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Ritz-Carlton artist partner Louis-Nicolas Darbon unveils painting of iconic Kerry Hill Villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives

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From London to Tokyo and now the Maldives, Artist Partner, Louis-Nicolas Darbon unveils a bespoke painting inspired by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ sustainable architecture and design, adding to the resort’s stunning art collection.

Darbon is a London-based French artist thriving off the visual stimulation he attains while exploring new and familiar locales. Painting the resort’s iconic Kerry Hill designed water villas in his signature vibrant and pop art style, Darbon unveiled his painting to guests at the resort’s Defining Moment whilst a breathtaking Maldivian sunset set the scene for an exquisite evening. Inspired by the natural landscape of the turquoise lagoon and the swirling ocean breezes, Darbon’s painting captured the clean sweeping curves and lines of the water villa architecture where the water, landscape and breeze flow around and between the spaces and where each villa looks out to an unending view of the horizon.

Speaking about how the resort’s architecture and sustainable design inspired his painting, Darbon commented, “Architecture has always been a big inspiration for my art and the first time I saw the Kerry Hill designed water villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands I knew that this was a place that I just had to visit. It was an honour to have the opportunity to paint my own interpretation of this stunning design and to be able to spend some time immersing myself in the resort and its beautiful surroundings. This is a place where you truly feel at one with nature and it’s impressive to see the steps that have been taken to ensure the resort has a low impact on the environment. From the pioneering pre-fabricated design methods used to reduce impact on the fragile reef ecosystem to the extensive use of solar energy and sophisticated glazing to avoid unnecessary air-conditioning use, The Ritz-Carlton’s commitment to building and running a sustainable island ensures the resort really respects its surroundings.”

Having exhibited his work all over the world where his signature pieces have found residency in luxury homes of private collectors and international galleries, Darbon’s piece for The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will find its forever home at the luxurious oceanfront Ritz-Carlton Estate – a 16, 000sqft villa with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, accommodation for up to six adults, exquisite spa treatment rooms for in-villa treatments, a fully equipped kitchen, a host of state-of-the-art entertainment systems and more.

Throughout the year, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will host an exhilarating line-up of bespoke guest experiences through personalised encounters with masters of crafts and craftsmanship that create deeply meaningful and memorable experiences. Embark on curated culinary journeys with Michelin-starred Chefs and artisanal gastronomic mavens, partake in exhilarating Behind the Bar experiences with award-winning bartenders from around the world, discover the essence of balance at The Ritz-Carlton Spa through wellness retreats and enrich each stay with impactful conservation programmes.

For more information on The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and reservation enquiries, please visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives

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Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration

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Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.

Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.

During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.

The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.

Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.

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SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration

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SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.

Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.

The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.

Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.

On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.

The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.

The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.

Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.

Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.

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Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences

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Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.

The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.

The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.

Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.

The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.

Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.

Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.

Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.

Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.

For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.

The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.

The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.

Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.

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