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Angsana Velavaru welcomes new Executive Assistant Manager for Food and Beverage; ready to enhance culinary experience for “Festive Moments in our Hearts”

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Angsana Velavaru, an all-inclusive premium resort in South Nilandhe Atoll, Maldives has announced the appointment of Neil Firman as the Executive Assistant Manager for Food and Beverage, just in time to curate an extraordinary culinary experience for the upcoming “Festive Moments In Our Hearts” celebration. With an impressive culinary background spanning over two decades, Neil brings a wealth of international experience and innovation to elevate the resort’s dining offerings during this highly-anticipated season.

Neil Firman’s Flavourful Journey

Neil Firman, a native of Johannesburg, South Africa, has crafted his culinary journey with passion and dedication. His career began at the prestigious “The Palace of the Lost City” in Sun City, South Africa, followed by an illustrious 11-year tenure with Hyatt International. During this period, Neil held key positions at various Hyatt properties worldwide, showcasing his culinary expertise and leadership skills.

His extensive work history includes significant roles such as Sous Chef at the Park Hyatt Johannesburg, South Africa (Opening); Chef de Cuisine at Grand Hyatt Amman, Jordan; and Executive Sous Chef at Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria, U.A.E., among others.

Neil also contributed to Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts for 7 years, holding the position of Executive Chef at Banyan Tree Seychelles, and later overseeing Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru (now Dhawa Ihuru). After a successful term as Director of Food and Beverage at Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Bali, Indonesia, Neil rejoined Banyan Tree Hotels in 2023. His wealth of experience and leadership has led him to his current role at Angsana Velavaru.

Neil’s culinary journey began at a young age, inspired by a memorable Primary School graduation lunch at the 5-star Carlton Hotel in Johannesburg. The grandeur, service, and culinary artistry left an indelible impression, shaping his career choice. Neil’s passion for perfection aligns with the hospitality industry, where guests experience nothing short of excellence, while associates feel the adrenaline rush behind the scenes.

With Neil at the helm of the Food and Beverage Department, Angsana Velavaru eagerly anticipates an exceptional culinary journey for guests during the “Festive Moments In Our Hearts” celebration.  His innovative approach and commitment to culinary excellence will undoubtedly contribute to making this festive season truly memorable.

Beyond his culinary prowess, Neil is an avid recreational scuba diver, holding a PADI Assistant Instructor level certification. He also enjoys horse riding, adding a touch of adventure to his diverse interests.

“Festive Moments In Our Hearts” Celebration

Angsana Velavaru will be hosting “Moments in our Hearts,” a festive celebration centred around bonding and connection with family, friends, loved ones and nature from 21 December 2023 to 7 January 2024. Guests are warmly invited to appreciate the previous gift of time and travel, as they immerse themselves in the beautiful sights around, creating beautiful memories and reconnecting with those who matter most.

As the inspiring spirit of giving and sharing fills the air, guests can revel in the vibrant colours of island life with an array of activities crafted just for them – from indulgent feasts and thrilling games to party nights and dazzling entertainments.

The season of celebration and joy is just around the corner, and there is no better place to embrace it and #SenseTheMoment than Angsana Velavaru.  Inspired to secure your festive holiday today?  Discover more through this link:  Sharing Time Offer | Angsana Velavaru Resort & Spa.  Plus, indulge in the added benefit of earning Accor Live Limitless points!

Download Angsana Velavaru’s Festive Brochure 2023 – 2024.

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‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives

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The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.

A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.

Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.

Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.

Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.

Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.

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Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities

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Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.

On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.

For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.

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Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay

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Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.

A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.

Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.

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