News
Hideaway Beach Resort shines as Maldives’ most picturesque resort at TTM Awards 2023
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced its momentous victory in the 7th edition of the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards.
At the grand TTM Maldives 2023 Gala, Hideaway was honoured with the prestigious “Most Picturesque Resort” award, a testament to its commitment to providing unparalleled luxury amidst its breathtaking natural surroundings to give guests the ‘True Maldivian Luxury Experience’ at its relatively untouched location in north Maldives.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa winning the “Most Picturesque Resort” award reaffirms its position as a world-class destination that harmoniously blends luxury, natural beauty, and unmatched hospitality. Located in the stunning Haa Alifu Atoll in north Maldives, the resort is renowned for its unspoiled white-sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters of varying degrees of blue, and lush-green tropical landscapes – truly an untouched beauty!
The resort also stands as a testament to nature’s unspoiled grandeur. Unlike the bustling resorts in the central Maldives, this secluded paradise up in the north boasts a unique charm, where the competition for the best diving and excursion spots is refreshingly scarce. As a result, Hideaway emerges as not only a breathtaking island retreat but also an underwater haven of unparalleled picturesque wonder. Here, the true essence of tropical luxury unfolds both above and below the surface, promising an experience that transcends imagination.
This award also affirms the resort’s concept of offering a castaway experience with relatively a smaller number of villas in a large island, thus resulting in unparalleled space and privacy for each and every guest.
“Hideaway’s unwavering dedication to providing guests with an exceptional experience that combines luxury, nature, and serenity in the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives is the secret sauce to its success over the years,” the resort’s Commercial Director Abdulla Nabeel said.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has consistently set the bar for excellence in the Maldivian hospitality industry – especially as locally owned and operated resort. The resort’s luxurious villas & residences, overwater and beachfront accommodations, award-winning restaurants, a wide array of recreational activities, and the inclusion of exclusive novel experiences such as its 5-hole putting green and floating aqua park have made it a sought-after destination for travellers seeking an idyllic tropical getaway.
Basking in the glory of its prestigious “Most Picturesque Resort” award, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa proudly epitomises the breathtaking natural beauty that defines the Maldives. At Hideaway, every vista is a living postcard, a captivating testament to the paradise that surrounds the island. In addition to this stunning backdrop, the resort embodies the warm and gracious hospitality that the Maldives is celebrated for across the globe, ensuring that the Hideaway guests experience not just a destination but a true journey into the heart of tropical luxury.
For more information about Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa and to book your dream Maldivian vacation, please click here.
News
The St. Regis Maldives celebrates 10 years with global chefs, bartenders and artists
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, the award-winning private island resort in Dhaalu Atoll, will commemorate its 10th anniversary from November 10–20, 2026, with a 10-day celebration bringing together internationally acclaimed chefs, award-winning bartenders, immersive wellness experiences, family-friendly activities, artistic collaborations, and marine conservation initiatives. Marking a decade since welcoming its first guests in November 2016, the milestone celebrates the resort’s legacy of exceptional service, distinctive design, world-class dining, and bespoke island experiences in one of the Maldives’ most extraordinary destinations.
Since its debut, the resort has become renowned for its striking architecture inspired by the surrounding natural landscape, hallmark St. Regis service, expansive villas, vibrant house reef, and commitment to sustainability. The resort continues to attract discerning travelers, couples, and families seeking meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most sought-after island destinations.
The anniversary celebration begins on November 10 with a sunset cocktail reception overlooking the Indian Ocean, welcoming guests, associates, and partners to mark the occasion. Throughout the evening, guests will revisit a collection of the resort’s most memorable cocktails, including creations that have become part of The St. Regis Maldives’ story.
During the reception, guests will also be invited to participate in a special coral restoration initiative in partnership with Reefscapers. Together, they will create a coral frame in the shape of the number 10, which will be installed on the resort’s thriving house reef as a living tribute to its first decade and ongoing efforts to support marine conservation in the Maldives. The evening concludes with a celebratory beach dinner under the stars, featuring a specially curated menu of dishes that have defined the resort’s quintessential dining experiences over the past decade.
At the heart of the anniversary programme is a series of collaborations with internationally recognized tastemakers whose work embodies craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural exchange.
In collaboration with Fann Art Therapie, guests of all ages can participate in Mandala String Art workshops from November 11-12. Inspired by mindfulness and art therapy, the workshops will invite guests to express their own island stories through art, creating a personal reminder of their time on Vommuli Island.

Felice Capasso, recipient of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025 title, will take over The Whale Bar for a special guest bartending appearance on November 11. As part of the celebration, he has created the Bright Mary—his contemporary interpretation of the iconic St. Regis Bloody Mary, paying tribute to one of the brand’s most enduring traditions.

Adding another sensory dimension to the celebration, Louise Farina, ninth-generation descendant of the historic Farina est. 1709 fragrance house, will present perfume masterclasses on November 14 and 16, alongside an immersive dining experience on November 15 inspired by the signature notes of the Original Eau de Cologne. Guests can also enjoy a limited-edition Farina-inspired cocktail, available at The Whale Bar from November 14–20.

The culinary programme culminates with Alexander Herrmann, the acclaimed German chef, restaurateur, television personality, and bestselling author behind the two-Michelin-starred AURA by Alexander Herrmann & Tobias Bätz. During an exclusive evening at Decanter, the resort’s intimate underground wine cellar, Herrmann will present a bespoke wine-pairing dinner on November 19, followed by a masterclass on November 20, offering guests a rare insight into his contemporary approach to gastronomy.

The anniversary celebration concludes on November 20 with a sunset cocktail reception overlooking the Indian Ocean, bringing together guests, associates, and partners to mark the resort’s first decade.
“Over the past ten years, we have had the privilege of sharing in some of life’s most treasured moments with our guests,” says Ozgur Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “From the beginning of lifelong journeys and once-in-a-lifetime romantic escapes to cherished family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and memorable personal achievements, each stay has contributed to the rich story of our resort. These shared experiences with guests from around the world have shaped the spirit and legacy of The St. Regis Maldives. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we honor not only our guests, whose trust and loyalty have inspired us throughout the years, but also the dedicated associates whose passion, commitment, and pursuit of excellence have made The St. Regis Maldives the iconic destination it is today.”
As The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort enters its second decade, the resort remains dedicated to delivery extraordinary guest experiences while championing sustainable tourism, marine conservation and the timeless spirit of bespoke island hospitality.
Discover more about The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort at stregismaldives.com.
Awards
Reethi Faru Resort celebrates culinary team’s success at Hotel Asia and FHAM
Reethi Faru Resort has announced three medal wins by members of its culinary team at the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge and the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge.
At the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge, Chef Rohit Kabdal received a Gold Medal in the Decorated Cake category, recognising his work in cake design, presentation and technical execution.
Chef Abhishek Sharma also represented Reethi Faru Resort at the competition, earning a Bronze Medal in the Hot Cooking Fish category.
At the FHAM Global Culinary Challenge, Chef Mayank Bijalwan secured a Silver Medal in the Dress the Cake category, adding a third medal to the resort’s recent culinary achievements.
The results highlight the range of skills within Reethi Faru Resort’s culinary team, spanning pastry, cake presentation and hot kitchen techniques.
According to the resort, participation in professional culinary competitions provides its chefs with opportunities to develop their skills, exchange knowledge and test their abilities alongside other industry professionals.
The achievements also form part of Reethi Faru Resort’s wider focus on dining and guest experience, with its culinary team involved across the resort’s restaurants and food and beverage offerings.
Reethi Faru Resort congratulated Kabdal, Bijalwan and Sharma on their respective achievements, describing the results as recognition of their commitment, technical ability and creativity.
The three medals add to the resort’s recent culinary accolades and reflect its continued emphasis on professional development within its kitchen team.
Cruising
Ifuru Island Maldives unveils ‘Echoes of the Ocean and Stars’ festive programme
Ifuru Island Maldives will celebrate the 2026 festive season with “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars”, an immersive Christmas and New Year programme running from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027.
Inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldivian ocean, the night sky and the festive season, the theme will bring together marine and celestial elements across the resort’s décor, entertainment, dining, activities and guest experiences.
At the centre of the concept is the idea that the ocean carries memories, while the stars represent dreams and new beginnings. Rather than presenting the festive season as a series of standalone events, Ifuru Island plans to create a connected journey spanning Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas.
The visual identity of “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will combine an underwater-inspired world with celestial elements. Bioluminescent-inspired colours, reef motifs and glowing details will be paired with stars, constellations and moonlit features throughout the resort.

The colour palette will include deep ocean blue and midnight navy alongside pearl white, silver, soft turquoise, pink and purple, with accents of celestial gold. Coral forms, waves, shells and reef-inspired features will be combined with stars and festive details, giving traditional Christmas elements an interpretation inspired by Ifuru Island’s natural surroundings.
The concept will extend beyond decorations to dining, entertainment, activities, uniforms, signage and festive communications.
The resort said the theme is also intended to reflect the emotions associated with the festive period. The ocean represents peace, connection and possibility, while the stars symbolise hope, dreams, guidance and new beginnings.
The festive journey will begin on 21 December and continue through 10 January, encompassing Christmas, New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Eve on 24 December will feature festive dining and entertainment, while Christmas Day on 25 December will centre on family celebrations and relaxed island experiences.
On 31 December, Ifuru Island will mark New Year’s Eve with the main celebration of the festive period, before welcoming 2027 on New Year’s Day with activities centred around the island setting and surrounding ocean.

Celebrations will continue from 1 to 10 January during the Orthodox festive period, including Orthodox Christmas.
According to the resort, the broader concept is intended to connect the entire guest experience, with the island’s natural environment forming part of the festive setting. The ocean will provide inspiration during the day, while the night sky will shape the atmosphere after sunset.
Dining experiences, entertainment and activities will each form part of the wider “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” narrative, giving guests different experiences throughout their stay while maintaining a consistent creative theme.
The programme is designed for guests travelling with family, friends or loved ones, with Ifuru Island aiming to combine its natural surroundings with festive celebrations and shared experiences.
The full festive programme, including entertainment, activities, culinary experiences and special events, will be announced separately.
“Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” will run at Ifuru Island Maldives from 21 December 2026 to 10 January 2027. Christmas Eve will be marked on 24 December, Christmas Day on 25 December, New Year’s Eve on 31 December, New Year’s Day on 1 January and the Orthodox festive period from 1 to 10 January 2027.
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