Featured
JOALI BEING announces exciting programming working with global ‘Master Practitioners’ of wellbeing
On the pristine isle of Bodufushi in Raa atoll, JOALI BEING- the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives – has announced its programming for guests with focus on immersive wellbeing experiences curated by ‘Master Practitioners’ offering guests unrivalled expertise with personalised and results-driven transformative wellbeing menus to renew, uplift and inspire. Running from June to December early 2024, the menu presents a hybrid of healing and restorative practices alongside alternative methods of therapy, such as Holographic Memory Resolution and heart-centred wellbeing methodology, to name a few.
Redefining the meaning of wellbeing getaways, experts will work alongside JOALI BEING’s long-established network of specialists within its unique transformative spaces – including hydrotherapy, movement and sound healing treatments – to nourish guests and give them a new sense of ‘weightlessness’.
In keeping with JOALI BEING’s core methodology, the programme aims to fuse ancient Eastern and Western modern philosophies bringing leaders in alternative wellbeing practices to the destination.
The curated programme includes:
- 12 – 25 June – Andrea Stuto is JOALI BEING’S Master Trainer in Residence – and former professional beach tennis player and World Ranking No. 9 – will on hand to offer a full fitness screening, performance training and sports conditioning.
- Using the heart-centred wellbeing methodology, focused on mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, Rajesh Ramani and Smitha Jayakumar will help connect guests to their true potential through meditation, one-to-one mentoring and mind training sessions from 15 July to 14 August.
- Holographic Memory Resolution® (2 – 29 October) will be led by Dr Rachel Maurice – a former anaesthesiologist – and will be giving guests effective and personalised tools and methods for powerful self-healing. Workshops include Luminous self-healing sessions and self-sabotage coaching.
- Sound Healing with Aurelio Hammer (3 – 30 November) – embark on a resonant journey with sound designer, healer and educator, Aurelio, a pioneer in development and manufacture of innovative musical instruments specialising in sound healing.
- Transformative Healing – fusing Eastern and Western healing traditions, Javier de Prado is a master of craniosacral and Watsu therapy, visceral manipulation and Osteothai. The massage techniques aim to transform from within and will be running from 23 November 2023 to 1 March 2024.
- Elevate Your Life (4 December – 4 January 2024) will see expert Sandro Thiara Mota bring his pioneering Mota Method to JOALI BEING. Using a combination of breathwork and high-performance fitness training offerings also include water nervous system resetting (Janzu), energy activation and breathwork and ice bath, water rebirthing plus stress management and the option to book a separate five-day programme with Mato.
At the heart of JOALI BEING is modern science and long-honoured traditions aimed at guiding guests on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. A dedicated expert team of naturopaths, therapists and movement experts aims to work with guests every step of the way to help set intentions, nurture and co-create moments of ‘wonder and transcendence.’
The Four Pillars of JOALI BEING includes:
- MIND: Cultivate contentment and peace of mind through sound therapy and mind and body practices
- SKIN: Illuminate the skin with rejuvenating therapies that draw equally from timeless rituals and the world’s most advanced research
- MIRCOBIOME: Form a deeper understand of the connection between body, mind and nutrition while building eating habits around the body’s circadian rhythm
- ENERGY: Rebalance the nervous system and optimise energy flow through intelligent movement practices and restorative therapies
JOALI BEING further offers wellbeing programmes ranging from five nights to three weeks designed around its key pillars curated for each guest and their needs through Intelligent Movement Analysis and Integrative Health Assessment. These can also be tailored towards areas of strength and vitality; mental clarity and wellbeing, hormonal balance, women’s health, digestive and weight rebalance, restorative sleep as well as movement and alignment for good health and immunity.
The sanctum includes 39 elevated treatment rooms including Areka – home to scientific therapies and diagnostic services, learning programs and alternative healing treatments plus fitness facilities; CORE – dedicated to movement specialists and further training rooms, a multipurpose studio and diagnostic room and Ocean Sala; a Hydrotherapy Hall, KAASHI, with focus on traditional healing through water including Banya inspired by Russian Banya and a Turkish Hammam; SEDA – the Sound Therapy Hall and the Discovery Sound Path spaces fuse music and vibrations. AKTAR – the on-site herbology centre allows JOALI BEING’S herbologist to create natural remedies, spices and essential oils for guests to enjoy. It also houses a library and hosts interactive workshops educating guests who wish to take part on the benefits of herbal teas plus learn how to make natural body creams, face masks and massage oils.
JOALI BEING’S chefs and nutritionists create a mix of healthy and indulgent dining options plus the option to take part in interactive nutritional cooking classes. FLOW is our open-plan interactive dining space, featuring three signature kitchens: SU serves ocean-to-table pescatarian cuisine; Plantae offers nourishing vegetarian and vegan fare and B’Well features JOALI BEING’s signature menu with meat and poultry options. MOJO is the island’s tropical beach sanctuary, located on a three-layered sundeck and offering an ideal spot for lunch paired with sundowners by the pool. The destination is also home to SAI tea lounge where guests are invited to explore an incredible range of homemade brews and take part in traditional ceremonies and learning sessions hosted by JOALI BEING’s resident tea sommelier. For scenic seaside dining, Ocean Sala is the perfect spot offering specialties like Wagyu beef, Japanese scallops and freshly caught lobster and tuna from Maldivian waters. Ideal for up to six sojourners, Teppanyaki, offers a private dining experience with focus on celebrating the ‘Joy of Weightlessness – a feeling of freedom, lightness and wonder.’ Astonishing views of the Gate of Zero set the stage for artistry at the grill, from the dextrous flip of a shrimp tail to the soaring arc of an egg in flight. Dining can also be taken on a private sea bank, immersed in nature outdoors surrounded by lush plants and trees, or in the bespoke wooden carved Turtle Treehouse.
Boasting 33 design-led beach villas and 35 over-water villas surrounded by crystalline lagoons amidst glorious tropical nature, offering thirteen different villa categories with two, three and four-bed room options. Designed to seamlessly blend with its natural surrounds using organic materials with structures reminiscent of temples, guests are greeted by artwork by Sculptor Seçkin Pirim – an organic shape representing the dissolution of the ego. Architects working in unison with design studios Autoban and Atolye4N – which also led the design concept of sister destination, JOALI Maldives – acted together to preserve the local landscape and nature using Biophilic principles with the goal to achieve harmony by eliminating negative vibrations and enhancing the energy flow of the island; whilst ensuring the forest and wildlife remained untouched.
JOALI BEING also offers a wealth of water adventures for guests – including stand up paddle boarding, diving and snorkelling experiences where guests of all ages can spot turtles, moray eels and manta rays – and learning experiences, including wellbeing and nutrition workshops offered by resident experts. Guests can also earn a PADI license at its Marine Centre. Alternatively, they can charter a luxury yacht or traditional Dhoni boat excursions and meet local Maldivian communities.
Action
Emerald Maldives hosts tennis masterclasses with Filippo Volandr
Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, a distinguished 5-star deluxe property and member of The Leading Hotels of the World, has announced a collaboration with Filippo Volandri, the esteemed coach of the Italian National Tennis Team.
From February 21 to 28, 2025, Volandri will conduct six exclusive tennis masterclasses, designed to cater to both children and adults seeking to improve their skills on the court.
As the coach behind Italy’s 2024 Davis Cup victory and a key figure in the Italian national tennis team, Volandri brings extensive expertise and a passion for the sport. Known for his strategic approach and ability to inspire players of all levels, he offers a coaching experience that is both insightful and engaging.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to enhance their tennis abilities under Volandri’s tailored guidance. Whether seasoned players or newcomers to the sport, attendees will benefit from expert insights into technique, strategy, and gameplay. These sessions will take place at the resort’s world-class tennis facilities, set against the serene backdrop of the Maldives, creating an unforgettable environment for skill development.
Rohit Chhettri, General Manager of Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The collaboration with Filippo Volandri provides our guests with an extraordinary opportunity to learn from one of tennis’s finest coaches while enjoying the unmatched luxury and natural beauty of our resort.”
Celebration
Ring in the Year of the Snake with unmatched celebrations at Sun Siyam Resorts
This Lunar New Year, Sun Siyam Resorts invites travellers to immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of festivities across its stunning Maldivian properties. From January 27th to 31st, each resort will host unique celebrations that blend tradition, culture, and indulgence. Highlights include dazzling fireworks displays, vibrant dragon and lion dance performances, sumptuous gala dinners, and soothing spa treatments inspired by Chinese traditions, ensuring unforgettable moments for guests of all ages. With every property presenting its own distinctive take on the celebrations, Sun Siyam Resorts promises a truly memorable start to the Year of the Snake.
At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the Lunar New Year will be marked with a week-long celebration from January 27th to 31st, offering vibrant festivities and exclusive activities for guests of all ages. Highlights include a Gala Dinner featuring a lobster BBQ, live beachside music, traditional Chinese acrobatics, and a Red Envelope Raffle Draw. Guests can also enjoy a Premium Hot Pot Lunch, a beach party showcasing a Lion Dance performance, and DJ Watte’s lively beats, all culminating in a stunning fireworks display. Younger visitors will be entertained with activities such as Lunar Obstacle Games, Cookie Decoration, and the “Find the Fortune” Treasure Hunt. For relaxation, the resort offers a Lunar New Year Spa Special with 50% off selected treatments and exciting excursion packages to celebrate the festive season.
At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Chinese New Year celebrations on January 29th will feature an extraordinary mix of culture, entertainment, and culinary delights. Guests can look forward to a vibrant Snake Parade, live performances by renowned Chinese singer Zhu Jiayun, and a breathtaking fireworks display. The festivities will also include Zheng Bao’s magical Sichuan face-changing performance. A lavish New Year Gala Dinner on the beach will offer a blend of international and oriental cuisines in a festive atmosphere. Beyond the celebrations, the resort provides exclusive experiences, including stingray-watching excursions, introductory scuba diving adventures, and the “Bamboo Harmony” spa treatment, which combines traditional hand and bamboo massage techniques for ultimate relaxation.
At Siyam World, guests will experience an unforgettable Chinese New Year celebration filled with cultural festivities and indulgence. The evening will feature a grand Gala Dinner at Baraabaru, accompanied by a mesmerising Lion Dance performed by talented Chinese artists and live music by the resort’s band. Following dinner, the excitement will continue with a special Chinese New Year show, an energetic party, and a dazzling fireworks display. To complement the celebrations, the resort offers Yin & Yang Spa Packages inspired by the ancient Chinese philosophy of balance and harmony, featuring a 45-minute aromatherapy massage followed by a 30-minute honey cucumber facial.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef will enchant guests with a vibrant Chinese New Year celebration. The evening will begin with management cocktails featuring tea-based creations, dumpling stations, and popcorn, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance for Chinese guests. A captivating lantern-lighting ceremony will illuminate the night, followed by a grand gala dinner showcasing authentic Chinese cuisine, live cooking stations, unlimited bubbly, and an exciting raffle draw. The celebrations will continue with lively DJ entertainment at the karaoke lounge, ensuring a festive and unforgettable start to the Lunar New Year.
At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, the Chinese New Year festivities will combine tradition and luxury. Guests can look forward to receiving traditional red envelopes (hongbao), participating in an authentic tea ceremony, and enjoying a lavish Chinese New Year feast featuring iconic dishes such as Peking duck, spring rolls, and longevity noodles. The celebrations will include a vibrant dragon dance on the beach, cultural performances such as the lotus and white peacock dances, and a spectacular fireworks display to end the evening. Unique experiences will feature calming Tai Chi sessions, spa treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine, and a traditional Chinese hotpot served on the beach. The festive atmosphere will be enhanced by stunning decorations, including lanterns adorning the ocean villa jetty and photo points across the island, making Sun Siyam Iru Veli an ideal destination for the Year of the Snake.
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.
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