News
Jawakara Islands Maldives opens: 2 islands, 1 resort, multigenerational experiences
Jawakara Islands Maldives opened its doors on Sunday, offering an adventurous bolthole where multigenerational travelers can collaborate, indulge and rejuvenate. This is the latest opening in the Crown & Champa Resorts portfolio which includes Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Maldives, and Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa in its luxury collection.
Jawakara is a 290-villa, ‘One Island, One Resort’ Maldivian concept. Just 40 minutes either by luxury speedboat from Madivaru domestic airport in Lhaviyani Atoll or 35 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport, the five-star getaway comprises two separate islands – Mabin and Dheru – connected by an oversea walkway.
Jawakara will be managed as one resort with a focus on family-friendly and multigenerational experiences. Guests can choose to have an action packed schedule from surfing, diving, motorised and non-motorised watersports including kite surfing, kayaking and many more and snorkelling to golf, paddle and football tournaments on a full-sized pitch with much more in between. Alternatively, there are two Suhla spas, a big kids club, a yoga retreat and two infinity pools.
Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager, Jawakara Islands Maldives, comments: “Jawakara is designed to be every family’s dream for a luxury getaway – every detail has been thought of for all generations alike for an all-encompassing offering that will define Jawakara as the pioneer for luxury multi-generational travel in classically Maldivian surroundings.”
Activities
Mabin Island is home to the Jawa Kids Club, available to children staying in all accommodation types. The Jawa Kids programme is packed with exciting and age-appropriate activities from mini golf, football and paddle tennis instruction to child-friendly spa treatments to lessons in the art of sushi making and mocktail mixology. The programme includes opportunities for children to learn about Maldivian culture through music, dance, art, and even how to fish using traditional Maldivian methods as well as sustainability workshops and exploring the ocean with the in-house marine biology expert.
Jawakara is one of the very few luxury resorts in the Maldives where guests can surf. The surf school will provide equipment and lessons to guests looking to catch the perfect wave. Jawakara also offers a wealth of other water activities for families; from guided diving and snorkelling trips to paddleboarding and kayaking as well as the opportunity to complete certifications at the PADI five-star training centre alongside jetskiing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, sofa-rides, windsurfing, kayaks and catamaran sailing.
Other facilities include two infinity pools overlooking the ocean, a kid’s pool; artificial turf courts for football (futsal); paddle tennis, tennis and badminton courts; a fitness centre; a volleyball court; and a 9-hole golf course, the biggest in the Maldives.
Accommodation
Mabin is home to 202 villas, while Dheru comprises 88 villas, totalling 110 Beach Villas, 90 Beach Pool Villas and 70 Water Pool Villas. This includes 10 two-bedroom Villas on Mabin which can be converted into a twin or triple room for larger groups or families. In addition, there are 5 three-bedroom beach pool villas which sleep up to 8 people on Dhehru. Two of the bedrooms have outdoor bathrooms while the middle bedroom has an indoor bathroom. These villas offer families flexible sleeping arrangements and are ideal for multigenerational holidays, large families, families who wish to bring a nanny or for two families holidaying together.
Each villa is complete with a king-size bed, private sun-decking, a 48-inch flatscreen TV with the latest movies, and indoor bathroom with a rain shower, creating a space filled with both privacy and spaciousness where time slows down and families can truly relax and connect.
Dining
There is a variety of dining experiences available for all tastes. ‘MOLO’ à la carte restaurant, located on Mabin Island invites guests to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine, while ‘HIDEOUT RESTAURANT’, is an upscale international fast-food restaurant that offers an innovative take on comfort classics such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. SAIMA and AILA serves indoor and al fresco all-day buffets in an open-air dining room with live cooking stations. Mabin also boasts a choice of 3 bars, namely Nika Bar, Bonthi Bar, and Molo Bar.
Guests can enjoy buffet-style dining at ‘THE VELA RESTAURANT’ on Dheru or opt for á la carte Asian-Pacific cuisine ‘UMI 海 RESTAURANT’ at the heart of the walkway connecting the two islands to enjoy a unique dining experience whilst watching the sunset on the Indian Ocean horizon. The ‘THILA BAR’ has a spectacular view from on high and ‘UMI 海 BAR’ treats you to an awe-inspiring panorama of the Jawakara House Reef and lagoon, setting the stage for a memorable drink experience.
Wellness
Two Sulha Spas – one with 8 double treatment rooms located in the tropical jungle of Mabin island and the other with 6 treatment rooms and a yoga retreat that sits above the crystalline Jawakara lagoon – offer an Ayurveda spa and wellness experience that harnesses Asian massage techniques alongside organic products to create a truly natural approach.
Curating a stay
Mabin Island offers something for everyone with a premium all-inclusive package, or full board, half board or bed and breakfast only. Pre-opening starting rates are from $600 per room based on double occupancy on a bed & breakfast basis.
Dheru island offers a fully all-Inclusive, intimate island escape. Pre-opening starting rates are from $992 per room based on double occupancy.
Three-bedroom villas starting rate for the opening period is US$2400 for 5 people, with additional charges of US$692 for each extra person per night with a total maximum of 8 people on an all-inclusive basis.
“I would always say that Jawakara will make a difference in the market with its offerings and unique concept. Jawakara caters for everyone’s needs, and is not limited to just one segment. It’s a very large five-star, family friendly and active Resort,” emphasised the Director of Sales and Marketing at Crown & Champa Resorts, Ahmed Shaheen.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi recognised for sustainability at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2027
Coco Bodu Hithi, part of Coco Collection, has received the Best Commitment to Sustainability award at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2027, in the Africa, Asia & Middle East region. This marks the resort’s third consecutive year of recognition, reflecting its continued efforts to care for the environment while creating meaningful experiences for guests.
The latest accolade follows Best Service in 2025 and Best Waterside Hotel in 2026, recognising different aspects of the resort’s hospitality over the years. Each award holds special meaning for the team, whose dedication and genuine care remain at the heart of the Coco Bodu Hithi experience.
Located in North Malé Atoll, just 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Coco Bodu Hithi is close enough for convenience yet secluded enough to feel a world away. Surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical greenery, the resort features 100 villas, each with a private pool.

Caring for the island’s natural environment is an important part of everyday life at Coco Bodu Hithi. From coral restoration to eliminating single-use plastics, in-house water production and energy-saving initiatives, the resort continues to take thoughtful steps towards sustainability. Guests are also encouraged to participate through marine conservation experiences, educational talks and island clean-ups, fostering a shared appreciation for the environment.
“We are grateful to receive this recognition, marking our third consecutive year at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards. It reflects our team’s dedication and the meaningful steps we continue to take towards protecting our island. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we remain committed to learning, improving and making a positive difference,” said Mohamed Sobe, General Manager of Coco Bodu Hithi.
The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding hotels and resorts worldwide, serving as a trusted mark of quality among travellers and travel professionals alike. For Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Collection, this recognition reflects a shared commitment to preserving the Maldives’ natural beauty, heartfelt hospitality and responsible tourism.
For those planning an island escape, Coco Bodu Hithi invites guests to discover its exclusive Double 11 offer or celebrate the festive season with loved ones through the Coco Festive Celebration. To explore these offers and plan a stay, visit www.cococollection.com or contact reservations@cococollection.com.
News
Bandos Maldives lines up festive dining, family activities and entertainment for Christmas, New Year
Bandos Maldives has announced its festive programme for Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, introducing a Candy Land-themed celebration featuring dining experiences, live entertainment, family activities, cultural performances and island excursions.
Running from 20 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, the programme will bring together seasonal celebrations and the resort’s established recreational activities, with events designed for families, couples and guests of all ages.
The celebrations will begin on 20 December with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Huvan Deck, accompanied by Christmas carols performed by the Bandos Carollers. The opening day will also feature a Christmas cake-mixing ceremony, a Maldivian cooking experience, sunset entertainment by Beatus Duo and a Candy Land Street Food Market at Sea Breeze.
A series of dining experiences will form part of the festive calendar. On 21 December, Umi Yaki will host Tokyo in Maldives, a Japanese-inspired dinner incorporating seasonal elements. Guests can also participate in a festive food and wine pairing experience at Grill Bar on 23 December.

Christmas Eve, on 24 December, will feature a gala dinner at Gallery Restaurant from 7pm to 10pm, with festive decorations and a selection of seasonal dishes. The evening’s entertainment will include Christmas carols, sunset music and a performance by The Notion Band, followed by DJ Katty at Sand Bar.
On Christmas Day, the resort will welcome Santa Claus to Huvan Beach at 10.45am, followed by a programme of family activities. Guests can begin the day with morning yoga and a Christmas breakfast at Gallery before joining the Candy Cane Beach Bash in the afternoon. Sunset entertainment and a karaoke evening will conclude the day’s celebrations.
The culinary programme will continue on 26 December with a Candy Land Beach BBQ at Huvan Beach, featuring grilled specialities in a beachfront setting. Other activities will include pastry-making sessions, vegetable carving demonstrations and mixology experiences, giving guests opportunities to learn from the resort’s culinary and beverage teams.
The programme will culminate in New Year’s Eve celebrations on 31 December, featuring a gala dinner at Gallery from 7pm to 9.30pm. The festivities will continue at Sand Bar with live music, DJ entertainment and a countdown to 2027, accompanied by fireworks.

Guests will also have opportunities to explore the surrounding marine environment during the festive period. Activities include sunset dolphin-watching excursions, sunrise fishing, water sports and a sandbank picnic. The resort will conduct environmental awareness activities under its Eco Adventures programme, introducing guests to its sustainability initiatives and efforts to protect the island’s natural surroundings.
Families travelling with children will have access to an extensive schedule of activities organised through Kokko Club and other areas of the resort. These include gingerbread house decorating, Christmas arts and crafts, costume parades, treasure hunts, beach games, children’s discos and cooking sessions.
Sporting and recreational activities will also feature throughout the celebrations, including tennis challenges, beach volleyball, football matches involving guests and resort staff, water polo, aqua aerobics and morning yoga sessions.
Live entertainment will be a regular feature of the programme, with performances by Beatus Duo, The Notion Band and DJ Katty. Traditional Maldivian music and dance performances are also scheduled, offering guests opportunities to experience local cultural traditions alongside the international festive celebrations.

Following New Year’s Day, the programme will continue with additional dining and entertainment experiences. Umi Yaki will host a Japanese-inspired Sakura Evening on 2 January, while Maldivian cultural performances and family activities will continue during the first week of the year.
On 6 January, Bandos will host an Orthodox Christmas dinner at Huvan Beach, featuring a beachfront barbecue accompanied by live music from Beatus Duo. The festivities will conclude on 7 January with a Candy Land Party Night at Sand Bar.
In his welcome message accompanying the festive programme, Ismail Rasheed highlighted the resort’s focus on creating memories through shared meals, time spent together, exploring the ocean and enjoying island life.
Bandos Maldives is located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Opened on 10 December 1972 as the second tourist resort in the Maldives, Bandos is among the country’s longest-established tourism properties and is known as the Island of Hospitality.

The 18-hectare island features 220 rooms and villas across several accommodation categories, including beachfront rooms, garden villas, beach villas and overwater accommodation. Its facilities include restaurants and bars, Orchid Spa, a diving centre, water sports facilities, a swimming pool, sports and fitness amenities, and Kokko Club for younger guests.
The resort is also known for its house reef and diving experiences, offering access to marine activities within North Malé Atoll. Its combination of family facilities, dining options and proximity to the international airport makes Bandos an established destination for both leisure holidays and short island stays.
Selected festive dining experiences, excursions and activities require advance reservations and are subject to additional charges.
News
Niva Kuramathi Maldives celebrates International Men’s Day with spa and fitness experiences
Throughout November, Niva Kuramathi Maldives turns toward movement and wellbeing. From 1 to 30 November 2026, LIME Wellbeing presents its International Men’s Day Wellness Collection. The collection brings together four restorative treatment packages, complimentary group sessions on 19 November and a three-day retail offer. These are days made for the body to relax, the mind to settle and energy to return.
Restore, 1–30 November
The Executive Recharge is a 60-minute deep tissue massage that reaches the places where stress sits. Tight muscles loosen, and energy returns. The Athlete’s Recovery Package is a 90-minute sports recovery massage. It combines focused stretching with deep muscle work to restore range of motion, so the body remembers how to move with ease. The Gentleman’s Grooming Ritual is a 30-minute express Obsidian facial for the face, neck and torso. Rich in minerals and plant extracts, it deeply cleanses and hydrates. Tension lifts, texture softens, clarity returns. The Total Wellbeing Experience pairs a 60-minute deep tissue massage with a 30-minute Obsidian men’s facial. Muscle recovery flows into skin restoration – body first, then face, then a calm you may not have felt in a while.

Move, 19 November
On International Men’s Day itself, you can join one of two complimentary male group sessions, each designed to build strength, mobility and resilience. The Resistance & Core Group Fitness Class focuses on breath core strength. The Office Yoga Group Session concentrates on gentle stretches to ease stiff shoulders and neck caused by to many long hours spent at a desk.

Obsidian Gentlemen’s Skincare Rituals
At the heart of the collection sits Obsidian, a range designed around the distinct needs of men’s skin. Tailored specifically for men, these treatments offer deep-cleansing, revitalising facials that target the unique needs of men’s skin, leaving you refreshed and perfectly groomed.
Retail, 19–21 November
For three days, all retail products at LIME Wellbeing are 15% off, and select treatments carry exclusive International Men’s Day pricing.

For further information and reservations, please call +960 666 01 50 or email reservations@nivakuramathi.com.
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