Connect with us

Culture

Tropical Eid al-Adha celebrations at COMO Maldives

Published

on

Luxury lifestyle retreats COMO Cocoa Island and COMO Maalifushi are excited to share our Eid al-Adha celebrations. Taking place on June 28th, 2023, this joyous occasion invites guests to experience the spirit of unity and togetherness amidst breath-taking surroundings.

COMO Maalifushi

Guests will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions and customs of the Maldives. A traditional masked ‘Maali Hingun’ parade headlines the day’s celebrations where a captivating display of folklore performances adorned with vibrant costumes, accompanied by the enchanting rhythm of traditional Bodu Beru drums, melodious songs, and energetic dancing, offering a truly mesmerizing experience for attendees.

No celebration is complete without indulging in exquisite culinary delights. Guests can embark on an unforgettable gastronomic journey savouring a wide array of Middle Eastern and Arabic delicacies, skilfully prepared by the resort’s talented culinary team. Each dish will be infused with the enticing aroma of traditional spices, creating a feast for the senses and a memorable dining experience.

COMO Maalifushi is the first and only resort in the unspoiled Thaa Atoll in the south of Maldives reached by a 60-minute seaplane journey from Malé. With 33 overwater and 32 beach accommodations, these spacious accommodations each with its own private pool over looks turquoise views. The COMO Shambhala Retreat offers wellness experiences in eight overwater treatment rooms with award winning massages for relaxation of the mind, body and soul. Children are engaged at Play by COMO, a nurturing and fun environment for young minds, encouraging their curiosity, creativity, and overall well-being.

A getaway for the whole family, book now to receive daily half board for two adults and complimentary full board and seaplane transfers for two children under 12 with a minimum stay of five nights.

COMO Cocoa Island

Immerse yourself in the spirit of joy and peace as you indulge in a culinary journey. Middle Eastern flavours take centre stage with its vibrant colours, rich flavours, and fragrant aromas on this day.

Embark on a gastronomic journey with an exclusive Mezze lunch special featuring a delectable array of traditional dishes. From 2pm to 5pm at Faru Bar, guests can relax by the beachfront pool and unwind while enjoying the flavours of aromatic shisha and afternoon tea, creating a serene atmosphere in which to celebrate Eid Al-Adha. To further enhance the dining experience, special Middle Eastern dishes will be incorporated into the à la carte dinner menu, allowing guests to savour the unique flavours and culinary traditions while enjoying the resort’s renowned gastronomic offerings.

Tucked away in South Male Atoll and reached by a 40-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, COMO Cocoa Island is an intimate retreat with 33 overwater villas, most recognisable for its signature Dhoni Water Villas with the villa exterior capturing the essence of a traditional Maldivian boat. The COMO Shambhala Retreat, located at the heart of the island, covers one-third of the entire island. A variety of holistic wellness services are available, including yoga, Pilates, meditation, and spa treatments that help guests rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. The resort also offers a range of activities such as diving and snorkelling, sunset fishing, and night fishing, among others.

An idyllic holiday for the family and book now to receive daily half board for two adults, complimentary room upgrades, US$100 resort credit with a minimum stay of three nights.

For more information on COMO Hotels and Resorts or to book the next stay, please visit https://www.comohotels.com/maldives/como-maalifushi and https://www.comohotels.com/maldives/como-cocoa-island

Culture

Maldives unveiled: Khalid Al Ameri’s off-resort exploration

Published

on

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), known as Visit Maldives, recently collaborated with popular Emirati content creator and digital storyteller Khalid Al Ameri for an exclusive familiarisation (FAM) trip held from March 22 to 26, 2025. The result: a heartfelt and engaging YouTube video that has already begun resonating with viewers across the globe.

Known for his authentic storytelling and ability to connect deeply with different cultures, Khalid’s visit captured the Maldives from a refreshingly local perspective—beyond the five-star resorts and crystal-clear lagoons that dominate travel brochures. The trip offered a deep dive into the culture, history, food, and way of life of the Maldivian people.

A Journey into the Heart of the Maldives

The video begins with Khalid journeying to Paree Fengandu—the mysterious “Fairy Pond.” With a sense of humor and wonder, Khalid narrates legends surrounding the lake’s reddish waters, rumored to be a gateway to the spiritual world. As he climbs into a canoe for the first time, Khalid embodies the spirit of exploration that threads through the entire video.

From there, viewers are taken to a traditional Maldivian home—“Relax Home”—for a dinner hosted by a local family. Khalid learns to prepare baiy mas, a traditional fish ball curry, alongside warm and welcoming hosts. His attempt at flaking fish may have been clumsy, but the scene was full of joy, laughter, and appreciation for Maldivian home cooking. A tasting session of local delicacies, including riha folhi (crepes) and mas huni, added a layer of culinary discovery to the experience.

Tracing History Through Mosques and Markets

Day two brought a deeper exploration of the country’s religious and architectural heritage. Khalid visits the historic Jumma Mosque, a 332-year-old structure known for its coral-stone architecture and wooden panels inscribed with Qur’anic verses. He reflects on the historical and cultural significance of the site, describing it as “hundreds of years of lessons” preserved through careful conservation.

He later visits the King Salman Mosque, the largest mosque in Malé, which was officially opened in 2024 and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. Khalid admires the blend of modern design with island culture, noting the mosque’s woodwork and glass detailing. The segment subtly highlights the Maldives’ connections to the broader Islamic world while grounding them in local identity.

In between mosque visits, Khalid explores the vibrant local market in Malé. With his signature charm, he engages in friendly haggling with vendors—unsuccessfully, but humorously—while taking in the colours and sounds of everyday Maldivian life.

A Cultural Celebration and a Lesson in Patience

In a lighthearted moment, Khalid joins a group of performers from Rhythm Boduberu, a traditional Maldivian drumming troupe, in a high-energy beach performance. The scene is filled with laughter, clapping, and dancing—an authentic portrayal of Maldivian cultural expression.

The journey concludes with a fishing trip off the coast of Malé, where Khalid reflects on life’s simple lessons after a mostly fishless outing. “Sometimes we have to lose to win,” he remarks, as the group eventually enjoys a seafood buffet prepared by local chefs.

More Than Just a Vacation

The final moments of the video capture the essence of Khalid’s experience. “Not the Maldives that everyone shows on Instagram. The Maldives that the people live every day,” he says, offering a powerful reminder that behind every postcard-perfect beach lies a community, a culture, and a story worth telling.

This collaboration between Visit Maldives and Khalid Al Ameri marks a significant step in diversifying the global perception of the Maldives. By spotlighting its heritage, traditions, and people, the video invites travellers to look beyond the water villas and instead connect with the soul of the islands.

The full video is now available on Khalid Al Ameri’s YouTube channel, providing a heartfelt window into an unseen side of the Maldives.

Continue Reading

Culture

Cruise liner makes first stop at HDh. Makunudhoo

Published

on

A cruise liner docked at HDh. Makunudhoo for the first time Monday, marking a new tourism milestone for the island. Passengers from the MS Hebridean Sky were welcomed by the island’s residents with cultural displays reflecting Maldivian heritage.

According to the Makunudhoo Island Council, 94 tourists disembarked from the vessel. The islanders gathered at the harbour in traditional attire to greet them.

As part of the visit, the tourists were divided into groups, each guided by local residents dressed in traditional clothing. They were taken on a tour of the island, visiting historical and significant sites. A festival was also held at the harbour, where islanders demonstrated traditional crafts, sports, and dances. A marketplace was set up as part of the event, where visitors could purchase local products.

The tourists, who arrived in the morning, departed at 1pm. Before leaving, they donated sports equipment to the island’s school.

“They were pleased with the welcome and the opportunity to explore the island,” said Auzam Adam, President of the Makunudhoo Council.

The MS Hebridean Sky visited Makunudhoo after stops at islands in Addu and Alif Alif Atoll. The vessel is now en route to another country.

Continue Reading

Culture

Echoes of tradition: timeless rhythm of Boduberu at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

Published

on

Steeped in history and rhythm, the Boduberu drummers have echoed for centuries, carrying with them stories of seafarers, islanders, and a culture deeply connected to the ocean. Among the drummers at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is Naseem, whose grandfather was a renowned Boduberu performer in his home island of Lhaviyani Atoll. As a child, Hassan would sit by the beach, mesmerised by the powerful drumbeats that seemed to summon the sea breeze itself. His grandfather would recount a time when Boduberu was not merely music but a tradition passed down through generations, binding communities through song, dance, and shared history.

Boduberu, meaning “big drums” in Dhivehi, originated as a form of communal entertainment where islanders gathered to celebrate, sing, and dance in unison. Over time, it evolved into a cherished national art form, performed during festivals, ceremonies, and as a warm welcome to visitors. The music is driven by the deep, resonant beats of large drums, accompanied by rhythmic clapping, powerful chanting, and synchronised movements. As the tempo builds, the energy becomes infectious, culminating in an exhilarating crescendo where dancers lose themselves in the rhythm, embodying the true spirit of the Maldives.

At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu remains a living tradition, offering an invitation to step into the heartbeat of Maldivian culture. Whether performed under the starlit sky by the ocean or woven into intimate celebrations, each performance brings authenticity and excitement, creating a profound connection between guests and the island way of life. Recently, a couple celebrating a birthday at the resort received a heartfelt surprise when the resort’s team arrived with a beautifully crafted cake, accompanied by the powerful beats of Naseem and his fellow drummers. The rhythmic melodies filled the air as staff and performers joined together to sing in Dhivehi, transforming the occasion into an experience far beyond an ordinary birthday celebration.

For Naseem, every performance serves as a tribute to his grandfather, preserving the stories, songs, and rhythms of his ancestors. For the guests of Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, Boduberu is more than just entertainment; it is an invitation to experience the Maldives as it has been for generations—alive with music, tradition, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Guests can now enjoy exclusive benefits through Cinnamon DISCOVERY, the brand’s loyalty program in collaboration with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), which connects them to a portfolio of over 800 hotels across 40 brands in 100 countries. As the first Sri Lankan hospitality brand to join GHA DISCOVERY, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts offers members meaningful rewards, personalised experiences, and access to exceptional stays at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, and Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.