Featured
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives introduces National Geographic Explorer and award-winning shark scientist Gibbs Kuguru

Committed to environmental education and as part of the resort’s ‘Visiting Heroes’ programme, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will introduce National Geographic Explorer and award-winning Kenyan shark scientist Gibbs Kuguru from 27th March to 12th April. An inspired educational residency will include exclusive guest experiences from shark snorkelling to Q&As with Gibbs, while the deployment of new equipment and shark tagging will support ground breaking conservation research to protect Blacktip Reef Sharks in the Maldives.
The seafaring explorer and scientist will undertake key fieldwork as part of his Doctor of Philosophy in Genomics at Wageningen University, revealing the causes behind a rare skin disorder affecting Blacktip Reef Sharks in the Maldives. A series of events will engage both guests and scholars, inviting Natural Science students of the University of Maldives to join the shark tagging programme and analyse data from the scientist’s inaugural visit. Gibbs will also install a Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) to monitor long-term the Blacktip Reef Sharks in their native habitat.
Led by Gibbs, guests of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to snorkel up close and personal with some of the Maldives’ 26 species of sharks, and a chance to witness the gentle and sometimes elusive Blacktip Reef Shark inhabiting the shallow reefs surrounding the resort. Exclusive insights into the scientist’s latest research will be shared in intimate talks and workshops hosted at the dive centre – home to the resort’s Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment Program – and sundown debriefs at the resort’s Beach Shack restaurant.
Gibbs Kuguru has honed his shark wrangling and seafaring skills working with Great White Sharks, Hammerheads, Threshers, Blues, and Sand Tigers. Studying the DNA of sharks, Gibbs is using genetic research to better understand the unique elements in DNA that shape the populations of sharks in the blue wilds of the world. His work on the reefs of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands may reveal insights into how these animals survive in the face of extinction, threatened by overfishing and climate change. Gibbs was honoured just last year with the 2022 National Geographic Wayfinder Award.
The work of Gibbs joins a progressive research community whose impact can be experienced by guests through The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Program. Designed for adults and children, this exclusive programme led by marine naturalists, collaborates with world-renowned oceanographic explorer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau, and leading global scientists, to provide unique activities with the preservation of our planet at its core. Guests are able to explore the ocean depths in the legacy of the great Cousteau and join newly formed research teams in their ground-breaking work to monitor ocean plastics with drone technology. The programme inspires guests to discover, explore and engage in nature not just beneath the water, but through the fascinating fauna of the Maldives, and high above sea-level to the wonders of the galaxy.
For more information, click here or visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives.
Featured
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives unveils ‘Spooky Tropical Halloween’

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced its Halloween programme for 2025, titled ‘Spooky Tropical Halloween’. The celebrations will take place from 28 October to 1 November, transforming the island into a Halloween-themed destination that combines the tropical setting of the Maldives with seasonal festivities.
The programme is designed to offer activities for both adults and children. On 31 October, adults can begin the evening with Haunted Cocktails at the Raalhu Bar, featuring themed drinks served against the backdrop of the sunset. This will be followed by the Spectacular Buffet Halloween Dinner at The Restaurant, showcasing a range of Halloween-inspired dishes and desserts. The night will conclude with The Halloween Spirit DJ Night at The Bar, offering music and entertainment alongside shisha under the stars.
Children will be able to join the Spooky Under the Sea adventure at the Kuda Fiyo Kids Club, running throughout the week from 28 October to 1 November. Activities will include crafts such as Shark Creation and Ghost Jellyfish making, a Spooky Story Circle, a Sea Monster Treasure Hunt, Trick-or-Treat, and Halloween costume making. The programme is intended to combine creativity with playful seasonal themes.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, said: “Halloween at Kuda Villingili promises something spine-tingling for everyone, from our little explorers enjoying a spooky under-the-sea adventure to adults indulging in a thrilling tropical Halloween experience. This year’s theme allows us to create an atmosphere that is both exciting and enchanting, offering guests a uniquely memorable way to celebrate the holiday in our tropical paradise.”
The resort has stated that the Halloween celebrations aim to provide a range of events and crafts within an atmosphere that balances seasonal themes with the resort’s luxury environment, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests.
Excursions
Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.
Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.
Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.
Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”
Featured
ROBINSON NOONU expands summer offering with wellness, sports, and cultural events

ROBINSON NOONU, one of the Maldives’ leading resorts, has introduced a summer programme that combines culinary highlights, family activities, wellness initiatives, and entertainment events. The resort is recognised for creating memorable experiences that remain with guests long after departure and has curated a schedule designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers.
Guests at ROBINSON NOONU are offered a selection of culinary experiences enhanced by weekly live performances from international artists and DJs. These performances provide a varied musical backdrop, creating an immersive atmosphere for dining and evening entertainment.
Families visiting the resort this season can participate in the Weekly Splash Action at the newly renovated water sports jetty. The highlight of the event is a ten-metre-long air cushion (Blob), which catapults participants into the lagoon. The activity attracts additional interest when the General Manager joins in, adding to the sense of occasion.
The resort has expanded its sports and wellness offering with the introduction of a padel tennis court, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to its facilities. Another addition is ‘YinSurf’ on the Strobel & Walter Balance Board, combining yoga, mindfulness, and full-body training. This programme is designed to promote physical wellbeing while supporting mental focus.
Every two weeks, the resort hosts themed events, including:
- Jungle Party – held in a driftwood-inspired venue.
- Underwater Party – featuring an inflatable octopus and 360° underwater visuals.
- Sundowner Beach Party – an evening gathering on the beach during sunset.
- White Party – an event on the pool deck with themed décor.
- BOHO Festival Show – a new addition, with a bohemian setting of teepees and natural tones.
- Pink Pool Party – a lively celebration with a colourful theme.
The highlight of the season will be the ‘This is NOONU’ Week, scheduled from 22 to 29 September. The programme includes performances from eight international artists, guest DJs, and WellFit experts. Events such as the Suite Party and a special edition of the Pink Pool Party will be featured, offering guests a range of experiences throughout the week.
By combining entertainment, wellness, sport, and culinary experiences, ROBINSON NOONU continues to strengthen its position as a Maldivian resort offering diverse programmes for its guests.
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