News
Amari Raaya Maldives’ opening offer: 40% off, free seaplane transfers, and more
Amari Raaya Maldives, the Maldives’ newest luxury destination resort, welcomed its first guests on August 1. In celebration, Amari Raaya Maldives has announced an exclusive opening offer for guests to be some of the first to experience this un-touched island haven, with 40% off room rates, complimentary seaplane transfers for two, a 30-minute private photo shoot, and a memorable group sunset cruise.
The brand-new resort is located on one of the largest natural islands in Raa Atoll – easily accessible just 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport. Amari Raaya has been sympathetically designed with much of the lush forest and exquisite natural beauty preserved.
This large island, with its natural greenery and wide range of activities and experiences, presents quite a different option to the ‘typical’ Maldives experiences and, whilst romantic experiences are aplenty, also works well for families and groups. There is much to explore, activities such as diving with the certified PADI instructors to spot the local sea turtles – or swimming with whale sharks, paddle-boarding, jet-skiing or kayaking on the azure blue waters. Extra special experiences are also on offer such as welcoming sundown from atop a canopy of palms or dining on a private corner of the beach.
Couples, families or friends can enjoy spectacular dining, exciting activities and unobstructed ocean views from 187 beach and ocean villas – which each offer direct access to the beach or ocean.
Explore untouched nature
Guests looking to escape the world and relish exquisite natural beauty should look no further. Situated on one of the largest natural islands in Raa Atoll, at 390,000 square metres (39 hectares), Amari Raaya has been sympathetically designed with much of the lush forest reserved for guest enjoyment, including a natural mangrove with forest trails for walking, and sky-high watchtower views to enjoy. Interwoven into the experience is the fictional story of Seb, a portrait artist who was shipwrecked on the island and who has inspired the resort’s concept. Discover the remnants of his castaway story, including his art studio, ship and watchtowers converted to private dining and star-gazing venues.
For families
Not just for couples, Amari Raaya Maldives offers comprehensive facilities for young children and teenagers, from sports to play areas. The kids’ club offers fun for all ages – younger children can enjoy arts and crafts whilst older children can venture out armed with a map and compass in search of puzzles, art and treasure. Families and groups can opt for a Family Beach or Family Beach Pool Villa, a unique accommodation style, offering two-interconnected villas and a shared private outdoor living space for quality time together.
For activity hunters and thrill seekers
The local reef is home to an abundance of ocean life including sea turtles, and in season the famous bioluminescent plankton. Venture into the deep blue Indian Ocean and dive with the onsite certified PADI instructors – spot the local sea turtles, or enjoy fun-filled water activities. Alternatively, guests can try archery, zip lines, mini-golf, paddle tennis, badminton, or take a dip in the two stunning pools.
For romance and relaxation
Romance knows no bounds at Amari Raaya Maldives. Start the day with one of the Maldives’ most iconic experiences – a floating breakfast served in your very own private pool. Relax in the sumptuous Maai Spa, offering unique, personalised treatments inspired by Thai traditions. Later, enjoy a candlelit dinner on the beach surrounded by fresh flower petals as the sun sets beyond the ocean. Alternatively, dine beneath the island’s lush forest canopy, with twinkling lights providing an atmosphere of true romance.
For foodies
Guests will be in gastronomy heaven with seven dining options serving up vibrant flavours, combining Thai, Asian, Maldivian and International cuisine. Each dining destination offers something special, from bustling hawker food stalls at the signature Amaya Food Gallery to sunset snacks and cocktails on rooftops, Italian favourites served poolside, mobile snacks and ice-creams served from a bus, and sumptuous freshly caught seafood daily.
For bucket-list experiences
Those looking to tick something extra special from their life to-do list can take their pick from experiences including welcoming sundown from atop a canopy of palms or dining on a private corner of the beach whilst feeling the sand between your toes and watching the sun slip from the horizon. Or how about the thrill of swimming with whale sharks beneath the ocean waves, or paddle-boarding, jet-skiing or kayaking on the azure blue waters – moments never to be forgotten.
Opening Offer: Up to 40% off stays, complimentary transfers for two, a 30-minute private photo shoot, and a memorable group sunset cruise. The offer is valid for bookings made between 1st August to 23rd December 2023, creating an opportunity for travellers to be among the first to experience this paradise island destination. Rates start from USD 420++ (approximately 380 GBP) per villa per night with daily breakfast.
For reservations and more information, visit the official website of Amari Raaya Maldives.
News
The St. Regis Maldives celebrates 10 years with global chefs, bartenders and artists
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, the award-winning private island resort in Dhaalu Atoll, will commemorate its 10th anniversary from November 10–20, 2026, with a 10-day celebration bringing together internationally acclaimed chefs, award-winning bartenders, immersive wellness experiences, family-friendly activities, artistic collaborations, and marine conservation initiatives. Marking a decade since welcoming its first guests in November 2016, the milestone celebrates the resort’s legacy of exceptional service, distinctive design, world-class dining, and bespoke island experiences in one of the Maldives’ most extraordinary destinations.
Since its debut, the resort has become renowned for its striking architecture inspired by the surrounding natural landscape, hallmark St. Regis service, expansive villas, vibrant house reef, and commitment to sustainability. The resort continues to attract discerning travelers, couples, and families seeking meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most sought-after island destinations.
The anniversary celebration begins on November 10 with a sunset cocktail reception overlooking the Indian Ocean, welcoming guests, associates, and partners to mark the occasion. Throughout the evening, guests will revisit a collection of the resort’s most memorable cocktails, including creations that have become part of The St. Regis Maldives’ story.
During the reception, guests will also be invited to participate in a special coral restoration initiative in partnership with Reefscapers. Together, they will create a coral frame in the shape of the number 10, which will be installed on the resort’s thriving house reef as a living tribute to its first decade and ongoing efforts to support marine conservation in the Maldives. The evening concludes with a celebratory beach dinner under the stars, featuring a specially curated menu of dishes that have defined the resort’s quintessential dining experiences over the past decade.
At the heart of the anniversary programme is a series of collaborations with internationally recognized tastemakers whose work embodies craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural exchange.
In collaboration with Fann Art Therapie, guests of all ages can participate in Mandala String Art workshops from November 11-12. Inspired by mindfulness and art therapy, the workshops will invite guests to express their own island stories through art, creating a personal reminder of their time on Vommuli Island.

Felice Capasso, recipient of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025 title, will take over The Whale Bar for a special guest bartending appearance on November 11. As part of the celebration, he has created the Bright Mary—his contemporary interpretation of the iconic St. Regis Bloody Mary, paying tribute to one of the brand’s most enduring traditions.

Adding another sensory dimension to the celebration, Louise Farina, ninth-generation descendant of the historic Farina est. 1709 fragrance house, will present perfume masterclasses on November 14 and 16, alongside an immersive dining experience on November 15 inspired by the signature notes of the Original Eau de Cologne. Guests can also enjoy a limited-edition Farina-inspired cocktail, available at The Whale Bar from November 14–20.

The culinary programme culminates with Alexander Herrmann, the acclaimed German chef, restaurateur, television personality, and bestselling author behind the two-Michelin-starred AURA by Alexander Herrmann & Tobias Bätz. During an exclusive evening at Decanter, the resort’s intimate underground wine cellar, Herrmann will present a bespoke wine-pairing dinner on November 19, followed by a masterclass on November 20, offering guests a rare insight into his contemporary approach to gastronomy.

The anniversary celebration concludes on November 20 with a sunset cocktail reception overlooking the Indian Ocean, bringing together guests, associates, and partners to mark the resort’s first decade.
“Over the past ten years, we have had the privilege of sharing in some of life’s most treasured moments with our guests,” says Ozgur Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “From the beginning of lifelong journeys and once-in-a-lifetime romantic escapes to cherished family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and memorable personal achievements, each stay has contributed to the rich story of our resort. These shared experiences with guests from around the world have shaped the spirit and legacy of The St. Regis Maldives. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we honor not only our guests, whose trust and loyalty have inspired us throughout the years, but also the dedicated associates whose passion, commitment, and pursuit of excellence have made The St. Regis Maldives the iconic destination it is today.”
As The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort enters its second decade, the resort remains dedicated to delivery extraordinary guest experiences while championing sustainable tourism, marine conservation and the timeless spirit of bespoke island hospitality.
Discover more about The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort at stregismaldives.com.
Awards
Reethi Faru Resort celebrates culinary team’s success at Hotel Asia and FHAM
Reethi Faru Resort has announced three medal wins by members of its culinary team at the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge and the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge.
At the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge, Chef Rohit Kabdal received a Gold Medal in the Decorated Cake category, recognising his work in cake design, presentation and technical execution.
Chef Abhishek Sharma also represented Reethi Faru Resort at the competition, earning a Bronze Medal in the Hot Cooking Fish category.
At the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge, Chef Mayank Bijalwan secured a Silver Medal in the Dress the Cake category, adding a third medal to the resort’s recent culinary achievements.
The results highlight the range of skills within Reethi Faru Resort’s culinary team, spanning pastry, cake presentation and hot kitchen techniques.
According to the resort, participation in professional culinary competitions provides its chefs with opportunities to develop their skills, exchange knowledge and test their abilities alongside other industry professionals.
The achievements also form part of Reethi Faru Resort’s wider focus on dining and guest experience, with its culinary team involved across the resort’s restaurants and food and beverage offerings.
Reethi Faru Resort congratulated Kabdal, Bijalwan and Sharma on their respective achievements, describing the results as recognition of their commitment, technical ability and creativity.
The three medals add to the resort’s recent culinary accolades and reflect its continued emphasis on professional development within its kitchen team.
Cruising
Ifuru Island Maldives unveils ‘Echoes of the Ocean and Stars’ festive programme
Ifuru Island Maldives will celebrate the 2026 festive season with “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars”, an immersive Christmas and New Year programme running from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027.
Inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldivian ocean, the night sky and the festive season, the theme will bring together marine and celestial elements across the resort’s décor, entertainment, dining, activities and guest experiences.
At the centre of the concept is the idea that the ocean carries memories, while the stars represent dreams and new beginnings. Rather than presenting the festive season as a series of standalone events, Ifuru Island plans to create a connected journey spanning Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas.
The visual identity of “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will combine an underwater-inspired world with celestial elements. Bioluminescent-inspired colours, reef motifs and glowing details will be paired with stars, constellations and moonlit features throughout the resort.

The colour palette will include deep ocean blue and midnight navy alongside pearl white, silver, soft turquoise, pink and purple, with accents of celestial gold. Coral forms, waves, shells and reef-inspired features will be combined with stars and festive details, giving traditional Christmas elements an interpretation inspired by Ifuru Island’s natural surroundings.
The concept will extend beyond decorations to dining, entertainment, activities, uniforms, signage and festive communications.
The resort said the theme is also intended to reflect the emotions associated with the festive period. The ocean represents peace, connection and possibility, while the stars symbolise hope, dreams, guidance and new beginnings.
The festive journey will begin on 21 December and continue through 10 January, encompassing Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Eve on 24 December will feature festive dining and entertainment, while Christmas Day on 25 December will centre on family celebrations and relaxed island experiences.
On 31 December, Ifuru Island will mark New Year’s Eve with the main celebration of the festive period, before welcoming 2027 on New Year’s Day with activities centred around the island setting and surrounding ocean.

Celebrations will continue from 1 to 10 January during the Orthodox festive period, including Orthodox Christmas.
According to the resort, the broader concept is intended to connect the entire guest experience, with the island’s natural environment forming part of the festive setting. The ocean will provide inspiration during the day, while the night sky will shape the atmosphere after sunset.
Dining experiences, entertainment and activities will each form part of the wider “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” narrative, giving guests different experiences throughout their stay while maintaining a consistent creative theme.
The programme is designed for guests travelling with family, friends or loved ones, with Ifuru Island aiming to combine its natural surroundings with festive celebrations and shared experiences.
The full festive programme, including entertainment, activities, culinary experiences and special events, will be announced separately.
“Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will run at Ifuru Island Maldives from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027. Christmas Eve will be marked on 24 December, Christmas Day on 25 December, New Year’s Eve on 31 December, New Year’s Day on 1 January and the Orthodox festive period from 1 to 10 January 2027.
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