News
S Hotels & Resorts opens SO/ Maldives, its third iconic resort at CROSSROADS Maldives
S Hotels and Resorts PCL, the global hospitality company from Singha Estate PCL, has announced the opening of SO/ Maldives, which becomes the third iconic resort at CROSSROADS Maldives, on November 1.
This luxury lifestyle resort complements the two popular five-star retreats and world-class facilities at the Indian Ocean’s first and only multi-brand, fully integrated leisure destination, ushering in an exciting new era of hospitality to the Maldives.
SO/ Maldives is a USD 60 million joint venture project developed in partnership with Wai Eco World Developer (WEWD), the leading business and real estate conglomerate. The resort is operated by Ennismore, a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart.
SO/ Maldives joins two existing resorts at CROSSROADS Maldives: SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives.
Nestled in the Kaafu Atoll and Emboodhoo Lagoon, this diverse trio of retreats is seamlessly connected to a wealth of world-class facilities at The Marina @ CROSSROADS, an 800-metre lifestyle area and beach walk lined with restaurants, bars, retail boutiques, wellness centres, water sports, diving and snorkelling, kids’ clubs, and a 30-berth yacht marina, plus the Maldives Discovery Centre cultural hub and Marine Discovery Centre, which is dedicated to underwater conservation and education.
With three iconic branded resorts all connected with world-class facilities, this fully integrated luxury destination is truly unique in the Maldives, and the broader Indian Ocean region. CROSSROADS Maldives has already won multiple major awards and has achieved Green Globe Certification.
The development’s focus on environmental preservation and sustainability is also reflected at SO/ Maldives, where the roofs of the over-water villas and restaurants are topped with solar panels, allowing the resort to generate its own green energy. Recycled water, electric vehicles, eco-friendly bathroom amenities, and locally-sourced products are used throughout the property, and the resort has eliminated all single-use plastics.
“We are delighted to announce the opening of our third world-class lifestyle resort at CROSSROADS Maldives. With its focus on art, design and fashion, SO/ Maldives will perfectly complement our two internationally branded resorts and extensive facilities at The Marina @ CROSSROADS and enable us to attract a new generation of global explorers. We would like to thank our esteemed partners for their vision and skill in creating this stunning resort,” Dirk De Cuyper, CEO, S Hotels & Resorts, said.
“It is a wonderful moment to see this beautiful project come to life. SO/ Maldives is a trend-setting luxury resort that will attract a new generation of lifestyle-conscious guests, enhancing the Maldives’ tourism sector. We are delighted to collaborate with our esteemed partners at S Hotels & Resorts to create a lasting legacy for the entire country,” Zaw Win Maung, Managing Director, WEWD, commented.
“SO/ Hotels are located in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, and we are thrilled to put down roots on this paradisiacal private island in the Maldives. In keeping with the SO/ DNA, we’re eager to welcome global travellers looking for a different island experience where art and fashion meet luxury hospitality,” Jesper Sorensen, General Manager, SO/ Maldives, said.
Part of the ultra-fashionable SO/ Hotels & Resorts brand, which is making its debut the Maldives, SO/ Maldives is set to become one of the world’s most sought-after places to stay, play and party. With opening rates starting from USD 950+++ per night, this opening is expected to drive more revenue to CROSSROADS Maldives during the upcoming high season.
Nestled on a pristine private island, surrounded by the turquoise Emboodhoo Lagoon, SO/ Maldives is a sartorially-rooted retreat “Where Castaway Meets Runway.” Discerning travellers are welcomed into a glistening glass pavilion with 360-degree views and will be invited to take a walk across the Runway, a conceptualised open-to-sky catwalk which immerses every visitor in their own fashion show. A collection of beachfront and over-water pool villas, ranging from 120 to 330 square metres, are crafted by renowned designers and envelop guests in style and sophistication. The Dream Family Beach Villas feature private capsules for kids and the stunning two-level, three-bedroom Ocean Water Pool Villa Atelier sets the stage for life’s most memorable moments.
To learn more about SO/ Maldives, please visit so-maldives.com and to discover how CROSSROADS Maldives is elevating hospitality in the Indian Ocean, please visit crossroadsmaldives.com.
Awards
Sirru Fen Fushi earns multiple honours in Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026
Sirru Fen Fushi–Private Lagoon Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is celebrating a series of prestigious accolades that reaffirm its position as one of the Maldives’ leading luxury destinations and reflect its dedication to creating meaningful guest experiences.
At the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, Sirru Fen Fushi was recognised in three highly competitive categories:
- #1 Best Resort Pools in the Maldives
- #5 Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives
- #5 Most Outrageous Villas in the Maldives
These awards reflect the votes and experiences of discerning travellers across the region and celebrate the resort’s unique blend of contemporary luxury, immersive experiences and natural beauty.
Adding to this achievement, Sirru Fen Fushi has also been honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, a recognition awarded to properties that consistently earn outstanding guest reviews and rank among the top 10% travellers’ preferred destinations worldwide.
Nestled in the pristine waters of Shaviyani Atoll, Sirru Fen Fushi offers an extraordinary island escape defined by spacious villas, exceptional dining, family-friendly experiences and a strong commitment to sustainability. Home to one of the Maldives’ most iconic infinity pools overlooking the turquoise lagoon, the resort continues to attract travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a secluded setting.
“We are incredibly grateful to our guests for their trust and support, and to our dedicated team whose passion and commitment make these achievements possible,” said Abdulla Nabeel, Commercial Director. “These recognitions are especially meaningful as they reflect the experiences of the travellers we welcome to our island every day. We are honoured to receive them and remain committed to delivering exceptional hospitality and unforgettable moments.”
The awards mark another milestone in Sirru Fen Fushi’s ongoing journey of excellence, further strengthening its reputation as a destination where authentic luxury, personalised service and natural beauty come together to create truly memorable stays.
For further information and reservations, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.
Cooking
Chef Nicolas Isnard to lead exclusive culinary residency at Meyyafushi Maldives
Meyyafushi has announced an exclusive culinary residency with acclaimed French chef Nicolas Isnard from 20 to 26 July 2026, bringing Michelin-starred expertise and contemporary French gastronomy to the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Renowned for his innovative approach to French cuisine and his passion for celebrating exceptional ingredients, Chef Nicolas Isnard has built an international reputation through his Michelin-starred restaurants, culinary collaborations and appearances at prestigious gastronomic events around the world.
During his week-long residency, guests of Meyyafushi Maldives will have the rare opportunity to experience a series of bespoke culinary events curated by Chef Nicolas, including signature menus, dining experiences and chef-hosted evenings designed to showcase the artistry and elegance of modern French cuisine.
A highlight of the residency will be a specially curated 5-course dining experience at Bubble, Meyyafushi Maldives’ spectacular underwater restaurant, where guests will enjoy Michelin-inspired creations surrounded by the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. Additionally, another 5-course wine-pairing dinner will take place at the overwater Raa Wine Cellar, creating unforgettable moments for culinary enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike.
Chef Nicolas will also collaborate closely with the resort’s culinary team, sharing his expertise through professional training sessions and knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at further enhancing the guest dining experience across the island.
“We are honoured to welcome Chef Nicolas Isnard to Meyyafushi,” said Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager of BeKind Hospitality Group. “His creativity, passion and commitment to culinary excellence align perfectly with our vision of delivering extraordinary experiences for our guests. This residency represents an exciting opportunity to further elevate our culinary offering and position Meyyafushi as a leading destination for gastronomic travel in the Maldives.”
Located in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives is redefining luxury island escapes through a collection of distinctive experiences, including Bubble Underwater Restaurant, the world’s first fixed overwater padel tennis court, an overwater wine cellar, adults-only Sky Bar and Sunken Lounge, and a Premium All-Inclusive concept designed to offer guests unparalleled freedom and choice.
The Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Isnard collaboration forms part of Meyyafushi’s ongoing commitment to bringing world-class talent and exceptional experiences to the destination, creating memorable moments that inspire connection, discovery and celebration.
Reservations for the exclusive dining experiences will be available on a limited basis and are expected to be in high demand. For bookings, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.
News
Kandolhu Maldives announces festive season with gourmet experiences and island traditions
Kandolhu Maldives’ festive season programme is an invitation to experience the warmth of the holidays shaped by the rhythms of Maldivian island life. Celebrations unfold through culinary events, intimate gatherings, and moments of quiet connection from late December through the New Year.
The season begins on 20 December with a festive workshop where guests will learn to craft unique ornaments from palm leaves, each handmade piece later becoming part of the collective, joyful spirit of the island’s tree decorating ceremony. The celebrations continue with the annual tree lighting and a Christmas cocktail reception, where handcrafted cocktails and delicious canapés are shared.
Christmas Eve arrives with its own soft magic. Artisanal cocktails at Vilu Bar, followed by a gala dinner on the beach. Beneath a canopy of stars, an exquisite menu meets the ocean’s gentle rhythm. Christmas Day brings a festive Christmas spread, a beachside buffet of seasonal favourites and island-inspired delights.

At the heart of the festive season is a series of gourmet events, each a celebration of place and culinary artistry. The programme is highlighted by two exclusive evenings with two-Michelin-starred Chef Benjamin Peifer, whose distinctive fusion of Palatinate and Japanese cuisine is offered at Olive restaurant for an intimate gathering of just twenty-two guests on each occasion. On 28 December, an inspired four-course dinner showcases his culinary vision. This is followed on 30 December by a five-course Wine & Dine experience where intense, fire-roasted izakaya-style flavours are harmonised with expert pairings from Sommelier Jan Spener.
The warmth of shared evenings continues with menus shaped by the surrounding ocean and the rich traditions of the archipelago. One night will offer a Taste of Asia, a journey through bold spices and aromatic herbs. Another evening brings the spirit of the Maldives to life with the pulsing beat of boduberu, a living story told through drumming and savoured with exquisite cocktails and light Maldivian bites. Even in the stillness of morning, there is life, found at Vilu Bar in the conviviality of a traditional Frühschoppen, where freshly baked pretzels and wheat beer are shared in the sunlight.

There will be elegant tastings on the beach with a curated selection of fine Champagnes and sparkling wines, and a collection of wines selected by Sommelier Jan Spener, perfectly complemented by an assortment of delicious canapés.
The New Year is welcomed with an evening of music, indulgence, and culinary excellence. As twilight descends, guests will gather at the water’s edge to savour canapés and cocktails crafted for the season. Dinner unfolds under the stars, a six-course journey of exceptional ingredients and refined flavours. As midnight approaches, the final moments of the year dissolve into music and dancing. A passage from one year to the next.
The first morning of the year begins with a leisurely, festive New Year’s Day breakfast and later that evening a New Year’s feast will be held at Sea Grill, presenting an elegant four-course menu perfectly paired with sparkling wine in a refined seaside setting.

Varu Spa offers restorative rituals to elevate the self and soul. Treatments shaped by the ocean’s calm and the warmth of island air invite a deeper stillness. Guests can surrender to deep tissue massage with warming oils, or let heated stones promote a sense of flowing energy. Inspired by ancient traditional Thai medicine, Stretch Therapy uses pressure point therapy and gentle stretching to restore balance and vitality to the body. A Rose Indulgent Scrub nourishes and moistures, leaving skin deeply hydrated and radiant, while tailored facials enhance skin health for a complete reset. For a shared experience, the Varu Haven couples’ treatment begins with a sea salt soak and concludes with a symbol of connection.
Beneath the water’s surface, a house reef rich with marine life stretches out beyond the shore. Sunlit mornings and afternoons are spent on guided excursions into clear water, slow drifts through coral gardens, and the quiet wonder of the sea on guided swims alongside majestic manta rays and whale sharks. The festive programme is complemented by stand-up paddleboarding, champagne sunset cruises, and spirited games of beach volleyball.
The Kandolhu festive programme offers a pathway to revival and renewal. More than an escape, it is a recalibration.
For reservations and more information, please visit www.kandolhu.com or contact the reservations team at +960 668 0790 / info@kandolhu.com.
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