Featured
Maldivian taste arrives in Bamberg, Germany
Bamberg, a picturesque town in Germany, has recently become home to a new and exciting culinary experience. Annexx, a restaurant that specializes in Maldivian and international cuisine, has captured the attention of locals and tourists alike. We had the opportunity to talk with AJ Moosa, the proprietor of Annexx, to discuss his vision and the unique flavors he brings to the table.
AJ, a seasoned restaurateur with over a decade of experience in Bamberg, is no stranger to the city’s gastronomic scene. However, his latest venture is a departure from the traditional German fare that dominates the culinary landscape. AJ, who hails from the Maldives, noticed the immense popularity of his home country among German tourists but realized that not everyone could travel there to experience its vibrant flavors firsthand.

Driven by a desire to bridge this gap and share a taste of the Maldives with the local community, AJ opened Annexx. The restaurant has quickly gained popularity, attracting both Maldivian food enthusiasts and curious diners seeking something new and exotic. AJ’s ultimate goal is to recreate the authentic flavors of the Maldives and transport his guests to the idyllic islands through their taste buds.
During our conversation, AJ highlighted the overwhelming demand for Maldivian food at Annexx. One particular dish, a curry served with fragrant rice, has become a favorite among patrons. The curry, prepared using AJ’s mother’s cherished recipe, exudes aromatic spices and rich flavors that epitomize the essence of Maldivian cuisine. The dish’s popularity serves as a testament to AJ’s dedication to authenticity and his commitment to bringing the true taste of the Maldives to Bamberg.

AJ’s culinary journey began in the Maldives, where he started as a waiter in luxury resorts. Immersed in the world of fine dining, he developed a deep appreciation for the art of gastronomy. AJ’s passion for the industry led him to broaden his horizons, and he soon found himself managing restaurants in Hong Kong. However, it was his wife’s German heritage that ultimately brought him to Bamberg.
To hone his skills and expand his knowledge, AJ pursued a degree at the prestigious Swiss Hotel School, Glion Institute of Higher Education. Armed with a solid foundation in hospitality and a profound understanding of international cuisines, he was ready to embark on his culinary endeavors in Germany. His experience managing restaurants in Bamberg for over a decade provided him with valuable insights into the local dining scene and allowed him to establish a loyal customer base.
With Annexx, AJ has managed to create a unique and enchanting dining experience in Bamberg. By offering a glimpse into the vibrant culinary traditions of the Maldives, he has not only satisfied the cravings of Maldivian food enthusiasts but also introduced locals and tourists to an entirely new world of flavors. The success of Annexx stands as a testament to AJ’s passion, dedication, and his ability to bring a slice of paradise to the heart of Germany.
Photos courtesy Annex and Adelheid Wagner
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
Featured
World Art Day inspires new Graffiti Club at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has launched the Graffiti Club to mark World Art Day, introducing a team-led initiative focused on artistic expression, collaboration and storytelling through art.
The resort said the initiative brings together more than 18 team members from across different departments, reflecting a shared interest in creativity. As part of the project, selected back-of-house spaces have been turned into canvases, transforming staff areas into spaces for artistic work.
Inspired by the natural environment of the Maldives and the Maamunagau lagoon, the first set of artworks features marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. The resort said the designs reflect the biodiversity of the destination and its connection to the surrounding ocean. Additional artwork is also being developed as the project continues.
InterContinental Maldives said the initiative is rooted in its brand culture and service philosophy, Inspire Incredible, and is intended to support creativity, collaboration and self-expression among team members.
Renuka Gupta, cluster director of learning and development, said creativity exists in every individual, regardless of role or background. She said the initiative was created to provide team members with a space to express themselves, connect with colleagues and contribute to the environment in which they work each day.
The resort said the Graffiti Club forms part of its wider approach to workplace culture, with a focus on creativity, wellbeing and personal expression alongside the guest experience.
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