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Banyan Tree Group bolsters MarCom team to elevate Maldives Resorts
Strengthening the offline and online presence of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru and Angsana Velavaru across the globe
The Banyan Tree Group has recently announced the appointment of a new MarCom trio for its properties in the Maldives. This strategic move aims to elevate the marketing communications initiatives of three properties, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru, and Angsana Velavaru, by developing effective campaigns that resonate with a wider audience and ultimately boost revenue.
The newly formed team comprises three talented individuals, each bringing unique skills and experiences to the table. Ronalaine Fernandez Sato, the MarCom and PR Manager, brings with her 13 years of extensive experience in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. Having worked in the Maldives and the Philippines, Ronalaine has a deep understanding of both markets and destinations. Her proficiency in creativity, attention to detail, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure played a pivotal role during the successful transformation and reopening of Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives in 2020, where she previously served as the Assistant Manager – PR & Communications. Ronalaine’s expertise and warm personality make her a valuable addition to the team.
Joining Ronalaine is Riri Anggraheni Eka Rimandasari, the Ecommerce Manager, who brings over nine years of marketing experience to her role. Riri’s previous position as Customer Relationship Management, Ecommerce, and Digital Marketing Manager for Cornerstone Retail Management, a sister company of Sheraton Hotel Group Indonesia, equipped her with a strong background in driving digital marketing strategies. Riri’s journalism background, including working for national TV channels and online shows in Indonesia, adds an extra dimension to her skill set. Furthermore, her commitment to mental health advocacy through the establishment of Peduli ODGJ Indonesia demonstrates her dedication to promoting well-being within the workplace. Riri’s enthusiasm to explore the Maldives, coupled with her certification in PADI Open Water Diving, promises exciting adventures beyond her professional responsibilities.
Completing the trio is Khaled Jarrah, the Assistant Digital Marketing Manager, who has been with the Banyan Tree Group for nearly two years. Khaled’s journey began as a chef in renowned properties such as Crown Plaza® Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn – The Business Park, and IHG Hotels and Resorts in Qatar. His transition into sales and marketing showcased his creative prowess, ultimately leading him to his current role in digital marketing. Khaled’s track record in successfully implementing digital marketing strategies at Banyan Tree Doha resulted in substantial growth across social media platforms. A Jordanian native, Khaled’s passion for food extends beyond his professional life, as he loves to discover new culinary delights or cook for his loved ones.
The collaboration of these three individuals, each with their distinct backgrounds, forms a dynamic team united by the shared goal of enhancing the offline and online presence of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru, and Angsana Velavaru. By harnessing their collective expertise, the team aims to attract the right guests for each resort, strengthening the brand’s global reach and ensuring exceptional experiences for visitors.
With their diverse skills, experiences, and shared dedication to excellence, the new MarCom trio is poised to propel the marketing communications initiatives of the Banyan Tree Group’s Maldivian properties to new heights. Their appointment represents the group’s commitment to delivering exceptional design-led experiences while promoting stewardship and well-being—a combination that is sure to captivate and attract discerning travelers from around the world.
The Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups, operates three luxurious resorts in the Maldives, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is a picturesque island paradise surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches. The resort boasts private villas with direct access to the beach, a stunning spa, and a range of water sports activities. Dhawa Ihuru, on the other hand, provides a tranquil and intimate retreat, nestled on a private coral island. Guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the underwater world through snorkeling or diving adventures, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and savor exquisite dining options. Lastly, Angsana Velavaru captures the essence of Maldivian luxury with its spacious villas suspended over the sparkling Indian Ocean. This idyllic resort offers a host of activities, including snorkeling, dolphin-watching, and sunset cruises, ensuring a truly magical experience for all who visit.
For more information about the Banyan Tree Group, visit www.banyantree.com.
RAAYA by Atmosphere has received its latest recognition at the Travel Time Awards, held in Moscow in August 2026, where the island resort was named “The Best Family Resort in the Maldives 2025”.
The award marks RAAYA’s second consecutive recognition from Travel Time, following its win as “Opening of the Year 2024”.
The recognition reflects the resort’s growing presence in the Russian travel market and its approach to family holidays in the Maldives, with a focus on shared experiences, exploration and activities designed for guests across generations.
Located on a private island in Raa Atoll, RAAYA is centred around the fictional story of Seb, a shipwrecked artist and adventurer whose narrative is incorporated throughout the resort experience. Guests can take part in island exploration, creative activities and ocean-based experiences, alongside family-oriented facilities and a range of dining options under The RAAYA Plan™.
The award was also presented during a visit to the resort by Russian film actress Katerina Shpitsa, known for productions including “Metro”, “The Crew” and “Poddubny”. During her stay, Shpitsa presented the Travel Time Awards 2025 accolade to RAAYA by Atmosphere General Manager Mario Stanic.
“Receiving this recognition for a second consecutive year is a proud moment for everyone at RAAYA,” Stanic said. “Winning the Travel Time Award 2025 for Best Family Resort is a wonderful recognition of what we stand for — bringing families together through shared experiences and lasting memories within a backdrop of a tropical island paradise.
“We are proud to create experiences that resonate with Russian families and families from around the world, offering a place to connect, discover and create memories together. We thank the awards team, our partners and our guests for their continued trust and support.”
The award adds to the international recognition received by RAAYA by Atmosphere since the resort opened in July 2024. The property has positioned its offering around experiential hospitality, design, family-focused programming and its castaway-inspired narrative.
RAAYA features 167 beach and overwater villas, a collection of dining venues and a range of land and ocean activities within its Raa Atoll setting.
With two Travel Time Awards in consecutive years, the resort continues to develop its position within the family travel segment in the Maldives.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives will welcome award-winning food creator Kabita Singh, the personality behind Kabita’s Kitchen, for a special culinary residency in October to mark International Chefs’ Day on 20 October 2026.
Known for making everyday Indian cooking accessible to a wide audience, Singh will move from her digital kitchen to the Maldives, joining the resort’s culinary team for a live cooking experience created for guests.
The collaboration will bring together Singh’s approach to Indian cuisine — centred on familiar flavours, accessible recipes and an increasing focus on wholesome cooking — with Sun Siyam’s Plant Based Bliss philosophy, which promotes the nutritional and holistic benefits of plant-forward dining.
As part of the International Chefs’ Day celebrations, Singh will cook alongside Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s culinary team during a live session in front of resort guests. The experience will feature a specially curated selection of vegetarian, vegan and health-conscious dishes developed in collaboration with the resort’s chefs and inspired by Singh’s own cooking philosophy.
Guests will have the opportunity to watch Singh prepare the dishes, learn about the techniques and stories behind them, and sample her interpretation of plant-forward Indian cuisine in a Maldivian island setting.
Kabita’s Kitchen has grown from a home-cooking channel into one of India’s most widely followed food platforms, with approximately 14.6 million subscribers on YouTube alone. Singh has built her audience through content ranging from regional favourites and vegetarian staples to festive dishes, street-food classics and everyday family recipes.
Her influence within India’s food and digital content sector was recognised at the inaugural National Creators Award in 2024, where she received the Best Creator in Food Category award, presented by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“We are really excited to welcome Kabita to Olhuveli and bring a taste of Kabita’s Kitchen to the Maldives,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.
“Food is such an important part of the way people connect, and this is about bringing our guests closer to the experience, watching Kabita cook, discovering the flavours and stories behind her dishes, and of course tasting them together. Her fresh, approachable style is a great match for our Plant Based Bliss philosophy, and celebrating International Chefs’ Day together with our own culinary team makes it even more special. We want dining at Olhuveli to be fun, social and full of moments that guests remember long after they leave the island.”
Located in South Malé Atoll, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is part of Sun Siyam’s Lifestyle Collection. The resort combines beach experiences, dining, entertainment, wellness and other activities within its broader island offering.
You & Me Maldives has been named Best Adults-Only Resort at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards 2026, recognising the resort’s positioning, guest experiences and continued focus on adults-only hospitality in the Maldives.
The award was presented during the TTM Awards & Gala 2026, held at CROSSROADS Maldives on 27 August 2026, marking the conclusion of the 10th edition of TTM Maldives. The annual awards recognise achievements, innovation and contributions across the Maldivian tourism industry.
Located in Raa Atoll, You & Me Maldives has established itself as an adults-only retreat catering to couples, honeymooners, friends and solo travellers seeking privacy and tranquillity.
The resort combines its island setting with accommodation, personalised service and experiences centred on romance, wellness, gastronomy and exploration, creating an intimate environment designed specifically for adult travellers.
The recognition comes as You & Me Maldives marks seven years of operations and welcoming guests from around the world.
“As we celebrate this important milestone, we are deeply grateful to our loyal guests, partners, and dedicated team members who have been part of this journey,” said Mohamed Imthiyaz, General Manager of You & Me Maldives.
“These seven years represent not only growth and success, but countless love stories, memories, and unforgettable experiences created on our island. Receiving the ‘Best Adults-Only Resort’ award at the TTM Awards is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the passion and dedication of our entire team.”
The Best Adults-Only Resort award further strengthens You & Me Maldives’ position within the Maldives’ luxury hospitality sector, recognising its focus on combining an adults-only concept with personalised service and island experiences.
Looking ahead, You & Me Maldives plans to continue developing its concept and guest experience through new activities, offerings and services, while maintaining its focus on the adults-only luxury segment in the Maldives.
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