News
Emerald Faarufushi Resort celebrates one-year anniversary
The world-renowned 5-star Deluxe All-Inclusive Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa, affiliated with The Leading Hotels of the World, has announced its one-year anniversary since its re-opening and celebrate the resort’s incredible success.
Over the past 12 months, the Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa has soared to new heights, boasting an astonishing average occupancy rate of 85%. Italy, the UK and Germany account for 45% of total bookings (with 15% each), while the remaining 55% of guests come from the rest of the world. This remarkable achievement in international markets has solidified its status as a true gem in the world of luxury travel. The resort already ranked on the top 10 resorts for guests’ satisfaction on TripAdvisor and a score of 9.8 on Booking.com.
To commemorate this momentous occasion and usher in another year of success, the resort is throwing a dazzling celebration open to all its guests on Sunday, October 1.
The festivities will kick off with a splash in the morning, featuring an exhilarating Water Sports Show and Free Trial Diving session. Guests can dive into the world of aquatic adventure, paddling on a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) or explore the vibrant coral reefs beneath the crystal-clear waters.
In the early afternoon, the celebrations will continue with a delightful Choco Swiss Roll Class at the Aqua Restaurant, where culinary creativity will go beyond bounds. Later, guests can test their mixology skills during an enchanting Cocktail Masterclass at the Eclipse Bar, offering mesmerising ocean views.
For those with a competitive spirit, a thrilling rendezvous awaits at 5 pm on the padel court, where guests can challenge the resort’s General Manager, Patrick De Staercke, to an epic showdown. As twilight descends upon the island, the true revelry begins at 7 pm with a lively Cocktail Party at the Sunset Pool Bar. Everyone will be invited to raise a glass and toast to the resort’s incredible journey over the past year! The celebration will then transition into a sumptuous Gala Dinner, followed by a vibrant Pink DJ Party that will keep guests dancing under the stars until the early hours.
“We are delighted with the results achieved in these first 12 months of operation,” says Simone Scarapicchia, Chief Commercial Officer of The Emerald Collection.
“Since our opening on 1 October 2022 and up to April, we have recorded a constant occupancy of around 85% and the forecast for Q4 2023 consolidates on this average. Our Deluxe All-Inclusive formula, in addition to attentive but non-invasive refined service and the sophistication of the villas and common areas, have immediately won over the relevant European markets. Among the new additions coming in 2024, we have made improvements to make the beach surrounding the island even wider and created a new category of over-the-water villas: the Sunset Water Villa with pool, which provides priceless views of the sunsets that each day lights up the waters surrounding Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa in pink and orange.”
Awards
Atmosphere Core secures British Airways Holidays awards across five Maldives resorts
Atmosphere Core has announced that five of their resorts in the Maldives; VARU by Atmosphere, Atmosphere Kanifushi, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, and OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, have been recognised with the prestigious British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award 2025.
This accolade reflects consistently high guest satisfaction, recognising hotels that excel in service delivery, quality of facilities, and the overall holiday experience. Extended only to the top 8% of hotels worldwide, it underscores the strength of the brand’s diverse portfolio, from signature Holiday Plans to adults-only escapes and immersive, nature-inspired island retreats.

Under Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, VARU by Atmosphere and Atmosphere Kanifushi continue to set benchmarks in elevated hospitality. VARU by Atmosphere offers a contemporary island experience with seamless inclusions and warm Maldivian service, while Atmosphere Kanifushi is known for its expansive setting, lush tropical surroundings, and wide range of experiences catering to both families and couples.

Within the COLOURS OF OBLU portfolio, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, and OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO each present distinct island escapes. OBLU SELECT Sangeli blends contemporary design in a stylish and tranquil setting. OBLU SELECT Lobigili is a romantic, adults-only retreat thoughtfully designed for couples, centred around intimacy and curated experiences. OBLU NATURE Helengeli stands out for its rich marine life and exceptional house reef, offering an immersive experience for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

“We are truly honoured to receive the British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award across multiple resorts within our portfolio. This recognition, driven by genuine guest feedback, is a testament to the passion and dedication of our teams who consistently go above and beyond to create exceptional experiences,” said Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer at Atmosphere Core. “It reinforces our commitment to delivering distinctive and memorable stays across every island, tailored to different guest journeys.”

This achievement further strengthens Atmosphere Core’s position as a leading hospitality brand in the Maldives, driven by guest-centric service, innovation, and authentic island experiences.
Drink
Lily Beach announces guest bartender residency featuring Vyacheslav Kasitsyn
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has announced an exclusive guest bartender residency featuring Vyacheslav Kasitsyn, one of the most prominent figures in Moscow’s contemporary bar scene, from 2nd to 10th May 2026.
Vyacheslav is the Bar Manager of The Carlton Lounge & Bar at The Carlton, Moscow, one of the city’s most sophisticated social destinations. He began his career at the award-winning City Space Bar, recognised both in Russia and internationally, before contributing to a number of standout bar and restaurant projects at Lucky Group.
Renowned for crafting modern classics with precision and narrative depth, Vyacheslav’s cocktails reflect refined technique, contemporary elegance, and a strong sense of place. Each creation tells a story-balancing innovation with timeless style, elegance and style.
During his residency at Lily Beach, guests will experience a curated cocktail menu inspired by Moscow’s dynamic bar culture, reimagined within the island’s luxury setting. Exclusive evening showcases and limited-edition signatures will highlight his artistry.
This special collaboration underscores Lily Beach’s commitment to delivering elevated culinary and beverage experiences -where global expertise meets barefoot Maldivian luxury.
At Lily Beach the Platinum Plan seamlessly unites exceptional dining with premium inclusions, creating one of the Maldives’ most distinguished all-inclusive experiences. Guests indulge in diverse buffet and à la carte offerings across multiple restaurants, complemented by an extensive selection of premium wines, spirits, signature cocktails, and a replenished minibar. Elevating the culinary journey further, Les Turquoise d’Aqua proudly received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2024, underscoring the resort’s commitment to world-class wine curation. From elegant beachfront dinners to relaxed overwater settings, every moment is thoughtfully crafted to deliver refined flavour, variety, and effortless luxury.
For reservations and further information, please visit the resort’s website.
Featured
The Standard, Maldives unveils new Premium All-Inclusive package
The Standard, Maldives has announced the launch of a new Premium All-Inclusive experience from May 2026, introducing an enhanced offering aimed at travellers seeking a seamless island holiday in Raa Atoll.
The resort said the new package was designed to combine dining, experiences and entertainment with the natural setting of the Maldives. It added that the offering had been curated with Indian travellers in mind, as India continues to grow as a source market for Maldivian tourism.
The package begins with champagne on arrival and includes access to dining across the resort’s outlets. Guests will be able to choose from three restaurants for lunch and five restaurants for dinner with prior reservation. The resort said the dining programme would range from Mediterranean dishes at Onda to Maldivian cuisine at Guduguda, offering guests a varied culinary experience throughout their stay.
The package also includes a beverage programme featuring premium spirits, wines, cocktails and beers, as well as a fully stocked minibar in each villa.
The culinary programme is led by Director of Culinary Nandakumar Dharuman. The resort said his Indian background adds familiarity for Indian travellers, with Indian breakfast options available alongside international selections. Vegetarian and Jain meals can also be prepared on request.
The Standard, Maldives said the resort would continue to offer a lively atmosphere through activities held during the week, including DJ nights, fire dance performances, bingo evenings and other social events. Breakfast DJ sessions are also part of the programme. In addition, guests booking the Premium All-Inclusive package will receive one complimentary 30-minute spa treatment and one island excursion.
Sonika Adlakha, commercial director of The Standard, Maldives, said India remained an important and growing market for the resort. She said the new Premium All-Inclusive experience was intended to offer Indian travellers a stay that combined dining, entertainment and the natural appeal of the Maldives.
Alongside its social spaces, the resort said it also offers quieter areas for guests seeking a more relaxed experience. All villas at the property include private pools and spacious living areas, allowing guests to stay close to the resort’s dining and entertainment facilities while also enjoying privacy.
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