Featured
Endless summer fun in the sun at Dhawa Ihuru Maldives

Set on an idyllic private island in North Male’, which is just 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru is the ideal destination for an endless summer fun in the sun. A charming paradise in its true sense, it is an eco-friendly luxury resort with one of the best house reefs in the Maldives. Guests will be mesmerised by the azure waters, powdery white sand and breathtaking panoramas.
As part of the Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups, the recently rebranded resort (formerly known as Angsana Ihuru) fuses imaginative design, absolute comfort and seamless technology into a single stay experience, which caters to the emerging design-savvy travellers that seek distinctive experiences in stylish and unique destinations.

In line with the brand’s “active wellbeing” motivating characteristic, Dhawa Ihuru ensures an energising and revitalizing stay. For the thalassophiles, they will be thrilled to join the guided snorkelling trips or snorkelling safari. They can also attend interesting talks conducted by the marine biologist that covers the diverse underwater life and marine conservation topics, which educate guests about the environmental challenges the Maldives is facing like coral bleaching. By participating in marine conservation efforts, such as coral planting, guests can help in propagating the house reefs.
With its island playground ambience, various ocean experiences await guests – from kayaking, catamaran sailing and wind surfing to diving and traditional fishing. For guests who would like to socialise over drinks and snacks, Nest, the all-day self-service chill out zone is the place to be.

For families with little VIPs, a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities await them at the Kids Club – from building sandcastles to T-shirt painting, treasure hunts, and beach games. While they are under the care of well-trained attendants, couples can opt to work out together at Activa, a fully-equipped gym with stunning sea views, or indulge in a rejuvenating signature body massage.
With all-inclusive packages, guests are spoilt for sumptuous culinary treats to international cuisine and the freshest catch of the day at the Riveli Restaurant, local bites and cocktails at the Velaavani Bar and Nectar, the Japanese bento box-style in-villa dining. Further, the new Twin Island dine-around concept allows them to explore premium dining at its sister resort, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.

While guests take in the beautiful sight around with the softness of the sand on their toes, the rhythmic drum beats accompanied by enigmatic dance performance of the Boduberu takes over – taking them to an unforgettable experience of the heart of the Maldivian music, which African roots can be traced all the way back to the 11th century. In the local Dhivehi language, “bodu” means big, and beru “beru” means drums, bringing unparalleled energy to the crowd. Hence, no guest leaves the island without clapping and dancing along.

With an equilibrium of tranquility and leisure, guests at Dhawa Ihuru can be as private or as social as they wish. For minimum three nights’ stay at Dhawa Ihuru, guests can take advantage of 20% discount, plus one-time complimentary sunset cruise and return speedboat transfers for two persons with the Stay More, Pay Less offer, which also includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a selection of free-flowing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This ongoing offer is valid for bookings and stays until December 31, 2024.
For queries and reservations, guests can visit www.dhawa.com.
Awards
Atmosphere Kanifushi named Best Family Resort in Indian Ocean for sixth consecutive year

Atmosphere Kanifushi has once again been recognised as the ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort’ at the World Travel Awards 2025, marking the sixth consecutive year the island has received this prestigious accolade. This continued recognition highlights the resort’s unique appeal to both romantic couples and adventure-seeking families.
Commenting on the achievement, Ram Bhoyroo, General Manager of Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, noted that the island’s charm lies in its ability to strike a harmonious balance between tranquillity and excitement. “While some Maldivian resorts cater to serenity and others to a more vibrant, active scene, Atmosphere Kanifushi is all about equilibrium—offering peace and relaxation alongside engaging, family-friendly experiences,” he shared.
Nestled on a long, naturally beautiful island with lush vegetation and surrounded by a stunning turquoise seascape, Atmosphere Kanifushi owes its success not only to its natural setting but also to the dedication of its team. According to Bhoyroo, the recognition is a result of the team’s relentless commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for guests of all ages. “By intuitively understanding the needs of each guest, we ensure a seamless blend of high-touch service, relaxation, and fun, all while offering the true feeling of a castaway escape in paradise,” he said.
With one of the highest guest repeater rates in the Maldives, the resort continues to innovate in order to surprise and delight returning visitors. From refreshed culinary offerings to vibrant live entertainment, there is always something new to discover.
Most recently, Atmosphere Kanifushi unveiled its new Essens Spa, a concept that redefines relaxation and wellbeing. The spa features immersive wellness journeys, yoga and detox sessions, traditional healing rituals, and a full suite of salon services. In keeping with the resort’s inclusive approach to family wellness, the spa also offers a Kids Spa Experience, complete with playful treatments for children and specialised teen wellness rituals that nurture growing bodies, youthful skin, and emotional balance.
This latest award reinforces Atmosphere Kanifushi’s reputation as a premier destination for families seeking both luxury and adventure in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Awards
OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI wins ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ at 2025 WTAs

THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI has been named ‘Maldives’ Leading Luxury Hotel Villa’ at the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards, marking a third consecutive win and reaffirming its status as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinguished villa experiences.
At the heart of this achievement is the resort’s crown jewel – the Royal RESERVE. Spanning 3,000 square metres, this exceptional villa redefines ultra-luxury in the Maldives. It features a private beach, expansive pool, personal spa treatment room with dedicated therapists, and opulent living spaces adorned with intricate handcrafted detailing. Guests are offered an array of exclusive privileges, including 24-hour private butler service, a personal chef for bespoke dining at the in-villa restaurant, and a private bar serving tailored beverages. The villa also boasts direct lagoon access and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, all enhanced by the signature RESERVE Experience – a promise of seamless, discreetly curated service.
This latest accolade continues a tradition of excellence for the resort, following its debut year that saw it claim multiple titles including ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Resort’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Villa’.
Monica Coppetta, General Manager of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, expressed her gratitude, “It is with heartfelt pride and deepest appreciation that we receive this coveted accolade from the World Travel Awards for the third consecutive year. This extraordinary distinction celebrates our passionate pursuit of crafting unforgettable journeys, where visionary design dances with gracious service amidst the Maldives’ breathtaking serenity. To be honoured by both our esteemed industry colleagues and cherished guests fills us with immense joy, strengthening our commitment to pioneering bespoke moments that linger in the memory long after departure. Every day, our team finds inspiration in turning dreams into reality, and this recognition fuels our devotion to perfecting the art of meaningful luxury.”
The 2025 win builds on a long-standing legacy of recognition for the resort, which was also recently nominated at the World Spa Awards 2025 as Maldives’ Best Wellness Retreat, thanks to its transformative ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa – a sanctuary renowned for innovative wellness practices and holistic rejuvenation.
The RESERVE Plan™ at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI sets the benchmark for all-inclusive luxury. It includes catamaran transfers, unlimited treatments at the award-winning ELE|NA spa, and elevated dining across seven distinctive venues. Guests also enjoy premium Champagne, curated ocean excursions, and personalised experiences with Best Dives. This seamless integration of indulgence and service exemplifies ‘abundant luxury’, making OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI one of the Maldives’ most exclusive and thoughtfully crafted escapes.
Awards
Baros Maldives wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort title at 2025 World Travel Awards

Baros Maldives has been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2025 by the prestigious World Travel Awards, a recognition that underscores the resort’s enduring dedication to delivering heartfelt and intimate experiences that are quintessentially Baros.
Nestled in the tranquil waters of North Malé Atoll, the Baros Water Villas are a refined expression of effortless luxury and seclusion. Each villa has been thoughtfully crafted to offer direct access to the turquoise lagoon, spacious sun-drenched decks ideal for peaceful reflection, and, in select accommodations, private pools with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Every element is designed to foster connection—with nature, with oneself, and with the timeless essence of Baros.
Beyond the villas lies Baros’ legendary house reef—teeming with vibrant marine life and coral gardens. Guests are invited to explore this underwater wonder through serene morning swims or sunset snorkelling sessions alongside turtles and schools of colourful reef fish.
Proudly Maldivian-owned and welcoming guests for over five decades, Baros Maldives has built a legacy of authentic hospitality and understated elegance. With just 75 villas, a team known for its warm, personalised service, and curated island experiences, the resort continues to offer stays that feel deeply personal and memorable.
Ibrahim Shijah, General Manager of Baros Maldives, expressed gratitude on behalf of the resort, “Our heartfelt thanks go to our guests, partners and the entire Baros team. This recognition is an honour and a wonderful reminder that the spirit of Baros continues to resonate with those who return to our shores time and again.”
As Baros celebrates this milestone, travellers are warmly invited to experience—or rediscover—the quiet magic that makes the island an enduring favourite in the Maldives.
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