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
‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives
The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.
A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.
Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.
Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.
Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.
Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.
News
Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities
Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.
For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.
News
Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay
Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.
A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.
Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.
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