Action
Hilton resorts in Maldives invite guests to once-in-a-lifetime diving experiences
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, introduce Dive with Hilton, a seasonal collection of distinct dive experiences that showcase the wonders of the archipelago’s world renowned marine biodiversity.
To mark the launch, marine biologist, master reef guide and underwater photographer Jacinta Shackleton will conduct a two-week residency beginning on July 17 through to August 1, 2023. This will provide ample opportunity for guests at all three resorts to join her on underwater excursions. Ms. Shackleton will also host marine conservation talks for adults and junior explorers alike.
Ms. Shackleton will be visiting Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa from July 17 to 22, followed by Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi from July 22 to 27. She will wrap up her residency at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island from July 27 to August 1, 2023.
All Dive with Hilton experiences are available from July 1, 2023 through September 30, 2023.
Vibrant Discoveries at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, North Male Atoll
North Male is one of the best-explored diving atolls, characterised by reefs, caves and drop-offs, and large wildlife such as reef sharks. Dive sites close to Hilton Maldives include Sandbank Reef, teeming with curious batfish and snappers; and Anemone Reef, known in the local Dhivehi language as a classic thila or submerged rock and coral formation, flourishing with clownfish, turtles and rays.
A five-night stay starts at $1,055++ per person per night and includes six dives, in addition to accommodation in a beach or overwater pool villa, daily half board, roundtrip premium speedboat transfers, and privileges such as a one-time signature treatment at Amingiri Spa. Intrepid guests who wish to extend are also able to book a seven-night stay inclusive of ten dives, beginning at $1,070++per person per night.
Unforgettable Experiences at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, South Male Atoll
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of South Male Atoll, the celebrated luxury resort offers access to 30 different dive sites, including four well-known shipwrecks, as well as snorkelling trips to view stingrays, nurse sharks and dolphins. Nighttime underwater expeditions highlight dramatic transformations as corals bloom into vivid colours.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives offers special savings on dive package rates beginning at $115++ per dive.
Impactful Encounters at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, South Ari Atoll
Guests of the twin-island resort enjoy enviably close proximity to marine megafauna. Whale sharks make their home in the protected South Ari Atoll Marine Park, the only location in the world where the gentle giants can be seen in their natural habitat every day of the year, while resident reef manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins also make frequent appearances.
Dive with Hilton packages at Conrad Maldives include a five-night stay with five dives at $650++ per person, while A seven-night stay from $920++ per person features nine dives. Luxurious villas are available starting from $950++ per night and must be booked separately.
These packages also include a captivating whale-shark encounter, a 60-minute spa treatment, a mixology masterclass, and complimentary access to non-motorised water sports activities such as kayaking and snorkelling.
Action
Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has introduced an exciting new activity for ocean enthusiasts: Conservation Snorkelling. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, this immersive experience allows participants to contribute to marine conservation efforts while exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of the Maldives. Combining education, exploration, and action, the initiative offers an enriching opportunity for visitors of all ages.
Participants engage in collecting critical data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, and writing slates, while learning to identify various fish species. They assess reef conditions and contribute to the protection of the local marine environment. The findings are then discussed with Mohamed Shah, providing deeper insights into the marine life of the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.
This activity is a key component of Sun Siyam Cares, the resort’s initiative focused on environmental protection and community support. Families, young couples, and other guests can participate in global conservation efforts through the Coral Watch citizen science project. The activity is open to strong swimmers aged eight and above who feel comfortable snorkelling.
“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we strive to protect the stunning natural environment around us,” said Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager. “Through activities like Conservation Snorkelling, we encourage guests to explore and actively contribute to ocean conservation.”
Action
Game, set, paradise: Petra Kvitová and Hideaway Beach Resort elevate luxury sports experiences
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa recently hosted legendary tennis player Petra Kvitová, captivating guests with her remarkable presence and inspiring passion for tennis. During her stay, the two-time Wimbledon champion conducted exclusive tennis classes, giving guests a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s top athletes.
Petra Kvitová, a celebrated Czech tennis star, has had an illustrious career highlighted by two Grand Slam titles and numerous accolades on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful left-handed game and extraordinary resilience, she has inspired fans worldwide. Her tennis classes at Hideaway were dynamic and filled with invaluable insights, creating memorable experiences for tennis enthusiasts and guests alike.
The festive season at the resort commenced with Padel professional Hernan Flores offering Padel lessons for both guests and staff, followed by consecutive tennis workshops led by tennis stars Petra Kvitová and Elena Vesnina. Both athletes conducted specialised tennis sessions for adults and children, helping participants enhance their skills and deepen their appreciation for the sport.
Nestled in the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is renowned for its exceptional service, luxurious villas, and world-class amenities. Boasting immaculate beaches and exclusive experiences, the resort provides an idyllic escape for discerning travellers. With professional tennis courts and wellness facilities, including a Bali-inspired spa and in-house yoga instruction, Hideaway offers tennis enthusiasts the perfect setting to refine their game while enjoying the serene paradise.
As one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, located in the remote Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway offers an extensive range of activities. These include a 5-hole golf putting green, an indoor golf simulator, Padel courts, indoor badminton, table tennis, and a state-of-the-art gym. Guests can also explore the island’s lush vegetation and scenic pathways by bicycle, combining leisure with exercise. For joggers, the island features excellent routes, approximately 1.4 kilometres long and 500 meters wide, providing a natural and invigorating fitness option.
Steve Cook, a fitness professional and former guest, remarked, “How often do you get a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, cycle along sand pathways, and run through lush tropical landscapes? Hideaway Beach Resort is not just a retreat—it’s a paradise for fitness and adventure enthusiasts looking to embrace challenges in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.”
As an award-winning luxury resort, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa continues to set the standard for recreation and relaxation in the Maldives. It offers guests more than just a vacation—delivering an unparalleled hideaway experience.
Action
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives presents Active Escapes 2025
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of the Active Escapes retreats in 2025. The week-long Active Escapes Maldives Festival will be held from 27 April to 4 May 2025 at the private island resort. This event is set to be the largest Active Escapes event of the year, attracting those who enjoy combining energetic recreation with a serene holiday atmosphere. Prices for the retreat start from US$2,600++ per person, twin share.
Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed excitement about collaborating with Active Escapes again in 2025. “The week-long retreat-style festival offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for individuals who prioritise health and fitness while on vacation or are looking to start fresh,” she said.
Garrett further noted, “It’s not a boot camp where you feel deprived of all the enjoyable aspects. On an Active Escapes retreat, guests can indulge in delicious cuisine prepared by the resort’s talented chefs and enjoy an impressive drinks list. The concept is to work out hard during the day and reward yourself in the evening.”
Active Escapes curates experiences that cater to a wide range of preferences, from water-based activities like snorkelling and kayaking to scuba diving and more. In addition to aqua-centric pursuits, there is also time for holistic well-being. This includes yoga sessions against the backdrop of breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, visiting the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala in the resort gardens, or simply taking a moment to relax and reflect by the beach with the soothing sounds of the waves. Active Escapes emphasises both the thrill of leisure pursuits and group fitness activities, as well as the tranquility and balance that can be achieved by embracing nature’s beauty and being present in this island paradise.
The Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 is all about having fun and attracting people from all around the world. It’s not solely for fitness enthusiasts; on the contrary, it offers a welcoming environment where the goal is for participants to leave a bit fitter than when they arrived in the Maldives, although the ultimate decision on participation level is up to them. There are varying degrees of difficulty in the program to ensure that those seeking a more intense workout feel challenged, while those needing a less intense workout are well catered for.
Active Escapes are particularly popular with solo travellers, who make up half of their bookings globally. The main age group is 20-40 years, although there have been guests in their late 50s on occasion.
The seven-night Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 hosts have been confirmed as the highly popular Peter Day and Nathan Ryles. ‘Second Release’ Packages start from US$2,600 per person twin share (excluding flights) and US$3,500 for a single room, and include:
- Shared speedboat transfer airport-island-airport (Day 1 and Final Day)
- 7 nights accommodation at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
- Daily brunch at Kandooma Cafe (except on arrival day)
- Nightly dinner at Kandooma Cafe (except on departure day)
- Fitness, yoga, and other activities daily (starting on Day 2)
- Choose your activity (surfing, SUP, shark snorkelling)
- Snorkel Maldives Reef boat trip
- Free scuba dive (certified divers only, terms and conditions apply)
- Breath work and ice baths
- Live music and DJs
- Open mic night
- Themed party day
- Reverse raffle – lots of prizes to be won!
- Photo package
- Active Escapes welcome pack
-
Featured1 week ago
Six Senses Laamu honoured for groundbreaking marine conservation initiatives
-
Celebration1 week ago
Sheraton Maldives launches holiday festivities with Christmas Tree lighting
-
Featured7 days ago
SAii Lagoon Maldives achieves Gold certification for sustainability excellence
-
Excursions1 week ago
Fuvahmulah triumphs at 2024 DRT show as Best Shark Diving spot
-
Featured6 days ago
JW Marriott Maldives unveils luxury wellness escape
-
Awards1 week ago
Forbes Travel Guide ranks Maldives among top destinations for 2025
-
Celebration6 days ago
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes Santa on scooters for festive island Christmas
-
Featured5 days ago
ELE|NA champions mindfulness on World Digital Detox Day