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Raising the Barre: Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort brings ballet retreat to Baa Atoll

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Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is bringing classical ballet to its shores with the launch of a new “Baa Atoll Ballet Retreat”. This exclusive retreat, featuring Royal Ballet-trained dancer Karis Scarlette, is set to grace the island of Fares from 6th to the 19th of November 2023.

The resort, which opened in April 2023, beckons sunseekers to indulge in the art of ballet and experience a classical touch in an upbeat island setting. Representing a shift towards holistic wellness that goes beyond the gym and spa, this event marks the first in a series of innovative retreats planned at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort this year, and beyond.

Echoing the balletic performances of marine life beneath the waves, Karis will introduce guests of all ages and levels to classical ballet, breaking the steps down and adding her own energy for an uplifting experience. Group classes and one-to-one sessions will take place in a dedicated dance studio complete with barres and mirrors.  From pliés to pirouettes, group classes and one-to-one sessions will focus on perfecting posture, footwork and the all-important port de bras, or carriage of arms. Young dancers aged five and under can delight in the “Tutus & Twirls” class, blending storytelling elements and interactive props. Guests looking to connect with nature can join “Sunrise Serenity”, a revitalising session that combines stretching, mobility exercises, and mindful breathwork, set to the natural sounds of the island at dawn.  

Enhancing the ballet programme, guests can pamper themselves with unique spa experiences, like the Tutu Tension Release Massage and Dancer’s Delight Detox Wrap, all accompanied by melodic ballet scores, at the resort’s AvaniSpa. They can also savour imaginative cocktails, including the Tutu Tini and Grand Jeté Gin Fizz, seamlessly transitioning from the barre to the bar. Additionally, they can indulge in enchanting, starlit dining concepts right on the sandy shores.

Karis Scarlette, the inspirational force behind this unique retreat, is a ballet dancer par excellence, whose expertise have attracted actors, models, singers and even British royalty. Her remarkable journey began at the age of two, and she honed her talents through training at the Royal Ballet School, gracing the stage of London’s illustrious Royal Opera House. In more recent years, Karis has turned her attention towards teaching, making the world of ballet inclusive and accessible to all.

Commenting on the retreat, Karis said: “I’m excited to partner with Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort to bring ballet to Baa Atoll. The contemporary, sun-soaked setting of the resort provides the most amazing, once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for guests of all ages and levels to enjoy ballet. My classes focus on movement, mobility and mindset and I cannot wait to use these techniques to encourage guests to discover their inner dancer.”

Wellness takes centre stage at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, offering guests a multitude of ways to embrace a healthy lifestyle, from sunrise sound healing and nourishing smoothies to unique vinotherapy massages at the AvaniSpa. In addition to the ongoing wellness retreat series featuring international experts, the resort boasts its own dedicated wellness team, including Dr. Aleena Simon, an Integrative Wellness Practitioner bridging Eastern and Western traditions; Ashna Hanma Hurbansee, a Wellbeing Therapist and cupping therapy specialist; and Rithik Aggarwal, an International Tennis Federation-certified coach renowned for his ability to transform beginners into accomplished athletes. The resort’s special opening offer for villas starts from USD 510 per night in a Beach Villa based on two people sharing and includes breakfast and lunch or dinner. Classes include Adult Ballet Basics for Beginners (USD 60pp), Tutus & Twirls: Ballet for Tots (USD 35pp), Kid-Friendly Ballet Basics (USD 35 pp) and Sunrise Serenity: Breathwork in Baa (USD 50 pp).

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Spooks, smiles, island magic: Halloween comes to Brennia Kottefaru

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This Halloween, Brennia Kottefaru invites guests to celebrate a spellbinding night of family fun as the island transforms into a world of playful mystery and tropical imagination. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Maldives’ turquoise waters, the resort team promises a day of costumes, creativity, and unforgettable memories for ghosts and goblins of all ages. Little witches, tiny pirates, and brave superheroes can join a variety of enchanting activities crafted especially for young adventurers.

From DIY costume fun to spooky arts and crafts, children are invited to explore a world where every corner holds a surprise and every moment sparks imagination. It’s a day where families laugh together, play together, and create stories they’ll love to retell for years.

Adding to the festive spirit, the resort team will showcase special performances, bringing music, dance, and entertainment to the Halloween celebration. Guests of all ages can enjoy the lively atmosphere with upbeat music and a live DJ, creating an unforgettable evening filled with festive vibes throughout the resort.

This season is all about Halloween enchantment — a blend of adventure, delightful thrills, gourmet treats, and immersive activities, all set against the serene beauty of nature.

The Brennia Kottefaru team is excitedly preparing to create an unforgettable celebration filled with moonlit moments, laughter, and surprises for both young and old.

Nestled in the heart of Raa Atoll, Brennia Kottefaru is home to 187 spacious villas, surrounded by lush nature, panoramic beaches, and a turquoise lagoon. The resort’s passionate hosts ensure that every stay is personal, authentic, and unforgettable.

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Meditation

JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, Soulful Feasts by Stephanie Zubiri announce Thanksgiving wellness retreat

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JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort announces a transformative new collaboration with Soulful Feasts by Stephanie Zubiri, presenting Soulful Journeys: The Inner Odyssey — a five-day Thanksgiving wellness retreat designed to guide guests through renewal, gratitude, and alignment of body, mind, and spirit.

Running from November 25–29, 2025, the residency will feature a curated series of Soulful Embodiment group practices and one-on-one private sessions, offering a rare integration of psychology, energy work, and embodied storytelling. Rooted in Zubiri’s signature method that blends Jungian depth psychology, archetypal mapping, imaginal practices, and intuitive energy alignment, the program invites guests to journey inward, shed old narratives, and rediscover the fullness of their being.

Throughout the week, guests are invited to embark on a deeply restorative journey that celebrates gratitude and mindful living amid the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean. They will experience sessions such as Renew: Shedding & Clearing, Calm: Centering & Grounding, Gratitude & Abundance, Invigorate: Awakening Vitality, and Integrate & Close: A Gratitude Circle & Intention Setting—each one a step in the alchemical process of transformation.

“At Soulful Feasts, my mission has always been to help people reclaim the authorship of their own stories,” shares Stephanie Zubiri, founder of Soulful Feasts. “The work goes far beyond yoga or meditation—it’s about alignment, energy, and sovereignty. By weaving together body, mind, and spirit, we awaken a deeper sense of presence and purpose. The Inner Odyssey is an invitation to realign with gratitude and remember that we are already whole.”

A celebrated author, journalist, and wellness facilitator, Zubiri has led transformative retreats and workshops across Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, and Guam, and collaborated with luxury partners including La Mer, L’Occitane, and Namia River Retreat. Her approach—where psychology, wellness, and energy work converge—has resonated deeply with modern seekers and corporate leaders alike through her Soft Power and Embodied Leadership programs.

At JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, guests will have the opportunity to book exclusive one-on-one sessions such as Oracle Card Readings, Soul Conversations, Energy Alchemy, and Archetypal Mapping, alongside the group Soulful Embodiment practices that bring reflection into embodied experience.

“Our vision is to create experiences that nurture both the inner and outer journey,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “Through this collaboration with Stephanie Zubiri, we’re offering our guests a meaningful space to pause, reflect, and realign with what truly matters, blending the natural serenity of the Maldives with the mindful spirit of the JW Marriott brand.”

Soulful Journeys: The Inner Odyssey continues JW Marriott’s commitment to holistic wellbeing experiences that nurture connection, mindfulness, and transformation. Every experience at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is thoughtfully crafted to help guests slow down, reconnect with themselves and others, and rediscover a deeper sense of balance.

For guests looking to book their stay and experience this transformative retreat, please contact jw.mlejm.reservations@marriott.com or visit jwmarriottkaafuatoll.com.

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Awards

The St. Regis Maldives recognised in Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of the Best 2026

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has been named among the world’s leading luxury destinations in Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of the Best 2026 Travel, Experiences & Hospitality Edition. This prestigious accolade celebrates the finest in travel, experiences, and hospitality, highlighting properties that exemplify excellence, innovation, and transformative luxury experiences.

The awards were unveiled at a landmark gala at The Murray, Hong Kong, on 23 October 2025, alongside the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2025, which gathered the world’s foremost voices in luxury travel and hospitality. Selected from over 380 global nominations, winners were recognised for their commitment to exceptional service, authentic experiences, and environmental and cultural stewardship.

“Being recognised in Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of the Best 2026 is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort,” said Vincent Pauchon, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “This honour celebrates not only our luxurious accommodations and bespoke offerings but also our unwavering commitment to delivering transformative journeys in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.”

Nestled in the pristine Maldivian archipelago, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a seamless blend of sophisticated design, overwater and beach villas, private island sanctuaries, and curated experiences. From immersive wellness rituals to culinary journeys and personalised excursions, the resort embodies the essence of modern luxury travel: indulgence, authenticity, and connection with nature.

Robb Report Hong Kong recognised over 180 winners across 11 award categories, representing the pinnacle of global hospitality. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s inclusion in this elite group underscores its position as one of the most distinguished resorts for discerning travellers seeking unparalleled experiences.

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