Nature
Eco-minded escape: Inside groundbreaking sustainability initiatives at Velaa Private Island Maldives
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When Radka & Jiří Šmejc first dreamed up Velaa Private Island Maldives, they envisioned an ultra-luxury playground that was in harmony with its environment. Situated in the untouched Noonu Atoll, a 45-minute seaplane ride from Male, this tropical hideaway is grounded in a deep respect for the planet, from the eco-minded architecture and design, to housing one of the largest coral restoration programmes in the Maldives. Discover why Velaa Private Island is flying the flag for sustainable, high-end stays in the Maldives.
Restoring the reef
As custodians of this precious patch of Planet Earth, Radka & Jiří are passionate about giving back to the environment. A key contribution is the development of one of the largest coral restoration programmes in the Maldives. Overseen by a team of dedicated marine biologists, the Velaa Coral Project is revitalising the underwater world surrounding the resort, resulting in steady growth over the past three years. By fitting the reefs with the latest Biorock technology, along with increasing stress resistance in the corals, Velaa expects to further restore 10 per cent of its house reef in the coming year.
Visitors to the island can take a guided snorkel or scuba diving tour of the coral gardens with the resident coral biologist to learn more about the work being done and the role coral plays in supporting a healthy marine ecosystem. Guests can also adopt an individual coral line to add to Velaa’s intrinsic rainforest of corals, receiving a coral adoption certificate and biannual updates on their coral’s development. You can learn more about this inspiring programme on the Velaa Coral Project’s Instagram channel, instagram.com/velaacoralproject.
Giving back to the local community
Velaa Private Island isn’t just giving back to the local environment – they’re supporting their Noonu Atoll community, too. Launched in 2021, the Fehikuramaa initiative helps local Maldivian communities improve their environmental practices. Last year’s focus was on improving waste management practices via awareness, training, and support. This year, Fehikuramaa has its sights on ocean pollution and the importance of maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem. The initiative has installed 30 water purification and cooling systems in local public schools, giving communities easier access to clean water. Volunteers have also carried out accredited swimming instructor courses, teaching 113 students how to swim.
In announcing the initiative, Wayne Milgate, General Manager of Velaa Private Island, said: “Fehikuramaa in Dhivehi language broadly means ‘Let’s make the environment greener’, and that’s precisely what we hope to achieve. One of the biggest takeaways from the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference is the consensus that all nations need to do much more if we want to move towards a greener planet.”
“We believe that we all need to be part of the solution and know that the Fehikuramaa project will help local communities to adopt the best waste disposal and management practices, and improve the health of our ocean. We are grateful to live and work in this beautiful part of the world and are driven to bring about change and help preserve the beauty of the Maldivian islands.”
In harmony with nature
Designed by award-winning Czech architect Petr Kolar of ADR, Velaa Private Island is “an elegant fusion of Maldivian culture with contemporary luxury, intimate with Maldivian nuances”, that has been thoughtfully constructed to celebrate and protect the surrounding environment. Natural and traditional materials have been tastefully incorporated into the villas and communal spaces, including the use of local palm leaves for the thatched roof coverings. Spanning the size of 25 football fields, the island has been extensively planted with local flora to create a lush, flourishing environment that is itself a microcosm of the Maldives.
For more information, please visit: velaaprivateisland.com
Featured
From Grey Herons to Asian Koels: birdwatcher’s haven at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
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The Maldives, celebrated for its sun, sand, and sea, also offers a mesmerising encounter with nature’s avian marvels. Within the picturesque landscapes of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives, waterbirds such as the Grey Heron and the Asian Koel add a lively and enchanting touch to the serene environment. These feathered inhabitants not only captivate the eyes but also elevate the ambiance, creating an immersive blend of luxury and nature.
A quintessential symbol of the Maldives, the Grey Heron, locally known as Maakanaa, graces the shores of the resorts with its tranquil presence. Frequently seen wading through the shallows, these elegant birds move with a calm poise that mirrors the serenity of their surroundings. At dawn and dusk, their silhouettes against the soft hues of the Maldivian sky add a touch of ethereal beauty. Those fortunate enough to witness a Grey Heron in mid-flight are often left in awe of its impressive wingspan, a memory that lingers long after the experience.
Renowned for its unmistakable melodious call, the Asian Koel infuses the resorts with a soothing soundtrack to peaceful mornings. Steeped in Maldivian culture, the Koel is regarded as a symbol of good fortune, further enhancing its charm. The male Koel, with its glossy black feathers and striking red eyes, captivates the eye, while the female, adorned in patterned brown and white plumage, offers a complementary beauty. Together, these birds contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the resorts, delighting guests with their dynamic presence.
The White-breasted Waterhen, full of energy and character, adds a playful charm to the waterbodies scattered across the resorts. Distinguished by its white underbelly and contrasting dark plumage, this lively bird is often spotted darting near ponds and marshy areas. Its energetic movements and vibrant calls bring a sense of joy and liveliness to nature walks, offering an entertaining glimpse into the bustling world of these feathered residents.
Although pigeons are a common sight worldwide, the serene backdrop of the Maldives elevates their presence, making them feel special. Their gentle cooing blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, creating a calming rhythm throughout the day. Meanwhile, the elegant egrets, often seen foraging along the water’s edge, add a touch of grace to the scenic landscapes. Whether perched amid the lush greenery or soaring over the lagoons, these birds embody the seamless coexistence of luxury and nature at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives.
For those eager to witness these avian wonders firsthand, a leisurely morning walk through the resorts’ natural landscapes, paddling along the lagoons, or simply relaxing on the beachfront with binoculars offers an ideal opportunity. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly suited for spotting these birds as they go about their day. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this unique harmony of nature and indulgence – an adventure that promises unforgettable memories.
Featured
New Year’s miracle: turtle hatchlings grace Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
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The first dawn of the New Year marked more than a fresh start at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, as nature staged a remarkable event: three tiny turtles emerged from their delicate shells. Guided solely by instinct, these hatchlings began their journey toward the vast Indian Ocean, captivating both guests and staff with the enchantment of the moment.
Numerous eggs had been carefully laid on the island, and under the diligent care of the resort’s marine biology team, led by Tharushi Pitigala, the fragile eggs were closely monitored and protected to ensure the safety of these precious new arrivals. Anticipation had been growing for weeks, with guests eagerly seeking updates on the eggs’ progress. Reflecting on the event, Tharushi expressed her excitement, stating, “Seeing them emerge and instinctively head towards the sea is nothing short of miraculous. Each turtle plays a vital role in sustaining the ocean’s delicate ecosystems, from keeping seagrass beds healthy to supporting coral reef biodiversity.”
In the following days, an even greater spectacle unfolded. One by one, the remaining hatchlings emerged, their tiny shells cracking open to reveal new lives ready to venture into the ocean. Guests once again gathered to witness the mesmerising sight of these delicate creatures taking their first steps into the sea.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has long been recognised as a haven for marine life, boasting one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs. Over the years, the resort has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to marine conservation, engaging in coral propagation projects and reef health monitoring. These initiatives have cultivated an environment where marine life flourishes, from vivid coral gardens to the green and hawksbill turtles that call the island home.
Events like these underscore the importance of preserving marine ecosystems and foster a deeper connection between humanity and the ocean. At Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, the turtle hatchings are more than natural occurrences—they serve as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard the beauty and balance of the world’s oceans.
Action
Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose
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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.”
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