News
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives celebrates autumn festival with array of festive programming
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, invites guests to immerse themselves in a week-long celebration during the resort’s Autumn Festival.
From October 25th to November 1st, this year’s celebration draws inspiration from the vibrant traditions of Dia de Los Muertos, a vibrant Mexican holiday traditionally known for embracing family and teaching that life is not a line but a circle – a sentiment seen reflected within the resort’s scenography; embrace the circle of island life.
The festival will present a mosaic of authentic holiday offerings on property through an array of curated, engaging activities suitable for all ages. Guests are invited to embrace the spirit of Autumn by embarking on an island adventure, infusing the spirit of Mexico into an idyllic Maldivian setting.
Festivities begin on October 25th, with events such as the Marigold Magic Creation workshop, which evokes creativity through the crafting of beautiful Paper Marigold Flowers – a nod to the marigold’s significance in the annual Dia de Los Muertos festival. Celebrations continue with a Maldivian dinner under the stars where guests can immerse themselves in the rich flavors of the Indian Ocean, indulge in traditional delicacies, and engage with the cultural heritage of the Maldives.
The events take a delightful turn on October 27th with a Dia de Los Muertos Cookie Decoration Workshop hosted at the resort’s Italian eatery, La Locanda. Families are invited to unleash their creativity as they decorate delectable sugar cookies with colourful icing and vibrant designs. On the same evening, the resort’s diverse offerings also include an elegant Lobster Dinner Under the Stars, offering travelers a romantic ambiance beneath the stunning Maldivian sky. The excitement continues in the following days, when on October 28th guests can look forward to a Pan de Muerto Decoration activity, where they can embrace the festive spirit by decorating the traditional Mexican sweet bread in honor of Dia de Los Muertos. This is followed by a lively Piñata Pool Party, where they can take playful swings at vibrant piñatas filled with delightful surprises.
On October 29th, an unmissable beachside fiesta takes place at La Plaza’s recreation beach, featuring authentic Mexican food trucks serving a diverse array of mouth-watering dishes. Simultaneously, young aspiring pastry chefs can learn the art of creating choux pastries, such as cream puffs and éclairs at the Children’s Choux Masterclass.
On October 30th, guests can explore their creativity with the Pumpkin Artistry Workshop, where the art of pumpkin carving takes centre stage, or the Sugar Skull Art Crafts Workshop tailored for kids to form their own festive sugar skull creations. As the evening unfolds, parents can enjoy a Cocktail & Kids Halloween Costume Show, where they can watch their little ones showcase their costumes while savouring delicious drinks.
On October 31st, travelers are treated to an Iluminación Feast, where guests can embrace the Halloween spirit as they indulge in savory dishes and immerse themselves in the mystical atmosphere. The evening continues with a Cocktail Party at Beach Shack, followed by a spooktacular Trick or Treat event, allowing participants to dress up, collect treats, and enjoy a night of frightful delights.
Throughout the week, various spa treatment workshops are also available to guests. On November 1st, guests will be given the opportunity to participate in the Spa Alchemist Scrub Workshop, during which they are granted access to a diverse selection of natural ingredients, encompassing fragrant flowers, aromatic herbs, and common kitchen staples. This hands-on experience enables them to create their custom body scrub, gifting participants with the knowledge needed to replicate the indulgence in the comfort of their own homes.
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offers luxurious and prestigious packages, such as the exclusive “Embrace Island Life” package. The custom-tailored package includes luxury accommodation in the Villa category of choice, seamless round-trip transportation in the resort’s luxury shared speedboat, daily half-board for dining experiences, welcome amenities, and dedicated 24-hour Aris Meeha or island butler service. Through the “Embrace Island life’ package travellers can experience the epitome of luxury and relaxation in the heart of the Maldives.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands provides an enchanting retreat that caters to the desires of every traveler, guaranteeing a truly remarkable experience for all. For further details about the resort, please visit The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands website.
Drink
Asia’s top mixology talent to lead cocktail takeover at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover an immersive three-night cocktail journey this June, featuring acclaimed mixologist Navjot Singh. Taking place across the resort’s distinctive venues from June 17 to 19, 2026, the exclusive bar takeover will present a curated series of innovative tropical cocktail experiences inspired by island living, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
Led by Navjot Singh, Beverage Program Leader at Lair Bar, the experience brings one of Asia’s most celebrated contemporary cocktail programs to the Maldives. Recognised as No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lair Bar is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, blending luxury spirits, creativity, and immersive storytelling. Navjot himself was recently crowned World Class India 2025, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s leading talents.
Joining him is Nakul Dev, Senior Bartender at LAIR BAR, whose creative approach is deeply inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. With over six years of experience in hospitality and cocktails, Nakul is known for crafting ingredient-driven drinks that reflect the essence of the mountains and local produce from his hometown. His passion for flavour development and exploration of new techniques brings an additional layer of creativity and depth to the collaboration.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the takeover will unfold across three distinct venues, each offering its own atmosphere and cocktail narrative. At Nikkei Bar, guests will enjoy an exclusive sunset activation where thoughtfully crafted cocktails elevate golden-hour moments with refined tropical flavours and interactive guest experiences. Wahoo Bar will host an elegant beachfront evening inspired by the serenity of the coast, pairing curated tropical cocktails with breathtaking sunset views and laid-back sophistication. The final experience will take place at JW Garden, where a “Garden to Glass” concept celebrates locally grown ingredients such as basil, lemongrass, and pandan, highlighting sustainability and creating an immersive journey.
“We are thrilled to welcome Navjot Singh to JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort for this exclusive guest bartender series,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager. “His expertise, creativity, and dedication to craft reflect our commitment to offering guests immersive moments that are aligned with our philosophy of contemporary luxury.”
Each cocktail hour has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the island through a contemporary lens, blending tropical influences with modern techniques and storytelling. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort continues to elevate its culinary and beverage programming, offering guests meaningful and memorable experiences rooted in connection, discovery, and craftsmanship.
Learn more about JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort here.
Culture
Eid al-Adha at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa blends family togetherness with island luxury
This season, as families from across the globe gather to honour the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa invites multi-generational travellers to celebrate the spirit of sacrifice, gratitude, and togetherness on the pristine shores of Shaviyani Atoll. Embracing the essence of this holy celebration, the resort has curated a deeply meaningful Eid experience, seamlessly aligned with its ongoing “Family Fun Summer” offer, giving loved ones the perfect framework to slow down, connect, and nourish the soul in an island sanctuary.
An Eid Culinary Awakening at Aailaa
Celebrating the occasion with gastronomic elegance, the resort’s vibrant all-day dining venue, Aailaa, will be transformed into a festive sanctuary alive with the warmth and spirit of Eid. Guests can look forward to a special Eid corner during breakfast, featuring traditional morning delicacies. As the day unfolds, a curated festive menu takes centre stage, showcasing rich, comforting flavours such as Chargrilled Lamb Chops and Beef Kofta Kebab.
The specialty of the day belongs to a true masterpiece: the ROYAL PRELUDE – Slow-Cooked Lamb Paya Shorba. A traditional, gelatinous aromatic broth simmered overnight, it is infused with Kashmiri saffron, delicate herbs, and finished with a golden, crispy onion garnish, offering a deeply comforting taste of heritage.

Spaces Crafted for Togetherness
At the heart of the experience is a commitment to providing a space for families to be truly present. The resort’s Overwater Duplex Villas and Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Villas with Pool serve as private havens of comfort, specifically designed to cater to the nuances of multigenerational living. These sanctuaries are complemented by the intuitive care of Thakuru service and the freedom of complimentary bicycles, allowing guests to explore the island’s lush landscapes at a leisurely, intentional pace.
The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, with over 100 programs to spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives with over 100 programs spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

Family Sun Summer Package
Designed for ultimate connection, the Family Fun Summer package offers a comprehensive escape with a USD 300 resort credit to be used toward spa treatments, signature dining, or island adventures. The experience includes daily breakfast, along with three-course lunches and dinners for two adults and children under 12 at select venues. Families can also enjoy a signature floating breakfast in the privacy of their villa.
For more information and bookings, please visit the resort’s website.
News
Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi’s Mandara Spa expands wellness offering with athlete-inspired recovery treatments
Mandara Spa at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi is expanding its wellness offering with the launch of a new Recovery experience, developed in collaboration with Hyperice, the performance recovery technology brand trusted by elite athletes worldwide.
Created for today’s active traveller, surf community, and wellness-conscious guest, the new offering reflects Mandara Spa’s commitment to going beyond traditional spa experiences by integrating modern recovery solutions into luxury island hospitality. Designed to support the way contemporary guests move, recover, and experience wellbeing, the collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach to wellness in one of the Maldives’ most iconic surf destinations.
Redefining Wellness for the Modern Guest
For over three decades, Mandara Spa has built its reputation on deep wellness expertise, drawing from Asian therapeutic traditions to create experiences that restore both body and mind. Today, that philosophy continues to evolve. As guest lifestyles shift through long haul travel, active pursuits, and a growing awareness of physical recovery, Mandara Spa is responding with intention by bringing contemporary wellness innovation into the heart of island hospitality.
The collaboration with Hyperice is a natural extension of that vision. By integrating performance recovery technology into its wellness offering, Mandara Spa continues to redefine the modern wellness experience, creating a space where guests can transition seamlessly from the surf, the airport, or a full day of activity into meaningful physical restoration.

Set within one of the Maldives’ most recognised surf destinations, the collaboration also reflects the growing connection between wellness, performance, and recovery within today’s surf culture. For athletes whose lifestyles revolve around endurance and longevity, recovery has become an essential part of sustaining both performance and wellbeing. A philosophy also shared by 11 Time World Surf League Champion Kelly Slater, who has long emphasised the importance of recovery throughout his career: “You’ll learn things that you don’t realize. You go in and have to work it out. It’s like a search and rescue tool for the body. For me, it’s a perfect recovery tool.”
This philosophy strongly aligns with Mandara Spa at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi’s approach to modern wellness. The pursuit of longevity, whether for a professional surfer or a well-travelled guest, requires more than relaxation alone. It calls for recovery that is intelligent, intentional, and accessible. The new recovery experiences at the resort have been thoughtfully designed with exactly that in mind.

Recovery, Redefined — For Every Kind of Explorer
Active days and long journeys take their toll. These experiences are designed to change that.
- Normatec Recovery Boots: Using dynamic air compression technology, the Normatec Legs deliver rhythmic pressure from foot to upper leg — stimulating circulation, reducing muscle fatigue, and accelerating recovery after physical activity. Whether you’ve spent the day in the surf or stepped off a long-haul flight, this treatment offers a meaningful reset: legs that feel lighter, looser, and ready for whatever comes next.
- Quick Fix Muscle Release / Flight Recovery: A self-guided session using the Hypervolt percussive device — designed to release tension, restore energy, and ease the physical demands of an active day or extended travel. With simple guidance from spa staff, guests target the areas that carry the most stress, finishing the session feeling grounded, mobile, and at ease.

A Forward-Thinking Approach to Island Wellness
The collaboration with Hyperice marks another step in Mandara Spa’s evolving approach to contemporary wellness, combining the spa’s deep roots in traditional Asian therapies with performance-focused recovery technology designed for the way modern guests move through the world. It is an approach that honours Mandara Spa’s wellness heritage while continuing to look toward the future of guest wellbeing.
The recovery experiences at Mandara Spa have been thoughtfully designed to support both the surfer looking to extend time in the water and the traveller seeking to recover, recharge, and fully settle into island life.
By bringing Hyperice technology into the spa environment, Mandara Spa continues to demonstrate what has long defined the brand: an understanding of how wellness continues to evolve, and a commitment to meeting guests where they are through experiences that feel both restorative and relevant to modern lifestyles. The collaboration also reflects Mandara Spa’s ongoing openness to future partnerships that continue to shape the next generation of wellness experiences.
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