Featured
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi promotes Ahmed Ali to Director of Sales & Marketing, appoints Florante Abuton Jr as Assistant PR & Communications Manager
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is pleased to announce the promotion of Ahmed Ali (Adu) from Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing to Director of Sales and Marketing and welcomes Florante Abuton Jr. to the team as Assistant PR & Communications Manager.
Based on property, Adu has been a key component of the hotel’s sales and marketing team for the past five years. In his new role, he will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, creating, and executing marketing campaigns, managing a dynamic team of business development personnel, and leading and executing the sales and marketing strategies for Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.
His outstanding leadership skills, and his extensive understanding of the hotel and the Maldives tourism industry, as well as his ability to interact with clients and partners, have earned him recognition and respect from both his colleagues and key clients. Adu joined Sun Siyam Resorts in 2019 as Sales Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, and has since then been pivotal in growing sales and increasing revenue for the resort. Prior to that, he had a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, having previously held several front office and sales positions at Soneva Resorts and South Lux Ari Atoll in the Maldives.
Originally from the Maldives, Adu has graduated from Taylor’s University in Malaysia in International Hospitality Management. He has a solid grasp of the business and a drive to quality that will help him succeed in his new role.
Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi says: “We are confident that Adu will continue to excel in his new role and remain focused on developing creative ways to raise brand awareness and boost sales for Iru Fushi. His promotion is a testament to his hard work and dedication, as well as his talent and knowledge of the ever-evolving hospitality industry.”
Florante originates from the Philippines, is based on property as well, and joined the property earlier this year 2023. He will be assisting the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi sales & marketing team in all matters PR, communications, press, media, and marcomm related.
In addition to the day-to-day pr activities on the resort, Florante will support the Director of PR & Communications at Sun Siyam Resorts, in implementing the public relations, communications, and marcomm strategies, initiatives and projects for Sun Siyam Iru Fushi as well as looking after all press and media trips on the island.
With over 11 years of international experience in the hospitality industry and prior to moving to the Maldives, Florante worked for some of the biggest names in the hospitality and automotive industries, including Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, Nissan Middle East, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels, Emaar Hospitality, and, most recently, Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts.
His background in hospitality and professional skill set in public relations, combined with his bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, makes him the perfect fit for this role.
Speaking about his new role, Florante said; “I am thrilled to be joining this magnificent Maldives resort and look forward to working with the incredible islanders and global teams to contribute to that wonderful and understated luxury Maldivian holiday experience, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has always been recognised for.”
Nestled in the natural beauty of Noonu Atoll and a scenic 45-minute seaplane flight from Velana (Male) International Airport, the five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi spans 52 acres and boasts 221 villas and suites, perfecting the balance between rustic charm and understated luxury. This is a true island playground for families, groups of friends, couples and honeymooners alike. Guests can choose from a variety of meal plans and benefit from the excellent dine around program of 14 restaurants & bars, including French cuisine at the overwater restaurant Flavours; Asian fusion at Bamboo and freshly caught fish at Islander’s Grill. An award-winning Spa by Thalgo France with more than 140 treatments to choose from, make this tropical island the perfect wellness getaway. And for families, kids under 15 sleep and eat for free with two paying adults in the same room and all whilst enjoying and discovering local marine life at Nemo’s Reef and recreational activities at Koamas Kidz Club.
Family
JA Manafaru secures Worldwide Kids Accreditation for second year
JA Manafaru has announced its receipt of the respected Worldwide Kids (WK) Accreditation for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its dedication to providing a family-friendly experience. This independent recognition honours resorts that maintain the highest international standards in childcare training, health and safety, and continuously enhance the experience for families and young guests.
Situated in an idyllic all-natural island paradise, JA Manafaru features a wide array of family-focused facilities. The resort’s CoolZone play area, complete with a separate family pool, Recreation Pavilion, and the ChillZone indoor games room, provides young guests with ample opportunities to play and explore while their parents enjoy relaxation. This carefully curated offering ensures that both families and couples experience the perfect balance of a serene escape and a safe, engaging environment for children.
The resort’s childcare facilities have successfully met the rigorous standards of the WK audit, further demonstrating its commitment to creating a secure and nurturing space for younger guests. The dedicated childcare team at JA Manafaru has completed extensive training accredited by Worldwide Kids, equipping them with specialised knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional care. Parents can rest assured knowing their children are well looked after while they enjoy the resort’s spa and dining options.
Rita Gupta, Director of Spa & Recreation, expressed pride in the team’s achievement, stating that receiving the recognition for two consecutive years underscores the resort’s commitment to guest safety, particularly for young visitors. Gupta emphasised that the health and safety audits, combined with comprehensive training, ensure adherence to the highest international standards. She noted that the accreditation reflects the resort’s dedication to creating memorable family experiences.
Jason Kruse, General Manager of JA Manafaru Maldives, shared his enthusiasm, highlighting that the Worldwide Kids accreditation reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its youngest guests. Kruse added that the diverse activities available allow families to appreciate the beauty of the Maldives together while parents can relax, confident in the care provided to their children.
The Worldwide Kids Accreditation reinforces JA Manafaru’s focus on delivering not just a luxurious retreat for families but also a resort that prioritises the well-being and enjoyment of young guests. This esteemed recognition underscores the resort’s commitment to maintaining exemplary standards of childcare, ensuring that all visitors – both young and old – enjoy a memorable and worry-free stay.
With this accolade, JA Manafaru continues to distinguish itself as one of the Maldives’ premier resorts, offering families and holidaymakers outstanding service and unforgettable experiences.
Featured
AIDA brings over 2,000 tourists to Maldives in major economic boost
Maldives recently welcomed the Italian-flagged cruise ship AIDA, carrying 2,139 tourists. Operated primarily for Swiss, Austrian, and German visitors, the ship arrived on December 8, 2024, from Muscat, Oman. This visit marks the first cruise ship arrival since regulatory changes were implemented at the request of the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA).
The AIDA’s stopover is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. The influx of tourists is likely to benefit various businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, local dhonis, guesthouses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé. This surge in activity is anticipated to further solidify the Maldives’ position as a leading cruise destination in the region.
This milestone underscores the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings. Beyond its economic impact, the AIDA’s visit is expected to enhance foreign reserves and contribute to broader national economic growth. The vessel is scheduled to depart the Maldives on December 9, 2024, at 6 PM, after a brief yet impactful visit.
The Maldivian tourism industry continues to thrive despite global challenges. This achievement follows recent accolades, including being named the World Travel Awards’ (WTA) World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year and earning the title of World’s Leading Green Destination for the first time. The successful introduction of cruise tourism marks the beginning of a promising new chapter, with future visits poised to further invigorate the industry and local economy.
Celebration
A Soaring Festive: celebrate the season in style at Ifuru Island Maldives
This festive season, Ifuru Island Maldives invites guests to a tropical paradise celebration under the theme ‘A Soaring Festive.’ Taking place from December 21, 2024, to January 10, 2025, the event promises a vibrant, entertainment-filled program designed to create joy, excitement, and lasting memories.
Catering to diverse preferences, A Soaring Festive offers an array of experiences, from dynamic nightlife and unique performances to relaxed island vibes, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Renowned DJ Rawlo will headline the nightly entertainment, captivating audiences with high-energy performances and dynamic beats. Breaking away from conventional DJ stereotypes, Rawlo’s electrifying sets promise to keep guests dancing under the stars until late into the night.
Adding to the festive lineup, the talented duo Synthetic Seduction—comprising Evgeniya and Olcay—will deliver versatile performances, including soulful saxophone melodies, lively DJ sets, and engaging duo band shows. Whether guests are enjoying cocktails by the pool or dancing on the sand, this duo creates the perfect ambiance for both relaxation and high-energy fun.
For those seeking visual artistry, Jonas and Aygul will dazzle with awe-inspiring fire shows, mesmerising LED displays, skillful juggling acts, and elegant belly dancing. Their multi-faceted performances promise to light up the island with unforgettable entertainment.
Complementing the headline acts, ‘A Soaring Festive’ features a variety of activities designed to enhance the holiday experience. Guests can participate in beach games, competitions, and themed culinary events that celebrate the flavors of the season, ensuring a celebration filled with joy and excitement.
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