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La Vie Hotels & Resorts launches NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi under new upscale lifestyle brand
La Vie Hotels & Resorts, has launched its new lifestyle brand, NOOE, alongside its first resort, NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi.
NOOE promises to be a place where great things happen; where lobbies are abuzz, restaurants are local favourites, pools perform as day clubs and gyms build as many smiles as bodies. Guests are invited to lounge in studios, suites, bungalows and villas, not rooms, and sharply designed spaces inspire work and creativity, as much as rest and relaxation.
Designed with balance in mind, NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi offers travellers 72 Guest Bungalows and Villas spanning 3 hectares, 39 of which boast an overwater location. These stunning overwater villas provide the ultimate holistic and romantic escape, offering two stories, private plunge pools, a large deck area and uninterrupted views out over the Vaavu Atoll (affectionately known as the ‘Wow’ Atoll to the locals).
Located just 1 hour from Male city and international airport by speed boat or 25 minutes by seaplane, the property features six Food and Beverage Outlets, a Dive & Watersports Centre, kǔlh·un’ (Play) Kids Club, Boutique Shop and Th·āri by Mandara Spa, offering three private treatment rooms with a range of curated treatment options.
At NOOE, F&B is at its heart; it’s where culture, history and the ritual of food preparation and service encourage connection with artisans of local culinary delights. NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi has been carefully designed to deliver. From all-day dining restaurant Ìrǔ (Sun) providing themed buffets and live action stations, to Japanese inspired dining at w·āsho’ku, featuring a custom built teppanyaki grill and showcasing combinations of traditional and moderninterpretations of Japanese cuisine, NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi will offer the ultimate sensory experience.
The resort’s Pool bar vēlì (Sand) will provide life’s comforts (and cocktails) for guests to enjoy with its day club vibe, set up with sunlounges and cabanas looking out over the pool and crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort’s coffee shop, mõ·odhǔ (Sea), offers guests a choice between selections of decadent and holistic treats to go, which path will you choose?
fl·äm·ē chargrill overwater restaurant showcases the best of air, land and sea. The perfect combination of dry aged meat partnered with premium seafood and poultry sourced locally and from across the globe.
Clubhouse is a global feature of NOOE, and the Clubhouse at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi will feature an all-day dining offering featuring Mediterranean influenced small plates, the best coffee and cocktails on the island alongside buzzy live entertainment.
Craig Bond, Managing Director of La Vie Hotels & Resorts, said the group was beyond excited to be launching NOOE, a lifestyle brand that will truly encapsulate the essence of life, colour and vibrancy.
“We have been working on creating the NOOE brand for some time now, and we are thrilled to be launching this new lifestyle offering in the Maldives with our partners CJL Investments.
“The NOOE brand brings together what it means to live a balanced lifestyle; blending work, play, relaxation, good food and drink, and adventure all into one, and we are excited to grow the brand in other resort and urban locations.
“Careful attention has been paid to the design and layout to our Maldives resort, ensuring all who visit have the space and privacy to completely unwind. With 72 incredible bungalows and villas, a day spa, watersports centre, kids club, not to mention six restaurants and bars to choose from, the dream of paradise can truly be enjoyed.
“The Maldives has always been known as a bucket list destination for travellers across the globe, so what better place to launch a new lifestyle brand that promotes a balanced holiday than the place everyone dreams of visiting.
“We’ve long seen a gap in the market for an upscale lifestyle resort brand and see huge growth opportunities for urban and resort properties within this segment across Asia Pacific. We look forward to growing NOOE and bringing owners and guests on the journey with us”.
For more information on NOOE and to book NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi, head to www.nooe.com
Cooking
From pizza to pasta: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives unveils Pibati Sul Mare
“Pibati” in Sanskrit translates to “to drink, absorb, or imbibe,” reflecting a profound connection to savouring and enjoying sensory experiences such as food and drink. Guided by this philosophy, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has unveiled a refined concept for its beachside restaurant under the leadership of Executive Chef Frank Wackerhagen. The newly reimagined dining destination invites guests to explore Italy’s cherished culinary traditions.
Renamed Pibati Sul Mare—Italian for “by the sea”—the restaurant serves lunch, specialising in artisanal pizzas and handcrafted pastas. Its menu features a harmonious blend of Italian classics and island-inspired flavours, such as the Margherita pizza and the exquisite Linguini allo Scoglio di Panna, a mixed seafood dish in a garlic cream sauce. These dishes are crafted with high-quality ingredients, including fresh, homegrown herbs cultivated on the island, creating comfort food that captures the island’s vibrant essence.
Nestled against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, Pibati Sul Mare offers a serene retreat for diners seeking a memorable culinary experience. The setting combines coastal charm with contemporary elegance, featuring airy, open spaces designed to immerse guests in the scenic surroundings. Soft, earthy tones and natural materials contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance, while exceptional service ensures every guest feels cared for and attended to.
Whether enjoying a gathering with family or savouring a moment of tranquility, Pibati Sul Mare provides an unforgettable dining experience. It promises to captivate the palate and create cherished memories that linger long after the visit.
Featured
Tripadvisor names Ayada Maldives Best of the Best Resort for luxury and excellence
Ayada Maldives has been recognised as the No. 1 Traveler-Ranked Best of the Best Resort in the Maldives by Tripadvisor for 2024. This prestigious accolade, based on authentic guest reviews, highlights the resort’s dedication to unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences.
This achievement reinforces Ayada Maldives’ status as a premier destination for discerning travellers. The resort has also received acclaim for its exquisite overwater villas, pristine beaches, and world-class culinary offerings, earning additional recognition across categories for hospitality excellence and sustainability.
Renowned for its timeless beauty and immersive luxury, Ayada Maldives continues to redefine the art of indulgence. The resort acknowledges the trust and support of its esteemed guests, which inspire ongoing efforts to set new benchmarks in luxury travel.
Located in the pristine Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Ayada Maldives is a luxury resort offering an authentic Maldivian retreat. With a selection of opulent villas and suites, world-class dining options, and a wide range of recreational activities, the resort provides a personalised experience for every guest. Globally celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and vibrant social media presence, Ayada Maldives remains a standard-bearer for luxury travel in the Maldives.
Featured
From sunrise to sunset: Valentine’s Day bliss at Kuda Villingili
This Valentine’s Day, love takes centre stage at Kuda Villingili, a premier romantic retreat in the Maldives. With its sun-drenched beaches, indulgent dining options, and rejuvenating spa experiences, Kuda Villingili provides couples with an idyllic setting to rekindle joy and celebrate their love stories.
Since its inception, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been synonymous with romance. Its powdery white shores, crystal-clear waters, and expansive vistas offer a sanctuary where serenity and passion intertwine. The resort’s private villas are thoughtfully designed to enhance intimacy, featuring Beach Villas with private pools and views of both sunrise and sunset. Meanwhile, the Water Villas, perched over a vibrant blue lagoon, promise complete privacy and panoramic views of turquoise waters. Whether guests wake to the gentle hues of sunrise from ocean-facing beds or savor sunset’s fiery glow from their private pools, every moment in these villas is crafted to be a dream come true.
For Valentine’s Day 2025, Kuda Villingili invites couples to immerse themselves in romantic experiences as unique as the destination itself. Guests are encouraged to create joyful memories and redefine their love stories within this tropical paradise.
One of the highlights is the floating breakfast experience, offering an indulgent start to the day. Served in the privacy of villa pools, the breakfast includes gourmet selections paired with a bottle of Victoire Prestige Brut Rosé Champagne, setting the tone for a luxurious day.
In the evening, the ‘Crimson and Aqua’ dining experience by the largest pool in the Maldives promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests can savour Cantonese-style lobster, dumplings, and an array of desserts amidst tranquil waters and a lush tropical garden. Handcrafted cocktails, sparkling wine, or a bottle of red or white wine ensure every detail is perfect for the occasion.
For a more intimate setting, Mar-Umi Beach offers Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in a curated menu designed for couples seeking both culinary adventure and romance. The dining experience is elevated with a bottle of sake or the finest sparkling wine, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Alternatively, couples can indulge in the ‘Sands of Love’ buffet at The Restaurant, featuring tropical delicacies and live cooking stations. Set beneath swaying palms and a starlit sky, this culinary offering blends exquisite flavours with an enchanting ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation, The Spa provides a Valentine’s package designed for connection and indulgence. This 2.5-hour coconut-inspired journey includes full-body massages, scrubs, and a floral bath, offering rejuvenation for the body and soul.
Throughout the day, guests can toast to love with specialty cocktails and mocktails at The Bar, crafted to capture the joy of connection. In the evening, The Bar transforms into a cozy venue for screenings of classic romantic movies, complemented by snacks and an intimate atmosphere.
To further celebrate love, Kuda Villingili offers complimentary activities such as partner yoga, couples’ painting sessions, heart-opening yoga flows, and outdoor games. Each experience is curated to foster connection and create enduring memories.
Kuda Villingili embodies the essence of romance through its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and turquoise waters. From private destination dining to stargazing under Maldivian skies, every moment is tailored to inspire intimacy and celebrate the extraordinary.
This Valentine’s Day, Kuda Villingili invites couples to rediscover romance in a haven where love is celebrated, cherished, and immortalised.
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