News
Amari Raaya Maldives: Castaway celebrations
Set on one of the lushest natural islands in the Raa Atoll and set to open on August 1, Amari Raaya Maldives celebrates the art and beauty of the archipelago’s natural riches.
With design inspired by the surrounding natural flora and fauna, the resort offers a sense of castaway and celebration. Not only does the resort celebrate the locale and wonders of Maldives but also provides a sense of place for families, friends and couples to celebrate life’s best moments through a myriad of experiences and spaces to enjoy and explore together.
The island’s 187 villas, surrounded by untouched reefs and tropical palms, each give a distinct experience and moments to treasure. With direct access to the beach, guests can select from Beach Villa to Beach pool Villa or interconnecting Family Beach Villas with shared private outdoor living space for quality time together.
The Ocean Villas and Ocean Pool Villas overlook the azure blue teaming with local marine life. Guests who will enjoy the beautiful hues of sunset from the privacy of their villas, can select the Sunset Ocean Villas or Sunset Ocean Pool Villas.
Guests can explore their palette through multiple dining experiences across the resort’s eight dining options. Each dining destination offers something special, from famous street – food and bustling hawker food stalls at the signature Amaya Food Gallery to sunset snacks and cocktails on rooftop bar Ampers&nd, Italian favourites served poolside and sumptuous freshly caught seafood daily combined with deep flavours of the Maldives and from across Asia. The mobile snacks and drinks served from a bus adds a bit of fun to the guests’ adventure. In the evening, guests can find community through live music, traditional Boduberu nights and regular cultural events and festivities.
Beyond the fun in the sea, sun and sand, Amari Raaya Maldives also offers incredible adventures including The Village Hub – recreational area with café, retails space and access to the resort’s Maai Spa, for young adventures, the Kids Club with an outdoor and indoor play area filled with zip line, archery, trampoline, skateboard park and many more. The island is home to a 9-hole mini gold course, multi-function court with paddle tennis, badminton, an art zone area for the creative minds and natural mangrove area for guests to explore. A paradise for underwater lovers, Amari Raaya Maldives is surrounded by a bustling coral reef, home to marine life including eagle rays, manta rays and other diverse marine life.
Interwoven into the resort experience is the fictitious Seb’s adventure – a shipwrecked artist who made the island his home. This castaway story frames the resort’s experience, showcasing the remnants of Seb’s life including an Art and Crafts studio, which features workshops and activities from local artists for guests to enjoy, his ship and jutting above the lush island grounds three watch towers converted to private dining and star gazing venues. The island is also home to natural mangrove with walking path ideal for exploring.
Experience the new Amari Raaya Maldives with amazing opening promotional rate that includes 40 per cent discount on villas and extra perks for guests to enjoy. For more information https://www.amari.com/raaya-maldives/special-offer
News
Bandos Maldives marks 53 years of hospitality with guest celebration
Bandos Maldives marked its 53rd anniversary on 10 December 2025 with a heartfelt celebration alongside in-house guests. The celebration honoured more than five decades of service since the resort first opened on 10 December 1972, becoming one of the earliest pioneers of Maldivian tourism.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager Ismail Rasheed thanked everyone who has been part of Bandos’ journey, including long-time guests, partners, and the dedicated team that has carried the resort forward. He noted that reaching 53 years is a remarkable achievement built on consistency, care, and the spirit of hospitality that Bandos is known for. He also shared that the resort is preparing for an exciting phase of improvements in the years ahead.
Bandos has continued to grow its reputation recently, earning multiple international awards over the past years for its exceptional service, family experiences and diving. The resort is also proud to be a Green Globe certified property, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism
Bandos has plans for upgrades with focus on fresh designs, improved comfort, and modern amenities to elevate the overall guest experience while maintaining the classic charm that many loyal visitors love.
With its long heritage, strong values, and continued focus on innovation, Bandos Maldives remains committed to offering memorable island experiences for travellers from around the world.
Entertainment
Hulhule Island Hotel names 2ofus as New Year’s Eve 2026 headline act
Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced 2ofus as the main entertainment for its New Year’s Eve 2026 festive events. The highly sought-after musical band has partnered with HIH to bring an unforgettable night of performance, energy, and celebration to guests.
Known for their exceptional talent and stage presence, 2ofus has reached remarkable heights in the music scene, participating in and performing at international competitions and concerts. Their collaboration with HIH marks an exciting addition to the hotel’s festive lineup.
Renowned as the most popular festive destination in the Greater Malé Area, HIH continues its tradition of delivering vibrant, world-class celebrations. This year, the hotel once again promises a festive season filled with elegance, entertainment, and the signature warmth HIH is known for.
Commenting on the partnership, Group General Manager, Ali Shakir said: “Signing with 2ofus for New Year’s Eve is truly special for us. They are one of the most in-demand acts during the festive season, and we are delighted to have them onboard. Their energy and talent are unmatched, and we are confident that HIH will once again be the place to be this New Year’s Eve. Our team is committed to creating a celebration that brings our guests joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories.”
For 2026, HIH unveils exclusive celebrations, granting guests access to multi-venue experiences, curated staycation packages, diverse multi-cuisine dining, and a range of thoughtfully designed festive highlights.
With limited slots available, guests are encouraged to secure their bookings early for the best experience.
For more information or reservations, please contact +960 762 2667 or email events@hih.com.mv
News
The Standard, Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification after rigorous audit
The Standard, Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification, recognizing the resort’s comprehensive and continuous dedication to sustainable operations and management. This monumental achievement underscores the property’s commitment to protecting the pristine Maldivian environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility across all aspects of its unique island experience.
The certification follows a rigorous auditing process that evaluated The Standard, Maldives’ performance in energy and water conservation, waste management, social responsibility, and sustainable procurement. A key highlight of the resort’s innovative sustainability initiatives is the introduction of the Zero Capsule Machine System for Coffee. By replacing traditional single-use capsules with eco-friendly coffee balls, the resort has achieved an estimated reduction of over 25,000 pieces of non-biodegradable coffee capsules annually, substantially minimizing plastic and aluminium waste and setting a new, greener standard for in-room and dining beverage service.
Furthermore, as part of our commitment to local support and Green Globe sustainability standards, The Standard, Maldives has actively strengthened its local supply chain. For the past three months, the resort has been consistently sourcing fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and lettuce from a local farm, Maldivian Mermaid, on a nearby island. This initiative not only strengthens our relationship with the local community but also:
- Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation.
- Supports regional agriculture and local island economies.
- Optimizes logistical efficiency by easing storage demands on regular supply boat from Malé, ensuring imported items are kept at the correct temperature. The redefining agriculture farm delivers directly to the resort using their own boat, streamlining the process.
“Achieving Green Globe Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who embody our commitment to sustainability every day,” says Justin Swart, General Manager The Standard, Maldives. “Our goal is to demonstrate that lifestyle, luxury and responsible travel can, and must, go hand in hand. Initiatives like the Zero Capsule Machine System and our growing partnership with local farmers like Maldivian Mermaid, show our proactive approach to finding practical, impactful solutions that preserve the incredible natural beauty surrounding us for generations to come.”
Moving forward, The Standard, Maldives will continue to implement and expand its sustainability programs, focusing on marine conservation, further reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing local community engagement, all while ensuring guests enjoy the playful, yet mindful, hospitality the brand is known for. The resort looks forward to contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives and the broader travel industry.
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