News
Dive into an Aqua Utopia festive celebration at Nova Maldives
Kick off the holiday season with a tropical Christmas and welcome the new year with an underwater themed celebration at Nova, the bright new star among resorts in the Maldives. Nestled in the heart of South Ari Atoll, the soulful island has carefully crafted a unique programme full of magical experiences. From 22nd December 2023 to 6th January 2024, all guests will be immersed in “Aqua Utopia” celebration.
The natural laidback island will transform into a picturesque underwater-inspired playground to reconnect with the loved ones. From exquisite gala dinners under the stars to ocean themed parties and underwater adventures, guests will be spoilt for choice at Nova.
The season’s itinerary will begin with the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony to welcome the festive spirit. The following days will be brimming with splendour activities including the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Guests will gather on Christmas Eve cocktail party at Solis pool followed by a delectable gala dinner at Soul Kitchen for an enchanting evening. Moreover, meticulously culinary experiences crafted to nourish the soul from authentic Japanese cuisine and delightful island-style barbecue to wine pairing dinners amidst the starry night sky coupled with great performances of talented musicians, a gastronomic affair beyond imagination awaits the culinary connoisseurs. Guests can also unleash their talented inner chef with multiple cooking classes and competitions to craft mouth-watering delights.
Throughout the season, the soulful island will take all guests to discover beneath the Indian Ocean from bioluminescent snorkelling and swimming with the gentle giants’ whale sharks and manta rays to witnessing the graceful dolphins. For the adrenaline seekers, they will enjoy the bird’s eye view of Nova with an unforgettable parasailing adventure, and they also can sail on the blue water on a catamaran to admire the captivating sunset or embark on the exhilarating big game fishing. The nature lovers can participate in eco-friendly activities with flora and fauna workshops and the coral gardening sponsorship.
There are countless ways to spark the joy this festive season at Nova, from white and full moon parties to underwater themed nights. Guests can toast to 2024 with a magical New Year Eve countdown party and witness the fireworks display that will illuminate the starry sky with dazzling colours. Moreover, incredible performances of LED and fire shows coupled with live band and DJ music will ignite the souls.
In the midst of all the celebrations, guests will be taken to a rejuvenating journey at Eskape Spa with bespoke spa treatments specially curated to awaken the spirit and dive into serenity while harmonising mind, body, and soul.
Nova promises all guests an awe-inspiring festive journey filled with enriched memories that will last for a lifetime. To discover more the magical Aqua Utopia celebration, please visit: https://nova-maldives.com/aqua-utopia/
News
Maldives named among world’s top destinations in Tripadvisor’s 2026 awards
The Maldives has received multiple rankings in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations 2026, according to destination rankings released by the travel platform.
In the global category, the Maldives was ranked 21st among the world’s top destinations for 2026.
The Maldives was also ranked third in the world in the Best Honeymoon Destinations category for 2026.
In the Asia category, the Maldives secured eighth place among Tripadvisor’s Top Destinations in Asia for 2026.
Tripadvisor said its Best of the Best rankings are based on traveller reviews and ratings collected over a 12-month period. The rankings reflect visitor feedback and travel demand across destinations worldwide.
News
Ambani family members holiday in Maldives again
Anant Ambani, son of Indian businessman Mukesh Ambani, and his wife Radhika Merchant have arrived in the Maldives for a holiday.
Ambani’s Boeing 737 private jet landed in the Maldives on Saturday. Witnesses at the airport said the couple were accompanied by around 50 security personnel.
Anant and Radhika are currently staying at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s private island.
Two seaplanes are on standby at the resort, according to sources. The arrangements are in place to facilitate transport if required.
The Ambani family has previously spent holidays in the Maldives. Last year, other members of the family spent the Christmas and New Year period at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
In November 2024, Anant stayed at Soneva Secret and also visited the nearby island of HDh. Makunudhoo. During that visit, he purchased a chicken and a rabbit from the island, which were later taken to a zoo he operates in India.
Featured
The Standard, Maldives unveils romantic Valentine’s Day experiences
This Valentine’s Day, The Standard, Maldives is inviting couples to celebrate love through a curated collection of romantic dining experiences set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Designed to encourage connection and indulgence, each experience combines refined cuisine, intimate settings and signature details that transform shared moments into lasting memories.
For couples seeking privacy and exclusivity, the Romantic Dinner at Baby Island offers a secluded escape on a private island setting. Guests are treated to a bespoke dining experience for two, accompanied by champagne and specially curated Valentine’s touches, all within an atmosphere that is personal, tranquil and understatedly romantic, creating an intimate celebration of love surrounded by nature.
The Private Dinner at Kula Beach provides an equally refined beachfront experience beneath the night sky. Set along the shoreline with the sound of the ocean in the background, the evening is designed to balance elegance and intimacy, creating a warm ambience that allows couples to immerse themselves fully in the moment. Advance reservations ensure exclusivity and a peaceful setting for this special occasion.
Valentine’s Day at The Standard, Maldives may also begin in relaxed island style with a Floating Breakfast served in the privacy of each villa. Carefully prepared and attractively presented, guests may choose from a range of breakfast options, from classic favourites and lighter wellness-inspired selections to a champagne-enhanced start to the day, offering a leisurely and indulgent morning together.
From private island dinners and starlit beachfront evenings to indulgent floating breakfasts, The Standard, Maldives has crafted Valentine’s Day experiences designed to be shared and savoured. Each moment reflects the resort’s signature blend of playful luxury and meaningful connection, inviting couples to celebrate love in a way that feels personal, immersive and memorable.
To further enhance the romantic escape, guests may complement their stay with The Standard, Maldives’ Premium All-Inclusive experience, offering seamless indulgence throughout the visit. With daily dining at selected restaurants, premium beverages, in-villa refreshments and curated resort experiences included, couples are free to focus on one another, enjoying a relaxed and immersive Valentine’s celebration in a tropical setting.
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