Global hospitality group The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort, LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives has been recognised as Top 10 in the Best Resorts for Families, Best Resort Pools, and Best House Reefs categories at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. These awards reinforce the resort’s position as one of the Maldives’ leading luxury island destinations, celebrated for its exceptional guest experiences, world-class facilities and extraordinary natural surroundings.

Presented annually by Travel + Leisure, the Luxury Awards Asia Pacific honours the region’s most outstanding hotels, resorts, destinations and travel experiences, as voted by the publication’s discerning readers.

Nestled within the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area – the only year-round whale shark aggregation site in the world, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a distinctive interpretation of contemporary island luxury, where thoughtful hospitality, immersive experiences and meaningful connections with nature come together to create memorable stays for guests of all ages.

The awards celebrate the diversity of experiences that define the resort, from thoughtfully curated family moments and two expansive swimming pools overlooking the Indian Ocean to direct access to a vibrant house reef, where guests can discover extraordinary marine life in one of the world’s most remarkable underwater environments.

Spanning a two-kilometre-long island, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers 192 beach and overwater villas and pavilions designed for couples, families and multi-generational travellers. The resort’s newest accommodation category, the Temptation Beach Pool Villa, features generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, a private pool and beach access.

For families, the resort offers a wide range of activities across the island, including the PLAY kids’ club, a dedicated programme for teenagers, island treasure hunts, creative workshops and marine-based experiences. Guests can also enjoy 40 complimentary activities during their stay, offering a varied programme of leisure, wellness, sports and discovery.

The resort features eight restaurants and five bars, with dining concepts ranging from Italian and Japanese cuisine to Indian Ocean flavours and international menus. Its award-winning LUX* ME Spa offers personalised treatments, wellness rituals and holistic therapies, complemented by the LUX* curated healthy cuisine – Keen On Green.

As an eco-luxury resort that focuses on sustainability, guided snorkelling and diving experiences, marine conservation initiatives and signature LUX* Extraordinary Experiences, such as Swimming with Whale Sharks, allow guests to experience unique year-round whale shark encounters and to explore one of the Maldives’ most notable marine ecosystems.

General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll John Rogers said: “We are truly honoured to be voted once again by the readers of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia across three award categories that reflect the diverse experiences we offer. These recognitions are testament to the passion and dedication of our team and our continued commitment to creating extraordinary experiences that help our guests celebrate life.”

These recognitions further strengthen LUX* South Ari Atoll’s reputation as Maldives’ leading luxury island resort, steeped in distinctive hospitality, exceptional guest experiences and enduring commitment to excellence.

For reservations or further information, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

As travellers increasingly prioritise meaningful time together, multi-generational holidays and private group escapes are reshaping the luxury travel landscape. Responding to this growing demand, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, a Hyatt resort, offers thoughtfully designed two-bedroom accommodations that combine generous living spaces with the resort’s signature understated luxury, creating an idyllic setting for families and friends to reconnect amidst the natural beauty of the Maldives.

While the Maldives has long been synonymous with romantic escapes, today’s travellers are embracing a different kind of luxury—one centred on shared experiences, quality time, and the freedom to travel together without compromising privacy. At Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, the Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas and the exclusive Boduge Residence have been designed to support these evolving travel preferences while remaining deeply connected to the island’s pristine environment.

Space Designed for Togetherness

Set along the island’s powder-soft shoreline, the Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa offers 265 square metres of thoughtfully planned indoor and outdoor living. Featuring one king bedroom and one twin bedroom, spacious living and dining areas, an enclosed bathroom with separate bathtub and shower, and a lush private garden with swimming pool and sun deck, the villa provides ample room for families to spend quality time together while enjoying moments of quiet retreat. Every stay is complemented by the attentive service of a dedicated villa host, ensuring a seamless and personalised island experience.

A Private Residence for Life’s Special Gatherings

For milestone celebrations, extended family holidays, or intimate group escapes, the Boduge Residence offers Alila Kothaifaru Maldives’ most exclusive accommodation.

Spanning 395 square metres (4,251 sq ft), the residence features 235 square metres (2,530 sq ft) of elegant indoor living space with two beautifully appointed bedrooms—a king-bedded master suite, a twin bedroom and a dedicated service room with twin bedding, expansive living and dining areas, a kitchenette, maid’s room, premium amenities, and dedicated villa host service.

Its 160-square-metre (1,722 sq ft) outdoor sanctuary is designed for effortless island living, complete with a 45-square-metre private pool, spacious sun deck, outdoor dining area, wooden swing, and poolside BBQ—inviting guests to linger over shared meals, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy uninterrupted time together beneath the Maldivian sky.

For larger groups, the Boduge Residence can seamlessly connect to a neighbouring villa, creating a spacious three-bedroom retreat while preserving the privacy and tranquillity that define the Alila experience.

“Luxury today is increasingly defined by the quality of time we spend with the people who matter most,” says Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “Our two-bedroom accommodations were created to give families and groups the space to reconnect naturally, while immersing themselves in the calm, simplicity, and extraordinary beauty of our island. It’s an experience that reflects Alila’s philosophy of thoughtful luxury—where every detail is intentionally designed to foster meaningful moments.”

Rooted in Nature, Guided by Design

Home to 81 private pool villas, including 41 Beach Pool Villas, 36 Overwater Pool Villas, three Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas, and the exclusive Boduge Residence, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is defined by architecture that complements rather than competes with its surroundings.

Designed by Singapore-based Studiogoto, the resort embraces clean architectural lines, natural materials, and open spaces that blur the boundaries between indoors and out. Every accommodation has been carefully integrated into the island landscape, reinforcing Alila’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, mindful hospitality, and a deep respect for place.

Beyond the Villa

Surrounded by the vibrant marine life of Raa Atoll, guests enjoy direct access to exceptional snorkelling and diving, immersive wellness experiences at Spa Alila, and thoughtfully curated Alila Moments that celebrate Maldivian culture and nature.

Families can also enjoy quality time beyond the beach through the resort’s padel tennis court, outdoor game area, and Play Alila activities designed for younger guests, creating fun shared experiences for every generation.

Whether discovering local traditions, exploring the island’s rich biodiversity, or enjoying the resort’s signature Shack Sundowner on a secluded sandbank, every experience is designed to encourage genuine connection—to the destination and to one another.

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.alilahotels.com/kothaifaru-maldives.

JOALI Maldives has announced its recognition as the No. 2 Resort in Asia and No. 3 in the World’s Top 100 Hotels in the prestigious Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026.

Celebrating the world’s most exceptional hotels, resorts, cities, islands, airlines, and travel experiences, the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are among the most respected recognitions in global hospitality, determined by the votes and experiences of the publication’s international readership.

This remarkable achievement reflects JOALI Maldives’ continued commitment to redefining contemporary luxury through its philosophy of Joy of Creative Living – a unique approach where art, nature, wellbeing, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create deeply meaningful experiences.

Since opening as the Maldives’ first art-immersive luxury resort, JOALI Maldives has introduced a new expression of island living, inviting guests to discover a destination where creativity and connection are woven into every detail. From immersive art installations and bespoke culinary journeys to transformative wellbeing experiences and intuitive service, every element of the resort is thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity, imagination, and joy.

A Destination Where Art, Nature and Hospitality Intertwine

Located on Muravandhoo Island in the pristine Raa Atoll, just 45 minutes by seaplane from Malé, JOALI Maldives offers a sanctuary where guests can reconnect with nature while experiencing a world shaped by creativity and craftsmanship.

The resort’s philosophy of Creative Living is brought to life through collaborations with renowned artists and artisans, immersive installations across the island, and experiences that encourage guests to engage with art beyond traditional boundaries. From exploring the island’s living galleries to participating in curated creative journeys, every stay becomes an opportunity for discovery and self-expression.

Villas & Residences: Private Worlds of Creative Living

Set among lush tropical landscapes and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, JOALI Maldives features 73 beach and overwater villas and residences, each designed as a private sanctuary blending refined luxury, natural beauty, and artistic expression.

Inspired by the rhythm of island life, the villas showcase contemporary architecture complemented by natural materials, handcrafted details, and bespoke artworks. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame uninterrupted ocean views, while private pools and expansive outdoor spaces create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

Each residence reflects JOALI Maldives’ belief that luxury should be personal and meaningful, with every space thoughtfully curated to tell its own story. Guests may choose from elegant Beach Villas, iconic Water Villas, and expansive multi-bedroom Residences, each offering exceptional privacy and tailored experiences.

Every villa is accompanied by a dedicated Jadugar, meaning “magician” in Dhivehi. More than a traditional butler, the Jadugar provides intuitive and personalised hospitality, anticipating guests’ needs and creating memorable moments throughout their stay – from private dining experiences and island adventures to celebrations crafted around individual preferences.

Guests are also invited to explore the island at their own pace with complimentary bicycles, discovering hidden pathways, tropical gardens, and serene viewpoints that reveal the natural beauty of Muravandhoo.

Celebrating a Shared Vision of Excellence

This recognition is a testament to the passion and dedication of the entire JOALI Maldives team, whose commitment brings the spirit of Creative Living to life every day. It also celebrates the trust and support of guests, partners, and the wider JOALI community, whose appreciation continues to inspire the resort’s pursuit of excellence.

As JOALI Maldives continues its journey, the resort remains devoted to creating transformative experiences that celebrate imagination, wellbeing, and meaningful connection.

For those seeking more than a holiday, JOALI Maldives offers a destination where every stay becomes a story, every moment inspires, and every experience embodies the Joy of Creative Living.