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
Awards
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef secures Best House Reef title at TTM Awards
Renowned for its marine life and underwater experiences, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, has been named Best House Reef at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards 2026.
The award recognises the resort’s marine environment, which is accessible directly from its beaches and overwater villas. The annual TTM Awards and Gala brings together travel professionals and hoteliers from across the archipelago to recognise achievements within the Maldivian hospitality industry.
The island’s coral reef is home to marine species including resident sea turtles, reef sharks, tropical fish and eagle rays. Guests can explore the reef through guided excursions led by the resort’s resident marine experts, customised scuba-diving experiences and coral restoration initiatives designed to support the long-term preservation of the marine environment.
“Our reef is the living soul of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, shaping every visitor’s journey from the moment they step into our turquoise lagoon,” said Masdhooq Saeed, Cluster General Manager. “To be named the Maldives’ Best House Reef is an immense honour, strengthening our commitment to nurturing this remarkable marine sanctuary so our guests can keep discovering its quiet magic beneath the surface.”
Travellers seeking underwater experiences can book directly with the resort to access exclusive benefits and guided marine excursions.
News
Huvafen Fushi expands wellness offering with Aromatherapy Associates treatments
Huvafen Fushi Maldives is expanding its wellness offering with two new longevity-focused treatments from Aromatherapy Associates, available now at Huvafen Spa, the resort’s iconic underwater spa.
The launch arrives as longevity becomes the defining word in luxury travel. Virtuoso’s 2026 travel data reinforces the shift, naming longevity tourism as luxury travel’s breakout segment, with wellness-focused hotel bookings up 28% and travellers increasingly seeking sleep optimisation, metabolic health support and measurable, long-term outcomes over one-off spa treatments. The Global Wellness Summit’s Future of Wellness 2026 report identifies women’s healthspan as a defining trend of the year, as spa and wellness destinations increasingly launch programmes tailored to female physiology across every life stage, from perimenopause through to menopause and beyond.
The new Recovery Reset and Pause & Reset treatments combine the therapeutic power of essential oils with advanced hands-on techniques, offering two distinct approaches to modern wellbeing: one supporting physical recovery and resilience, the other addressing the changing needs of women’s health.

Recovery Reset: restorative bodywork for active lifestyles
Recovery Reset is an advanced restorative body treatment designed to support muscular recovery, mobility and long-term physical wellbeing. Going beyond traditional aromatherapy massage, it introduces a range of advanced bodywork techniques:
- Myofascial release – to help release deep-held tension and improve mobility
- Advanced deep-tissue massage – to target areas of muscular tension
- Targeted bodywork – to support physical recovery and ease of movement
- Therapeutic aromatherapy – combining expert touch with powerful essential oil blends
- Hot stone therapy – to further support muscular recovery and restoration
Ideal for active lifestyles, travel fatigue and guests seeking a deeper approach to massage, Recovery Reset brings together physical recovery and the restorative benefits of aromatherapy in one deeply therapeutic experience.
Pause & Reset: nurturing support through hormonal change
Pause & Reset is a nurturing treatment dedicated to women’s wellbeing, created to support the physical and emotional effects associated with hormonal change – from PMS and post-pregnancy through to perimenopause and menopause. As the sense of smell is closely connected to emotion and wellbeing, essential oils can offer valuable support during these transitions.
Following a personalised aroma consultation, guests select from three Aromatherapy Associates essential oil blends before experiencing an enhanced treatment incorporating:
- Inhalation – using the guest’s personally selected essential oil blend
- Balancing breathwork – to encourage relaxation and reconnection
- Body brushing – to awaken the body and prepare for treatment
- Restorative abdominal massage – providing a deeply nurturing focus to the treatment
- Hand and foot reflex techniques – focusing on the endocrine and reproductive systems
- Together, the treatments reflect a more holistic approach to longevity, recognising the importance of recovery, movement, rest and emotional wellbeing throughout different stages of life.
Aromatherapy Associates has been a pioneer in therapeutic aromatherapy for more than 40 years, combining expertly crafted essential oil blends with the healing power of touch to create transformative experiences for body and mind.
“We are delighted to introduce these new Aromatherapy Associates treatments,” said Tri Wardani, Director of Spa. “Our approach to wellness continues to evolve alongside the needs of our guests, and these new treatments allow us to offer highly personalised experiences that support both physical and emotional wellbeing in some of the Maldives’ most extraordinary spa settings.”
Guests can experience Recovery Reset and Pause & Reset at the underwater spa at Huvafen Fushi Maldives, alongside a curated selection of Aromatherapy Associates products to continue their wellbeing journey beyond the treatment room.
Awards
Kandooma Maldives secures family resort and sustainability honours at LUXlife Awards
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has received two honours in the 11th annual LUXlife Hospitality Awards, named Best Family Resort 2026 – Maldives and recipient of the Sustainability Excellence Award 2026 – Maldives.
The LUXlife Hospitality Awards recognise businesses and individuals demonstrating excellence across the global hospitality industry, from hotels and resorts to dining, travel and wellness experiences.
For Kandooma, the two awards recognise areas that have become an important part of the island experience: creating memorable Maldives holidays for families while continuing to strengthen its approach to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.
Speaking about the resort’s latest accolades, General Manager Andrew Drummond said the recognition comes at an exciting time for Kandooma.
“These awards recognise two areas that are incredibly important to us, and the timing couldn’t be better. We are delighted to have our family offering recognised, particularly as we have some exciting new developments ahead that will make the family experience at Kandooma even stronger when we become Kandooma Maldives on 1 October. The Sustainability Excellence Award is equally meaningful for our team. Sustainability is something we want to keep building on, finding practical ways to reduce our impact, protect the natural environment around us and, importantly, bring our guests along on that journey,” he said.
Kandooma’s family offering combines spacious accommodation, a dedicated Kandoo Kids’ Club, family activities on land and water, and the freedom of an island where days can be as active or relaxed as each family chooses.
Sustainability has also become increasingly embedded in resort operations and the guest experience, with initiatives spanning renewable energy, waste reduction and recycling, marine conservation, environmental education and community engagement.
The LUXlife Hospitality Awards 2026 are determined through LUXlife Magazine’s independent, merit-based research and evaluation process. Nominees are assessed against criteria including service quality, guest satisfaction, brand reputation and overall performance within their field. The awards are designed to recognise achievement on merit rather than the size, location or market influence of the organisation.
Located in South Malé Atoll, approximately 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a private island resort known for its relaxed atmosphere, natural beauty and strong connection to the ocean.
The resort offers 146 contemporary Garden, Beach and Overwater Villas, together with extensive family experiences, the Kandoo Kids’ Club, exceptional scuba diving including nearby Kandooma Thila, surfing, island dining and Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives will transition to Kandooma Maldives from 1 October 2026, operated by HPL Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary of Hotel Properties Limited. For stays and further information, visit www.Kandooma-Maldives.com.
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