and international scientists. To better understand the species, researchers captured four specimens using a specialised net. Their findings, published in a scientific paper, highlight the importance of deep-sea exploration in uncovering hidden marine treasures.
The identification of Chromis Abadhah underscores the Maldives’ rich marine biodiversity and the critical role of research in its preservation. This discovery also emphasises the importance of protecting deep-sea habitats, which often harbour unique and endemic species.
-
Lifestyle1 week ago
Maldives: The new haven for over-55 travelers
-
News1 week ago
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives receives Wellness Heaven Award 2026 nominations
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Kurumba Maldives, Marvin Humes ring in 2025 with exclusive beachfront DJ set
-
Featured1 week ago
Villa Resorts partners with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to expand GCC presence
-
Action1 week ago
JOALI BEING hosts inspirational tennis workshops with Sascha Zverev, Alexander Zverev Foundation
-
News1 week ago
Dream island getaway at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives to locals, expats
-
News1 week ago
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort gets Green Globe Certification for excellence in sustainability
-
Action1 week ago
Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives