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Stuart De San Nicolas appointed Cluster General Manager for 3 Minor Hotels properties in Maldives

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Stuart De San Nicolas has been appointed as the new Cluster General Manager for Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Avani+ Fares Resort and NH Collection Maldives Havodda, effective from 23rd December 2023.

With over 30 years of hands-on industry experience, gained from an impressive career that has taken him to locations as diverse as Europe, South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, Stuart is well-equipped to lead this new management role.

A native of Spain, Stuart joins Minor Hotels from Conrad Bora Bora Nui, where he helped to elevate the resort’s luxury offerings through his position as General Manager. Having begun his hospitality journey in 1993 at the Hyatt Regency group in France, Stuart went on to take various roles in the front office and food and beverage departments of hotels around the world as he developed his hospitality expertise.

For more than 20 years, Stuart has held the position of General Manager in such prestigious hotels as Altapura in France, Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Hotel & Spa in Mauritius, Marriott Islamabad, Pik Palace and Park Chalet, both part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection in Azerbaijan, Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort in Peru, The St. Regis Mauritius, and Le Meridien Bora Bora.

With his well-seasoned leadership style, Stuart has also enjoyed considerable success at leading and motivating large teams with a steadfast commitment to delivering five-star experiences for guests. Demanding nothing short of excellence in the daily operations of the resorts under his charge, Stuart has a strong track record of consistently surpassing guest expectations.

“We are delighted to welcome Stuart to the Minor family and to our leadership team in the Maldives. With his extensive experience and passion for excellence in service, we are confident that he will continue to enhance Minor Hotels growing presence within in the region,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Chief Executive Officer of Minor Hotels and Group Chief Executive Officer of Minor International.

“I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead three of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives. Anantara Kihavah is truly the definition of paradise and I look forward to guiding this award-winning resort into the next chapter together with our incredible team, Mr. De San Nicolas commented. “With the recent introduction of the Avani+ and NH Collection brands to the Maldives, Minor Hotels has such a strong footprint in the market bringing the finest world-class standards to all sectors of this popular tourist destination.”

With 80 luxurious villas and residences on an island within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is one of Minor Hotels’ flagship properties. Guests at the resort can indulge in a diverse culinary journey at six restaurants and bars, including the legendary SEA Underwater Restaurant. The resort also boasts an array of leisure facilities, including an outdoor cinema, a kids club, a water sports centre, and a dive centre. For ultimate relaxation, guests can rejuvenate at the Anantara Spa, which offers Asian therapies, aesthetic treatments, immunity-boosting Medi-spa, and ancient ayurvedic wellness treatments.

Another tropical haven situated on the western edge of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Avani+ Fares Resort is an upscale, family-friendly resort showcasing 176 stylish villas and residences, along with pavilions, seven bars and restaurants, world-class diving facilities, a water sports centre, an AvaniFit gym, and a contemporary AvaniSpa. The AvaniKids and Teens Club buzzes with daily programming and exciting outdoor adventures, creating a vibrant hub for young guests.

Nestled on a private island in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, NH Collection Maldives Havodda boasts a mix of 120 beach and overwater villas, each offering a home-away-from-home experience with modern amenities and breathtaking views. The resort features three restaurants and two bars, providing guests with sensational culinary experiences. Beyond dining, NH Collection Maldives Havodda offers extensive leisure facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, all-purpose court, kids’ club, water sports and dive centre, as well as the opportunity to obtain a scuba diving license.

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi sets new nenchmark with 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship resort within Sun Siyam’s Luxury Collection portfolio in the Maldives, unveils its 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around concept to reflect its elevated positioning. The redefined package now offers seamless access to 15 distinctive dining venues, expanded signature culinary inclusions, a curated collection of over 66 premium wines and champagnes, reimagined specialty restaurants, exclusive airport lounge privileges and an intensified focus on intuitive, personalised butler service, setting a more sophisticated benchmark for contemporary island indulgence.

An Elevated Culinary Excellence Across 15 Venues

At the heart of the experience is seamless access to 15 distinctive dining venues, spanning refined beachfront grills, contemporary Asian cuisines, authentic Indian specialities, Italian and French restaurants, relaxed family friendly spaces and elegant adult only settings. The diversity ensures a cohesive yet varied gastronomic journey throughout each stay.

The experience is further distinguished by a curated collection of over 66 premium wines and champagnes, including reds, whites, rosés and sparkling selections sourced from renowned vineyards. Each restaurant presents a bespoke wine list tailored to its culinary identity, while sommelier led tastings and refined cheese pairings add depth for guests seeking a more immersive epicurean experience.

Signature Venues Reimagined

Several of the resort’s hallmark restaurants have been thoughtfully enhanced to reflect the refined direction of the Luxury Collection.

The Trio, the resort’s Italian specialty restaurant, has evolved into a sophisticated lifestyle destination celebrating La Dolce Vita. Set above shimmering waters on elegant over water patios, the space combines contemporary minimalism with warm Mediterranean character. A striking oval shaped wood fired pizza oven anchors the modern bar, while vibrant yellow accents and lush tropical foliage introduce refined energy. Live artistic performances elevate the atmosphere, transforming each evening into a celebration of Italian heritage. As part of the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, guests enjoy curated signature dishes paired with a dedicated Italian wine selection.

Equally transformed, Flavours now embodies a sanctuary of French art de vivre suspended above turquoise waters. The reimagined space blends refined bistrot inspired elements with the relaxed sophistication of a Mediterranean terrace. A central outdoor bar encourages interactive mixology, while layered terraces offer intimate dining framed by uninterrupted ocean views. The culinary direction embraces authentic French fine dining, where the Chef’s savoir faire is expressed through elevated interpretations of classic dishes. Within the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, guests experience bespoke Chef and Sommelier pairings featuring exceptional French vintages.

Bamboo presents a refined interpretation of Southeast Asian cuisine within an open air beachfront setting. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, the menu revisits regional classics through the Chef’s contemporary lens, balancing authenticity with creativity. Organic textures and subtle cultural references create a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere in harmony with the island surroundings. For guests enjoying the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, a bespoke menu and curated wine selection further enhance the immersive dining experience.

At Islander’s Grill, the flavours of the Maldives take centre stage in an elegant beachfront setting. Freshly grilled seafood, aromatic local curries and vibrant ceviche celebrate the richness of the Indian Ocean, while guests may select Maldivian lobster directly from the flowing pond for immediate preparation tailored to their preference. Tables set directly on the sand create a romantic backdrop, complemented by curated wine pairings and exclusive dining benefits as part of the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around.

For those seeking a more intimate culinary encounter, Teppanyaki delivers a live tasting experience centred around the Chef’s artistry, offering a bespoke approach to Japanese dining. As an exclusive venue not included in meal plans, Teppanyaki allows for a truly bespoke approach to every meal.

Effortless Island Living

A defining highlight within the resort’s Signature Experiences, the Sun Siyam Beach Club introduces a vibrant and contemporary dimension to island living. Set against uninterrupted ocean views, the beachfront space blends refined lounge seating with effortless elegance, creating a setting that evolves naturally throughout the day.

From relaxed sunlit afternoons to golden hour gatherings, curated DJ sessions elevate the atmosphere with a confident yet sophisticated energy. Signature cocktails, premium spirits and elevated light fare are served in a seamless flow, positioning the Beach Club as both a stylish social hub and an essential expression of the resort’s enhanced island experience.

Waters Edge, the 24-hour access venue, ensures the island’s pleasures are always within reach. Premium spirits, aperitifs, digestifs, and international beers are thoughtfully curated for connoisseurs, while health-conscious guests can enjoy freshly prepared vegetable and fruit beverages, alongside plant-based bliss vegan-inspired menus available in all restaurants. La Cremeria, the resort’s homemade ice cream venue, adds a sweet indulgence with beachside terrace service, included in the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around offer.

A Seamless Journey from Arrival to Departure

The elevated experience begins even before guests reach the island. At Velana International Airport in Malé, exclusive seaplane lounge access offers a refined prelude to the stay, where a dedicated chef prepares curated light fare alongside premium refreshments. A complimentary 10-minute shoulder massage further enhances the sense of calm, ensuring a seamless transition from travel to island sanctuary.

On the island, the experience unfolds through a thoughtfully curated collection of privileges. From guided cultural excursions and underwater exploration at Nemo Park to wellness rituals, meditation and Pilates sessions, each element is designed to balance vitality with serenity. Personalised butler service anticipates every detail with discretion and precision, while access to tennis and badminton courts adds an active dimension to leisure time.

“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we’re redefining island living by trading ‘stress-free’ for ‘emotionally rich.’ Whether it’s a quiet moment on the beach or a curated gastronomic journey, our 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around is a direct response to 2026’s shift toward experiential luxury. It embodies our flagship spirit and the refined excellence of Sun Siyam Luxury Collection,” highlighted Pasan Wijewardana, the resort’s Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing.

Under its Luxury Collection positioning, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi invites guests to embrace a more sophisticated expression of island living, where culinary artistry, curated indulgence and intuitive service converge in effortless harmony.

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You & Me Maldives unveils curated Premium All Inclusive programme

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You & Me Maldives, the adults-only luxury retreat under The Cocoon Collection, has announced the launch of its new Premium All Inclusive experience, aimed at enhancing island stays through a more seamless and comprehensive offering in the Indian Ocean.

The Premium All Inclusive experience is designed to begin from the point of arrival. Guests receive complimentary access to The Cocoon Collection Lounge at the seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, where services are provided to ensure a smooth transition before the journey to the resort.

On arrival at the island, guests are welcomed in their villas with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine and a selection of canapés. The Premium All Inclusive plan includes unlimited premium beverages by the glass, featuring a curated range of wines, signature cocktails, top-shelf spirits, international beers and non-alcoholic options. The in-villa minibar is replenished daily with soft drinks, international beers, red and white wines, as well as assorted snacks. For stays of five nights or more, guests also receive two bottles of premium liquor from a selected list, provided once during the stay.

The experience further includes a range of activities. Guests staying a minimum of three nights are offered one sunset cruise and one snorkelling excursion per stay, while those staying seven nights or more are entitled to a catamaran cruise. Unlimited use of snorkelling equipment and non-motorised water sports, including canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, is also included, subject to weather conditions.

Dining forms a central part of the Premium All Inclusive concept. Guests can enjoy three themed dining evenings, including a seafood barbecue under the stars featuring prawns, lobster and oysters. For stays of five nights or more, guests may also take part in a complimentary group cooking class, with a choice between ethnic or Italian cuisine, led by the resort’s culinary team.

Wellness offerings are also incorporated into the programme, with guests able to participate in up to three complimentary sunrise yoga sessions per stay, subject to availability.

The introduction of the Premium All Inclusive experience reflects the resort’s focus on personalised service and carefully curated stays. The offering is positioned to appeal to couples seeking relaxation, romance or activity-led experiences within an adults-only island setting.

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Eid celebrations at SO/ Maldives blend Arabic tradition and Maldivian culture

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SO/ Maldives is inviting global travellers this season to reimagine Eid not merely as a holiday, but as an immersive island escape. Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé, the fashion-forward private island retreat sets the stage for a celebration where cultural heritage, contemporary luxury and tropical glamour come together.

At the centre of the festivities is an authentic culinary experience at Hadaba, the resort’s award-winning Arabic restaurant. Guests are offered Levantine flavours, artisanal mezze and traditional recipes presented with a modern approach, creating a setting for shared dining and celebration. As part of the resort’s dine-around concept, Hadaba can be included in a wider culinary journey across the island, allowing guests to experience Arabic cuisine alongside the resort’s other dining venues.

As evening falls, celebrations move to Lazuli Beach Club, where shisha rituals and Arabic-inspired refreshments are served in a beachfront setting. Traditional performances are complemented by Maldivian Boduberu drumming and fire dance displays, creating a cultural programme designed to appeal to international travellers seeking meaningful experiences.

Across the island, Eid is marked through a series of curated activities aimed at encouraging connection and creativity. Cultural workshops, including palm-leaf artistry and henna sessions, offer opportunities to explore heritage, while younger guests are engaged through themed crafts, interactive games and sweet treat decorating. The overall atmosphere remains celebratory while maintaining a relaxed pace that reflects the resort’s character.

Beyond the festive programme, the resort positions the long weekend as a fully immersive island retreat. Guests stay in beach and overwater villas featuring private pools and ocean views, with interiors inspired by high fashion. Time is spent between spa treatments, lagoon activities, beach club experiences and sunset dining, balancing celebration with seclusion.

To mark the season, the resort has introduced two limited-time stay offers. The One Night on Us offer provides savings of 33 per cent on stays of three nights or more, along with daily breakfast, complimentary transfers and spa privileges. The Soo Summer package offers preferential rates combined with spa experiences, curated dining inclusions and additional benefits for water villa stays.

Welcoming travellers from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and beyond, the resort presents Eid as a global celebration where Arabic traditions, Maldivian culture and contemporary design are brought together. This season, guests are invited to exchange routine for island surroundings and experience Eid through a redefined island perspective.

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