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Angsana’s Maldives resort relaunches as Dhawa Ihuru

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With a handful of casual-contemporary hotels in China and Japan already under its belt, Dhawa has just branched out to the Maldives by taking over the former Angsana Ihuru. Located in the North Male Atoll — a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport — Dhawa Ihuru Maldives comprises 45 villas with spruced-up interiors (think quirky artwork and turquoise feature walls). The rebrand coincides with the introduction of a new accommodation category: six Beachfront Rainmist villas each offer 68 square meters of living space and an outdoor “rainmist lounge” where guests can relax on a mesh fabric mat built into a raised deck.

The Banyan Tree Group has also expanded Dhawa Ihuru’s dining and leisure offerings. The Twin Island dine-around concept lets travellers try out the restaurants at sister resort Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, while the Nest, a 24/7 social hub and a staple at all Dhawa properties, allows guests to socialise over refreshments any time of day or night. Barception is a breezy sand-floored spot for local bites and cocktails, while all-day beachfront venue Riveli has been renamed Nook. Through the Nectar delivery service, holidaymakers can order bento takeout boxes loaded with Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Maldivian, and Western food to enjoy anywhere on the island.

Elsewhere around the property, 8lements Spa and Activa — the 24-hour gym and yoga room — have both been retained, alongside the PADI 5-star Gold dive center. Water sports such as windsurfing, wakeboarding, and kayaking are complemented by private tailor-made excursions aboard the Kahan’bu catamaran: options include exploring the snorkel sites along the house reef or romantic dining experiences on uninhabited isles.

A quintet of all-inclusive packages at Dhawa Ihuru cater to different types of holidaymakers from gourmet travellers and wellness aficionados to marine adventurers and young families. The new All-inclusive Island Getaway offer delivers savings of 25 percent on best available rates when booking a minimum of four nights, with complimentary return speedboat transfers.

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Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi

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Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.

A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.

During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.

At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.

While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.

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Elemental escape: Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration

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Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort invites guests to disconnect from the ordinary and immerse themselves in nature through a purposeful evening that celebrates the four elements—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. Under the Maldivian night sky, visitors embark on a sensory journey of mindful indulgence, blending sustainability, gastronomy, and elemental experiences.

A specially curated four-course menu takes diners on a sensory culinary experience, with each dish inspired by the four elements—paying tribute to nature’s balance and harmony. Carefully crafted to awaken the senses, this exquisite feast seamlessly merges sustainability with culinary artistry.

  • Fire – Bold, smoky flavours that ignite the palate and awaken the senses.
  • Earth – Deep, grounding flavours that honor the richness of the land.
  • Water – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the purity and fluidity of the ocean.
  • Air – Light, ethereal textures that embody the essence of the sky.

Set on the tranquil shores of Onu Onu Beach, this exclusive dining experience is illuminated by candlelight, offering a fusion of sustainable elegance and mindful gastronomy in observance of Earth Hour. The experience is priced at US$ 180 per person.

As the lights dim, Sirru Fen Fushi transforms into a sanctuary of reflection, connection, and sustainability, offering curated experiences designed to engage the senses:

  • Fire – A vibrant Boduberu performance, bonfire, and dance bring the energy of the Maldives to life.
  • Water – Handcrafted Earth-inspired mixology reflects nature’s purity.
  • Air – Long-exposure photography at YASH Photo Studio captures the magic of the night.
  • Earth – An exclusive stargazing session, guided by SpaceCat Astrotourism, offers a chance to reconnect with the universe.

Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration represents a commitment to sustainability and mindful living. Guests are encouraged to unplug, embrace nature’s elements, and contribute to a global movement toward a more conscious and sustainable future.

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Easter festivities at Le Méridien Maldives: perfect family getaway

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This Easter, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites families to immerse themselves in a world of adventure, creativity, and island indulgence. From April 13th to 20th, a week of festive celebrations takes place across the resort, where children embark on magical discoveries, and parents enjoy the warmth of endless summer.

At the Family Kids Hub, excitement fills the air as young explorers dive into Easter-themed arts and crafts, engage in hands-on cooking workshops, and take part in interactive games designed to spark curiosity and imagination. The highlight of the celebrations is the much-anticipated Easter Egg Hunt, where children follow hidden clues across the island in search of sweet surprises, with a special visit from the Easter Bunny.

Beyond the Kids Hub, families can embark on unforgettable island experiences. The Marine Conservation Hub introduces children to the wonders of the underwater world, while guided snorkelling and dolphin cruises offer the opportunity to observe graceful creatures in their natural habitat. Adventure continues on land with beach games, sunset walks, and friendly matches on the resort’s padel court, providing moments of connection and laughter for all ages.

Easter at Le Méridien Maldives is also a journey of flavours. Curated dining experiences invite families to come together and savor life’s simplest pleasures. Easter weekend unfolds at La Vie with a sunset cocktail on the beach, where chilled rosé and golden hues create the perfect moment to pause and indulge. A five-course wine pairing dinner follows, guiding guests on an exquisite culinary journey, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to complement the finest wine selections. On Easter Sunday, the signature Au Soleil pool party brings the festivities to life, with poolside beats, live cooking stations, and crisp rosé for a relaxed afternoon under the Maldivian sun. The festivities culminate in a grand buffet featuring a sizzling barbecue grill, live cooking stations, and live music, bringing families together for a joyful island feast.

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