News
Discover a season of artisanal elegance at One&Only Reethi Rah
As the holiday season approaches, One&Only Reethi Rah, the private island resort in the Maldives, is gearing up for spectacular celebrations. From enchanting Christmas traditions to glittering New Year’s Eve galas, and even a taste of Orthodox festivities, the ultra-luxury resort promises a season of magic and delight for its guests.
The festive season kicks off with a pool-side Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony & Cocktail at Rah Bar overlooking the Indian Ocean. A magical evening awaits where guests of all ages can gather to witness the resort’s sparkling Christmas tree come to life, accompanied by delightful cocktails, canapés, and traditional carols. On Christmas Eve, guests are treated to a sumptuous and elegant feast at the lavish Buffet Dinner at Reethi Restaurant. Christmas Day itself is a treat with an exciting arrival at Reethi Pool & Beach where little ones and grown-ups alike can welcome Santa Claus to the island and enjoy the timeless tradition of gift-opening and enjoying sweet treats.
As the year comes to a close, One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to partake in their iconic incredible New Year’s Eve events. Perched directly on the shores of Sunrise Beach, the evening begins with the New Year’s Cocktail Party as a delightful precursor to the main event, the grand Gala Dinner promising an unforgettable evening of award-winning entertainment from a 12-piece show band, an abundant epicurean feast paired with fine Champagnes and world-class wines, and a stunning display in the sky to ring in the coming of 2024.
For those following the Orthodox calendar, One&Only Reethi Rah has special celebrations planned with the Orthodox Christmas Cocktail Party and Gala Dinner at Sunrise Beach, followed by a joyous Brunch the next day, and Orthodox New Year’s Dinner to close off the magical season.
Beyond the holiday feasts and traditions, One&Only Reethi Rah offers a full programme catering to guests of all interests, with activities suited for kids and teens, wellness connoisseurs, fitness junkies, art enthusiasts, and more. Children can delight in exciting ocean cruises, island treasure hunts, sunny pool parties, and even meet and adopt a sea turtle with the resort’s charity partner the Olive Ridley Project. Over at the buzzing heart of the resort, Club One, those seeking more active pastimes are invited to compete in numerous tournaments and matches, including padel, football, badminton, and water volleyball, a twist to your classic beach volleyball games. Then, venture into the award-winning One&Only Spa where leading Visiting Practitioners and expert therapists will be featuring unique treatments and experiences ranging from podiatry workshops, martial arts like Qigong, singing bowl meditation, and peaceful yoga sessions against the backdrop of the cerulean ocean.
This festive season, One&Only Reethi Rah invites you to experience the artisanal magic of the Maldives, where each and every moment on the island is a celebration of joy and wonder.
For bookings and more information, please visit oneandonlyresorts.com/reethi-rah/festive or contact reethirah.festive@oneandonlyreethirah.com.
News
Cinnamon Maldives updates book direct offer to let guests choose tailored experiences
Travellers continue to return to the Maldives in search of clear lagoons, warm hospitality and meaningful experiences that reflect both the destination and their personal interests. As visitor expectations evolve, research shows a growing preference for stays that feel tailored rather than standardised. A recent Mews survey reports that 68% of travellers prefer personalised experiences instead of generic rewards, with even stronger interest among Gen Z and affluent travellers.
Recognising these preferences, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts Maldives has refined its Book Direct value offering. The updated structure allows guests who book directly to select two curated experiences from each resort’s personalised list while also receiving resort credits for stays of three nights or more. This credit can be used across dining, wellness and recreational activities, giving guests the freedom to shape their time on the island according to their interests and pace.
Members of Cinnamon Discovery, the brand’s loyalty programme, can access an expanded set of Book Direct benefits based on their membership tier. Silver members may select two experiences, Gold members may select three experiences and Platinum members receive all experiences listed at the resort they book.
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Island hopping adventure
- Dolphin safari
- 45 minute spa treatment
Resort credit available: USD 150 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Island hopping adventure
- Guided swim and snorkel session
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives
- Sunset fishing
- Island hopping adventure
- Sparkling bottle of beverage
- 1 hour double kayak experience
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Sunset fishing
- Dolphin safari
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
For more information on Book Direct benefits, detailed terms and eligibility, guests are encouraged to visit Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
Cooking
Chef Frank Fol leads plant-based culinary programme at ananea Madivaru Maldives
ananea Madivaru Maldives is hosting Chef Frank Fol, founder of We’re Smart World and a recognised figure in plant-based gastronomy, for a dedicated culinary programme aimed at strengthening and refining the resort’s plant-based dining concepts.
Chef Fol is visiting the island from 8 to 14 December, working closely with the culinary team to develop and enhance plant-forward offerings across the resort’s dining experiences. The programme focuses on integrating contemporary plant-based techniques with locally relevant ingredients and presentation styles, aligning with evolving guest preferences for balanced and conscious dining.
As part of the visit, an internal tasting menu is scheduled to take place, bringing together Chef Fol and the resort’s senior leadership. During the session, Chef Fol will present a selection of plant-forward dishes developed throughout his stay, offering insight into his culinary philosophy and approach to modern vegetable-led cuisine.
ananea Madivaru Maldives stated that the collaboration is intended to support the continued development of its food and beverage concepts, with a particular emphasis on broadening high-quality plant-based options available to guests across its restaurants.
Following the tasting session, the resort will issue a formal press release outlining the programme outcomes, including details of the dishes, concepts, and future plans. Visual assets and supporting media materials will also be made available as part of the official announcement.
The visit forms part of ananea Madivaru Maldives’ wider efforts to evolve its culinary offerings in line with global dining trends while maintaining a strong focus on quality, creativity, and guest experience.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
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