News
Celebrate festive ‘Moments in our Hearts’ at Angsana Velavaru Maldives
As the most joyous time of the year is fast approaching, Angsana Velavaru, an all-inclusive premium resort in South Nilandhe Atoll, Maldives will be hosting “Moments in our Hearts”, a festive celebration of bonding and connection with family, friends, loved ones and nature from 21 December 2023 to 7 January 2024.
Guests are invited to cherish the gift of time and travel – taking in the beautiful sights around, creating beautiful memories and reconnecting with the people that matter the most.
As the inspiring spirit of giving and sharing fills the air, guests can revel in the vibrant colours of island life with an array of activities crafted just for them – from indulgent feasts and thrilling games to party nights and dazzling entertainments.
The Celebrations Commence
The resort will be embellished with colourful and eco-friendly ornaments. On 21 December, the traditional cake mixing, annual festive tree and gingerbread house lighting will take place to ring in the joy and magic of the season.
Guests will receive a genuine and heartfelt welcome, akin to family, while also having the chance to immerse themselves in the Maldivian culture, heritage, and customs. An enthralling Maldivian Cultural Night is in store, featuring the captivating Boduberu rhythms that entice guests to embrace the enigmatic dance, alongside various other local performances.
Joyful Culinary Delights
Each dining experience will be a symphony of flavours and cultures, weaving together moments of joy and indulgence. Guests can delight in themed nights featuring global cuisines from the exotic allure of Maldivian and Mongolian to sizzling Barbecue and enticing Asian flavours, as well as the elegant Mediterranean and international cuisines. They can also explore innovative cocktails and enjoy relaxing sundowners.
Highlighting the season are the lavish Festive Gala Dinner on 24 December, the sumptuous New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner followed by the lively “Friendship in Diversity” New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown Party on 31 December, the symbolic Orthodox Holiday Dinner on 6 January, as well as the mesmerising Lunar New Year’s Eve Dinner, welcoming the “Year of the Dragon”.
Fantastic Fun for the Little Ones
Engaging in do-it-yourself (DIY) festive ornaments, crafting dream catchers and keychains, creating adorable teddy bears and more, the little ones will be able to channel their creativity. Excitement peaks with the highlight – a grand arrival parade by Santa himself on 24 December, igniting wonder and spreading holiday cheer, a magical journey of fantastic fun and heartwarming moments, making the festive season truly unforgettable especially for the precious little ones.
Sense of Family
This festive season, families staying at Angsana Velavaru can bond over activities that create cherished memories, such as heartwarming experiences in kite flying, sand art and sculpture, and bird feeding – fostering connections. They can immerse themselves in the magic of a movie under the stars, where captivating tales come to life against a celestial backdrop. For those seeking aquatic thrills, they can partake in exhilarating watersports and water activities, including house reef and citizen science snorkelling, a chance to contribute to sustainability through coral planting, and engaging marine talks. If they wish to elevate the Watersports holiday spirit, they can sign up for festive sandbank snorkelling trips or even embark on a remarkable dive with Santa adventure.
Relaxation and Wellness
At Angsana Velavaru, the festive season is not just a celebration – it is an opportunity to discover the true meaning of relaxation, wellness, and the beauty of nature. Whether you choose to embark on a Barefoot Power Walk, dive into self-discovery, or indulge in Unveiling the Secrets of Couple Massage, your stay will be enjoyable and enriching.
Meaningful Entertainments
Celebrate togetherness with lively and immersive theme gatherings – whether it is a tropical luau, beachside soirée or cultural spectacle, these themed nights are designed to foster connection and create bonds.
As the sun sets, the Beatus Band, hailing from the Philippines with performances in luxury hotels and resorts across China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and the Maldives will provide the soundtrack to magical evenings with their vocal prowess and skillful mastery of guitar, keyboard, and saxophone.
For an unforgettable New Year’s Eve soirée, delight in an opulent Gala Dinner complete with live culinary theatrics and a sumptuous selection of both timeless classics and global gastronomic treasures. As a prelude to the mesmerising countdown, immerse yourself in a captivating tapestry of performances from across the globe in a Cultural Show. The pinnacle of the night arrives with the “Friendship in Diversity” New Year’s Eve and Countdown Party. Groove to the harmonious melodies of the Beatus Band, an exceptional musical ensemble hailing from the Philippines, and dance into the night’s embrace with the resort’s resident DJ. To heighten the jubilation, guests can stand the chance to win the lucky draw with amazing prices at stake. Together with its guests, Angsana Velavaru will usher in 2024 by celebrating diversity, fostering friendships, and honouring traditions – truly “Moments in our Hearts”.
The season of celebration and joy is just around the corner – and there is no better place to better #SenseTheMoment than Angsana Velavaru. Download Angsana Velavaru’s Festive Brochure 2023 – 2024. Find out more through this link: Sharing Time Offer | Angsana Velavaru Resort & Spa. Enjoy and earn Accor Live Limitless points, too!
News
Bandos Maldives marks 53 years of hospitality with guest celebration
Bandos Maldives marked its 53rd anniversary on 10 December 2025 with a heartfelt celebration alongside in-house guests. The celebration honoured more than five decades of service since the resort first opened on 10 December 1972, becoming one of the earliest pioneers of Maldivian tourism.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager Ismail Rasheed thanked everyone who has been part of Bandos’ journey, including long-time guests, partners, and the dedicated team that has carried the resort forward. He noted that reaching 53 years is a remarkable achievement built on consistency, care, and the spirit of hospitality that Bandos is known for. He also shared that the resort is preparing for an exciting phase of improvements in the years ahead.
Bandos has continued to grow its reputation recently, earning multiple international awards over the past years for its exceptional service, family experiences and diving. The resort is also proud to be a Green Globe certified property, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism
Bandos has plans for upgrades with focus on fresh designs, improved comfort, and modern amenities to elevate the overall guest experience while maintaining the classic charm that many loyal visitors love.
With its long heritage, strong values, and continued focus on innovation, Bandos Maldives remains committed to offering memorable island experiences for travellers from around the world.
Entertainment
Hulhule Island Hotel names 2ofus as New Year’s Eve 2026 headline act
Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced 2ofus as the main entertainment for its New Year’s Eve 2026 festive events. The highly sought-after musical band has partnered with HIH to bring an unforgettable night of performance, energy, and celebration to guests.
Known for their exceptional talent and stage presence, 2ofus has reached remarkable heights in the music scene, participating in and performing at international competitions and concerts. Their collaboration with HIH marks an exciting addition to the hotel’s festive lineup.
Renowned as the most popular festive destination in the Greater Malé Area, HIH continues its tradition of delivering vibrant, world-class celebrations. This year, the hotel once again promises a festive season filled with elegance, entertainment, and the signature warmth HIH is known for.
Commenting on the partnership, Group General Manager, Ali Shakir said: “Signing with 2ofus for New Year’s Eve is truly special for us. They are one of the most in-demand acts during the festive season, and we are delighted to have them onboard. Their energy and talent are unmatched, and we are confident that HIH will once again be the place to be this New Year’s Eve. Our team is committed to creating a celebration that brings our guests joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories.”
For 2026, HIH unveils exclusive celebrations, granting guests access to multi-venue experiences, curated staycation packages, diverse multi-cuisine dining, and a range of thoughtfully designed festive highlights.
With limited slots available, guests are encouraged to secure their bookings early for the best experience.
For more information or reservations, please contact +960 762 2667 or email events@hih.com.mv
News
The Standard, Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification after rigorous audit
The Standard, Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification, recognizing the resort’s comprehensive and continuous dedication to sustainable operations and management. This monumental achievement underscores the property’s commitment to protecting the pristine Maldivian environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility across all aspects of its unique island experience.
The certification follows a rigorous auditing process that evaluated The Standard, Maldives’ performance in energy and water conservation, waste management, social responsibility, and sustainable procurement. A key highlight of the resort’s innovative sustainability initiatives is the introduction of the Zero Capsule Machine System for Coffee. By replacing traditional single-use capsules with eco-friendly coffee balls, the resort has achieved an estimated reduction of over 25,000 pieces of non-biodegradable coffee capsules annually, substantially minimizing plastic and aluminium waste and setting a new, greener standard for in-room and dining beverage service.
Furthermore, as part of our commitment to local support and Green Globe sustainability standards, The Standard, Maldives has actively strengthened its local supply chain. For the past three months, the resort has been consistently sourcing fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and lettuce from a local farm, Maldivian Mermaid, on a nearby island. This initiative not only strengthens our relationship with the local community but also:
- Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation.
- Supports regional agriculture and local island economies.
- Optimizes logistical efficiency by easing storage demands on regular supply boat from Malé, ensuring imported items are kept at the correct temperature. The redefining agriculture farm delivers directly to the resort using their own boat, streamlining the process.
“Achieving Green Globe Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who embody our commitment to sustainability every day,” says Justin Swart, General Manager The Standard, Maldives. “Our goal is to demonstrate that lifestyle, luxury and responsible travel can, and must, go hand in hand. Initiatives like the Zero Capsule Machine System and our growing partnership with local farmers like Maldivian Mermaid, show our proactive approach to finding practical, impactful solutions that preserve the incredible natural beauty surrounding us for generations to come.”
Moving forward, The Standard, Maldives will continue to implement and expand its sustainability programs, focusing on marine conservation, further reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing local community engagement, all while ensuring guests enjoy the playful, yet mindful, hospitality the brand is known for. The resort looks forward to contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives and the broader travel industry.
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