News
Virgin Atlantic inaugurates direct flights from London Heathrow to the Maldives
Today, Virgin Atlantic launched its latest direct flight route, linking London Heathrow to the Maldives. The inaugural flight, operated by Virgin Atlantic, touched down at VIA early this morning at 07:40 am local time, signifying the commencement of an exciting new era in air travel between the United Kingdom and the Maldives. Passengers aboard the Virgin Atlantic aircraft were greeted with a warm traditional Maldivian Bodeberu welcome ceremony, featuring captivating cultural dance performances.
This new service is set to operate three times a week, with Virgin Atlantic’s state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which boasts a total of 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium, and 192 Economy Delight, Classic, and Light seats. Travelers will have a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets.
For those seeking the utmost in luxury, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class offers fully flat beds and an onboard bar, providing a fine dining experience and an opportunity to network with fellow travelers. Premium customers can relax in their luxurious leather armchairs, complete with a 38” seat pitch, and enjoy the perks of priority boarding and welcome drinks. Regardless of the cabin class chosen, all passengers will enjoy complimentary food and beverages, over 300 hours of entertainment, and a warm welcome from Virgin Atlantic’s renowned cabin crew.
Mr. Mahjoob Shujau, CEO & Managing Director of MACL, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “As the operator of Velana International Airport, we are excited to welcome the prestigious and customer-centric airline, Virgin Atlantic. This inaugural flight marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of air travel connections between the United Kingdom and the Maldives. We look forward to a prosperous partnership with Virgin Atlantic as we continue to elevate the travel experience for our passengers.”
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic, shared his excitement, saying, “We couldn’t be more thrilled to launch our flights between the United Kingdom and the Maldives with our new thrice-weekly service, as we continue to expand our growing collection of winter sun destinations. We are proud to be able to offer more opportunities for our customers to experience the Maldives and are looking forward to welcoming them to this breathtaking and one-of-a-kind destination. The collaboration between MACL and Virgin Atlantic reflects the shared commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences and fostering stronger air connectivity between the United Kingdom and the Maldives.”
Caron Rohsler, British High Commissioner to the Maldives, also expressed her delight, stating, “I am delighted that Virgin Atlantic has today started operating direct flights from London Heathrow to Maldives. Maldives is a top holiday destination for British tourists. Brits have consistently featured among top 3 nationalities visiting Maldives for many years. The UK Government has worked with the Government of Maldives for many years now on airport safety and aviation security. I look forward to continuing our partnerships in Maldives, especially as the airport expansion progresses. Tourism is an important pillar of the Maldivian economy, and I hope this milestone today will contribute to continued growth in convenient and comfortable travel between our countries. Visitors are encouraged to read the FCDO’s travel advice and to buy travel insurance to enjoy the best possible holiday experience.”
The Virgin Atlantic Inaugural event was attended by the British High Commissioner to the Maldives and senior members of MACL, along with senior members of the local agent, Voyages Maldives. This new route promises to strengthen the connection between the United Kingdom and the Maldives, offering travelers a remarkable journey to one of the world’s most picturesque destinations.
Awards
Baros Maldives honoured with Agoda Gold Circle Award 2025
Baros Maldives has received the 2025 Agoda Gold Circle Award, recognising outstanding performance, service excellence and strong partnership with Agoda.
Presented annually, the award celebrates properties that consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences while maintaining competitive value and reliable availability. It recognises hotels that continue to adapt and innovate while upholding the highest standards of hospitality.
For Baros, this recognition reflects the dedication of its team, whose commitment to genuine Maldivian hospitality continues to shape memorable stays for guests from around the world.
“This recognition is a testament to the passion and professionalism of our team,” said Ibrahim Shijah, General Manager of Baros Maldives. “We are honoured to be acknowledged by Agoda and remain deeply grateful to our guests and partners whose trust inspires us to continually refine the Baros experience.”
The Agoda Gold Circle Award celebrates excellence in three key areas—superior service, competitive value and responsive availability—qualities that remain central to the Baros philosophy of hospitality.
Among the Maldives’ most iconic island resorts, Baros welcomes travellers seeking an intimate retreat defined by natural beauty, authentic service and timeless elegance.
News
ELE|NA announces second menopause wellness retreat in Maldives
On a day dedicated to celebrating progress, equality and empowerment, ELE|NA is shining a spotlight on one of the most overlooked aspects of women’s health: perimenopause and menopause.
Earlier this year, ELE|NA hosted Wellness on Deck in Dubai, an intimate gathering that brought together influential voices across women’s health, media and hospitality to reframe the menopause narrative from silence to strength.
Held aboard a private yacht in Dubai Marina, the event created space for honest dialogue, expert insight and meaningful connection among women navigating hormonal transitions at different stages of life.
Among the distinguished guests were internationally renowned therapist Marisa Peer, menopause specialist Dr Fiona Rennie, and journalist and filmmaker Punam Verma, creator of Men on Pause, alongside prominent women from the regional media and hospitality industries. Their presence underscored a powerful message. Women’s health conversations must evolve to reflect the realities of every life stage and circumstance.
While International Women’s Day celebrates achievement, it also calls attention to gaps that still exist. One of those gaps is menopause education.
Perimenopause and menopause do not occur only at one defined age. They may arise naturally over time, earlier than expected, or as a result of medical treatments or surgical procedures. Yet despite how common these experiences are, education and structured support remain limited.
By aligning this announcement with International Women’s Day, ELE|NA reinforces a simple belief. Empowerment includes informed health. True equality includes understanding the female body across all stages and situations.
Wellness on Deck introduced ELE|NA’s upcoming retreat, The Art of Graceful Change, taking place from June 4 to 8, 2026 at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi in the Maldives.
The programme focuses on:
- Hormonal literacy and metabolic health
- Sleep restoration and nervous system regulation
- Strength and mobility for longevity
- Gut health and sustainable nourishment
- Emotional resilience and identity evolution
- Confidence, vitality and leadership through change
Set within a calm island environment, the retreat offers more than relaxation. It provides education, practical tools and a supportive community that empowers women to return home informed and confident in their changing physiology.
Perimenopause and menopause are not limited to one age bracket or life phase. They are biological transitions that can occur under varied circumstances. When supported with knowledge and intention, they can mark the beginning of a more powerful and aligned chapter.
As International Women’s Day calls for continued progress, ELE|NA invites women to extend the celebration beyond achievement and into self-understanding.
Retreat Details:
- The Art of Graceful Change
- June 4 to 8, 2026
- OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, Maldives
Limited places available. For retreat information and bookings, please visit ele-na.com/menopause-retreat.
Family
Niva Dhigali Maldives hosts Easter festivities with Pastry Champion Florence Lesage
When it comes to Easter getaways, few destinations promise the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun like Niva Dhigali Maldives. This Indian Ocean, Premium All-Inclusive paradise is a go-to destination for sun-seekers and families looking to unwind in tropical bliss, all while indulging in world-class cuisine and vibrant activities. From 28 March–12 April 2026, the island transforms into an Easter wonderland, offering a mix of festivities that will delight both kids and adults alike.
Niva Dhigali’s Easter celebrations add a layer of indulgence to this already magical setting. At the centre of this year’s event is French pastry sensation Florence Lesage, crowned the World Champion of Sweet Arts in 2022. Renowned for her intricate sugar creations, Florence will lead guests on a culinary adventure, culminating in an Easter brunch featuring her signature desserts that taste as exquisite as they look.

For families travelling with little ones, PLAY Kids Club offers plenty to keep the children entertained. Easter comes alive with a dolphin cruise with the Easter Bunny, a traditional Easter egg hunt along jungle trails, egg painting, and creative arts and crafts. There’s even a“Little Bunny” aromatherapy massage and facial tailored just for kids at the serene Niva Dhigali Spa – a rare treat that lets parents sneak in some much-deserved downtime. To top it off, children under 12 stay for free and families can enjoy complimentary water activities like tube rides.

Adventure seekers will also find plenty to love at Niva Dhigali. Beyond the festive fun, the resort offers guided snorkelling trips, allowing guests to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that make the Maldives a bucket-list destination. Evenings are equally enchanting, with outdoor movie nights under the stars, poolside parties, and gourmet dining experiences that highlight the best of Maldivian and international cuisine.

For those who crave a tropical escape with a side of sophistication, Dhigali Maldives offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re sampling Florence Lesage’s decadent creations, exploring the underwater world, or simply soaking up the sunshine on the island’s idyllic beaches, Easter at Niva Dhigali is about creating cherished moments with loved ones. Add in the natural beauty of the Maldives, and this April getaway becomes more than just a holiday – it’s a memory families will treasure forever.

Niva Dhigali Maldives promises an unforgettable Easter escape. With its warm waters, vibrant celebrations, and indulgent treats, this tropical haven is the perfect place to savour the sweetness of spring.
For more information or reservations email: res.agent@dhigali.com or call +960 662 0100.
-
Family1 week agoMasters of the skies: Tom Kerss joins The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for Easter 2026
-
Action1 week agoSun Siyam Olhuveli invests in staff wellbeing with upgraded sports facilities
-
Drink1 week agoAward-winning mixologist Dirk Hany brings Bar am Wasser to Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
-
Cooking1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi announces Michelin series collaboration with Chef Karim Khouani for Easter 2026
-
Cooking5 days agoChef Giorgio Servetto brings Michelin-starred dining to Atmosphere Core’s underwater restaurants
-
Family1 week agoJOALI BEING brings colour, movement and renewal to Easter 2026
-
Drink6 days agoGerman winemaker Patrick Heitlinger to headline exclusive dinner at SO/ Maldives
-
News6 days agoNiva Dhigali Maldives to host wellness week with Gemma Merna this June


