Featured
Kandima Maldives’ KULA Art initiative goes global in celebration of World Art Day on April 15
To celebrate World Art Day (15 April 2023) in the koolest way possible, Kandima has collaborated with two game-changing international artists, Momo and Angelo Milano, who are currently making big waves in the creative world, as part of the resort’s global support of art.
Angelo Milano, a quirky, trendsetting Italian artist and one of the pioneers of the Street Art movement and Momo, whose art includes many mediums from collage to computer coding as well as working with international brands such as Pepsi and NFL, came together in February 2023 to create their first ever Maldivian mural masterpiece at the anything but ordinary Kandima resort. The artists unleashed their creativity at the fun & stylish Breeze Pool Bar, the ultimate hotspot where guests can unwind poolside with daily live entertainment and stunning views of the tropical turquoise ocean waters.
They have created murals all across the world and said that what inspires them the most is combining their love of exploring and travelling and then making it creative by painting in open spaces, spontaneously and not being confined to their studio.
So, why the Maldives? The artists wanted to paint in paradise whilst wanting to experience the Maldives and the Indian Ocean. The idea behind their mural at Kandima was based on pure inspiration coupled with what the Kandima brand stands for and visualising the space provided. The fitting of an exciting frame composition creates the essence of a special area accessible to all guests throughout the resort. The combination of the coloured sofas, long horizontal space and the artists’ curiosity to create, made this the perfect space to explore. Their art travels through the inspiration they develop across the globe, binding them in a truly unified manner for the viewer to experience.
Kandima, the ultimate lifestyle resort in the Maldives, believes that supporting art is crucial. Based on Kandima’s key value of being rooted, the Kandima KULA Art initiative, one of the biggest CSR projects and a way to support local artists and communities, was integral during the inception of the island resort in 2017. With the display of artworks made by Maldivian artists and the resort’s local resident artist, the KULA Art Studio is the epicentre of Kandima’s art scene. The peacefully serene studio set on the edge of the inland lake invites all guests to enjoy either group or private art classes.
The KULA Art Fund is also an important element that allows Kandima to take its initiatives to new heights. For every guest staying at the lifestyle resort, 1 US$ is credited to the fund, and for each artwork sold from the KULA Art Studio, 30% of the cost is donated to the funds. These are then used to support local community initiatives dedicated to education, arts, and music. Kandima believes in giving back to their community and preserving the rich Maldivian culture with meaningful contributions.
Moreover, every year, art in all its forms is celebrated on a large scale with the KULA Art Festival showcasing the local artists and entrepreneurs’ talents. The festival is filled with exciting activities that end with the famed Kula colour run.
This game-changing resort is an affordable lifestyle destination. Kandima Maldives is smart, playful, rooted, and responsible. This 3-kilometre resort is a place with an authentic Maldivian soul. It is all about genuine hospitality with a human touch and innovative solutions that make use of the latest technology. Kandima Maldives is part of the hospitality group Pulse Hotels & Resorts, and caters for guests of all ages: families, couples, groups of friends and honeymooners. Whether you seek relaxation, both aquatic and island adventures, wellbeing, fitness or just family time, this 264-room beach resort has something for everybody. With one of the longest outdoor pools in the Maldives, football pitch, tennis, and volleyball courts, Aquaholics water sports and dive center, Kula art studio and many more, there is plenty to keep everyone occupied.
Want to be part of the uber exciting KULA Art Festival? Get in touch with the K’Krew on mykindofplace@kandima.com to learn more.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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