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5 ways to surprise your beloved at LUX* South Ari Atoll

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The award-winning resort of The Lux Collective, LUX* South Ari Atoll is a favourite destination resort among couples. With a tropical chic setting set for romantic escapes, it offers Extraordinary Experiences featuring a collection of romantic surprises. Floating breakfasts in the pool? Dinner on a sandbank or a private cinema under the stars? This resort sparkles holiday romance with its many ways to celebrate love and awaken feelings.

Craft intimate moments

Enjoy a floating breakfast in a private pool. With a variety of healthy and hearty menus with ocean sunrise as the backdrop, it is a perfect start of a dreamy holiday. In the evening, there is private beach Cinema Paradiso, with a movie of choice, soft drinks, light bites, ice cream, and a popcorn cart set up under the stars in an intimate location.

Celebrate in the privacy of the villa

A personalised floral bed decoration from the resort’s special welcome menu is a great way to surprise your beloved upon stepping into the villa. Topped-up with a bottle of bubbly and sweet treat will add to the romantic vibes.

The Bubble Temptation Offer includes a 60-minute couple massage at the LUX* ME Spa, while a warm bubble bath and champagne in-villa awaits.

Create photo-worthy memories

First in the Maldives to launch the Flying Dress Photo Sessions for guests, LUX* South Ari Atoll invites to bring home a collection of fairy-tale photos of the tropical vacation. With colourful silk flying around in the ocean breeze, this private experience with Photo Fanatics is nothing short of magical.
And what can be more ‘instagrammable’ than a private pool filled with rose petals? This is an easy fix for the resort’s romance magicians to craft an unforgettable surprise or a romantic proposal tailored to any needs.

Take private dining to another level

The exclusive Divine Dinner features an idyllic backdrop of the sky full of stars reflecting in calm ocean waters. Savouring exquisite chef’s specials, stargazing in the comfort of a luxury bed… this special night can’t be more romantic.

Those seeking emotional connection when coming to the Maldives, are invited to awaken senses and rediscover each other during an extraordinary Love Again Date Night. Starting with a couple massage and facial in LUX* ME Spa, it continues with a luxurious hot chocolate wrap for pamper and glow. After a guided reconnecting meditation, the guests are invited to unwind in the overwater Aqua Temptation Nest for romantic movie night under the stars. With the Spa as a private venue and an exquisite dinner served in bed, this is a meaningful and unforgettable island experience.

Relax & unwind together

Unlimited ocean romance is awaiting aboard Kokomo – the resort’s luxury catamaran taking guests from the white sandy shores to the soothing depth of the ocean. The options vary from a private lunch to Golden Hour cruises, and full-day aboard experiences with a private bedroom and meals of choice.

When the ocean turns gold at the sunset, the timing is perfect to have mind and body reset. LUX* South Ari Atoll turns it into another romantic experience with the purest connection to nature. Having a private dhoni boat exclusively for two, couples are invited for a guided meditation practice, Tibetan sound bowl therapy, breath work and yoga. All on top of the cruising boat, floating to the rhythm of the tides and waves, with a detox drink and a mood-enhancing oil blend to keep.

Romance at the resort doesn’t end with Valentine’s Day. Set in tropical surroundings, it inspires celebrating love from the first steps on the island. Hidden private coves, stretching sandbanks, and picture-perfect scenery call for memorable bonding moments and creative couple photography. LUX* South Ari Atoll’s bestselling Romantic Pool Water Villas are 110 square metres of bliss. Cosy and chic, they each come with a private pool, an ocean-view deck for lazing in the sun, a hanging bird’s nest swing, a flight of steps to the lagoon, and all the imaginable comforts.

Or book the Temptation Pool Water Villa to spoil your lover, where the hardest decision to make is choosing among the 14-metre private infinity pool, jacuzzi, or infinite lagoon for a relaxing dip.

To learn more about honeymoon offers and discover extraordinary romantic experiences of LUX* South Ari Atoll, visit  www.luxresorts.com, email the resort at stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

Entertainment

Centara Maldives unveils season of celebration across four island paradises

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As the festive season draws near, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives invites guests to celebrate the holidays amid the beauty of the Indian Ocean. Each of its distinct island destinations blends the warmth of Maldivian hospitality with the timeless traditions of the season. From family-friendly adventures to serene adult escapes, guests can choose from four remarkable properties — Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives and Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, and Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

Just a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers a sanctuary of tranquillity and privacy. Located within The Atollia, the resort presents a wealth of world-class dining, exhilarating water sports and excursions, and holistic wellness experiences at the serene SPA Cenvaree Retreat. Elegant beachfront and overwater villas provide the perfect setting for a memorable festive escape.

This year, the resort introduces the theme ‘Crystal and Bubbles’, a celebration that captures the glamour and sparkle of the season. From 22 December to 7 January, guests can enjoy a calendar of curated activities and entertainment beneath glittering crystal-inspired décor.

Families can look forward to treasure hunts, cupcake decorating, and pyjama parties leading up to Santa’s grand arrival on Christmas Day, while couples can indulge in elegant gala dinners and wine tastings. Each day brings new delights — from Boduberu masterclasses and festive workshops to themed dinners and karaoke nights.

The celebrations culminate in a New Year’s Eve gala, featuring cocktails, live entertainment, and fireworks beneath the stars. The festivities continue into January with island cinema nights, sandcastle competitions, and Orthodox celebrations that showcase local culture and cuisine.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

Located within The Atollia, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives embodies the signature spirit of Centara’s Mirage brand — a lively, family-focused resort inspired by the wonders of the ocean. The property features diverse dining options, a kids’ club, and the renowned SPA Cenvaree, complemented by the playful Candy Spa for younger guests. A sprawling outdoor water complex — complete with a lazy river, splash zone, and multiple pools — forms the heart of the island’s entertainment.

Festivities begin on 3 November with a joyful cake-mixing ceremony and continue through 7 January with an Orthodox Day celebration. Guests can join daily activities such as sunrise yoga, beach fitness sessions, and family games, or unleash their creativity through crafts including tote bag painting and festive T-shirt design.

Evenings are filled with BBQs under the stars, themed buffets, live music, Boduberu drumming, and mixology contests. Young travellers can enjoy pyjama parties, gaming challenges, and movie nights at the E-Zone, while families come together to welcome the New Year at the Mirage Carnival Celebration, complete with cocktails, a grand buffet, and live performances.

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

For those seeking an adults-only escape, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives offers a tranquil haven where indulgence meets serenity. Guests can unwind in beachfront or overwater villas, explore the lagoon’s marine life, and savour moments of connection during a thoughtfully curated festive programme running from 15 December to 6 January.

Days begin with sunrise yoga, meditation, and Pilates sessions, while creative workshops invite guests to make botanical scrubs, organic face masks, and coconut-leaf crafts. More energetic visitors can join Thai boxing classes, beach volleyball, and boot camps.

As the sun sets, the resort transforms into a scene of celebration, with tree-lighting ceremonies, carol singing, cocktail hours, and themed dinners. Culinary highlights include seafood barbecues, Kin Khao dinners, and traditional Maldivian feasts. The New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, inspired by an underwater theme, promises an evening of fine dining, live music, and dancing beneath the stars, followed by a warm Orthodox Day gathering to close the season.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

Situated in South Ari Atoll, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, captures the essence of Maldivian island life — where nature, culture, and the ocean intertwine. Offering 112 beachfront and overwater villas overlooking a UNESCO-protected marine reserve, the resort provides an idyllic setting for meaningful festive celebrations.

Running from 7 November to 6 January, the programme begins with a cake-mixing ceremony and tree-lighting event, followed by Santa’s jet-ski arrival to delight guests of all ages. Children can take part in creative workshops, pizza-making, and scavenger hunts at Camp Safari, while adults enjoy beachside yoga, meditation, and wellness sessions.

Families can join sandcastle competitions, outdoor movie nights, and karaoke sessions, or explore local heritage through storytelling and cultural activities. As evening falls, the island comes alive with Fire & Ice pool parties, wine-pairing sessions, seafood feasts, and live DJ nights. On Christmas Eve, guests are treated to a festive buffet at Reef or a fine dining experience at Mare Azzurro, leading up to a New Year’s Eve island celebration of music and dance. The season concludes with a relaxed beach gathering on 6 January, featuring traditional dishes and festive cocktails.

Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives invites guests to embrace the season’s joy across its enchanting island collection — where every sunrise brings celebration, every sunset brings connection, and every moment becomes a cherished memory beneath the Maldivian sky.

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Awards

Jen Maldives Malé by Shangri-La named ‘Leading Business Hotel – Maldives’ at SATA 2025

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Jen Maldives Malé by Shangri-La has been named ‘Leading Business Hotel – Maldives’ at the prestigious South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, held this year in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The award recognises outstanding achievements in travel, tourism, and hospitality across South Asia, underscoring the hotel’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional service, modern business facilities, and a seamless experience for both corporate and leisure travellers.

General Manager Juan Carlos Diago expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are truly honoured to receive this recognition from SATA. The award is a testament to the passion, dedication, and hard work of our entire team, who consistently go above and beyond to deliver exceptional services to our guests. We share this achievement with our valued guests and partners who continue to trust and support us.”

Situated in the heart of Malé, the capital of the Maldives, Hotel Jen Malé Maldives by Shangri-La has long been a preferred choice for business travellers seeking convenience, comfort, and efficiency. The property offers state-of-the-art amenities, versatile meeting and event spaces, and a balance of work and leisure. Guests regularly commend the hotel’s professionalism and consistency in delivering high standards, making each stay both productive and memorable. Whether for a short stopover or an extended business visit, Hotel Jen continues to set the benchmark for world-class service in a dynamic urban setting.

Director of Sales Mariyam Shafiyya Steinhilber added, “We are deeply honoured to receive the Best City Hotel Award. Winning this award reflects the passion and dedication of our entire team, from our front-line staff to our management. Every department has played a vital role in creating the outstanding guest experiences that make our hotel a leader in the city’s hospitality landscape.”

The South Asian Travel Awards brings together leading industry figures from Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, and has become one of the region’s most respected platforms for recognising excellence and innovation in tourism and hospitality.

As Jen Maldives Malé by Shangri-La celebrates this milestone, the team remains dedicated to enhancing service standards and redefining the business travel experience in the Maldives and beyond.

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Cooking

Grégory Doyen brings his sweet artistry to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is continuing its acclaimed Tastemaker Series, a curated programme of exceptional collaborations with world-renowned chefs, artists, and creative visionaries, with the arrival of Chef Grégory Doyen, one of the most distinctive talents in contemporary pastry art.

Born in Burgundy, France, into a family of artists, Chef Doyen discovered his passion for pastry during childhood, turning his family kitchen into his first studio. A graduate of the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure de la Pâtisserie, his career spanning two decades has taken him through Michelin-starred kitchens and international stages, earning him recognition as a leading figure in modern patisserie.

Renowned for his sculptural desserts and refined French craftsmanship, Chef Doyen’s creations merge technical precision with emotional expression, transforming pastry into a form of edible art. His innovative approach has led to collaborations with some of the world’s most iconic luxury maisons—including Cartier, Marc Jacobs, La Prairie, Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Vacheron Constantin, and Hermès—alongside bespoke commissions for Range Rover and Vogue. Often described as the creator of fashion-desserts, he is celebrated for infusing haute couture sensibility into the timeless artistry of French patisserie.

Guests at The St. Regis Maldives are invited to immerse themselves in Chef Doyen’s world of delicate textures and visual poetry through a special festive programme. On 10 December, he will conduct an intimate pastry masterclass, offering participants rare insight into his creative process and sculptural finesse. That evening—and throughout the festive season—his desserts will take centre stage at ALBA, the resort’s signature dining venue, where a curated dessert collection will be presented daily from 10 December to 7 January, offering a decadent celebration of the holiday season.

The residency’s highlight will unfold on 11 December at Decanter, where Chef Doyen will collaborate with the resort’s Executive Chef for a six-course, four-hands wine-pairing dinner, showcasing a symphony of refined flavours and masterful artistry.

A testament to The St. Regis legacy of exceptional taste and global collaboration, the Tastemaker Series at The St. Regis Maldives unites leading talents from gastronomy, art, and design in one-of-a-kind experiences that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship amid the breathtaking surroundings of Vommuli Island. From Michelin-starred chefs to visionary mixologists and artisans, the series continues the St. Regis tradition of curating the extraordinary—where innovation, tradition, and indulgence converge in the most exquisite of island settings.

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