Vakkaru Maldives has announced the residency of acclaimed holistic practitioner Yoko Kawaguchi at Merana Spa, taking place from 17 March to 30 April 2026. The residency forms part of the resort’s ongoing focus on wellness, restoration and mindful living.

Grounded in Japanese healing traditions, Kawaguchi’s therapeutic philosophy centres on personalised care designed to calm the nervous system, release emotional tension and support the body’s natural restorative functions. Her integrative approach combines auriculotherapy (ear reflexology), aromatherapy, Reiki energy healing and targeted massage techniques to create treatments tailored to individual needs.

Guests may select from a range of core therapies offered during the residency. Highlights include the Tranquil Mind Ritual, which blends scalp massage, ear reflexology and energy work to ease tension and encourage emotional clarity. The Aroma Reiki Healing Touch treatment combines aromatherapy back massage with carefully selected essential oils and Usui Reiki to address both physical and emotional blockages. Auriculotherapy sessions focus on stimulating reflex points in the ears to support hormonal balance, immunity, nervous system regulation and overall wellbeing, with optional ear seeds available to extend the benefits beyond the treatment.

Alongside individual sessions, Kawaguchi will offer complimentary consultations and a programme of group wellness experiences. These include guided Reiki self-healing meditation and ear stretching massage sessions designed to promote relaxation and mental clarity, providing guests with simple techniques to support their wellbeing during and after their stay.

Hosted within the serene surroundings of Merana Spa, the residency offers guests an opportunity to pause, reset and engage in a deeper wellness journey, aligned with Vakkaru Maldives’ philosophy of understated luxury and holistic balance.

Fushifaru Maldives marked Valentine’s Day and the Year of the Fire Horse with a week of themed celebrations, offering guests a programme of dining, performances and cultural activities.

Valentine’s Day was observed with a series of resort-wide arrangements, including bespoke décor at the infinity pool and a kissing booth set up on the sandbank. Live music and a curated playlist accompanied the celebrations, while couples dined under the stars at Korakali. The dinner featured a menu designed for the occasion, with desserts including red velvet cake, macarons, chocolate almond cake and butterscotch mousse.

The programme then transitioned to celebrations for the Year of the Fire Horse, which symbolises energy and new beginnings. Guests attended fire dance and lion dance performances staged along the beach. Two red horse installations were positioned as part of the setup, framed by a line of fire to mark the start of the lunar year.

Younger guests were offered a hands-on cultural activity through a Tang Hu Lu class, where participants learned to prepare traditional caramelised fruit candy.

The week concluded with an Asian-themed dinner, featuring dishes such as Peking duck, grilled seafood and an interactive Chinese wok station, allowing guests to engage directly with the culinary experience.

The series of events formed part of the resort’s ongoing efforts to provide themed experiences that combine dining, culture and seasonal celebrations.

Bandos Maldives has been recognised with the Traveller Review Award 2026 by Booking.com, marking another milestone in the resort’s long-standing commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

The Traveller Review Award is an annual recognition given to properties that consistently achieve high ratings through verified guest feedback. For Bandos Maldives, it reflects the resort’s strong service culture, attention to detail, and the team’s continuous efforts to create meaningful and satisfying holiday experiences for travellers from around the world.

Speaking on the achievement, Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives, said: “This award is especially meaningful to us because it reflects the voices of our guests. We sincerely appreciate those who took the time to share their experiences and feedback, as it plays an important role in helping us grow and improve. Their support encourages our team to continue delivering genuine hospitality and memorable stays for every guest who visits Bandos Maldives.”

The Traveller Review Award 2026 further reinforces Bandos Maldives’ position as one of the Maldives’ most well-regarded resorts, known for its welcoming atmosphere, authentic island experience, and heartfelt service