News
SustainLinen: Tote bags with purpose at EarthCheck Gold-certified Angsana Velavaru
In the heart of Angsana Velavaru, an all-inclusive premium and an EarthCheck Gold Certified resort in South Nilandhe Atoll, a remarkable tale of sustainability, creativity, and the inherent purpose of everything unfolds. It is a story that begins with a simple idea conceived from the commitment to protect the all-natural, beautiful surroundings, “SustainLinen – Tote Bags with Purpose.”
The journey of the SustainLinen – Tote Bags with Purpose started with the Green Sustainability Team, a group of dedicated associates representing each department at the resort, driven by a shared vision of a greener, more sustainable future. They pondered a question that would set their creative spirits soaring: “What if we did not have to discard our discarded linens? What if we could breathe new life into them, turning the ordinary into a symbol of eco-consciousness?”
The concept of SustainLinen – Tote Bags with Purpose was born. The linens that once adorned the resort’s villas, having fulfilled their duty in pampering guests with comfort, are now destined for a remarkable transformation. Instead of becoming waste, they would be reborn as meaningful and purposeful totes, each one unique and woven with a touch of Maldivian charm.
The transformative journey commences at the heart of the island, where the resort’s talented tailors take centre stage. Infused with a profound dedication to sustainability, they meticulously choose and launder the cast-off linens, priming them for a renewed purpose. With keen attention to detail, they skilfully weave these linens, fashioning purposeful totes laden with significance.
The story does not end there. The real magic of the SustainLinen – Tote Bags with Purpose lies in its design, a collaborative effort of the resort’s associates who pour their creativity into the pieces. They draw inspiration from the breathtaking surroundings, especially the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
The result? Totes that are not only eco-friendly but also a true reflection of the Maldivian paradise. Angsana Velavaru encourages associates to use these tote bags as an alternative to disposable plastic bags, thereby reducing the resort’s plastic waste output. It is a small yet significant step toward a greener and more sustainable future.
Angsana Velavaru encourages associates to use these tote bags as an alternative to disposable plastic bags, thereby reducing the resort’s plastic waste output. It is a small yet significant step toward a greener and more sustainable future.
As a symbol of Angsana Velavaru’s commitment to sustainability and the belief that everything has a purpose – and that purpose can be repurposed, associates use these totes at work or when going to a neighbouring local island for shopping trips. On 21 September, during the celebration of World Cleanup Day, they have introduced this initiative to 55 students of Maaenboodhoo School at Dh. Maaenboodhoo, South Nilandhe (Dhaalu) Atoll. They have also started introducing these to in-house guests so that when they go home after their holiday, they are carrying a piece of the Maldives.
The story of SustainLinen – Tote Bags with Purpose is a testament to the power of small ideas and collaborative efforts. It is a reminder that even in paradise, there is always room for innovation, a deep sense of responsibility, and the understanding that everything, no matter how humble its origins, can find new life and meaning. This is an inspiration of a more sustainable tomorrow, one stitch at a time.
Join Angsana Velavaru in embracing sustainability and in contributing to a more resilient and harmonious future. Discover more at Sustainability | Angsana.
Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) has announced that numerous properties within its portfolio have been recognised in the Tripadvisor® Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026, reinforcing the resort collection’s reputation for delivering exceptional holiday experiences in the Maldives.
Based on genuine guest reviews and ratings collected over a 12-month period, Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards recognise hospitality businesses that consistently receive outstanding feedback from travellers worldwide. The awards recognise the resorts among the highest-rated accommodations.
Jawakara Islands Maldives Earns ‘Best of the Best’ Recognition
Among CCR’s award-winning resorts, Jawakara Islands Maldives received Tripadvisor’s prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ distinction for 2026, placing it among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. The resort was also ranked #21 among Asia’s top hotels.
Featuring two islands connected by a bridge across a turquoise lagoon, Jawakara Islands Maldives combines contemporary luxury with authentic Maldivian charm, offering guests a unique island experience.
The ‘Best of the Best’ accolade is Tripadvisor’s highest recognition, awarded to a select group of properties that consistently receive exceptional guest feedback and maintain outstanding traveller satisfaction throughout the year.
Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026 – Top 10% Worldwide
The following CCR resorts were recognised among the top 10% of hotels globally in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026:
- Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – An exclusive fully solar-powered private island featuring 15 overwater residences and its signature fully inclusive “Anything. Anywhere. Anytime.” luxury concept.
- Hurawalhi Island Resort – Home to the iconic all-glass 5.8 Undersea Restaurant and offering an adults-only retreat with exceptional dining and ocean experiences.
- Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa – A wellness-focused resort featuring all-pool villas, holistic spa experiences, and a vibrant house reef.
- Veligandu Maldives Resort Island – Renowned for its iconic sandbank, natural beauty, diverse culinary offerings, and memorable marine adventures.
- Komandoo Island Resort & Spa – Truly adults-only (aged +18) island retreat known for its romantic atmosphere, vibrant house reef, and exceptional diving experiences.
- Meeru Maldives Resort Island – One of the Maldives’ most popular resorts, offering a blend of family-friendly and adults-focused experiences, extensive dining options, and expansive beaches.
- Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa – A top diving and snorkelling destination located within a whale shark hotspot and offering both adults-only and family-friendly accommodation options.
“These recognitions reflect the dedication and passion of our champions across the resorts. Every day, they work tirelessly to create memorable experiences for our guests, and these awards are a testament to their commitment to genuine Maldivian hospitality. We are grateful to our guests for their trust and valuable feedback, which continues to inspire us to deliver exceptional holiday experiences,” said Mohamed Solah, CEO, Crown & Champa Resorts.
Madifushi Private Island has been internationally recognised as the Best Elegant Private Island in the Maldives at the prestigious Fashion Travel Awards 2026, organised by Fashion TV Russia, one of the world’s leading media platforms dedicated to fashion, luxury, and lifestyle.
The second edition of the Fashion Travel Awards took place on May 2026 in Moscow, aboard the luxurious Radisson Royal Flotilla. The exclusive gala welcomed over 150 distinguished guests, including tourism leaders, celebrities, influencers, media representatives, and renowned international travellers. The event celebrated excellence across the global travel and hospitality industry, recognising outstanding hotels, resorts, destinations, and tourism professionals.
As an official partner of the event, Madifushi Private Island was proudly presented on stage to an international audience before being announced as the recipient of the Best Elegant Private Island in the Maldives award. The recognition reflects the resort’s commitment to delivering refined luxury, personalised service, and unforgettable guest experiences in one of the world’s most sought-after island destinations.
Speaking on the achievement, Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager of Madifushi Private Island, said: “Receiving this recognition from the Fashion Travel Awards is particularly meaningful as it celebrates not only hospitality, but also elegance, sophistication, and the overall guest experience. Being named the Best Elegant Private Island in the Maldives is a wonderful reflection of the refined character we have carefully built at Madifushi Private Island. It inspires us to continue pushing boundaries, creating distinctive experiences, and introducing even more unique concepts that surprise and delight our guests.”
During the event, representatives of Madifushi Private Island also participated in an exclusive interview with Fashion TV, providing an opportunity to showcase the resort and the Maldives to a global audience. The interview will be broadcast throughout the year across the Fashion TV network and displayed at its partner venues, including luxury restaurants, fitness clubs, yacht clubs, and concert halls. The event will also receive continued coverage through international magazines and online media platforms.
This latest accolade further strengthens Madifushi Private Island’s growing international reputation as a destination that seamlessly combines elegance, privacy, authentic Maldivian hospitality, and bespoke luxury experiences.
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has unveiled its new padel court, adding a fresh dimension to island wellness and offering guests a dynamic new way to stay active in paradise.
Now with over 30 million players worldwide, padel is one of the fastest growing sports, offering a fun and inclusive activity for beginners and experts alike. The brand new court is framed by Maldivian palm trees and white sand, creating a striking backdrop for both leisurely matches and spirited competition.
Complimentary for all guests, the court includes the use of premium rackets and balls, allowing guests to discover a new skill in a tropical island setting. Families are invited to enjoy dedicated on-court sessions designed for all ages to create memorable, shared experiences. Benches line the court, creating a comfortable space for spectators to watch and support friends and family.
Located beside InterContinental Maldives’ fitness centre with its state-of-the-art gym, personal training programmes, and aerobic workout sessions, the new padel court aims to enhance the resort’s distinctive approach to luxury, wellbeing and curated guest experiences.
Overwater Pool Villa starting from $1,290++ per night with a variety of inclusions. The padel court is complimentary
for guests.
For more information, please visit www.maldives.intercontinental.com or email reservations.icmaldives@ihg.com.
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