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JW Marriott Maldives Resort opens JW Garden
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa has announced the opening of its JW Garden, a peaceful and charming sanctuary that beautifully blends the marvels of nature with the art of gastronomy.
Designed as an ode to Alice Marriott’s love for gardening, JW Gardens at JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts around the world, offer guests a serene oasis that nurtures a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits, elevating their culinary experience to the next level.
With a total area of 3600 sq ft, the JW Garden reflects the resort’s commitment to sustainability and well-being. Culinary menus are specially crafted with the JW Garden in mind, with many fresh herbs and vegetables included in both food and beverages and the resort’s chefs employ holistic cooking methods that preserve the most delicious nutrients, ensuring guests savour the very best with every bite.
As a signature element of the JW Marriott experience, the JW Garden creates a sensory connection with the natural world, enlivening the spirit and rejuvenating the soul. The garden boasts a wide variety of herbs, vegetables and fruits grown all year round. Currently, the garden cultivates 10 herbs, 25 vegetables and 5 fruits, with a goal to increase this number in the coming year. Some of the herbs grown include sage, coriander and lemongrass, while fruits and vegetables like tamarind, mango, passion fruit, red amaranth, tomato and cabbage are also grown.
The JW Garden is managed by two talented associates of the resort, Mohamed Rilwan, the laundry manager, and Abdullah, the herb gardener, who have played a crucial role in its development. They were responsible for clearing the area, setting up the infrastructure and growing the plants.
The JW Garden is not just a garden, but an art project created through the hard work and dedication of Rilwan and Abdullah. Their passion for creating a sustainable and tranquil space for guests is evident in every aspect of the JW Garden and they hope that the garden will offer inspiration and a chance for one to connect with nature and ultimately with themselves.
Speaking more on what goes into maintaining the space, Rilwan said: “We believe in the importance of sustainability and taking care of our environment. We recycle all kitchen food scraps into compost and use only 100% organic fertiliser, which is homemade. The manual irrigation system used in the JW Garden not only conserves water but also helps us maintain the integrity of the soil.
“We are proud of our efforts and are happy to offer our guests dining experiences at our restaurants that are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.” He added, “Even our welcome drink, Basil Vagaru, that is served to every guest on arrival uses the herb from JW Garden, and the oshibori as well incorporates ingredients from the garden as an essence.”
Located on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, the luxurious multi-generational resort makes for a mesmerizing destination that focuses on holistic well-being and enriching, thoughtfully curated experiences.
The resort features 60 beach and overwater villas, all with private pools, spacious wooden decks and a wide array of amenities with personalised Thakuru (Butler) service. Eclectic dining experiences are offered throughout the resort’s five dining venues, three full service bars, a wine room, which houses 1,200 wine collections and private beach dinners.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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