News
JA Resorts & Hotels welcomes Khumar Askerova as Director of Sales and Marketing for the Indian Ocean
JA Resorts & Hotels has announced the appointment of Khumar Askerova as the new Director of Sales and Marketing for the Indian Ocean region. Khumar brings with her an impressive 25 years of experience in sales and marketing within the hospitality industry, and a key appointment to the regional team.
The appointment will see Khumar overseeing sales for the company’s Indian Ocean flagship property JA Manafaru in the Maldives and two properties in the Seychelles, the boutique JA Enchanted Island and luxury villa residencies at JA Enchanted Waterfront.
Khumar is a seasoned sales specialist with a diverse background in the hospitality sector. Fluent in English, native in Russian and Azerbaijani, with a good command of Portuguese and Turkish, Khumar’s multilingual skills underscore her ability to connect with a global audience.
Khumar’s most recent role as the Regional Director of Sales & Marketing at COMO Hotels saw her successfully manage a portfolio of key partners, and her expertise extends to new hotel openings, where she has played pivotal roles in the launch and success of four upper-scale Marriott hotels.
Additional Maldivian experience was gained whilst Khumar was Group Director of Sales & Marketing at Lily Beach Hotels also in the Maldives, where she led a cluster team, overseeing sales, reservations, marketing, and revenue for two islands in the Maldives.
Robert El Khoury, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at JA Resorts & Hotels comments, “We are confident that Khumar’s wealth of experience, strategic vision, and leadership qualities will contribute to the ongoing success and growth of our unique properties in the Indian Ocean. We warmly welcome her to our team and look forward to further developing our international presence with Khumar’s global expertise.”
Khumar holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management from Baku State University. She has also obtained certificates in Executive Revenue Management & Strategic Pricing from the Institute of Hotel Management and eCornell Hotel Revenue Management Certificate.
News
Coco Collection offers Easter adventures for families in Maldives
As much of the world welcomes spring and looks forward to summer, Coco Collection, a premier resort brand in the Maldives, embraces its own season of radiant days, balmy evenings, and nature in full bloom.
This Easter, Coco Collection warmly invites guests to bask in renewal and sunshine across its two enchanting island retreats, Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, with joyful experiences, exquisite cuisine, and spirited adventures.
Set amidst the breathtaking North Malé Atoll, Coco Bodu Hithi is an idyllic sanctuary where every moment exudes island charm and effortless sophistication. Ideal for a family getaway, the resort offers a haven for both relaxation and connection. The Grand Premier Beach Villa with Pool beautifully balances fun and leisure: children can splash in their own private pool while parents unwind on the sun deck, all with direct access to soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spanning 198 sqm, this beachfront retreat is thoughtfully designed for privacy and comfort, creating an inviting setting for family adventures, shared laughter, and unforgettable memories.

The island welcomes the day with a vibrant breakfast buffet surrounded by seasonal décor, where colourful nests and lively accents create a warm joyful atmosphere to begin the day. Families are welcome to join the joyful Easter spirits with the Kid’s Club Easter Adventure. Young explorers will delight in playful egg hunts along sun-drenched shores, while young imaginations can bring the season to life through Easter themed crafts and whimsical paper bag bunny projects, igniting imagination and smiles at every turn. To complete the experience, children can cosy up for movie screenings featuring cherished characters, sharing stories of friendship, courage, and fun that inspire and enchant.

As daylight fades into a golden Maldivian dusk, the island transforms into a lively celebration for all ages. Guests unite at the Easter Special Beach Barbecue Dinner, an evening designed to delight the senses. A welcome glass of sparkling wine sets a festive tone, followed by a sumptuous array of grilled specialties, fresh island flavours, and vibrant live music filling the warm night air. Guests may enjoy beverages throughout the evening, encouraging everyone to unwind and savour the occasion.
Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is a vibrant island retreat where families can reconnect, unwind, and create lasting memories. Surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons, lush landscapes, and thriving marine life, the resort blends luxury with playful adventure, inviting guests to honour togetherness, explore nature, and immerse themselves in the magic of island life.

At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Easter comes alive with a holiday that marks fun, togetherness, and meaningful moments for the whole family. The day sparkles with vibrant, nature-inspired experiences designed for all ages. Guests can indulge in special feasts at Cowrie Restaurant, embark on colourful Easter Egg Hunts, and sip refreshing cocktails while enjoying live music at a lively Easter Cocktail Party. As the sun sets, the island transforms with a Barbecue Dinner on the beach, followed by an Easter DJ Party by the bonfire, creating magical nights under the stars.
Little hands and curious minds can join in creative activities such as Coconut Painting, group picnics, Kids Games, and Cookie Craft, bringing laughter, imagination, and joy to every corner of the island. Beyond the holiday cheer, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers a chance for purpose-driven experiences, from exploring sustainable initiatives to taking part in special moments like Earth Hour, nurturing a love for the planet alongside unforgettable family memories.
Take advantage of the limited-time Early Bird offer and save up to 40% on villa rates by planning ahead, available at both Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. For bookings and enquiries, contact reservations@cococollection.com or visit www.cococollection.com.
News
Milaidhoo Maldives included in Tatler Travel Guide 2026’s top hotels
Milaidhoo Maldives has announced its inclusion in the prestigious Tatler Travel Guide 2026, a coveted recognition celebrating the world’s most exceptional hotels. The island has been selected among Tatler 101: The World’s Best Hotels, an annual list that represents the pinnacle of excellence in global hospitality.
Curated by Tatler’s Travel Editor alongside an expert editorial team and an international network of contributors, the Tatler Travel Guide is renowned for its rigorous and discerning selection process. Each property is carefully evaluated to ensure that only those offering truly remarkable experiences earn a place on the list.
As one of the most established and influential society magazines in the world, Tatler’s endorsement is considered one of the highest honours in the travel industry. The guide speaks directly to a sophisticated and discerning audience, celebrating hotels that combine authenticity, character and outstanding service.
For Milaidhoo Maldives, the recognition is a meaningful affirmation of the island’s philosophy: a boutique, barefoot sanctuary where the essence of the Maldives is experienced in its most genuine form. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is known for its intimate atmosphere, thoughtful hospitality and deep connection to Maldivian heritage and culture.
“We are deeply honoured to be recognised in the Tatler Travel Guide 2026,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager. “At Milaidhoo, we strive to create experiences that feel personal, soulful and truly reflective of the Maldives. To be included among the world’s best hotels is a wonderful recognition of the passion and dedication of our team, the Milaidhoo Family.”
From the island’s iconic overwater restaurant Ba’theli, inspired by traditional Maldivian sailing vessels, to curated cultural and marine experiences, Milaidhoo offers guests an opportunity to slow down and connect with the natural beauty and traditions of the Maldives.
This recognition from Tatler further reinforces Milaidhoo’s reputation as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinctive luxury escapes, where authenticity, intimacy and heartfelt service define every stay.
News
ELE|NA marks World Sleep Day with SleepSync wellness ritual
In recognition of World Sleep Day, ELE|NA highlights SleepSync, one of its Six Pillars of Vitality dedicated to restoration and circadian rhythm alignment, through the SleepSync Ritual, a deeply calming spa experience designed to guide guests toward profound, uninterrupted sleep. The ritual is implemented across all ELE|NA locations in both the Maldives and India, ensuring guests can reconnect with restorative sleep wherever they experience the brand.
In today’s always-connected world, restful sleep has become increasingly elusive. Within this ritual, the body is gently led from stimulation into stillness, releasing the tensions of the day, calming the nervous system and preparing the mind and body for restorative rest.
ELE|NA believes that sleep is not simply the absence of wakefulness, but an essential pillar of holistic wellbeing – where restoration, emotional balance and cellular renewal take place.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Sleep Rhythm
Sleep begins long before the moment the head meets the pillow. It is a gradual transition where the body releases the day and prepares for stillness.

Within ELE|NA’s SleepSync Rituals, this transition is approached with intention and calm. As evening settles, the body begins its quiet descent into rest with the following:
- Reduce blue light exposure before sleep
- Dim lighting to signal the body’s nighttime rhythm
- Create calm through mindful transitions away from daily activity
- Release thoughts through journaling
- Hydrate and support the body’s nighttime recovery
These small rituals help guide the body from stimulation to restoration.

Reclaiming the Night
World Sleep Day serves as an important reminder that quality sleep is not a luxury, but a foundation of health and longevity. When supported with mindful rituals and intentional slowing down, the night becomes a space for true renewal.
Through SleepSync Rituals, ELE|NA continues its commitment to nurturing holistic wellbeing, guiding individuals back to the natural rhythms that allow the body to rest, restore and awaken with clarity and vitality.
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