Insiders
Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Expands “Forever After” Options

Maldives Promotion House – With three distinct Resort experiences – two private islands and a luxury liveaboard – Four Seasons Resorts Maldives offer an ocean of options for destination weddings. Guests can book each Resort in its entirety; wed on one then take a seamless seaplane flight to honeymoon on the other; or indulge in the ultimate marital odyssey between the two on Four Seasons Explorer – an 11-cabin, three-deck catamaran – that links the Resorts via three, four and seven night itineraries or private, customized charters. Each Resort offers the personalized care of a Wedding Co-ordinator, as well as an abundance of picture-perfect venues, while unique experiences range from secluded sand bank dinners to hen night Spa parties and surf, dive and fishing trips for bachelor days with a difference.
But first, there are the Resorts themselves. From Kuda Huraa’s intimate garden surround infused with traditional charm to Landaa Giraavaru’s wild natural beauty within the remote Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, each of Four Seasons two private Maldivian islands paints its own tropical ideal.
Landaa Giraavaru’s multiple venues span natural jungle and a pristine two-kilometre (1.2 mile) lagoon, while luxurious beach and water villas offer accommodation so vast that couples need never leave their room. The Spa and Ayurvedic Retreat – voted Best Destination Spa in the Crystal Asia Awards 2011 – showcases blissful Chakra Blessings, complemented by superb diving in some of the country’s richest waters with the PADI 5-Star IDC Centre.
Kuda Huraa – voted Best of the Best in the Condé Nast Traveller (UK) Readers’ Awards 2011 – features a multitude of locations against a backdrop of shimmering blue. The Night Spa redefines starlit romance with its lunar rituals under the tropical night sky, while those seeking adrenalin and adventure can venture out on a shark safari, or with the pros from the Surf School. And with both Resorts running pioneering coral, fish and turtle conservation programs from their Marine Discovery Centres, bridal couples can play a part in preserving the fragile ecosystem simply by being there.
Forever After
Marriages performed in the Maldives between non-Muslims are not legally recognized in other countries. As such, appropriate legal arrangements need to be made in guests’ home countries. However, this opens up a world of opportunity for couples to plan a celebration that is a true expression of themselves. From sunset vows with an officiant to an intimate blessing at sea, the underwater exchange of rings to a sandbank ceremony in the middle of nowhere, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives will go to any lengths to cater to individual wishes.
The Resorts’ on-site Wedding Co-ordinators work with each bridal couple to customize every detail, from the point of booking to the time of departure – and, very often, beyond. Whether a couple is planning an intimate gathering or a grand gala, undivided attention is given to ensure that everything goes exactly as envisioned.
The Kuda Huraa Forever After 2012 and Landaa Giraavaru Forever After 2012 packages ease the worry of wedding planning, incorporating all the key components for before, during and after the ceremony, from spa treatments and bouquet to cake and photography, right through to in-room breakfast the following day. In addition to offering value, each package can form a starting point for what will ultimately be a celebration as individual as each couple.
The Finer Details
Four restaurants in each Resort cater to every culinary option from dinner for two on an uninhabited island to a lavish poolside luncheon, relaxing beach barbecues to starlit, overwater cocktail receptions. The pastry chefs will recreate any wedding cake that guests request, or surprise with their own decadent delights. Rehearsal dinners, hen parties, bachelor nights and day-after-the-night-before breakfasts can also be arranged, along with customized menus that cater to children and special dietary needs. Decoration and entertainment are equally well catered for, with florists on hand to create bouquets, boutonnières, wedding arches and centrepieces, and bodu beru (big drum) performers showcasing traditional festivities. Couples can also work with the Resorts’ marine biologists to plant their own personalized coral frame as a living symbol of their special day, and then they can track its growth online, or return to see it on a special anniversary.
In addition to two sublime Spas, recreation options across the Resorts range from kite surfing, wakeboarding and parasailing to big game fishing, tennis and yoga. At Kuda Huraa, surfers of all levels can benefit from the on-site Tropicsurf School, and at both Resorts, there is an abundance of world-class diving and snorkelling sites. Other activities range from cooking or massage classes to a private picnic on a remote sand bank.
Then there’s the option of a cruise on board the exemplary Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives fastest and most luxurious liveaboard. Sailing between the two Resorts and on private charters, it offers access to the undiscovered Maldives. All-inclusive itineraries offer a minimum of three dives a day as well as the opportunity to snorkel, surf, water-ski, fish, kayak, spa, sail and discover cultural and castaway experiences along the way.
Couples booking a minimum of three nights at each Resort will receive complimentary seaplane transfers between the two as part of the Resorts’ ongoing Paradise Twice promotion. The promotion is valid through December 20, 2012.
Action
Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.
Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.
Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.
“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”
Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:
- Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
- A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
- Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.
In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.
For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com
News
MIC appoints Ali Shakir as Group General Manager

Maldives Inflight Catering Pvt Ltd (MIC) has announced the appointment of Ali Shakir as the Group General Manager. With over 27 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ali Shakir will now oversee operations for the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Madifushi Private Island Maldives.
Ali Shakir, who most recently served as General Manager at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, played a pivotal role in the resort’s redevelopment and reopening. Prior to that, he joined Atmosphere Core in 2019 as Resort Manager at VARU By Atmosphere, where he was instrumental in the pre-opening of several properties, including OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, and VARU By Atmosphere. His wealth of experience also includes key positions at prestigious resorts such as Angsana Velavaru, Hulhule Island Hotel, and Paradise Island Resort and Spa.
Ali is no stranger to MIC, having spent more than 15 years at Hulhule Island Hotel, where he rose through the ranks to become Executive Assistant Manager before departing in 2019.
Commenting on his new role, Ali Shakir expressed his enthusiasm:
“I am honored to rejoin MIC and lead the operations of these iconic properties. This company has always held a special place in my career, and I am excited to work with the talented team to drive further success and innovation.”
Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Managing Director of MIC, welcomed Ali to the leadership team, praising his extensive experience and strategic vision:
“We are delighted to have Ali back at MIC. His proven track record in the hospitality sector, combined with his in-depth knowledge of Hulhule Island Hotel and his previous achievements, makes him the ideal leader to take us forward. I have no doubt that under his leadership, MIC will continue to set benchmarks for excellence.”
Ali Shakir holds a General Managers Program certificate from Cornell University, USA, and a General Hotel Service certification from the Institute of Hotel and Catering Service, Maldives.
MIC is a joint venture between Maldives Airports Company Limited and SATS Ltd, renowned for its inflight catering services to airlines and private jets. Beyond the Maldives Inflight Kitchen, MIC also manages Hulhule Island Hotel, the only airport hotel at Velana International Airport, and the luxurious Madifushi Private Island Maldives in Meemu Atoll.
Tips & Advice
Flying after scuba diving: Essential guidelines for safe travel

Scuba diving in the Maldives offers an unparalleled experience, with its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. However, one crucial aspect that divers must consider is the timing of their flights after diving. Understanding the recommended waiting periods before flying is essential to ensure safety and prevent decompression sickness. Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and tissues due to rapid changes in pressure. This can happen if a diver ascends too quickly or flies too soon after diving. The reduced cabin pressure in an airplane can exacerbate the formation of these bubbles, leading to serious health risks.

Recommended Waiting Times
The waiting time before flying after scuba diving depends on the type and number of dives completed. Here are the general guidelines:
- Single Dive: If you have completed a single, no-decompression dive, it is recommended to wait at least 12 hours before flying. This allows sufficient time for the body to eliminate excess nitrogen.
- Multiple Dives or Multiple Days of Diving: For divers who have completed multiple dives or have been diving over several days, the recommended waiting period extends to 18 to 24 hours. This longer duration helps ensure that nitrogen levels in the body have decreased to safe levels.
- Dives Requiring Decompression Stops: If your dive profile included decompression stops, it is crucial to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before boarding a flight. Decompression dives involve higher nitrogen absorption, necessitating a longer off-gassing period.
Seaplane and Domestic Flights
Many tourists visiting resorts and other islands in the Maldives travel by seaplane or domestic flights. While these flights generally operate at lower altitudes compared to international flights, the same waiting time guidelines apply. The reason is that even at lower altitudes, the risk of decompression sickness remains significant due to the changes in pressure.
Practical Tips for Divers
- Plan Your Dives and Flights: When planning your diving trip, consider your flight schedule. Ensure that you have ample time between your last dive and your flight to adhere to the recommended waiting periods.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can aid in the elimination of nitrogen from the body. Drink plenty of water before and after your dives.
- Monitor Your Health: Pay attention to any symptoms of decompression sickness, such as joint pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Use Dive Computers: Modern dive computers can help track your nitrogen levels and provide personalized recommendations for safe flying times based on your dive profile.
Flying after scuba diving requires careful consideration and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent decompression sickness. By following the recommended waiting times and taking necessary precautions, divers can enjoy their underwater adventures in the Maldives and travel safely. Always consult with dive professionals or medical experts if you have any concerns about your health and safety.
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