News
Escape to paradise with Atmosphere Core this festive season
With the festive season fast upon us, Atmosphere Core offers an idyllic, holiday getaway for those looking to celebrate Christmas or ring in the New Year in style. Just four hours from Dubai – and with various flight options available, revelling in the holiday season couldn’t be easier.
And with Atmosphere Core’s five stunning resorts having created packages perfect for a winter break – VARU by Atmosphere, Atmosphere Kanifushi, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, OBLU SELECT Lobigili and OBLU Xperience Ailafushi – guests will not only be able to get away from it all, but also enjoy an unforgettable experience with superb hospitality in the breath-taking Maldives.
ARU by Atmosphere: Authentic Maldivian Bliss
Escape to an island paradise this festive season with VARU by Atmosphere, where the magic of the Maldives comes alive in a vibrant celebration of sun, sea and authentic Maldivian experiences.
The natural, Maldivian resort invites guests to immerse themselves into a blissful escape, surrounded by the brilliant turquoise lagoon and the rhythmic charm of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun dips below the horizon, VARU transforms into a haven of holiday enchantment, offering a festive calendar that promises a symphony of culinary delights, exhilarating activities and moments of pure relaxation. This curated calendar includes a myriad of activities for every age and interest – from morning Hatha Yoga to High-Intensity Tabata workouts, allowing guests to indulge in fitness activities designed to uplift and energise. For the younger guests, the Kids Club offers a world of creativity, featuring activities such as Christmas tree decorating and beach fun games.
And that’s not all – audiences can savour the taste of authentic Maldivian cuisine with live dining experiences, from breakfast at Lime & Chili to an Indian Ocean Gala Dinner under the stars. Further enhancing the festive experience, guests can relish a Christmas Eve Cocktail on Sandy Beach and welcome the New Year with a Gala Dinner. Additionally, they can immerse themselves into the island’s rich culture with Maldivian entertainers, including the Fruit Cake Band, Saxophonist, Magician and Fire Show Performer.
And for a truly rejuvenating experience, there are the resort’s special spa offers, such as the Christmas Spa Escape and the Season’s Renewal Spa Escape.
At VARU by Atmosphere, guests are invited to create cherished memories against the backdrop of a Naturally Maldivian haven.
- Where: VARU By Atmosphere
- When: 22nd December 2023 to 8th January 2023
- Offer: Enjoy 20% off on all bookings
- For Reservations: reservation@varu-atmosphere.com | Phone: (+960) 4000 800
- Website: https://varu-atmosphere.com/offers/experience-unforgettable-festivities/
Atmosphere Kanifushi: Moments crafted to perfection
Discover a world of luxury and festive joy at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. This season, indulge in grand buffets featuring international cuisine, premium spirits and world-class wines – all at one inclusive price. The pristine Kanifushi Island, just a 35-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport, offers white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and lush tropical gardens – a perfect setting for a tropical beach holiday.
From 22nd December to 2nd January, Atmosphere Kanifushi presents a curated array of activities and adventures across the resort. Dive into crystal-clear waters with snorkelling trips around the island. While fitness enthusiasts can enjoy Pilates workouts, Aqua Aerobics and Paddle Tennis matches at the Club House.
Relaxation awaits at Akiri Spa with “Winter Cheer” special offers, while thrill-seekers can enjoy sunset fishing, flyboarding and dolphin watching. The all-inclusive plan extends to unique experiences like visits to the local island of Naifaru and sandbank trips, allowing guests to explore beyond the resort.
The festive spirit peaks on the 24th December with the Lighting of the Grand Kanifushi Christmas Tree, a Spice Garden Flavours of Europe Theme Buffet and lively entertainment at Liquid.
Furthermore, bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring free-flowing champagne, live music, acrobats, a fire show and an unforgettable light display.
At Atmosphere Kanifushi, every moment is crafted to perfection.
- Where: Atmosphere Kanifushi
- When: 22nd December 2023 to 2nd January 2023
- Offer: Enjoy 20% off on all bookings
- For Reservations: sales@varu-atmosphere.com | Phone: (+960) 7793 165
- Website: https://atmosphere-kanifushi.com/offers/celebrate-the-season-of-splendor/
OBLU SELECT Sangeli: Tropical Meets Modern
Escape to a tropical paradise at OBLU SELECT Sangeli, a 50-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport. With 137 villas, including chic water villas and the exclusive One Banyan for adults, the resort blends modern luxury with tropical allure.
This holiday season, OBLU SELECT Sangeli offers a crescendo of experiences, from vibrant parties to exclusive excursions, ensuring every moment is filled with joy. Join the resort as they transform the island sanctuary into a festive playground, where laughter and happiness echo overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Guests can expect a festive atmosphere with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Sangs Bar, Aqua Yoga at the Main Pool and an array of additional delights. From a Festive Cooking Class to Gingerbread House Decorations, the resort caters to every guest, ensuring a memorable stay.
Indulge in the grand Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at The Courtyard, boasting a festive feast and live music by the in-house band, Jingle Jam. As the year ends, ring in the New Year with kids’ card making, a pool party and the stylish White Party – White Horizon Maldivian NYÉ Extravaganza.
Moreover, the resort offers an ideal present with its six Honeymoon SELECT Ocean Villas. Nestled in a secluded corner of the Sangeli lagoon, these romantic over-water suites are crafted to provide couples with an exclusive and enchanting retreat.
At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, the holiday spirit thrives, where the blend of tropical paradise and modern luxury creates a celebration like no other. Experience the magic of the season in a haven where every moment is a cause for joy and festivity.
- Where: OBLU SELECT Sangeli
- When: 21st December 2023 to 1st January 2023
- Offer: Enjoy 20% off on all bookings
- For Reservations: sales.sangeli@coloursofoblu.com | Phone: (+960) 400 4501
- Website: https://www.coloursofoblu.com/oblu-select-sangeli/special-offers/a-symphony-of-festivities-in-the-maldives
OBLU SELECT Lobigili: A Dazzling Couples Haven
Indulge in a festive escape at OBLU SELECT Lobigili, where the sun-kissed beaches of the Maldives meet the enchanting allure of the holiday season. Nestled in the North Malé Atoll, this adults-exclusive haven beckons couples to a 5-star retreat designed for romance.
As the festive days unfold, OBLU SELECT Lobigili invites guests to partake in various activities and events throughout the resort including sunrise yoga, kayak racing and a unique Self-Healing Acupressure sessions. Celebrate Christmas Eve with a Gala Dinner and a cosy Christmas Movie Night at The Swing Bar Hut.
From Gingerbread House Decoration to a lively Pool Party and Rock & Roll DJ Night, the festivities continue through the week, concluding in a New Year’s Eve Gala Night at Ylang-Ylang with a captivating Nostalgic Night by the Lobi Duo Band at The Swing Bar.
Following that, guests are welcomed to usher in the New Year with a morning filled with sunrise activities, culinary adventures and the enchanting melodies of the Lobi Duo Band.
OBLU SELECT Lobigili invites guests to celebrate the holidays in style, surrounded by the beauty of the Maldives and the warmth of festive cheer.
- Where: OBLU SELECT Lobigili
- When: 22nd December 2023 to 2nd January 2023
- Offer: Enjoy 20% off on all bookings
- For Reservations: sales.lobigili@coloursofoblu.com | Phone: (+960) 400 0066
- Website: https://www.coloursofoblu.com/oblu-select-lobigili/special-offers/a-celestial-celebration-in-paradise
OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi: Perfect blend of serenity and excitement
OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi invites guests to an enchanting journey of island bliss and festive joy, seamlessly blending tranquillity and excitement against the stunning Maldivian scenery. A 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport transports guests to Ailafushi, a family-friendly haven nestled in the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean.
Guests are invited to escape the city bustle and kickstart their day with the Rise and Shine Vinsaya Yoga on the X360 Beach Deck, setting the tone for a day filled with mini Olympics, sustainability juice biking, beach volleyball and more. Around sunset, the atmosphere transforms with lively DJ melodies and a Maldivian-themed buffet at Element X, accompanied by the captivating beats of a Boduberu Cultural Show.
Furthermore, guests can infuse the Christmas spirit with a spirited run, indulge in a delightful Cinnamon Morning breakfast and share a festive rendezvous with Santa. For those seeking adventure, dive into Aqua Fit, engage in beach pool games or partake in an exciting marine discovery session.
To welcome the arrival of 2024 in style, guests can enjoy a vibrant cocktail party alongside a carnival-themed buffet at Element X, complemented by captivating live performances on Ailafushi Beach on New Year’s Eve.
Whether guests are seeking adventure or tranquillity, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi has a festive extravaganza like no other, allowing the magic of the season to unfold in the heart of paradise.
- Where: OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi
- When: 22nd December 2023 to 10th January 2023
- Offer: Enjoy 20% off on all bookings
- For Reservations: sales.ailafushi@coloursofoblu.com | Phone: (+960) 400 0066
- Website: https://www.coloursofoblu.com/oblu-xperience-ailafushi/special-offers/unwrap-the-splendor-of-the-season
Business
Football legends receive FIFA World Cup 2026 match balls signed by President Muizzu
Male’ Aerated Water Company (MAWC), the authorised bottler of The Coca-Cola Company in the Maldives, on Thursday hosted the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Match Ball Handover Ceremony, presenting Football Legends of Maldives with official FIFA World Cup 2026™ match balls signed personally by Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President of Maldives.
Held in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, the ceremony recognised former national footballers whose achievements, service and influence have helped shape football in the Maldives and inspired generations of players and supporters.
The Coca-Cola Company has been an official partner of FIFA since 1974, making it one of the longest-standing partnerships in the global sport. For MAWC, the handover brought that global partnership to life locally by connecting the FIFA World Cup with people who have contributed to Maldivian football history.
As the sole authorised Coca-Cola bottler in the Maldives for over 35 years, MAWC has supported local sport through partnerships, campaigns and community initiatives. The ceremony continued that commitment by recognising the legacy of players who represented the Maldives and contributed to the growth of football in the country.
“Maldives’ football legends have given generations of supporters moments of pride and have played an important role in shaping the country’s sporting history. At MAWC, we believe recognising their contribution is as important as supporting the next generation. Through our partnership with Coca-Cola and FIFA, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, we are honoured to celebrate their legacy. These match balls are a token of our appreciation for what they have given to Maldivian football,” said Milind Derasari, Chief Operating Officer, MAWC.
Adding to the excitement of the football season, MAWC ran a nationwide FIFA World Cup 2026™ consumer promotion from 21 March to 24 May 2026. Eight winners received an all-expenses-paid experience for two to attend a FIFA World Cup 2026™ match. Hundreds more won Coca-Cola branded merchandise and other prizes during the campaign, bringing the excitement of the world’s largest football tournament to consumers across the Maldives.
MAWC remains committed to building partnerships that support the development of sports across the Maldives, working with the Government of Maldives and other partners.
News
Avani+ Fares Maldives introduces poolside reads under global book club programme
Avani Hotels & Resorts has launched Avani Book Club, a global initiative designed to help travellers connect with destinations through books, local stories and shared reading experiences.
The programme is being introduced at selected Avani hotels and resorts worldwide, including Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort in Baa Atoll. It combines curated reading lists with book corners, book swaps, author-led events, children’s storytelling and destination-inspired food and beverage experiences.
Avani said the initiative was developed for travellers seeking slower and more meaningful ways to spend their time while away. It also responds to the growth of online reading communities such as BookTok and Bookstagram, which have influenced how readers discover books and incorporate literature into their travel experiences.
At the centre of Avani Book Club is a global list of 30 titles selected for 15 properties across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Indian Ocean. Each title has been chosen to reflect the culture, character or atmosphere of its destination.
At Avani+ Fares Maldives, guests can read Folk Tales of the Maldives, a collection linked to the country’s storytelling traditions. A mobile book buggy will offer poolside reading material, while wellness-focused titles will be available at the resort’s spa.
Other destination-based selections include Pitchaya Sudbanthad’s Bangkok Wakes to Rain at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel and Jessie Burton’s The Miniaturist at Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam.
Avani Rio Novo Venice Hotel will feature Kacie Rose’s You Deserve Good Gelato, which explores food, travel and personal reinvention. Rose is also scheduled to participate in an Avani Book Club event and book signing in Venice during the European summer.
At Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles, the collection includes Katherine May’s Wintering, while Avani Victoria Falls Resort will feature Namwali Serpell’s The Old Drift, a novel tracing Zambia’s history across several generations. Australian titles in the programme include The Rosie Project and Big Little Lies.
Participating properties will complement the global reading list with locally developed activities and partnerships.
Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid Hotel regularly hosts local book clubs, while Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam plans to hold a Book Swap and Reading Night during WorldPride in partnership with The Swap Club. The event will bring together guests and residents for readings, poetry and discussions centred on LGBTQ+ stories.
In Thailand, Avani Ratchada Bangkok Hotel will introduce “Sip the Story”, pairing books about the country with themed coffees, matchas and cocktails. Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort will offer a story-inspired afternoon tea by the pool, with menus developed around selected titles.
Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort will focus on younger guests through stories about Gok and Gek, a pair of hornbills living at the property. Children can follow their story through the Hornbill Heroes activity booklet and When Gok Met Gek, a bedtime story illustrated by a Thai artist.
Avani Book Club is now available at participating Avani properties, with hotel-led events and activities scheduled to be introduced throughout the year.
Awards
Anantara Kihavah, Niyama recognised in Travel + Leisure reader awards
Minor Hotels’ properties in the Maldives have received seven accolades in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific, with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas recognised in five categories and Niyama Private Islands Maldives securing two awards.
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas was ranked third among the Maldives’ Best Resorts and second in the Best House Reefs category. The resort also placed fourth in the Most Outrageous Villas, Best Resort Pools and Best Resort Spas categories.
Located in Baa Atoll, Anantara Kihavah is known for its private pool villas, surrounding reef and underwater restaurant. Anantara Spa at the resort was ranked fourth among the country’s resort spas.
Niyama Private Islands Maldives was recognised for The Crescent, its private island compound, which placed third in the Most Outrageous Villas category. Drift Spa at Niyama was ranked sixth among the Best Resort Spas in the Maldives.

The Crescent consists of a collection of villas located on a private section of the resort and is designed for families and groups travelling together. Drift Spa is situated within Niyama’s tropical surroundings and offers treatment rooms, relaxation spaces and wellness experiences.
The Maldives accolades contributed to a record 31 awards received by Minor Hotels across the Asia-Pacific region, compared with 26 in the previous year.
The group’s flagship luxury brand, Anantara Hotels & Resorts, was also named the region’s number-one Favourite Hotel Brand of the Year.
“The T+L readers have spoken and, with a record 31 awards, Minor Hotels stands among the region’s most celebrated hospitality groups,” said Nicholas Smith, Vice President Operations – Asia at Minor Hotels.
“I am particularly proud of Anantara being named the region’s favourite brand, and of our teams in Laos and Thailand for securing their number-one positions. These results reaffirm that our focus on innovation and on creating standout guest experiences continues to resonate with travellers.”
Elsewhere in the region, Avani+ Luang Prabang in Laos was named the Best Hotel, while its general manager, Max Chin, was ranked first in the Best General Managers category.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort was voted Thailand’s Best Upcountry Hotel, while other Minor Hotels properties in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia were recognised across resort, city hotel, spa and pool categories.
Minor Hotels’ travel experiences also featured in the awards, with Mekong Kingdoms and Loy Pela Voyages ranked second and fourth, respectively, among the region’s Best River Cruises.
GHA DISCOVERY, the loyalty programme of the Global Hotel Alliance, was named the number-one Hotel Loyalty Programme. Minor Hotels participates in the programme through Minor DISCOVERY.
The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific are determined through a readers’ survey, with travellers voting across categories covering hotels, resorts, villas, spas, pools, cruises and loyalty programmes.
-
News1 week agoNH Maldives Kuda Rah celebrates World Ocean Day through hands-on marine conservation
-
Featured1 week agoAlila Kothaifaru Maldives marks June with sustainability and marine conservation initiatives
-
News1 week agoBanyan Tree Vabbinfaru marks Global Wellness Day with island wellbeing journey
-
Celebration6 days agoFinding your #JoyMagenta: Why the Maldives is the ultimate global capital for wellness
-
Awards1 week agoMilaidhoo Maldives recognised by guests in Tripadvisor Best of the Best 2026
-
News1 week agoThe Standard, Maldives to ring in 2027 with ‘Reveal Your Glow’ beach party
-
Awards1 week agoSun Siyam earns prestigious design accolades at International Property Awards
-
News1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi unveils summer getaway offer for couples and families


