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Sjefke Jansen appointed General Manager at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has announced the appointment of Sjefke Jansen as the resort’s new general manager, effective from 1st April, 2023. Charged with overseeing the day-to-day running of the luxury island property, the award-winning Sjefke is able to draw on four decades of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry.
“I am delighted to return in the Maldives and taking part of one of the flagships and most iconic MINOR properties. I felt the urge to reconnect with this captivating destination and its mesmerizing nature. It was like coming back home.” Jansen said. “I plan to continue building on the legacy of Anantara Kihavah. I, together with my passionate and dedicated team, will be focusing on the importance of making guest experiences authentic and most enjoyable.” he added.
Prior to his current role, Sjefke was the General Manager of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta where he led the property to achieve a leading position for 5 consecutive years in an extremely competitive environment. However, his illustrious career started from humble beginnings, with his first appointment in the industry being as a kitchen trainee in Germany in 1983.
Having worked his way up the hospitality ladder, Sjefke now boasts a wealth of experience that includes various operational roles at hotels in Germany, Australia, South Africa and Singapore. Sjefke worked in the Maldives in 2002 when he took on his first Resort Manager position at the One & Only Reethi Rah Resort and Spa, Maldives, before moving to The Oberoi, Mauritius in 2006 where he took his career to the next level with his first General Manager role. In 2010, Sjefke moved to Le Touessrok, Mauritius, where he spent another four years as General Manager before spending a similar period in the same position at Belmond Grand Hotel Europe at St Petersburgh in Russia.
Located within the Baa Atoll in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas features 80 spacious private pool villas and residences nestled along the pristine private beach or poised over crystal-clear waters. Guests can indulge in a diverse culinary journey with six restaurants and bars, whether on land or underwater at the SEA restaurant. The resort boasts an array of leisure facilities, including an outdoor cinema, a kids club, a watersports center, and a dive center. For ultimate relaxation, guests can rejuvenate at the Anantara Spa, which offers Asian therapies, aesthetic treatments, detox programs, immunity-boosting Medi-spa, and ancient ayurvedic wellness.
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Villa Resorts partners with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to expand GCC presence
Villa Resorts has appointed Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy as its Sales Representative for the GCC region, emphasising the company’s commitment to strengthening relationships with travel trade partners and enhancing its engagement with GCC travellers seeking exceptional luxury experiences.
The Villa Resorts portfolio features several distinguished properties: Villa Nautica, an exclusive retreat embracing a maritime lifestyle; Villa Park, an adventure-filled destination blending luxury with excitement; Royal Island, a boutique resort in Baa Atoll celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs and proximity to Hanifaru Bay; and Villa Haven, a serene escape redefining quiet luxury and indulgence in the Maldives.
To facilitate its expansion in the GCC, Villa Resorts has partnered with Dubai-based Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy, a leading firm in the hospitality and tourism sector. Leveraging the consultancy’s expertise and established networks, Villa Resorts aims to strengthen its connections with travel trade partners and luxury travellers across the region.
Mohamed Azmeel, Cluster Director of Sales at Villa Resorts, highlighted the strategic value of the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy enables us to harness their extensive expertise and networks in the GCC region. We look forward to deepening our engagement with travellers who prioritise personalised, high-end hospitality.”
Ahmed Fathallah, General Manager – Destination Marketing at Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy, also expressed excitement about the partnership. He noted, “Representing Villa Resorts in the GCC is an honour. This region demonstrates a strong demand for luxury travel and unique experiences. With Villa Resorts’ diverse portfolio, we are confident in enhancing their brand presence and fostering meaningful engagements in this vibrant market.”
Established in 2001, Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor in the hospitality and tourism industry. Its in-depth knowledge of the GCC market will be instrumental in supporting Villa Resorts’ mission to deliver unparalleled luxury and unforgettable experiences to travellers from the region.
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Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives
As part of its ‘Masters for Masters’ series, The Nautilus Maldives will host Denise Hoefer, Germany’s No. 1 padel player and one of the world’s top 50 most influential figures in the padel industry, for an exclusive Padel Masterclass from March 22 to 25, 2025. This exceptional event invites guests to enhance their padel skills under the expert guidance of a global champion, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ Indian Ocean.
Padel, recognised as the world’s fastest-growing sport, has captured the hearts of 30 million enthusiasts globally, according to the International Padel Federation. This March, The Nautilus will provide a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in this thrilling game during a four-day Padel Masterclass led by Denise Hoefer, Germany’s top-ranked female padel player and captain of the German national team. Participants will refine their techniques on The Nautilus’s state-of-the-art padel court, while experiencing the island’s signature blend of world-class coaching and timeless, unscripted hospitality.
The Padel Masterclass will feature a tailored mix of group and private sessions, catering to players of all levels. Younger participants will have the chance to join the Young Wonderers program, offering specially designed classes that introduce the sport in a fun and engaging way. After an energising day on the court, guests can unwind at Solasta Spa, where exclusive treatments by Maison Caulières—such as Spinal Connection Deep Tissue Healing, Volcanic Stone Therapy, and Warm Poultices—promise ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. These tranquil spa experiences provide a perfect complement to the day’s dynamic activities, leaving participants refreshed and revitalised.
With just 26 ultra-luxury houses and residences, The Nautilus offers an intimate sanctuary within the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by powder-soft white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, this private island retreat redefines bespoke hospitality. Every element is meticulously crafted to inspire, offering guests an unparalleled ultra-luxury experience focused on relaxation, renewal, and discovery. Whether honing padel skills or embracing the serenity of island life, The Nautilus stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travellers.
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Year of excellence: Ifuru Island Maldives shines as global luxury destination
1 December 2024 marks a significant milestone for Ifuru Island Maldives as the resort celebrates its first anniversary. Over the past year, this luxury destination in the heart of the Maldives has captivated guests from around the globe and earned prestigious accolades. Among its honours are recognition as one of the Top 100 Luxury Hotels and Resorts of the World 2024 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards and the title of Best Beach Resort, Maldives, from the Seven Star Luxury Hotel Awards.
Situated in the picturesque Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island boasts a pristine 1-kilometer stretch of white sandy beach with stunning sunset views. The resort’s design strikes a harmonious balance between sociability and seclusion, featuring 147 elegant beach suites and villas arranged as ‘Retreats’ and ‘Villages.’ These accommodations include options with direct beach access and private pools, making the resort an ideal destination for multigenerational vacations and special celebrations.
Guests have enjoyed an unparalleled culinary journey across six restaurants and four bars, highlighted by a 24-hour premium all-inclusive dine-around concept. From locally inspired Maldivian dishes to internationally curated flavours, Ifuru Island has become a culinary destination for discerning travellers.
The resort offers a variety of activities, including dolphin watching, diving, cultural immersions, and rejuvenating treatments at the Xanadu Spa. Families have particularly appreciated the Coconut Kids Club, ensuring younger guests experience the magic of the Maldives alongside their parents.
Reflecting on the first year’s accomplishments, Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives, noted, “Our first year has been an incredible journey of welcoming guests, creating unforgettable moments, and achieving recognition on a global scale. These awards affirm our commitment to excellence and our passion for delivering exceptional experiences. We are excited to continue building on this foundation as we look toward the future.”
As Ifuru Island Maldives celebrates its achievements and anticipates the future, the resort remains dedicated to delivering world-class luxury, impeccable service, and a truly magical experience for every guest.
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