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Virgin Atlantic inaugurates direct flights from London Heathrow to the Maldives

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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.

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CROSSROADS Maldives unveils seamless island-hopping concept across 3 resorts

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CROSSROADS Maldives, the country’s first fully integrated lifestyle destination, unveils its new multi-destination experience “1 Journey, 3 Vibes” combining three distinct resort identities in a single, effortless stay. Launching this May, the programme removes the usual logistical hurdles of island-hopping by keeping everything within one connected destination, allowing guests to make the most of their time while eliminating the need for domestic flights or costly seaplane transfers. Guests arrive just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport and begin their journey immediately.

Designed to cater to travellers of all generations, the experience unfolds across three distinct resort environments, each offering a different rhythm and perspective of the Maldives. Guests are invited to curate their journey with flexible stay options, from an immersive nine-night experience across all three resorts to a four-night escape across two. Each stay includes full board dining, complimentary return speedboat transfers, a dedicated personal butler, and a bespoke CROSSROADS Passport stamped at every resort.

The experience opens at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, where holidaymakers ease into island living with family-focused moments and wellness, from yoga sessions to padel on the water’s edge. The tempo then shifts at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, where a high-energy, music-driven atmosphere takes centre stage and the brand’s celebrated Sound of Your Stay programme immerses guests in signature Hard Rock experiences. The final chapter unfolds at the fashion-forward SO/ Maldives, where a more refined pace awaits. Here, design-led spaces, elevated overwater living and curated lifestyle experiences cater to style-conscious travellers and luxury seekers, offering a sophisticated contrast that completes the journey.

“Whether it’s honeymooners or families, travellers today want variety without the hassle,” said Alexander Traeger, General Manager, SAii Lagoon Maldives and The marina @ CROSSROADS. “The new concept solves a long-standing friction point in the Maldives: the desire to experience multiple resorts without the cost, complexity or time lost to transfers. With one booking and one seamless journey, guests can enjoy a full 360-degree Maldivian experience.”

Connecting all three resorts is The Marina @ CROSSROADS, a lively waterfront hub that adds a cosmopolitan dimension to the Maldivian escape. Guests can dine at more than a dozen restaurants, including Ministry of Crab and Hard Rock Cafe, explore the Marine Discovery Centre and Maldives Discovery Centre, browse boutique shops, unwind with spa treatments or drop little ones at the kids’ club.

The 1 Journey, 3 Vibes package is available for bookings through 31 October, for stays through 20 December 2026. The Standard Package (USD 7,780) includes three nights each in a SAii Beach Room, a Hard Rock Gold Beach Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. The Premium Package (USD 8,880) elevates the experience with three nights each in a SAii Beach Villa with Pool, a Hard Rock Platinum Overwater Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. Four-night stay options are also available, providing added flexibility to suit different travel preferences.

For reservations, please book directly via rsvn.lagoon@saiihotels.com.

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Eid celebrations rooted in Maldivian culture headline Sun Siyam Resorts summer offers

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This Eid Al Adha, Sun Siyam invites Gulf travellers to swap city skylines for turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and immersive island celebrations across some of the Indian Ocean’s most sought-after destinations. From authentic Maldivian cultural festivities and elevated private villa experiences to family-friendly escapes and bespoke wellness retreats, Sun Siyam presents a collection of unforgettable Eid getaways tailored for couples, families, and groups seeking meaningful moments this festive season.

A Celebration Rooted in Maldivian Culture

At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Eid Al Adha will be celebrated through a thoughtfully curated day dedicated to Maldivian heritage and island traditions. Guests can enjoy traditional evening tea gatherings at Magoodhoo Beach, experience the folklore-inspired story of Bodu Mas, and come together for Eid Farivalhu, a communal feast served on a traditional Malaafaiy platter. The celebrations continue with a special dinner buffet featuring local and international flavours, followed by the resort’s signature Maldivian Roots cultural show accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of Boduberu drumming.

Guests visiting during Eid can also take advantage of the resort’s summer offer, including complimentary seaplane transfers, spa privileges, family benefits, and curated island experiences.

Refined Island Living for Couples and Families

At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Eid celebrations blend refined luxury with heartfelt island hospitality. From the moment guests arrive to the sound of Boduberu drumming and signature organic welcome drinks, the resort offers a seamless “home away from home” atmosphere. The newly renovated Water Villas with Pool provide enhanced privacy, expansive decks, and personalised butler service, creating the perfect setting for an indulgent Eid escape. Guests can enjoy floating breakfasts, wellness rituals at The Spa by Thalgo, Jet Car adventures with drone videography, elegant White Soirees, Lobster Barbecue Nights, and private cinema screenings beneath the stars.

The resort’s Premium All-Inclusive Dine Around experience includes access to 15 restaurants and bars, with flavours spanning authentic Maldivian cuisine, Italian favourites, and South-East Asian specialties. Families can also enjoy complimentary stays and dining for up to two children when accompanied by two paying adults.

Vibrant Island Energy and Family Escapes

For families and groups after a livelier Eid, Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World deliver on all fronts — beachside gatherings, sunset celebrations, island adventures, and a non-stop programme of entertainment spread across multiple islands. At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, guests can also look forward to special live performances by belly dancer Marianna alongside energetic sets by DJ Abo, bringing an added festive atmosphere to the Eid celebrations. Both resorts are built around togetherness, making them natural fits for larger parties celebrating the spirit of Eid.

Bespoke Summer Escapes in the Indian Ocean

For travellers seeking a more secluded retreat, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers an intimate island experience complete with complimentary seaplane transfers, floating breakfasts, dolphin cruises, spa credits, and private experiences including Cinema by Moonlight. Beyond the Maldives, Sun Siyam Pasikudah presents a serene coastal escape in Sri Lanka, combining wellness, adventure, and curated culinary experiences. Guests can enjoy complimentary spa sessions, kayaking, bicycle adventures, exclusive room upgrade savings, and romantic dining experiences designed for couples and families alike.

Your Eid Travels Awaits

Sun Siyam’s summer offers extend the celebration further, with exclusive savings and added benefits across the collection, available for bookings until 31 August 2026, for stays until 31 October 2027. Whether seeking barefoot luxury, cultural immersion, family adventures, or wellness escapes, Gulf travellers will find the perfect Eid setting across Sun Siyam’s Indian Ocean properties, with direct GCC connectivity and a collection of distinct island experiences to match every kind of celebration.

For reservations and more information, visit sunsiyam.com.

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks World Cocktail Day with sustainable cocktail experiences

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, marks World Cocktail Day with a transformative celebration of Green Mixology blending creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship with additional engaging activities.

The resort’s beverage philosophy centres on a zero-waste approach, where every ingredient is utilised to its full potential. Guests are welcomes to observe the sophisticated discipline of the bar team as they transform overlooked elements into artisanal accents, such as dehydrating organic citrus peels in-house to create fragrant, sustainable garnishes. By replacing industrial imports with these handcrafted touches, the sanctuary ensures that every drink remains an authentic reflection of its iridescent surroundings. Guests can join the expert bar team for immersive mixology lessons to master these sustainable creations firsthand.

In addition to traditional favourites, these liquid creations highlight a dedicated Island-to-Table ethos, incorporating seasonal greens and herbs harvested directly from the resort’s flourishing gardens. The celebration was further elevated by a spectacular Flair Bartending Show, showcasing technical precision and artistry in motion, choreographed to the energy of the island.

Each curated experience at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests toast to a future of mindful indulgence, where the luxury of the moment is perfectly balanced with the preservation of the surrounding environment.

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