Awards
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives recognised with Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Award among Indian Ocean’s top resorts

Condé Nast Traveler has announced the results of its annual Readers’ Choice Awards with The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands recognized as the #12 in resorts, in the Indian Ocean.
More than 520,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers submitted responses rating their travel experiences across the globe to offer a comprehensive look at the places they eagerly anticipate revisiting. The Readers’ Choice Awards, with their unparalleled legacy as the travel industry’s longest-running and most prestigious accolades, remain the ultimate symbol and acknowledgment of excellence within the travel sector. The full list of winners can be found here.
“We are truly honoured to have received this prestigious recognition from Condé Nast Traveler. It underscores not only the exceptional quality of our resort but also the unwavering commitment and dedication of our extraordinary team,” said Renato De Oliveira, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.
“Their unrelenting efforts to create unforgettable experiences for our guests have been a driving force behind this achievement. As we move forward, our commitment remains, we are excited about the journey ahead, and look forward to continuing to exceed our guests’ expectations.”
Nestled within the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands sits in an ideal location at Fari Islands, accessible through a picturesque 45-minute speedboat journey or a brief 10-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport. The resort’s enchanting setting boasts powdery white sandy beaches, crystalline turquoise lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Marking the esteemed brand’s debut in the Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands showcases a signature blend of island living and contemporary design – blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Each villa provides mesmerizing water vistas, a private infinity pool, and an expansive sundeck, accompanied by the devoted care of an Aris Meeha, an island butler. With a collection of 100 elegantly appointed villas, all strategically positioned to capture ocean and lagoon views, the resort radiates a sense of opulence and sophistication. Designed under the artistic guidance of Kerry Hill Architects, every detail contributes to an exquisite experience that encapsulates the essence of luxury living.
Awards
SAii Lagoon Maldives wins prestigious Hilton Connie Award twice in 3 years

SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, has once again been honoured with the Connie Award – the highest distinction awarded by Hilton Worldwide. This marks the second time in just three years that SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton received this rare recognition, reaffirming its place among the very best within the global Hilton portfolio and standing as the only Hilton property in the Maldives to receive this distinction both years.
The Connie Award, named after Conrad Hilton — the visionary founder of Hilton Hotels — is awarded to top-performing hotels that achieve outstanding scores in guest satisfaction, brand standards, and quality assurance. It is not simply an award for success, but a celebration of soul, of the values that have defined Hilton since its inception; hospitality from the heart, service with meaning, and a commitment to creating memorable stays that go far beyond the expected.
To receive the Connie Award is to be recognised as one of the finest expressions of Hilton’s global promise. Fewer than 1% of Hilton hotels earn this award annually, making it not just an honour, but a profound responsibility. SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton has met this moment with warmth, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to delighting every guest who arrives not as a visitor, but as part of the SAii family.
“This is not a win for an establishment or a brand, it is a win for every SAiiLander who puts heart into everything they do,” mentioned Alexander Traeger, General Manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and CROSSROADS Marina. “Our team brings their personalities, their stories, and their smiles to work every day. That energy is what our guests remember, and this award is a tribute to that team spirit.”
SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton continues to shine as part of a growing Hilton presence in the Maldives, which includes the refined island experiences of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, and Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa. While each property carries its own unique character, this second Connie Award solidified the deep connection guests feel with SAii’s playful, welcoming energy, a style of hospitality that is as heartfelt as it is unforgettable.
Awards
RAAYA by Atmosphere crowned ‘Opening of the Year’ at Travel Time Awards 2024

In a remarkable first year of operations, RAAYA by Atmosphere has claimed the title of ‘Opening of the Year’ at the Travel Time Awards 2024, one of Russia’s most prestigious travel industry honours. The accolade reflects Raaya’s unique appeal to the Russian market, blending tailored experiences with scenic island beauty and an elevated sense of family-friendly hospitality.
Held annually, the Travel Time Awards spotlight excellence across 24 categories, based on a combination of votes from Travel Time magazine readers, the editorial board, and travel agencies across Russia. From over 80 nominees, RAAYA by Atmosphere was among the 29 winners, celebrated for its vibrant, family-focused spirit and indulgent services.
RAAYA by Atmosphere has welcomed approximately 1,490 Russian guests, making Russia one of its top three source markets. Guests from the region are drawn to the resort’s stunning marine excursions, recreational activities including Padel tennis, speciality fine dining, and immersive destination dining experiences including the recently launched, sustainable harvest-to-plate concept at Seb’s Farm.
Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager at RAAYA by Atmosphere, says, “Raaya was created as a place to bring people together, be it families, couples, and adventurers from around the world. Curating a unique balance of escapism and energy in a setting of extraordinary natural beauty. We are truly honoured that this vision has been recognised by the Russian travel industry in our very first year. This award is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team in elevating every guest experience, and to the warm and enthusiastic response we’ve received from the Russian market”.
RAAYA by Atmosphere features 167 beach and over water villas and seven varied dining choices infusing local tradition and global cuisine. Along with one of the most stunningly serene beaches, the island is a playground of adventure, offering water sports, diving, padel, futsal, a kids club, skate circuit, an art and craft studio, a playful mini-golf course, and a signature brand ELE|NA Ayur spa immersed in the quietude of nature.
Awards
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives nominated for Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has officially been nominated for the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller (UK) and Condé Nast Traveler (US) Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 in the “Resorts” category. This recognition once again places the award-winning five-star luxury resort among the world’s most celebrated travel destinations. Voting is currently open and will remain so until 30 June 2025. The results will be announced in the November 2025 issues of Condé Nast Magazine in both the UK and US editions.
This nomination follows a remarkable achievement in 2024, when the resort was recognised in the Condé Nast Traveller (UK) Readers’ Choice Awards, earning 8th place among the Top 20 Resorts in the Indian Ocean. The accolade underscored the resort’s commitment to excellence and its deep connection with guests.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, expressed gratitude for the nomination, stating, “Being nominated once again for the Condé Nast Traveller (UK) and Condé Nast Traveler (US) Readers’ Choice Awards is a tremendous honour. It is incredibly exciting to be listed among the top resorts in such a competitive global region. This recognition is a testament to Kuda Villingili’s exceptional service, soulful hospitality, and unforgettable guest experiences. We warmly invite everyone to vote and support us in achieving even greater success in 2025.”
Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is a luxurious island retreat that redefines the concepts of time and space. The resort is celebrated for its world-class dining offerings across eight restaurants serving twelve distinct cuisines, holistic wellness experiences at its private island spa, and a vibrant surf scene at the renowned Chickens Break. With spacious villas, warm Maldivian hospitality, and a diverse range of curated experiences for couples, families, and solo travellers, the resort continues to set new standards in personalised luxury.
The Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most esteemed accolades in the travel industry, determined entirely by the votes of discerning readers. Each year, millions of readers around the world vote for their favourite hotels, resorts, cities, airlines, and more, honouring those that deliver unforgettable experiences.
Every vote is meaningful. Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives encourages past guests and supporters to cast their votes, especially if the resort has been part of a special journey or memory. Taking just a few minutes, each vote contributes to helping the resort reach the top once again in 2025.
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