News
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru launches Manta Ray app in partnership with The Manta Trust

As part of its ongoing commitment to green NGOs and spreading the message of ocean conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru has partnered with world-leading environmental charity The Manta Trust to create a unique interactive app that explores the underwater secrets of one of the world’s most incredible marine marvels – manta rays.
The Manta Story app – developed by Loopcraft and available to download for free on digital devices – is the latest development in a conservation partnership between Four Seasons and The Manta Trust that spans 17 years, since Chief Executive and Founder of The Manta Trust Guy Stevens had his first life-changing encounter with mantas while working as a marine biologist at Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru.
The App Experience
The fully interactive VR app takes the viewer on a mesmerising adventure into the world of manta rays, covering their dazzling courtship, feeding and cleaning rituals, as well as a manta pregnancy and birth. Based on the actual manta ray population studied by Stevens and his team in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, users can click through to further facts at each stage of the learning journey, and test their knowledge with a quiz.
The app also includes ways to support the work of The Manta Trust, established by Stevens in 2011 as a UK-registered charity dedicated to the worldwide conservation of mantas and their close relatives. Users can choose to donate, adopt a manta, or join the “Cyclone” – a community of supporters who are investing in the conservation of the ocean’s rays, their relatives and their habitats.
“I’m super pleased and proud that we were able to create this app together with The Manta Trust and our passionate in-house techies, allowing us to spread our message of ocean conservation around the globe,” comments Four Seasons Regional Vice President and General Manager Armando Kraenzlin. “Getting up close with these gentle giants is both humbling and awe-inspiring and our mission has always been to inspire as many people as possible to help conserve them and their ocean home.”
An Immersive Experience
Narrating the app with soothing gravitas is British actor, environmentalist and host of Trees a Crowd podcast David Oakes, who relishes taking app users to swim alongside the Maldivian mantas he himself has met in the flesh. Passionate about championing conservation causes, the star of shows such as Netflix’s Vikings: Valhalla and ITV’s Victoria uses his influence to support charities including The Woodland Trust, Wildlife Trusts and the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.
“I’ve always had an affinity for manta rays so I was honoured when Guy and Armando asked me to narrate the Manta Story app,” Oakes explains. “To see so many of these magnificent and gentle giants, almost every time I’ve dived or snorkelled near Landaa Giraavaru – cycloning, surface feeding, rolling and loop-the-looping – is something impossible to take for granted, but conservation of our planet’s key megafauna shouldn’t just be a concern for those lucky enough to have had first hand encounters. The app is a beautiful and enjoyable way to get across the story of our planet’s mantas.”
Manta Rays at Landaa Giraavaru
The Manta Story app follows the recent launch of Landaa Giraavaru’s Hologram Room – an opportunity for the whole family to virtually “swim” with the Baa Atoll mantas. Other manta ray education experiences at the Resort include Manta-on-Call snorkelling adventures and a Trainee Manta Biologist module that gives conservation-minded teens a serious insight into the world of Manta Trust scientists.
Landaa Giraavaru is also home to one of the Maldives’ leading centres of marine research, working in partnership with local and national environmental agencies and employing 10 full-time marine biologists across pioneering conservation projects including sea turtle rehabilitation, coral propagation, anemone mapping and more. In 2020, the Resort partnered with the NOW Force for Good Alliance and EarthCheck, undertaking ongoing monitoring and annual Benchmarking Assessments to ensure that its presence in Baa Atoll is as beneficial as it can be.
“It’s clear to me that without the continued generosity of Four Seasons in the Maldives, The Manta Trust would not exist in its current form,” adds Oakes. “This app is but the dorsal-fin poking above the surface of how deep their collective conservation goals run.”
To find out more manta ray experiences at Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, email: reservations.mal@fourseasons.com or call the central reservations department of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at tel: (960) 66 00 888.
Awards
Cinnamon Dhonveli, Ellaidhoo Maldives recognised at TUI Global Hotel Awards 2025

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon have been recognised as TUI Global Hotel Awards Quality Winners for 2025, an honour based on outstanding guest feedback. The TUI Global Hotel Awards celebrate the best in hospitality, with winners selected from feedback provided by over 20 million travellers worldwide. This recognition highlights Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to exceptional service, unforgettable experiences, and the natural beauty that makes it a sought-after escape for travellers.
Commenting on the achievement, Mohammed Shihab, Commercial Director – Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives, stated, “We are truly honoured to receive the TUI Global Hotel Awards Quality Winner for 2025. It’s an honour to welcome travellers to our resorts, where we celebrate not only the stunning natural beauty of our surroundings but also the deep connections we foster with our guests, creating memories that last a lifetime. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests for their positive feedback and ongoing support, and we look forward to continuing to create exceptional experiences.”
Just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is a favourite among families, surfers, and island adventurers. The resort’s beachfront villas and overwater suites offer a luxurious yet laid-back island experience, while its expansive range of activities makes it an ideal destination for families. With dedicated play areas, kid-friendly entertainment, and an array of dining options, it caters to guests of all ages. Additionally, its world-famous Pasta Point surf break continues to attract professional and leisure surfers looking to ride some of the best waves in the Maldives.
Meanwhile, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is home to one of the Maldives’ best house reefs, as recognised by Lonely Planet, making it a paradise for divers and snorkellers. The resort features elegantly designed rooms, including 24 water bungalows, with direct access to the island’s vibrant marine ecosystem. A highlight for divers is Tripod, a resilient Hawksbill sea turtle with three flippers, who frequently visits the waters of Ellaidhoo, making encounters all the more special.
Both resorts offer an array of recreational activities, from snorkelling and sunset cruises to big-game fishing and cultural island excursions, ensuring every traveller finds their perfect escape. For those seeking relaxation, the Chavana Spa at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon and the Mandara Spa at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldivesoffer indulgent treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Active guests can enjoy tennis, squash, badminton, and volleyball courts, along with fully equipped gyms for a more energised stay.
With summer fast approaching, now is the perfect time to plan an escape to Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives or Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. Whether seeking thrilling adventures or peaceful island retreats, guests can explore exclusive DISCOVERY member offers and Book Direct benefits by visiting www.cinnamonhotels.com.
News
Celebrate Eid in paradise at LUX* South Ari Atoll

LUX* South Ari Atoll, the award-winning resort of The Lux Collective global hospitality group, invites guests to celebrate Eid in style. From ocean adventures to indulgent spa treatments to evenings of musical and culinary delights, this Eid celebration promises an extraordinary escape in paradise.
A Day of Island Adventures
Start the day at the Tree of Wishes Ceremony, a cherished LUX* ritual symbolising hope and new beginnings. For adventure seekers, the Turtle Discovery Snorkeling experience in the turquoise waters offers the rare opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat.
As the afternoon unfolds, a Latte Art Class at Café LUX* invites coffee lovers to master the art of crafting intricate designs, while others can embark on a Sunset Cruise, sailing into the golden hues of the Maldivian horizon before the evening’s grand festivities.
Wellness & Relaxation
For a rejuvenating escape, the Forbes Star-rated LUX* ME Spa offers a selection of exclusive wellness experiences. Guests can indulge in a Diamond Touch Workshop, designed to enhance body and mind, or unwind with a Floating Pilates session in the lagoon. These curated sessions aim to renew and restore balance.
An Enchanting Eid Celebration at Senses
As night falls, LUX* South Ari Atoll transforms into a vibrant setting for an Eid Special Dinner at Senses Restaurant & Bar. Guests are invited to an exquisite buffet showcasing the finest lobster, Maldivian seafood, and Arabic fusion cuisine. The lavish spread includes spiced grills, mezze platters, fragrant rice dishes, and Middle Eastern-inspired desserts, set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
The evening’s entertainment unfolds with an electrifying Boduberu performance, celebrating Maldivian heritage through rhythmic drumming and energetic dance. Live musicians will take the stage before an elevated DJ set with Arabic tunes and chill-out house beats continues under the starlit sky.
An exclusive Shisha Lounge awaits at Senses Bar. Offering premium flavoured shishas, paired with signature mocktails, teas and Eid-inspired drinks, this beachfront retreat provides the perfect setting to take in the festive ambiance.
Plan Your Eid Getaway
Winner of the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards Five-Star Rating for the 2nd consecutive year as well as Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence ‘Best for Families’, LUX* South Ari Atoll’s Eid retreat presents the exclusive Fabulous Offer, with attractive accommodation and festive activities. With eight restaurants and five bars, guests who book the special full-board can be upgraded to an all-inclusive culinary experience.
For reservations or further information, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
News
The Healing Hour with Mariko Hiyama at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Esteemed wellness expert Mariko Hiyama joins The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort as a Visiting Practitioner, bringing her renowned expertise in Face Reflexology. With over a decade of mastery in Sorensensistem™ Facial Reflex Therapy, she offers guests a unique opportunity to experience deep relaxation, profound healing, and holistic well-being.
Housed within the award-winning Iridium Spa, Mariko’s bespoke treatments are thoughtfully crafted to restore emotional balance, release blockages, and enhance the body’s natural healing abilities. Through her exclusive therapies, she helps guests achieve a profound sense of harmony by addressing both physical discomfort and emotional stress. Mariko’s holistic approach integrates a transformative combination of techniques, from facial reflexology to trauma-releasing methods, all designed to unlock deep relaxation, emotional release, and a revitalized sense of well-being.
Each treatment begins with an initial 70-minute consultation and Face Reflex Therapy session, followed by a 60-minute personalized follow-up, allowing Mariko to tailor a wellness program for optimal results. Guests can continue their transformative journey with additional sessions of Face Reflex Therapy, Japanese Face Lifting, Trauma Releasing Reflex Therapy, and MAITRI Healing Face Therapy.
Set amidst the serene beauty of Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is the epitome of luxury and well-being. The resort boasts 77 ultra-luxurious villas that seamlessly blend modern design with the untouched beauty of nature. Among the exquisite accommodations, the overwater John Jacob Astor Estate and the beachfront Caroline Astor Estate offer ultimate privacy and tranquility, complete with private pools, expansive terraces, and breathtaking views.
The resort’s Iridium Spa, perched above the crystal-clear waters, features six overwater treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, and a range of personalized wellness experiences. Guests can indulge in a variety of wellness offerings, including cutting-edge fitness programs and mindfulness sessions at Vommuli House, the largest recreation center in the Maldives.
For those seeking a truly transformative wellness experience, The Healing Hour with Mariko Hiyama offers an exclusive opportunity to unwind and reconnect with oneself through the ancient art of facial reflexology and holistic healing. As part of this limited offering, Mariko Hiyama will be residing at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort until April 4, providing guests with a rare chance to experience her renowned expertise firsthand.
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