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.
Celebration
Mindful festive escape: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa focuses on connection and renewal
This festive season, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa will welcome guests to a celebration of warmth, wonder and mindful connection. From 19 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, the resort will transform into a serene island sanctuary where nature, gastronomy and meaningful experiences come together in harmony.
Situated in one of the most untouched atolls of the Maldives, Huvadhu Atoll, Hadahaa embodies a refined simplicity that showcases the beauty of the natural world. Throughout the festive period, guests are invited to slow down, reconnect and rediscover the joy of being fully present, surrounded by turquoise waters, lush island greenery and Maldivian hospitality.
“The festive season at Hadahaa is more than a celebration — it’s a homecoming,” said Anshul Sharma, General Manager of Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. “It’s a time to reflect, to celebrate togetherness and to embrace the island’s timeless rhythm where nature and joy coexist effortlessly.”
Highlights of the Festive Season:
- Holiday splendour and timeless traditions – From the twinkling lights of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony to the New Year’s Eve Countdown by the Beach, each event is shaped by the understated elegance that defines Park Hyatt. Familiar festive traditions are reinterpreted with authentic island touches, creating celebrations that feel both comforting and renewed.
- Beneath the holiday surface – Adventure enthusiasts will be able to join Festive Snorkelling and Diving excursions, Turtle Quests and an Exclusive Christmas Night Dive. Each marine experience offers a deeper connection to the ocean’s vibrant ecosystem, enhanced by the festive spirit of exploration.
- Season of renewal – Guests can restore body and mind with holistic spa journeys at The Vidhun Spa, featuring Ayurveda-inspired treatments, island botanicals and festive rituals designed to support inner balance. The resort will also host Dr Jyoti Kodwani, founder of The Sacred Chakras, for a month-long Festive Wellness Residency offering transformative healing therapies.
- Festive flavours and family moments – From Barefoot BBQs by the Bay to elevated treehouse dining beneath the stars, dining experiences are designed to become lasting memories. Younger guests can take part in creative workshops, treasure hunts and Santa’s seaside arrival, ensuring special moments for families and guests of all ages.
This year, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s festive programme captures the essence of renewal and joy, celebrating life’s simplest pleasures with a blend of sophistication and soul.
Awards
Ifuru Island Maldives wins Best Luxury Beach Property at Seven Stars Awards 2025
Ifuru Island Maldives has been named Best Luxury Beach Property at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2025, held in Portugal. The recognition highlights the resort’s commitment to redefining barefoot luxury, delivering exceptional guest experiences and showcasing authentic Maldivian hospitality.
The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, often described as the “Oscars of Luxury”, honour only the most outstanding properties and brands worldwide. Receiving this accolade positions Ifuru Island Maldives among the world’s leading destinations, recognised for its focus on service excellence, innovation and guest satisfaction.
“We are deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It reflects the passion and dedication of our incredible All Star team, who create memorable experiences for our guests every single day. This win not only celebrates our property but also the spirit of the Maldives — warm, genuine and unforgettable.”
Located in the pristine Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island Maldives offers a blend of barefoot elegance and meaningful connection. The resort’s premium all-inclusive concept, world-class dining and vibrant experiences are designed to immerse guests in the joy and beauty of island life.
This global recognition further strengthens Ifuru Island Maldives’ reputation as one of the country’s most inspiring luxury destinations, where each moment is crafted with care, creativity and authenticity.
Awards
Multiple wins for JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll at World Luxury Travel Awards 2025
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is celebrating its success at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards, where it has been honoured with multiple titles, including Luxury Beach Resort and Luxury Villa Resort. These accolades reaffirm its position as one of the world’s distinguished luxury destinations and highlight the resort’s dedication to exceptional service, innovative design and memorable guest experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Nestled in the Emboodhu Finolhu lagoon, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, the five-star resort received further prestigious recognition across several categories, strengthening its reputation as a premier luxury destination in the region. The resort was named Best Luxury New Resort in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the Maldives, and Best Luxury Island Resort as a Global Winner.
Complementing the resort’s success, Spa by JW also achieved international acclaim, receiving three awards that underscore its harmonious blend of tranquillity, contemporary innovation and exceptional design. The spa was recognised for Best Interior Design in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Oceanview Spa in the Indian Ocean, and Best Luxury Overwater Spa as a Global Winner.
“These honours reflect our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and personalised service to every guest,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “At our resort, modern luxury is complemented by authentic Maldivian warmth, where every detail — from design to service — is thoughtfully crafted to create memorable moments and meaningful connections.”
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers a serene island escape with expansive overwater and beach pool villas, world-class dining and the award-winning Spa by JW, where guests are invited to unwind in complete serenity while enjoying panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Established in 2006, the World Luxury Travel Awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of the luxury travel and tourism industry. The recognition of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort among this year’s global winners further reinforces its status as one of the world’s leaders in luxury hospitality.
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