Lifestyle

JOALI crafts next generation of luxury, ethical tourism in Maldives

Published

1 year ago

August 8, 2023

Nestled in the pristine waters of the Maldives, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING are two ultra-luxury resorts that have made sustainability their top priority. With a strong focus on preserving the environment, empowering communities, nurturing well-being, and conserving resources, these resorts are setting new standards in eco-conscious luxury travel.

Joy of preserving

At the heart of JOALI’s sustainability efforts is the JOALI Reef Restoration Programme (JRRP), which aims to restore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the resorts. “Coral reefs are the rainforests of the ocean, and their preservation is crucial for the health of our marine ecosystems,” says Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING. The JRRP assists in the natural recovery of the reefs, which have suffered losses due to coral bleaching and climate change. Guests are also encouraged to participate in regular coral planting activities, a vital component of ecological restoration in the Maldives.

To combat ocean waste, the JOALI team conducts frequent dives to remove plastic and other types of waste from the waters around the island. The resorts also organise clean-ups of uninhabited islands nearby and facilitate the removal of ghost gear with the Olive Ridley Project.

Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING, explains, “We take pride and joy in managing our own impact on the environment and promoting ecological resilience. We have partnered with local and global conservation organisations to help protect our oceans and the environment. We believe that it is our responsibility to preserve the natural beauty of the Maldives for future generations.

The Marine Biologist programme at JOALI educates young visitors about life underwater and the importance of conservation. “Through interactive games and activities, we teach children about our oceans, marine life, and how they can make a difference through simple actions,” explains Nawaf.

Tree planting activities are also held regularly at both properties and local islands nearby, as trees play a crucial role in protecting soil from erosion and limiting the impact of climate change.

Joy of Empowering

JOALI is passionate about empowering women and creating platforms for their economic and creative aspirations. Inspired by the vision of JOALI’s founder and owner, Esin Gural Argat, the resorts support female education, vocational training, and social entrepreneurship.

JOALI Art Week is a tribute to feminine creativity, featuring live art sessions, interactive workshops, and immersive exhibits by local women artists. “We believe in nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for female artists to showcase their work,” says Nawaf. The exclusive Art House at JOALI BEING also supports local artisans and art-lovers through imaginative events and workshops.

Monthly art dinners at JOALI combine gastronomy, art, and sustainability, featuring all-natural paints made with herbs and flowers from the Chef’s Garden. These inspiring experiences are led by women artists from around the world.

The resorts are committed to gender equality and the development of talented women at all levels of the organisation. “JOALI’s Leadership and Gender Diversity Programme is aligned with our commitment to the UN Women’s gender equality campaign,” states Nawaf.

In recent years, JOALI has donated significant funds to local Women’s Development Committees and other organisations, supporting projects such as waste disposal area renovations, community space development, and fabric waste recycling initiatives.

Joy of Nurturing

Promoting wellness and well-being is a key focus for JOALI. The resorts are dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to take control of their own health and well-being through education, resources, and partnerships.

Global Wellness Day activities, Reading Parks, Brain Gyms, and Special Educational Needs (SEN) Classrooms are just a few examples of JOALI’s commitment to nurturing well-being. “We believe in creating spaces that promote learning, growth, and a healthy lifestyle. We have more exciting community projects in the pipeline with significant investments that will make a huge difference in the communities that we operate in,” says Nawaf.

Joy of Conserving

Everyday practices at JOALI align with their overall vision of sustainability. The resorts have implemented an eco-conscious approach across both islands, with the goal of minimising consumption of key resources and reducing their carbon footprint.

“Our culinary team loves to craft specialties with locally caught fish and seafood, along with organic produce from our Herb Garden,” shares Nawaf. The resorts also use eco-friendly stewarding and laundry chemicals, house their own glass water bottling plants and wastewater treatment systems, and practise rainwater harvesting.

Energy conservation is another priority for JOALI, with efficient LED lights, smart controls in the villas, and a pilot project to increase the use of solar energy. Guests booking directly with the resorts also have the option to off-set their carbon emissions during the reservation process.

JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING are also committed to supporting local communities and promoting cultural tourism. By engaging with local artisans, musicians, and storytellers, the resorts aim to create authentic experiences for their guests while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives.

One example of this commitment is the Culinary Arts Exhibition held during the Raa Tourism Expo 2022. The event showcased the incredible talents of JOALI’s hosts and inspired students and young people from across Raa Atoll. “We believe in promoting healthy eating and an active lifestyle for a full and happy life,” says Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING.

The Earth-to-Table initiative at JOALI focuses on ingredient traceability and offering fresh, locally harvested, and sustainably sourced foods that support small farms. “Our slow food mantra promotes local foods, traditional cooking, and clean production methods,” explains Nawaf. The gardens at JOALI are 100 percent organic, growing vegetables, fruits, and culinary and medicinal herbs using sustainable techniques. The team draws on both traditional knowledge and modern science to produce the best ingredients while simultaneously protecting the environment.

As JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING continue to lead the way in sustainable luxury travel, they remain dedicated to fostering strong relationships with local communities and promoting cultural tourism. By collaborating with local artisans, musicians, and storytellers, the resorts create authentic experiences for their guests while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives.

One of the ways JOALI supports local communities is through their commitment to fair trade principles. By ethically sourcing tea, coffee, and wood products, the resorts ensure that their suppliers are treated fairly and that their practices are environmentally responsible. Additionally, JOALI strives to use local produce and buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste, further minimising their environmental impact.

As more travellers seek eco-conscious destinations, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING stand out as prime examples of how luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. By focusing on preserving the environment, empowering communities, nurturing well-being, and conserving resources, the resorts demonstrate that it is possible to offer an unforgettable guest experience while also making a positive impact on the world. As the hospitality industry evolves, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING will undoubtedly continue to set new benchmarks for sustainability and responsible luxury. As Nawaf says, “We believe that sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is a way of life. It makes a business case as well, as without preserving our environment we cannot have a tourism industry in a few decades. We are committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve.”

Related Topics:Featured Interview Joali JOALI BEING Joali Maldives sustainability Sustainable sustainable tourism sustanability

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Entertainment

Holiday Inn Kandooma Maldives partners with Music in Paradise for milestone celebration of live performances

Published

2 days ago

September 18, 2024

m@ldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in collaboration with Music in Paradise, recently marked a significant milestone in live entertainment with their 10th-anniversary event, “Stranded in the Maldives.” The celebration featured eight electrifying performances by renowned Australian artists such as Ian Moss, Kate Ceberano, Troy Cassar-Daley, Jon Stevens, Mahalia Barnes, and David Campbell, captivating an audience of 300 guests. This landmark event further cemented the resort’s status as the premier destination for exceptional performances and rich cultural experiences.

Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed his pride in the event’s success: “These past ten days have truly highlighted what makes Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives special—not just our beautiful surroundings and world-class performances, but the dedication of our incredible team.”

He emphasised the resort’s strong partnership with Music in Paradise: “Our relationship with Music in Paradise is truly unique. Their entertainment teams are top-notch, and combined with our team’s culinary expertise and thrilling excursions, it’s a collaboration that consistently delivers outstanding experiences.”

Mark credited each team member at Kandooma for their role in providing unforgettable guest experiences, noting that their joint efforts with Music in Paradise have set a new standard for live entertainment in the Maldives. He also hinted at exciting plans for 2025, with concert dates already confirmed.

Throughout 2024, the resort continually raised the bar, offering a wide array of performances from artists like Delta Goodrem, You Am I, and The Living End, set against the stunning backdrop of the island. “Stranded in the Maldives” showcased both internationally acclaimed artists and rising stars, including Ruby Rodgers (daughter of Mahalia Barnes), Gypsy Rogers (daughter of Kate Ceberano), and Gem Cassar-Daley, who delivered everything from intimate acoustic sets to high-energy concerts under the Maldivian sky.

As the resort reflects on this remarkable event, Mark extended heartfelt gratitude to Music in Paradise for their decade-long collaboration. Their unwavering commitment to excellence has been crucial in crafting memorable guest experiences year after year.

Looking forward to 2025, the resort is excited to announce a stellar lineup featuring both returning favourites and fresh new talent. Guests can expect performances from Birds of Tokyo in April, The Church in May, and Missy Higgins in June. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives remains dedicated to creating unparalleled experiences that raise the bar for entertainment in the Maldives.

Guests are encouraged to follow Music in Paradise’s official channels for updates on the 2025 program and exclusive offers. The resort eagerly looks forward to welcoming guests back next year for another unforgettable journey of music, culture, and paradise.

Culture

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives celebrates Maldivian heritage

Published

2 weeks ago

September 6, 2024

m@ldives

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.

Entertainment

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives to welcome Australian singer Missy Higgins in June 2025

Published

2 weeks ago

September 3, 2024

m@ldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives and event organisers Music in Paradise have announced ‘Missy Higgins’, one of Australia’s most respected female singer/songwriters will perform for the first time at the private island resort 14 – 21 June 2025.

The week-long event combines all the attributes of a tropical island getaway with three intimate performances by Missy Higgins on the beach and at the resort’s rooftop Sunset Bar with exclusive meet and greet opportunities. With 26 ARIA Award nominations under her belt and five Australian #1’s Missy Higgins’ performances at Kandooma Maldives are capped at 200 guests, to ensure an intimate vibe.

A Gold Experience package has been released for A$3,950 per person, twin share for 7 nights staying in a Beach Villa at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. This highly sought-after Gold Experience to see Missy Higgins perform live, includes:

Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
3 Intimate Performances
Meet & Greet with artist
Professional Photo with artist
Music in Paradise Welcome Bag
Music in Paradise Event Poster
Event commemorative t-shirt
Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, and replenished daily
Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee

Additional packages including the VIP Experience staying in a Beach House and Ultimate Experience staying in an Overwater Villa are also available from the resort’s website.

Unearthed by Australian radio station Triple J back in the early 2000s while still at high school, Missy’s irresistible melodies and striking voice have struck a chord with music lovers.

Her debut album The Sound of White – about taking on the world as a 20-year old – will shortly celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Later this month (September 2024), Missy will release a new album called The Second Act – about taking on the world all over again as a 40 year old — a kind of sequel to her hugely influential debut album.