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What’s new at Vakkaru: Unveiling six reasons to celebrate six-year milestone

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As Vakkaru Maldives marks its 6th anniversary this December, the resort commemorates a journey filled with extraordinary achievements and memorable experiences. Since opening its doors on 17 December 2017, it has emerged as a world-renowned leading private island sanctuary, offering unparalleled luxury levels of service, and creating cherished memories for a growing community of loyal guests.

Six reasons to return or to visit Vakkaru for the first time, with exciting developments providing enhanced experiences for our guests, especially catering to the growing demands of the family market.

Luxury Redefined with New Three- & Four-Bedroom Beach Pool Residence

This accommodation can be adapted to guests’ preferences, making it an ideal choice for families or groups seeking an elevated beach getaway. The main residence has a large 42-sqm swimming pool a spacious terrace with an outdoor gazebo overlooking the Indian Ocean. The third and fourth bedrooms have their own Beach Villa with Plunge Pool connected to the main residence, with its own 12-sqm whirlpool.

Enhanced Two Bedroom Beach Residences and Villas

The two-bedroom Residences now boast a newly built indoor living lounge for additional relaxation space. At the same time, the Beach Pool Villas have been upgraded with larger swimming pools for an even more luxurious swim experience.

Multiple Wins at World Travel Awards 2023

Endorsing Vakkaru positioning as a leading luxury resort, for the fourth consecutive year, Vakkaru has been recognized with multiple awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2023. These include:

  • World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort 2023
  • Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite 2023
  • Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort 2023
  • Maldives’ Leading Hotel Suite 2023

This continuous recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment towards the unique experiences offered to our guests.

On Resort Photo Studio

The newly constructed photo studio by Yash Lightroom offers guests unique opportunities to plan personalised, professional photoshoots, for those cherished memories.

New Marine Experiences

The resort has introduced an array of new marine experiences led by our new marine biologist, Lydia Glinski. The programmes are designed for young explorers and adults including “Be A Marine Biologist for a Day,” and dedicated PADI specialty diving courses and a Coral Adoption programme.

Key Appointments in Sales & Marketing Team

Vakkaru Maldives announced two key appointments to its Sales & Marketing team, Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing, Sian Thomas, with over two decades of experience and having previously served as the Director of Sales & Marketing, in leading Luxury Resorts in the Maldives and Dubai.

Afaag Ibrahim, a Maldivian with a great reputation and exceptional leadership skills, joined as Director of Sales.

Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its spectacular sea life, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless sanctuary recently named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort in the World Travel Awards. An awe -inspiring 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport takes you to this secluded reef island, shaded by coconut palms and blessed with calming ocean views and powder-soft white-sand beaches. Here 113 beautifully appointed Overwater and Beach Villas are elegantly designed to respect their surroundings, while exceptional dining experiences and amenities await in six restaurants, two bars and a wine cellar. Among our industry-leading offerings is overwater Merana Spa, complete with an Ayurveda practice and a regular host to residencies by the world’s most inspiring wellness practitioners. Children and teens are generously catered for in the Parrotfish Club and Coconut Club respectively, while guests of all ages can play against world-famous pros through a best-in-class coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis or play each other on the padel tennis court. Splash offers a host of thrilling water sports, ocean excursions, private luxury yachts as well as coral adoption programmes.

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Milaidhoo Maldives included in Tatler Travel Guide 2026’s top hotels

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Milaidhoo Maldives has announced its inclusion in the prestigious Tatler Travel Guide 2026, a coveted recognition celebrating the world’s most exceptional hotels. The island has been selected among Tatler 101: The World’s Best Hotels, an annual list that represents the pinnacle of excellence in global hospitality.

Curated by Tatler’s Travel Editor alongside an expert editorial team and an international network of contributors, the Tatler Travel Guide is renowned for its rigorous and discerning selection process. Each property is carefully evaluated to ensure that only those offering truly remarkable experiences earn a place on the list.

As one of the most established and influential society magazines in the world, Tatler’s endorsement is considered one of the highest honours in the travel industry. The guide speaks directly to a sophisticated and discerning audience, celebrating hotels that combine authenticity, character and outstanding service.

For Milaidhoo Maldives, the recognition is a meaningful affirmation of the island’s philosophy: a boutique, barefoot sanctuary where the essence of the Maldives is experienced in its most genuine form. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is known for its intimate atmosphere, thoughtful hospitality and deep connection to Maldivian heritage and culture.

“We are deeply honoured to be recognised in the Tatler Travel Guide 2026,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager. “At Milaidhoo, we strive to create experiences that feel personal, soulful and truly reflective of the Maldives. To be included among the world’s best hotels is a wonderful recognition of the passion and dedication of our team, the Milaidhoo Family.”

From the island’s iconic overwater restaurant Ba’theli, inspired by traditional Maldivian sailing vessels, to curated cultural and marine experiences, Milaidhoo offers guests an opportunity to slow down and connect with the natural beauty and traditions of the Maldives.

This recognition from Tatler further reinforces Milaidhoo’s reputation as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinctive luxury escapes, where authenticity, intimacy and heartfelt service define every stay.

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ELE|NA marks World Sleep Day with SleepSync wellness ritual

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In recognition of World Sleep Day, ELE|NA highlights SleepSync, one of its Six Pillars of Vitality dedicated to restoration and circadian rhythm alignment, through the SleepSync Ritual, a deeply calming spa experience designed to guide guests toward profound, uninterrupted sleep. The ritual is implemented across all ELE|NA locations in both the Maldives and India, ensuring guests can reconnect with restorative sleep wherever they experience the brand.

In today’s always-connected world, restful sleep has become increasingly elusive. Within this ritual, the body is gently led from stimulation into stillness, releasing the tensions of the day, calming the nervous system and preparing the mind and body for restorative rest.

ELE|NA believes that sleep is not simply the absence of wakefulness, but an essential pillar of holistic wellbeing – where restoration, emotional balance and cellular renewal take place.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Sleep Rhythm

Sleep begins long before the moment the head meets the pillow. It is a gradual transition where the body releases the day and prepares for stillness.

Within ELE|NA’s SleepSync Rituals, this transition is approached with intention and calm. As evening settles, the body begins its quiet descent into rest with the following:

  • Reduce blue light exposure before sleep
  • Dim lighting to signal the body’s nighttime rhythm
  • Create calm through mindful transitions away from daily activity
  • Release thoughts through journaling
  • Hydrate and support the body’s nighttime recovery

These small rituals help guide the body from stimulation to restoration.

Reclaiming the Night

World Sleep Day serves as an important reminder that quality sleep is not a luxury, but a foundation of health and longevity. When supported with mindful rituals and intentional slowing down, the night becomes a space for true renewal.

Through SleepSync Rituals, ELE|NA continues its commitment to nurturing holistic wellbeing, guiding individuals back to the natural rhythms that allow the body to rest, restore and awaken with clarity and vitality.

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Kandooma Maldives invites families to Easter island celebrations

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Swap traditional Easter routines for barefoot island celebrations as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives unveils a vibrant Easter programme designed for families seeking adventure, connection and memorable island moments.

Set on a lush private island surrounded by turquoise lagoons and powder-white beaches, the resort’s Easter festivities blend family adventures, island experiences and indulgent dining in true Maldivian style.

“Easter is a wonderful time for families to come together and create special memories,” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Our Easter programme has been designed to capture the spirit of the season while embracing the relaxed island lifestyle that makes the Maldives such a special place to celebrate.”

Guests can enjoy a week of fun-filled activities for all ages, from beach games, snorkelling adventures and creative craft sessions to relaxing spa rituals and sunset cocktails by the ocean. Younger guests will be happily entertained at the Kandoo Kids’ Club, where a dedicated Easter programme offers plenty of excitement for little explorers.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Sunday Dinner Buffet at Kandooma Café, a festive island feast bringing families together around a table filled with global flavours.

Guests can savour traditional Easter favourites from the carving station, vibrant salads and international cuisine, alongside chef-prepared dishes from live cooking stations. A dedicated Kids’ Corner ensures younger diners have their own fun selections, while a spectacular dessert spread, including Kandooma Café’s famous chocolate fountain and live crêpe station, provides a sweet finale to the evening.

Families planning an Easter holiday can choose from a range of holiday packages, including the resort’s popular All-Inclusive offer and a Family Getaway package packed with added extras for parents and children alike. More details can be found here.

The resort’s Easter Brochure outlines the full programme of island adventures and special experiences, including the Kandoo Kids’ Club Easter activities. View Easter Brochure here.

Located in the South Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lagoon and some of the Maldives’ best scuba diving experiences.

Accommodation ranges from garden and beach villas to spacious two-storey beach houses and overwater villas, offering options ideal for couples, families and groups. Guests can enjoy six dining venues, a vibrant activities programme and wellness experiences at Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.

For more information, please visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com.

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