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
Entertainment
Second Hard Rock Cafe Maldives music festival strengthens cultural exchange
The vibrant music festival held at Hard Rock Cafe Maldives on the 19th of this month was successfully concluded, marking its second consecutive year in collaboration with Alliance Française de Male’. The event once again delivered a dynamic celebration of music, culture, and international artistic exchange.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year’s festival featured a carefully curated lineup of three bands and two solo artists, creating a high-energy fusion of local and international talent that captivated audiences throughout the evening. The collaboration between Hard Rock Cafe Maldives and Alliance Française continued to strengthen cultural ties through music, offering a platform where local talent could perform alongside international artists in a shared creative space.

The lineup included:
- Equatic Vibe (Maldives)—full band
- SkyRock (Maldives)—full band
- Funk Island (Sri Lanka)—featured international highlight band
- Dr. Tatsuya Daniel (USA)—solo keyboard artist
- Katherine (Sri Lanka)—solo expat keyboard artist

This year’s edition was further strengthened through important cultural sponsorships and institutional support, which played a key role in bringing together an internationally diverse lineup. The featured international band Funk Island (Sri Lanka) was sponsored by the French Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, while Dr Tatsuya Daniel (USA) was supported by the United States Embassy in the Maldives, reinforcing the role of cultural diplomacy in enabling artistic exchange.

The festival also forms part of the global spirit inspired by La Fête de la Musique (World Music Day), an annual celebration that originated in France in 1982. Created to encourage both amateur and professional musicians to perform freely in public spaces, the initiative promotes the idea of “music everywhere, for everyone.” Held annually on 21 June, it has since grown into a worldwide movement celebrated in more than 120 countries, uniting people through the universal language of music.

“Music remains one of the most powerful tools for cultural connection. This partnership with Hard Rock Cafe Maldives allows us to bring French and international artistic influences closer to the Maldivian audience while celebrating local creativity. We are proud to see this festival grow into a much-anticipated annual event,” said Beblai Gabin, Director at Alliance Française de Male’.

“Hosting this festival for the second consecutive year is a testament to the strong collaboration we have built with Alliance Française and the incredible support from our community. Bringing together local bands with international artists creates an unmatched energy that truly defines the Hard Rock Cafe spirit,” said Frederic Lebegue.

Guests were treated to an immersive live music experience, with performances spanning multiple genres and styles, delivering the signature high-energy atmosphere that the festival has become known for. The seamless blend of local and international acts reinforced the event’s reputation as a standout cultural highlight in Malé’s annual calendar.

Organisers expressed their appreciation for the continued partnership and strong audience turnout, noting that the success of the second edition sets a strong foundation for future expansions of the festival.

The evening concluded on a celebratory note, with enthusiastic feedback from attendees underscoring the festival’s growing popularity and its role in promoting music-driven cultural exchange in the Maldives
Drink
Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa secures three Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence
Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa has been recognised by Wine Spectator with the 2026 Award of Excellence for all three of its dining venues: Oak Lounge Wine Cellar, Bodumas and Latitude 5.5.
The Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards recognise restaurants whose wine lists offer quality selections that complement their cuisine while meeting high standards for accuracy and presentation.The Award of Excellence is presented to restaurants whose wine lists feature at least 75 selections and provide guests with a well-balanced choice of producers, styles and price points.
Under the direction of Head Sommelier Sasho Petereski, the resort’s wine programme spans approximately more than 300 labels across the three restaurants. Each wine list has been carefully developed to complement the individual dining concept of each venue, while all wines are maintained in temperature-controlled storage to preserve their quality and character. The selections range from well-known international producers to rare vintages, offering choices for both casual wine enthusiasts and experienced collectors.
Each restaurant presents a distinct dining experience. Latitude 5.5 pairs Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with an extensive wine selection, Bodumas specialises in Japanese-inspired cuisine complemented by wines from renowned wine regions, while Oak Lounge WineCellar focuses on curated wine experiences, including wine pairing dinners.
Receiving the Award of Excellence for all three restaurants highlights the resort’s commitment to maintaining internationally recognised standards in wine selection, storage and food pairing, while providing guests with wine lists that complement the unique character of each dining venue.
News
NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi unveils new under-the-stars wellness ritual
Th.ari Spa at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi has introduced Th.ari Under the Night Sky, a new signature outdoor wellness experience designed for couples seeking relaxation, connection, and memorable moments beneath the Maldivian stars.
Inspired by the serenity of the Maldives after sunset, the 90-minute experience invites guests to immerse themselves in a unique wellness journey surrounded by the sights and sounds of the island evening. Set on an open-air spa deck, the ritual combines soothing massage techniques, warm locally sourced Maldivian coconut oil, and the calming resonance of singing bowls to create an unforgettable experience of relaxation and wellbeing.
Set on an open-air spa deck, the ritual allows couples to relax beneath the stars while enjoying a thoughtfully curated wellness experience designed to calm the mind, ease physical tension, and encourage a deeper sense of wellbeing. As the day gives way to evening, the Maldives transforms into a peaceful sanctuary where gentle ocean breezes, starlit skies, and the calming rhythm of island life create the perfect setting for relaxation.
Th.ari Under the Night Sky was created to embrace this natural beauty, offering guests an opportunity to experience wellness in harmony with their surroundings. The experience begins with a welcoming foot ritual before continuing with a restorative full-body massage using nourishing Maldivian coconut oil. The journey concludes with the soothing vibrations of singing bowls, encouraging a deeper sense of calm, balance, and renewal.
By bringing wellness outdoors, the experience allows guests to fully connect with the atmosphere that makes the Maldives one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Modern luxury travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful experiences that create lasting memories alongside traditional resort offerings. Th.ari Under the Night Sky responds to this desire by offering couples a shared wellness journey designed to foster relaxation, presence, and connection.
Ideal for honeymooners, anniversary celebrations, romantic getaways, or simply quality time together, the experience encourages guests to slow down and appreciate the moment while enjoying the beauty of the Maldives after dark.
Combining wellness with the intimacy of a private outdoor setting, the ritual offers a memorable way for couples to celebrate special occasions or enhance their island escape.
Available exclusively at Th.ari Spa, Th.ari Under the Night Sky adds a distinctive dimension to the wellness and romance offering at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi. Created specifically for the resort, the experience reflects the destination’s commitment to delivering memorable guest experiences inspired by the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Maldives.
More than a spa treatment, the experience has been thoughtfully designed to combine wellness, romance, and a strong sense of place. Whether celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or romantic getaway, couples are invited to reconnect beneath the stars while enjoying a unique wellness journey inspired by the island’s enchanting evening atmosphere.
For travel partners and luxury travel advisors, Th.ari Under the Night Sky offers an additional point of differentiation for couples seeking meaningful, destination-inspired experiences during their stay. The experience is available exclusively at Th.ari Spa by Mandara Spa at NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi.
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