News
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort unveils exclusive Christmas, New Year extravaganza
Prepare to indulge in a blissful escape as OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has announced its extraordinary Christmas and New Year programme, elegantly curated for discerning travellers seeking the epitome of barefoot luxury. From 19 December 2023 through 1 January 2024, this island paradise in the South Ari Atoll beckons guests to partake in a festive celebration like no other.
Elevating the art of culinary mastery, the resort’s renowned Chef Christopher Long presents an opulent Christmas Eve buffet market, a symphony of flavours and global culinary delights to tantalise guest’s taste buds. Dive deeper into the culinary world with immersive masterclasses, where guests can learn the secrets of crafting sushi, Vietnamese hand rolls and indulge in the perfect mojito. Experience the art of pairing chocolate and wine, create wellness-boosting smoothies and master the craft of artisanal coffee making.
For those enchanted by the turquoise waters that envelop this tropical destination, an array of aquatic adventures awaits. Immerse in the sunset cruise of a lifetime or partake in thrilling big game fishing (catch and release). Glide atop the pristine waters on paddleboards, embark on guided kayaking expeditions around the island, join snorkel excursions to discover vibrant marine life, or venture on guided trips to encounter graceful manta rays.
Dive into the enchanting world beneath the waves with Danielle Stanley, the resort’s resident marine biologist, as she presents OUTRIGGER Zone — a global conservation initiative that redefines the way we connect with and protect our planet’s precious marine ecosystems.
Nurture your physical and spiritual well-being as you engage in revitalising yoga and well-being sessions curated by OUTRIGGER’s resident instructor, Ajay Sharma. The sunrise and sunset yoga sessions, balance and strength workouts, flow yoga and cross-fit are created to rejuvenate body, mind, and soul.
As Christmas morning dawns, Santa Claus himself will grace guests with his presence, joining then for a sumptuous breakfast celebration.
Bid adieu to the waning year in style on New Year’s Eve, where guests can join OUTRIGGER’s management team for an exquisite cocktail gathering, bidding farewell to the last sunset of the year. As twilight turns to night, delight in an around-the-globe gourmet dinner that will be followed by electrifying dance music spun by the renowned DJ Matty from 10:30 p.m., ushering in the new year with unparalleled glamour and revelry.
Captivate fellow travellers and share the magic of the stay by participating in OUTRIGGER’s festive Instagram contest. Post cherished moments with key hashtags for a chance to win a romantic traditional “dhoni” sailing boat sunset cocktail experience for two, a blissful 60-minute couples’ massage, or an enchanting beachfront dinner for two under the starlit Maldivian sky.
A mere 25-minute seaplane flight away from the modern and efficient seaplane terminal at Malé International Airport, the newly refurbished OUTRIGGER Maldives boasts 81 luxuriously appointed opulent villas and five captivating dining establishments. It stands as the embodiment of a lavish lifestyle holiday, infused with the signature warmth and hospitality that OUTRIGGER is renowned for.
For the full list of optional Christmas and New Year guest activities, click HERE. For further information or to reserve your exquisite holiday at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, please visit OUTRIGGER.com or contact your preferred travel agent.
Celebration
Mindful festive escape: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa focuses on connection and renewal
This festive season, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa will welcome guests to a celebration of warmth, wonder and mindful connection. From 19 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, the resort will transform into a serene island sanctuary where nature, gastronomy and meaningful experiences come together in harmony.
Situated in one of the most untouched atolls of the Maldives, Huvadhu Atoll, Hadahaa embodies a refined simplicity that showcases the beauty of the natural world. Throughout the festive period, guests are invited to slow down, reconnect and rediscover the joy of being fully present, surrounded by turquoise waters, lush island greenery and Maldivian hospitality.
“The festive season at Hadahaa is more than a celebration — it’s a homecoming,” said Anshul Sharma, General Manager of Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. “It’s a time to reflect, to celebrate togetherness and to embrace the island’s timeless rhythm where nature and joy coexist effortlessly.”
Highlights of the Festive Season:
- Holiday splendour and timeless traditions – From the twinkling lights of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony to the New Year’s Eve Countdown by the Beach, each event is shaped by the understated elegance that defines Park Hyatt. Familiar festive traditions are reinterpreted with authentic island touches, creating celebrations that feel both comforting and renewed.
- Beneath the holiday surface – Adventure enthusiasts will be able to join Festive Snorkelling and Diving excursions, Turtle Quests and an Exclusive Christmas Night Dive. Each marine experience offers a deeper connection to the ocean’s vibrant ecosystem, enhanced by the festive spirit of exploration.
- Season of renewal – Guests can restore body and mind with holistic spa journeys at The Vidhun Spa, featuring Ayurveda-inspired treatments, island botanicals and festive rituals designed to support inner balance. The resort will also host Dr Jyoti Kodwani, founder of The Sacred Chakras, for a month-long Festive Wellness Residency offering transformative healing therapies.
- Festive flavours and family moments – From Barefoot BBQs by the Bay to elevated treehouse dining beneath the stars, dining experiences are designed to become lasting memories. Younger guests can take part in creative workshops, treasure hunts and Santa’s seaside arrival, ensuring special moments for families and guests of all ages.
This year, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s festive programme captures the essence of renewal and joy, celebrating life’s simplest pleasures with a blend of sophistication and soul.
Awards
Ifuru Island Maldives wins Best Luxury Beach Property at Seven Stars Awards 2025
Ifuru Island Maldives has been named Best Luxury Beach Property at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2025, held in Portugal. The recognition highlights the resort’s commitment to redefining barefoot luxury, delivering exceptional guest experiences and showcasing authentic Maldivian hospitality.
The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, often described as the “Oscars of Luxury”, honour only the most outstanding properties and brands worldwide. Receiving this accolade positions Ifuru Island Maldives among the world’s leading destinations, recognised for its focus on service excellence, innovation and guest satisfaction.
“We are deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It reflects the passion and dedication of our incredible All Star team, who create memorable experiences for our guests every single day. This win not only celebrates our property but also the spirit of the Maldives — warm, genuine and unforgettable.”
Located in the pristine Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island Maldives offers a blend of barefoot elegance and meaningful connection. The resort’s premium all-inclusive concept, world-class dining and vibrant experiences are designed to immerse guests in the joy and beauty of island life.
This global recognition further strengthens Ifuru Island Maldives’ reputation as one of the country’s most inspiring luxury destinations, where each moment is crafted with care, creativity and authenticity.
Meditation
Journey to restorative wellness: Amilla Maldives hosts renowned visiting practitioners
Amilla Maldives welcomes guests to experience the expertise of three Visiting Practitioners, each offering personalised sessions to restore balance, nurture presence, and support holistic wellbeing amid the island’s tranquil surroundings.
Until 7 December 2025, Kattia Mendoza, creator of Unmasking Arts™ and KI·OM® Bodywork, offers somatic movement, breath coaching, Osteo-Thai bodywork, and conscious communication. Private sessions like KI·OM® Bodywork, Nervous System Release, and Osteo-Thai Massage help release tension and restore mobility, while group and complimentary classes, including Somatic Breath Meditation and the Unmasking Arts™ Circle, foster emotional clarity and mindful connection.
From 10 December 2025 to 20 January 2026, Jang Kanlayanee brings over 25 years of expertise in Thai, Ayurvedic, and Western wellness practices. Treatments such as Chi Nei Tsang, Body Alignment Massage, Face and Neck Therapy, Reiki, and sound healing restore energy and harmony. Guests can also join group or complimentary sessions including Tai Chi, Sound Bath, Chakra Energy Assessment, and private yoga for holistic wellbeing.
From 20 December 2025 to 20 January 2026, Dr Shreejit Ghadigaonkar, an Ayurveda doctor and yoga expert from India, offers personalised consultations and a range of traditional therapies to restore balance and vitality. Complementary wellness sessions provide guidance on managing stress, improving sleep, and aligning lifestyle habits with the body’s natural rhythms, leaving guests feeling refreshed and renewed.
During their residencies, Kattia, Jang, and Dr Shreejit invite guests to slow down, reconnect, and explore restorative experiences that leave body, mind, and spirit refreshed within the calm rhythm of island life.
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