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.
Featured
Sun Siyam Resorts marks Valentine’s season with multi-resort celebrations
Sun Siyam Resorts is inviting couples to celebrate Valentine’s season across its collection of Maldivian island resorts, with each destination offering a distinct rhythm and character. From unhurried island experiences to celebrations shaped by nature and shared moments, the programme presents couples with a range of intimate ways to reconnect in settings designed to feel personal and considered.
At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Valentine’s celebrations will take place from 12 to 14 February, unfolding through a series of tailored experiences focused on togetherness. The programme includes floating breakfasts, sunset moments in private pool villas, secluded island picnics and snorkelling excursions. Evenings feature experiences such as Cinema by Moonlight on the water, live DJ sessions and couple-focused spa rituals, creating a balance between relaxed romance and private time.
From 11 to 14 February, Sun Siyam Iru Veli will present a Valentine’s programme centred on candle-lit dining, beachfront gatherings and personalised experiences across lagoon and sandbank locations. Live performances by Maldivian saxophonist Shahy Siraj will accompany sunsets and evening celebrations, offering couples a setting designed to feel relaxed and timeless.
Throughout February, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef will host a month-long Valentine’s journey inspired by coastal tones and slower-paced island living. The programme includes outdoor dining experiences, sunset performances, beachside theatre and personalised couple activities across dining, spa and excursions, inviting guests to engage with a more extended celebration of the season.
At Siyam World, Valentine’s Day on 13 and 14 February will be marked by a more expressive programme where romance is paired with music, performances and island-wide dining experiences. The celebrations culminate in a signature Valentine’s show, presenting a high-energy approach to the occasion.
From 13 to 20 February, Sun Siyam Olhuveli will offer a week-long Valentine’s escape focused on shared experiences, food and island life. The programme includes evening performances by DJ Slim Belghith and a culinary residency by Italian chef Francesca Gambacorta, alongside beachfront dining, wellness experiences and activities designed for couples to spend time together at a relaxed pace.
Across the Sun Siyam portfolio in the Maldives, Valentine’s season is defined by time spent together through shared meals, music, unhurried days and the natural island setting. Couples are invited to explore seasonal offers and programmes across the collection via the Sun Siyam Resorts website.
Featured
Ifuru Island Maldives presents intimate Valentine’s escape for couples
Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled A Valentine’s Escape, Curated for Two, a Valentine’s season programme featuring a collection of experiences designed for couples seeking connection in a private island setting shaped by natural surroundings and a restrained approach to luxury.
Central to the offering are romantic beach dinners held under the night sky, alongside an exclusive private dining experience at the resort’s Secret Spot. This secluded location is reserved for couples seeking privacy and is available by prior arrangement. Each dining experience is curated by the culinary team and includes bespoke menus, candlelit table settings and personalised service.
For couples wishing to spend time on the water, the resort is introducing a private romantic yacht charter in collaboration with Blend. The experience offers a quiet journey across the lagoon and open waters, with curated refreshments and uninterrupted sunset views. Designed for a limited number of couples, the charter is positioned for occasions such as proposals, anniversaries and Valentine’s celebrations.
Wellness experiences form an additional element of the Valentine’s programme. Couples can book a dedicated spa package focused on shared relaxation rituals in a calm setting. For guests interested in mindfulness, a guided meditation and bonding session led by visiting practitioner Dr. Sha is available on selected dates, offering an opportunity for reflection and balance within the island environment.
Through private dining, ocean-based experiences, spa rituals and mindful moments, A Valentine’s Escape, Curated for Two presents couples with the opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s season in a manner that is personal, unhurried and considered.
Awards
Atmosphere Core earns triple honours at Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards
Atmosphere Core concluded 2025 with a strong industry showing, securing three major honours at the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025 for RAAYA by Atmosphere, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi. The accolades underscore the group’s ability to deliver clearly differentiated resort concepts for diverse traveller profiles, while maintaining a consistent emphasis on quality, comfort and guest satisfaction across its portfolio.
At the awards, RAAYA by Atmosphere was named Best New Luxury Resort of the Year – Maldives. Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives received the title of Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort, while OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi was recognised as Most Stylish Resort – Maldives. The honours are based on Layalina’s independent editorial assessment and established quality benchmarks, celebrating excellence across luxury hospitality, all-inclusive offerings and lifestyle-led design. Layalina is a leading Arab lifestyle publication under 7awi Media Group, with a strong readership and influence across the GCC and wider region.
Collectively, the awards highlight Atmosphere Core’s understanding of evolving travel expectations, delivering experiences that are thoughtful, well-crafted and easy to enjoy, whether guests are seeking tranquillity, variety or social energy.
Each of the recognised resorts brings a distinct identity to the group’s Maldivian portfolio. RAAYA by Atmosphere, located in the Raa Atoll, is defined by its serene environment and castaway-artist concept, encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect through nature, creativity and adventure. Atmosphere Kanifushi continues to stand out for its scale and consistency, offering a generous all-inclusive experience through the Kanifushi Plan™, expansive villas and a long, natural island setting that appeals to both families and couples. In contrast, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi delivers a more dynamic island escape, characterised by contemporary design and a lively social atmosphere that resonates with travellers drawn to shared spaces, movement and modern aesthetics. Together, the accolades reflect a carefully curated portfolio designed to cater to a wide spectrum of travel moods and preferences.
Commenting on the achievement, Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer of Atmosphere Core, said the group was honoured to receive the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025, recognising the three resorts across distinct categories. He noted that the recognition reflects the company’s carefully curated experiences, shaped by a strong sense of product, space and genuine care, and credited the passion and commitment of the teams, as well as the continued trust of guests, for the achievement.
Central to these successes is Atmosphere Core’s philosophy of the Joy of Giving, which positions hospitality around care, generosity and attention to detail. This approach informs destinations that feel closely connected to their natural surroundings and supports bespoke experiences that anticipate guest needs. The result, the group says, is a style of hospitality that is welcoming, effortless and personal, creating meaningful moments that endure beyond the stay itself.
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