Culture
Uniting Raa Atoll: Cora Cora Maldives spearheads sustainability, cultural heritage through #ReconnectinRAA challenge
It’s Freedom Time! Cora Cora Maldives, a multi-award-winning, five-star luxury Maldivian resort located in the pristine Raa Atoll, has announced the launch of the #ReconnectinRAA challenge in a groundbreaking display of unity and commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage, set to take place in 2nd to 8th of August 2023 as part of the celebration for Fifty Two years of tourism in the Maldives.
The campaign, an ambitious 186km stand-up paddling circumnavigation of Raa Atoll by the resorts’ General Manager, Justin Swart, himself and Director of Human Resources, Muiz Mohamed, aims to inspire a passion for environmental conservation and cultural heritage, creating a ripple effect of positive change both locally and globally. This transformative initiative has united 18 resorts, 15 inhabited islands councils, environmental organisations, and the Ministry of Tourism, bringing the entire Raa Atoll together.
By fostering a shared vision, this campaign is breaking barriers and reconnecting the entire Raa Atoll using the threads and fibers woven by its rich culture and sustainable environment. “Through #ReconnectinRAA Challenge, Cora Cora Maldives has succeeded in uniting Raa Atoll into one powerful force, committed to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this magnificent country,” said Justin Swart, General Manager of Cora Cora Maldives. “Our goal is to create a lasting impact, not just within the atoll but also by inspiring similar initiatives worldwide through our Freedom Footprints Sustainability Programme.”
Cora Cora Maldives is taking its commitment to sustainability beyond the resort’s borders. The #ReconnectinRAA campaign serves as a testament to their dedication, extending the Freedom Footprints Program to encompass the entire Raa Atoll and serving as an inspiration for similar endeavours worldwide. Bringing together 18 resorts and 15 inhabited islands, the campaign aims to conduct the largest-ever beach clean-up in the atoll’s history, setting a powerful precedent for collective environmental action. Through Cora Cora Maldives’ initiative and with the support of partners and resorts, Raa Atoll becomes the first in the region to pledge the ban of single-use plastic shopping bags. Eco-friendly alternatives, such as reusable eco bags, will be distributed throughout the atoll, eliminating plastic waste, and setting an example for other communities.
The theme of the #ReconnectinRAA campaign, “Empowering Freedom Footprints of Change,” encapsulates the essence of this transformative movement. By reconnecting with nature, embracing cultural heritage, and standing together as a united community, Raa Atoll is poised to carve a path towards a greener, culturally rich future.
The #ReconnectinRAA campaign revolves around three essential aspects:
- Reconnect with Nature: By promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about environmental conservation, participants will forge a deeper bond with nature and recognize their crucial role in protecting it.
- Reconnect with Culture: By celebrating and preserving local traditions, music, dance, and artistic expressions, participants will connect with the rich tapestry of Maldivian heritage within Raa Atoll.
- Reconnect with the World: The event encourages participants to broaden their horizons and connect with the global community. Through the Zen Adventure of a Lifetime Campaign, people from around the world can participate, matching the distance covered during the challenge in their own communities. This global movement fosters a sense of interconnectedness and collective responsibility, inspiring individuals to make sustainable choices and contribute to positive change on a global scale. Upon completion, participants will receive Blue Tiki Coins, which will be used to plant Mangroves.
As part of the campaign, participants and stakeholders are encouraged to act and raise awareness on critical sustainability issues pledging to #BeatPlasticPollution, #SavetheOcean, and #Protect30x30.
Cora Cora Maldives offers its guests a one-of-a-kind immersive Maldivian cultural, experiential, and culinary experience while advocating for sustainability and environmental preservation. Comprising of 100 villas, four restaurants, two bars, MOKSHA Spa and Wellbeing Centre, water sports & diving centre, gym, overwater yoga pavilion, outdoor cinema, CoRa kids Club, and the Dutch Onion Museum. Cora Cora Maldives is 45-minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport or 30 minutes by domestic flight followed by a 20-minute speedboat journey. Cora Cora Maldives is the ultimate idyllic, island escape.
Culture
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives celebrates Maldivian heritage
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives showcases the archipelago nation’s rich Maldivian heritage to holidaymakers through specially curated guest experiences centred on exploration and learning.
Guests are invited to experience the “Spirit of the Maldives” Tuesday weekly event, which features a lavish buffet dinner with all the traditional favourites. Local Maldivian cuisine is influenced by the familiar flavours and spices used in Indian and Arabic cuisine. It has a particular emphasis on readily available foods such as fresh Tuna fish, chilli and coconut. The evening also includes a lively cultural performance of dance, song, music and light by the Kandooma Bodu Beru dance troupe, where rhythmic drumming, graceful movement and soulful singing tell stories of the islands’ history and folklore captivating the audience with their artistry. US $69++ for Adults and complimentary for Children (U12).
For those eager to delve deeper into the culinary traditions, “Maldivian Masterclasses” are held twice each week (3 pm to 4 pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays) and offer a group cooking class experience where participants can learn the secrets to the flavours and food combinations from the resort’s talented chefs. The experience is completed with a tasting session and recipes to recreate the dishes when they return home to share with family and friends. The classes are limited to 8 people. US $80 per person, adults only.
Discover your rhythm and beat in a complimentary “Bodu Beru Drumming Class” held each Saturday morning at the Resort. Learn about the relevance of Bodu Beru and the
large drums (traditionally made from coconut wood and covered with goat or manta ray skin) that provide a robust and captivating beat that often starts with a slow, steady rhythm that builds intensity and is accompanied by chanted lyrics. Complimentary for everyone.
“Our cultural showcase is a terrific opportunity for visitors to learn about the Maldives while staying with us. Whether they learn to play Bodu Beru, savour local delicacies, or enjoy a captivating performance, the experiences provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of island culture and make memories to last a lifetime,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
“It makes a big difference to the guest experience to have an international staff where foreign visitors can minimise language barriers, and we’re proud to do that for our key markets. But what guests remark on the most is how lovely it is to see Maldivian people working at Kandooma and sharing their stories and bright smiles. Our Maldivian team members have a special warmth about them, and when guests feel it too, it gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s very special.” he added.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives proudly aims to have a team comprised of more than 40% local Maldivian people. A key element of the resort’s Sustainability commitment is to support local communities and economies and promote the culture. In doing so, Mark Eletr says the team intends for guests to leave with special memories of their time in the Maldives and a deep sense of connection through the showcased activities and the experiences that will stay with them long beyond their visit.
Kandooma Maldives creates an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality while reflecting the genuine spirit of the Maldivian people.
Located in the South Male atoll just 40 minutes from the airport by boat, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful, natural island paradise. White sand beaches, swaying coconut palms and turquoise waters form the backdrop for leisure pursuits and some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas. Families are well catered for with a choice of 2- and 3-bed villas and the Kandoo Kids’ Club with its fun activities programme. Six food and beverage outlets ensure healthy appetites are satisfied and the flavours of the Maldives are explored. Guests seeking time out and relaxation will enjoy sun-loungers and hammocks dotted around the island. Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers a tranquil escape for body and mind.
Culture
JA Manafaru celebrates Maldives Independence Day with cultural week
The stunning all-natural resort paradise, JA Manafaru, invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Maldives during their Maldivian Cultural Week.
Located in Haa Alifu Atoll, they are proud to be “the Real Maldives and are promoting this by holding this weeklong event, held from July 22nd to July 26th, 2024.
This exciting week coincides with Maldives’ Independence Day and offers a unique opportunity to experience the island nation’s vibrant traditions and customs.
The festivities begin on July 22nd with a captivating tour of the resort’s cultural exhibit, Magey Hiyaa.
Excitement builds on July 23rd as the celebration continues with an unforgettable Maldivian night, where guests savour a traditional feast called served “Malaafaiy” style at Kakuni restaurant, followed by a mesmerising Boduberu performance.
On July 25th, a captivating Maldivian Cooking Class led by the talented Executive Chef, Chef Moosa Nazeeh, takes place at Kakuni. Guests can learn the secrets behind the country’s most beloved dishes.
The week culminates on July 26th, Maldives Independence Day, with a traditional flag-raising ceremony on the beach. Guests can join the national pride as the Maldivian National Anthem fills the air.
The celebrations conclude with a delightful Maldivian-themed afternoon tea featuring local delicacies served at the Veli Bar. As guests savour the flavours, they are enthralled by the rhythmic beats of another Boduberu performance.
“Maldivian Cultural Week is a fantastic opportunity for our guests to discover the heart and soul of the Maldives,” says Jason Kruse, General Manager at JA Manafaru. “We are thrilled to offer this immersive experience that allows guests to connect with the rich culture and traditions of our beautiful island nation.”
Experience the magic of the Maldives and immerse yourself in its culture at JA Manafaru during Maldivian Cultural Week. For reservations or inquiries, please contact reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com or via WhatsApp +960 766 0170.
Action
Anantara Kihavah launches initiative to bring Maldivian culture to life for guests
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has announced the launch of “Journey Through Maldivian Heritage,” an immersive cultural experience that aims to introduce the luxury resort’s guests to a variety of local customs and artisanal activities designed to celebrate the heritage and traditions of the Maldives.
Available every Thursday, this all-day initiative offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves fully in local heritage by making a genuine connection to the Maldivian people and their culture. From the moment guests wake up, they are treated to a wide selection of authentic Maldivian specialities at breakfast. Then as they stroll around the island, guests will see the team proudly dressed in traditional Maldivian attire. With guidance from the resort’s dedicated team and local artisans, guests will experience traditional corals, local cuisine, and cultural activities throughout the day.
Suitable for guests of all ages, the many engaging artisanal activities on offer include a Palm Leaf Weaving Workshop, where guests can learn traditional weaving techniques and create their own beautiful palm leaf corals such as ornaments, baskets, hats, and more. For those seeking a musical experience, the Bodu Beru Drum Class offers guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rhythm and movement of traditional Maldivian drumming and dance. Culinary explorers can participate in a hands-on Maldivian Cooking Class with a local master chef as he reveals the secrets of Maldivian cuisine.
As part of the fully immersive adventure, the Local Island Visit encourages guests to explore a nearby island and experience the local way of life up close. The Traditional Maldivian Sunset Fishing activity provides guests with an opportunity to try their hand at fishing using traditional methods against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. The Fishing Net Making Class, led by local experts, teaches the skill of making fishing nets that has been handed down across multiple generations. For the more active fun seekers, there is an unmissable opportunity to join in a Bashi Game, a traditional Maldivian sport which is similar to volleyball.
As the sun sets, the team and guests will gather for the mesmerising Bodu Beru Sundowner Ritual. Celebrating the end of the day, the ceremony begins with the lighting of torches before the rhythmic beats of a Maldivian bodu beru performance by the team combine to create an enchanting and unforgettable experience.
Anantara Kihavah is committed to offering guests an authentic and immersive experience that captures the heart and soul of the Maldives. Through these cultural activities, the resort aims to create lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Maldivian heritage.
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