Featured
Le Méridien Maldives puts females at forefront of resort’s sustainability initiatives

Since debuting in one of the world’s most fascinating destinations, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa has been an eco-conscious hideaway of indigenous flora and fauna surrounded by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Recipient of the BCA Green Mark GOLDPlus Award, the resort is proud to put females at the forefront of their crucial on-property initiatives that champion their philosophy to restore and protect the world’s greatest natural structures.
In honour of International Women’s Day 2023, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa takes pride in having a powerful female team members occupying inspiring and unique roles that are crucial to their ethos. From restoring coral reefs to caring for one largest state-of-the-art hydroponic farms in the Maldives, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa celebrates women today and every day.
Juby Thomas, Horticulture
Juby Thomas, Head Horticulturist, champions the resort’s commitment to sustainability as she completely manages and oversees the on-site hydroponic gardens. Ensuring all produce is fully organic, pesticide-free, and replenished using rainwater collected in a 30,000-litre tank, Juby has been instrumental in developing a thriving greenhouse program that encourages guests to witness and engage with the beauty of nature and learn about the resort’s efforts to protect it, followed by a unique dining experience featuring freshly harvested ingredients. Not only does the greenhouse provide produce for neighbouring island in the Maldives, but it is also a blueprint for the resort’s food menus. From cocktail apothecary to kids cooking, Juby plays a pivotal role as a team member of resort and ambassador of sustainability.

Candice Gunning, Marine Biologist
An animal-lover by nature, Candice Gunning set out to be a vet before turning to marine biology to study how ecosystems work to help create a better tomorrow. She takes her natural passion for the water and educating others to the marine conservation project at the resort. From devising a marine programme that teaches guests about turtles and stingrays, mangroves, seagrass and highlighting the importance of these natural habitats, to snorkelling trips, dolphin cruises, and a reef restoration activity that allows families to get involved, interact with the environment and each other, whilst feeling a responsibility to preserve. An ambassador for the resort’s virtues, Candice works ardently to care to the natural surroundings of the resort to not only protect the natural beauty of the island but also the natural habitats of the sea creatures.

“We are extremely proud to have Juby and Candice as female leaders in our sustainability efforts,” said Nilesh Singh, General Manager of Le Meridien Resort & Spa.
“Their dedication, passion, and sense of responsibility towards the environment are inspirational, and we are confident that through their guidance and efforts, we will continue to achieve our sustainability goals.”
Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Through the leadership of Juby and Candice, the resort is able to showcase its commitment to the environment in an intentional and impactful way.
Celebration
Festive cheer meets island bliss at Kuramathi Maldives

Kuramathi Maldives is set to welcome guests into the spirit of the festive season with a thoughtfully curated programme of celebrations designed to delight families and travellers of all ages. Blending vibrant activities with the island’s natural beauty, the 2025 festive calendar promises a series of memorable moments for all.
The festivities begin on 21 December with the traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the island’s sandbank. Guests can enjoy tropical cocktails, canapés, and live festive music by the resident band. In the days leading up to Christmas, guests will have the opportunity to take part in cultural excursions, such as local island tours, or join engaging culinary sessions including Thai cooking and sushi-making demonstrations. Family-friendly fun continues with treasure hunts, sand sculpting competitions, and live evening entertainment across the island’s bars.
For younger guests, the Bageecha Kids Club will host a daily festive programme from 21 December to 1 January 2026. Activities include cookie and ornament decorating, gingerbread house building, jewellery-making workshops, and coconut painting. Children can also join fitness and water games, including yoga, Zumba, beach Olympics, and Splash Pad fun. Highlights of the children’s schedule include writing letters to Santa, a family treasure hunt, and carol karaoke.
Kuramathi’s Christmas celebrations commence on Christmas Eve with a cocktail party on the sandbank, featuring champagne toasts, festive cocktails, Christmas carols, and a special appearance by Santa Claus and his elves. The evening concludes with a lavish Christmas Eve gala buffet at select restaurants.
Christmas Day begins with a festive talent show at the Sand Bar and the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus at the Dhoni Bar deck, where children will enjoy gift-giving, photos, and games. The day continues with activities such as beach volleyball, while the evening features live music and entertainment across the resort. Meanwhile, the Bageecha Kids Club will keep young guests engaged with eco-workshops, Christmas movies, and a mini festive market.
Kuramathi Maldives will bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 with a night of celebration and glamour. The New Year’s Eve festivities begin with a cocktail reception on the sandbank, followed by a spectacular gala buffet dinner. As the night unfolds, guests can dance to live music and enjoy a lively countdown to midnight under the stars.
On New Year’s Day, celebrations continue with a festive brunch served at the island’s restaurants, along with the “First Dive of the Year” for those eager to explore the house reef. The day concludes with live music and an energising aerobics session. At the Bageecha Kids Club, children will close the season with activities such as creating a memory book, exploring the island’s hydroponic garden, and performing the festive closing song — ending the holiday with cherished memories and joy.
Awards
Luxury Lifestyle Awards honours Summer Island Maldives as Best Romantic Resort

Summer Island Maldives has been recognised as the Best Luxury Romantic Resort in North Malé Atoll, Maldives for 2025 by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, a distinction that reflects the resort’s barefoot elegance, exceptional service, and commitment to crafting meaningful experiences for couples and travellers.
Situated in the tranquil South Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat or 15-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport, the resort offers an idyllic escape where modern comfort blends seamlessly with authentic island charm. With 156 beach and water villas spread across seven categories, Summer Island Maldives invites guests to unwind, reconnect with nature, and embrace the simplicity of island life.
Dining options include an international buffet at the main restaurant and fusion cuisine at the overwater venue, complemented by three scenic bars, an overwater spa, and an infinity pool with panoramic lagoon views. The resort also features a fitness gym, watersports and diving centre, and boutique, offering a perfect balance of leisure and recreation.
A pioneer in sustainability, Summer Island Maldives made history in 2018 by unveiling the world’s largest 3D-printed coral reef — a Guinness World Record-winning project supporting marine restoration. The resort continues to champion eco-friendly initiatives, including the elimination of single-use plastics and the use of solar energy for water heating.
Anchored in genuine hospitality and attention to detail, Summer Island Maldives remains a favoured destination for honeymooners, couples, and repeat guests seeking beauty, serenity, and heartfelt connection. Whether basking beneath the sun or gazing over the endless turquoise horizon, every moment on this peaceful island is designed to create memories that endure.
Featured
Where magic meets Maldivian shore: One&Only Reethi Rah’s ‘BELIEVE’ festive season

This festive season, One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to embrace the spirit of the holidays with BELIEVE — a celebration of joy, connection, and wonder set against the serene shores of the Maldives. The 2025 festive programme combines cherished family traditions, exceptional culinary experiences, and mindful wellness rituals designed to create lasting memories and meaningful connections.
The season commences on 20 December with a glittering Tree Lighting Ceremony, where twinkling lights, carols, and seasonal cocktails capture the essence of the holidays. The evening also marks a milestone with An Ode to Tapasake, an anniversary celebration of one of the resort’s signature dining venues, featuring curated dishes, fine wines, and live music.
In the days leading up to Christmas, younger guests can enjoy creative workshops, from gingerbread house making and letter writing to Santa to crafting Maldivian-inspired ornaments. Families gather in the evenings for elegant cocktail receptions and festive dinners. On Christmas Eve, guests are welcomed beneath the palms for a night of live music and a grand dinner, followed by Santa’s tropical arrival and a vibrant Christmas Day brunch with live entertainment and international cuisine.
The celebration continues with experiences focused on wellbeing and renewal. Guests can take part in Glow & Flow sound healing on 22 December, Tales & Traditions on 28 December — exploring Maldivian healing customs — and sunrise yoga sessions on 2 January. For those seeking spirited fun, festive tennis, padel, and badminton tournaments bring a dynamic edge to the season.
As the year draws to a close, the Believe Ball — One&Only Reethi Rah’s renowned New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner — invites guests to an evening of grandeur. Beginning with a beachfront cocktail reception, the night unfolds into a feast of gourmet discovery, live performances, and a spectacular countdown to 2026. The following morning, the New Beginnings Brunch offers a relaxed and indulgent welcome to the new year.
Festivities extend into January, with immersive experiences such as a five-course Sake Pairing Dinner on 2 January, family-friendly sunset painting classes, and fitness sessions accompanied by a live DJ. The celebrations culminate with a series of Orthodox Christmas and New Year events from 6 to 13 January, concluding with a gala dinner that brings together guests in celebration of culture, cuisine, and community.
Throughout the season, guests can savour culinary journeys inspired by both innovation and heritage, take part in wellness experiences rooted in local traditions, and enjoy the refined warmth that defines every stay at One&Only Reethi Rah. Whether gathering with loved ones or seeking moments of reflection, the festive season invites all to believe — in joy, togetherness, and the magic of the holidays.
-
Celebration1 week ago
Siyam World unveils ten days of sports, music, dining, and Halloween spectacle
-
Drink1 week ago
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island welcomes world-class vintner Kai Schubert to Ithaa
-
Featured1 week ago
From elves to Bond-inspired parties: Mercure Maldives Kooddoo reveals Festive Royale 2025
-
Featured1 week ago
Lucy Charles-Barclay to host exclusive wellness retreat at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo
-
Featured1 week ago
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa launches ‘A Great Holiday Adventure’ festive programme
-
News1 week ago
Splash of wonder, touch of magic: Holiday celebrations at COLOURS OF OBLU
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Centara Maldives unveils season of celebration across four island paradises
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Joy, creativity and connection define JOALI Maldives’ ‘Rise & Shine’ festive journey